Packaging Innovations & Empack, Featuring Contract Pack & Fulfilment has announced it is to shine a spotlight on the future of the packaging industry as it launches its inaugural Future Trailblazer feature.
The Future Trailblazer presentation, held at the Circular Economy stage on day one of Packaging Innovations, 15 February in partnership with IOM3 and Mercury Search & Selection, aims to recognise exciting new talent in the industry going above and beyond to shape the future of packaging. This event sees the launch of the recognition programme; giving hopeful entrants an introduction and outline to what the ‘Future Trailblazer’ should be.
The judging panel will consider the most significant influences on the present and future of the industry, recognising a person who is driving change within and beyond the packaging sector.
A Future Trailblazer will be able to demonstrate the greatest impact on a range of hot-button issues, including design, circularity, product wastage, shelf life, and the supply chain. Entries are open to those working in all areas of the industry, from quality assurance to production engineering.
No stone will be left unturned, and the feature will look to highlight those who are quietly playing their part alongside those already solving the big problems facing the modern world.
Ian Roe, member of the judging panel and Director at Mercury Search & Selection, sees it as an opportunity to highlight the vital role packaging must play in a sustainable future. “Rather than being the villain, packaging enables us to transport, preserve, and serve goods. Without good packaging, we have wastage – and the waste of the resources that went into creating those products,” he commented.
“Celebrating the people making the biggest improvements has a double focus. First, improvements are good for the future of the industry and good for society. Second, it should be an inspiration to others and the next generation who are the future of our industry.”
Renan Joel, Managing Director Packaging Division at event organiser Easyfairs, was delighted to announce the award, saying, “We know the packaging industry is bursting with talent and fresh ideas that just need a bigger stage. We see it at Packaging Innovations every year, and the Future Trailblazer is all about giving that talent the spotlight it deserves.
“The plan is to launch the Future Trailblazer search at this year’s show with some handpicked individuals who can demonstrate the qualities we’ll be looking for when we open up the award for industry-wide nominations in future years,” he continued.
“If you have any questions or if you know of someone in your team who you think would be an exemplary Future Trailblazer then please check the website for our Future Trailblazer page with Entry form, or contact the event Community & Content manager Parisa, at parisa.maleki@easyfairs.com.”
Tickets to this year’s Packaging Innovations & Empack, Featuring Contract Pack & Fulfilment event are free and available now at www.packagingbirmingham.com.