
Packaging Innovations & Empack organisers Easyfairs UK has called on the print and packaging industry to embrace innovation and differentiation, as the sector continues to explode with new ideas and advancements.
In just under a week’s time, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 will once again bring together the brightest minds and cutting-edge technologies at the NEC Birmingham on 12 & 13 February. As the premier event for the entire packaging supply chain, it offers a unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and innovate. With over 450 exhibitors and more than 7,000 visitors expected, attendees will gain exclusive access to the latest trends and technologies in packaging design, materials, machinery, and sustainability.
“The packaging industry’s new year doesn’t truly begin until Packaging Innovations & Empack opens its doors, and 2025 is set to be one of the most consequential years in the sector’s history,” said James Montero MacColl, Senior Marketing Manager at Easyfairs UK. “Looming environmental deadlines, including the rollout of Extended Producer Responsibility (pEPR) in the UK and the EU’s PPWR reform requiring all EU packaging to be recyclable by 2030, are intensifying the pressure on businesses to adopt sustainable solutions. This ticking clock, combined with the sweeping impact of new regulations and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, underscores the urgency for companies to stay informed and adapt - making this year’s event more essential than ever.”
Visitors to Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 will explore a wealth of innovations addressing key industry challenges while pushing the boundaries of creativity and functionality. Sustainability will take centre stage, with exhibitors showcasing materials and designs aimed at reducing environmental impact while maintaining performance and appeal.
The event will feature dedicated zones spotlighting key growth areas: the Food Service Zone, developed with the FPA, will showcase sustainable and recyclable food packaging innovations; the Label & Print Zone will highlight advancements in labelling and flexible packaging technology for improved quality, sustainability, and efficiency; the Smart Packaging Zone will present interactive, future-ready solutions; and the Contract Pack & Fulfilment Zone, powered by the BCMPA, will link brand owners and retailers with co-packing and e-commerce fulfilment experts for specialised packaging and delivery solutions.
Montero MacColl emphasised the importance of collaboration and dialogue within the industry: “With the pace of change in packaging, this event provides businesses with the tools and networks needed to keep up, especially with sustainability goals like 2030 looming large. Packaging Innovations & Empack is not just an exhibition; it’s a catalyst for change. It’s where ideas become reality, partnerships are forged, and the future of the industry takes shape.”
Among over 450 key suppliers set pack Halls 3 & 3a of Brimingham’s NEC, notable names include DS Smith, Berlin Packaging, Zeus, AllPack Packaging, Sealed Air, Kyte Packaging, Charles Kendall, Lyte Packaging, and ExPack (Preston) Limited. Prestigious attendees will include renowned brands like Harrods, Disney Store, Currys, Aldi, Haleon, Baylis & Harding, ASDA, Carlsberg, Danone, TESCO, Sainsbury’s, Mondelez, making this a vital platform for networking and discovering cutting-edge solutions.
Clifton Packaging, the UK's largest pouch manufacturer, will showcase its core capabilities and innovations like peel-and-reseal solutions, easy-open packs with Smilesys, and new carton and plastic trays, TIPA will unveil its expanded portfolio of fully compostable packaging solutions, including high-barrier films and all-paper GREENCAN, COLPAC will present its new paperboard packaging ranges, including Tower Trays and Stagione Light, and Sonoco will feature its award-winning, recyclable EnviroCan and GREENCAN solutions for food, beauty, and pharma markets.
A cornerstone of the event remains its extensive educational programme, which includes over 70 free talks and interactive sessions. Industry experts will lead discussions on vital topics across the Circular Economy, Supply Chain, and Innovation Stages. A large delegation from Defra and representatives from all four UK governments will participate in key sessions at the event, including a panel discussion on 12 February about creating a fairer, more sustainable packaging system through a unified UK approach. This will be followed by a second session focusing on cross-sector collaboration and stakeholder aspirations for the upcoming pEPR regulations.
Innovation will also be celebrated through the Future Trailblazer Awards, sponsored by IOM3 and the Packaging Start-Up Awards, sponsored by Ocado. Visitors can also explore these pioneering projects in the Innovation Gallery, offering a glimpse into the future of packaging.
With complimentary tickets still available, attendees have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the event, defining the future of packaging. As businesses transition from strategy to action in their sustainability efforts, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 promises to be an essential moment for the industry. Register now to be part of the conversation.