Easyfairs UK is excited to announce the formation of the Easyfairs Packaging Council (EPC), a strategic advisory board that will play a key role in shaping the future of two of the packaging industry's most significant events: London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack. The newly established council brings together a prestigious group of industry leaders who will offer expert insights and guidance to ensure these events remain at the forefront of packaging innovation, sustainability, and technology.
The Easyfairs Packaging Council will advise on event content, address emerging trends, and provide valuable perspectives on industry challenges. The council comprises an esteemed group of professionals from across the packaging industry. Current members include Cory Connors, Director of Sustainable Packaging at Orora Packaging Solutions; Szymon Klos, Senior Packaging Design Manager - Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever; Boma Krijgsman, Brand & Talent Manager at JDO Global; Stefan Casey, Head of Ecosystems at SHARPEND; Martin Settle, Senior Manager of Polymer Science Sustainability & Packaging at Reckitt; Thomas Stone, Packaging Development Manager at Bakkavor; Joanna Kut, Central Purchasing Manager at Liberty; Claire Shrewsbury, Director of Insights & Innovation at WRAP; Victoria Whyley, Plastics & Packaging Manager at ALDI; and Ian Rothney, Principal Packaging Scientist at Haleon.
As members of the Easyfairs Packaging Council, these industry experts will help guide the content and features of London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack. Their contributions will range from offering strategic advice on stage content, speaking at events, moderating sessions, and serving as jury members for various awards. By leveraging the collective expertise of the council members, Easyfairs will be better equipped to shape these events to address the evolving needs of the packaging sector. The EPC will convene once a quarter, with opportunities for smaller, more focused discussions, and members will serve a two-year term, with the possibility of reappointment.
Stefan Casey, Head of Ecosystems at SHARPEND, expressed his enthusiasm for the council's formation: "It's fantastic to have an advisory board now. I think this will help shape both the events and the people attending them to ensure that the content is relevant and that the show is innovative and trailblazing."
Claire Shrewsbury, Director of Insights & Innovation at WRAP, echoed this sentiment, adding: "WRAP has been working on supporting efforts to reduce the impacts that packaging can have on the environment for around two decades. We work collaboratively across the supply chain and have a thorough understanding of the challenges and solutions, which I am looking forward to bringing to the group."
Martin Settle, Senior Manager of Polymer Science Sustainability & Packaging at Reckitt, highlighted the council's potential impact: "It will foster new perspectives, generate ideas, build opportunities, and bring focus to trends that may disrupt the packaging industry."
"With the launch of the Easyfairs Packaging Council, Easyfairs is reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class events that help shape the future of the packaging industry," said Casey McHugh, Conference & Community Manager – UK & Global. "Collaboration is at the heart of innovation, and the EPC provides a unique opportunity to bring together industry experts from all corners of packaging. Their combined insights will ensure that our events continue to address the evolving needs of the industry, creating spaces for forward-thinking discussions and the exploration of new packaging solutions.
"The council will ensure that London Packaging Week and Packaging Innovations & Empack continue to be leading platforms for innovation, networking, and industry advancement."
With one eye on London Packaging Week 2025, you can now register your interest in this premier event, where luxury packaging meets cutting-edge innovation. October’s exclusive two-day exhibition is the ultimate destination to connect with industry pioneers, discover the latest in bespoke and sustainable packaging, and immerse yourself in a world of luxury brand excellence. Be part of the community shaping the future of packaging - register your interest today and ensure your place at the most prestigious event in the packaging calendar.