As packaging takes on an increasingly strategic role within modern brands, the need to make faster, smarter and more informed decisions has never been greater. Whether responding to changing regulations, evolving consumer expectations, material innovation or commercial pressure, today's packaging teams are expected to solve increasingly complex challenges.
London Packaging Week 2026 has been designed with exactly that in mind. Built around the theme of Discovery, the show's most ambitious programme to date has been shaped to help visitors uncover the ideas, innovations, expertise and connections they need to move projects forward, all in one place.
Among the major new features is the new-look Innovation Gallery, offering a curated showcase of the industry's most exciting packaging developments, complete with twice-daily guided tours highlighting the thinking behind the innovations shaping tomorrow's packaging landscape.
Joining it is the Design Hub, powered by Pentawards, a dedicated destination for brand and design professionals that combines expert talks, curated content and networking opportunities. Pentawards' celebrated exhibition also returns in an expanded format, showcasing 50 award-winning packaging designs alongside an exclusive networking reception.
The spirit of discovery continues with a series of experiences designed to take visitors closer to the ideas, people and stories behind packaging. In an exclusive first, London Packaging Week will premiere the trailer for an upcoming documentary taking audiences behind the scenes at James Cropper, the UK's last remaining paper mill producing coloured paper, revealing the extraordinary craft, people and processes behind a material we all think we know.
The new Podcast Studio brings together some of the industry's leading voices for candid conversations exploring the commercial realities, creative challenges and breakthrough thinking influencing packaging today. Elsewhere, the Start-up Zone and Discovery Theatre provide visitors with early access to emerging businesses, disruptive technologies and fresh ideas that could shape their next project or product launch.
New for 2026, the Trail of Secrets invites visitors to uncover the latest packaging innovations, inspiring exhibitors and must-see features as they explore the show floor. Completing the trail unlocks a complimentary refreshment at The Inner Circle Bar, rewarding participants for everything they've discovered. Throughout both days, visitors can also enjoy dedicated Happy Hours and an end-of-day networking drinks reception, creating even more opportunities to continue conversations, strengthen new connections and celebrate a day of discovery.
Recognising that some of the most valuable conversations happen away from the exhibition stands, London Packaging Week is also expanding its networking programme. New additions include the Women in Packaging Networking Breakfast & Powerhour, delivered in partnership with Packaging News, creating an exclusive forum for senior leaders to share experiences, build connections and inspire the next generation of talent.
Josh Brooks, Divisional Director – Packaging at Easyfairs, said: "A great event isn't measured by how much there is to see. It's measured by what visitors take away from it. Every new feature we've introduced this year has been designed around helping people solve real problems, discover new ideas and make valuable connections that they can take back into their business.
"We've listened carefully to our community and looked at every stage of the visitor journey. Whether someone is searching for their next packaging innovation, navigating new regulations, looking for design inspiration or meeting new suppliers, we want every hour they spend at London Packaging Week to deliver genuine value."
The new features complement London Packaging Week's world-class conference programme, bringing together leading voices from across packaging, branding, sustainability and retail, alongside returning highlights including the London Packaging Week Innovation Awards, sponsored by Nuon, the VIP Lounge, sponsored by Hunter Luxury, and The Inner Circle Bar, sponsored by Ecosurety. Together with more than 220 leading exhibitors and over 5,700 visitors, the event offers one of the industry's most valuable opportunities to discover the people, ideas and innovations shaping the future of packaging.
Register now for your free ticket to London Packaging Week 2026, taking place at Excel London on 16 & 17 September.