Harvey Aspell
Packaging Innovations & Empack has launched Packaging Mentor of the Year, a brand-new category within the Future Trailblazer Awards 2027, recognising the individuals who are helping to develop, support and inspire the next generation of packaging professionals.
Introduced as the Future Trailblazer Awards enter their fourth year, the new category acknowledges the vital role mentors play in building skills, confidence and careers across the packaging industry. Open to anyone working in or connected to the global packaging sector, the award celebrates those who generously share their knowledge, champion emerging talent and make a lasting difference to the people around them.
The launch reflects the continued growth of the Future Trailblazer Awards, which have become one of the UK's leading platforms for recognising emerging talent across the packaging sector. While the awards have traditionally celebrated the achievements of early-career professionals, Packaging Mentor of the Year recognises the experienced individuals who help make those achievements possible.
The new category is open to mentors from every part of the packaging value chain, whether they are developing apprentices, coaching colleagues, creating opportunities for future leaders or helping others build the confidence and skills to progress within the industry.
Casey McHugh, Senior Conference & Community Manager – UK & Global at Easyfairs, said: "Future Trailblazer has always been about recognising exceptional people at the beginning of their careers. But behind almost every Future Trailblazer is someone who encouraged them, challenged them, shared their experience, or simply believed in them when it mattered most.
"Packaging Mentor of the Year allows us to celebrate those people. Great mentors don't just develop technical skills. They build confidence, open doors and help create the future talent our industry depends on."
Entries will be judged by previous winners of the Future Trailblazer Awards, who will assess nominees on the impact they have had on others, their commitment to mentoring, evidence of supporting personal and professional development, and the lasting contribution they have made to the future of the packaging industry.
Josephine Shaw, Packaging Technologist at Unilever, said: "It's a full-circle moment. Having experienced the support of mentors in my own career, it's a privilege to celebrate the people who encourage others to grow, build confidence and reach their potential."
Jess Morgan-Butler, Senior Technical Designer at Carlton Packaging, added: "I'm so pleased to be a part of the judging panel and can't wait to celebrate those mentors doing amazing things across our industry."
The winner of Packaging Mentor of the Year will be announced alongside the Future Trailblazer Awards at Packaging Innovations & Empack on 24 February 2027 at the NEC Birmingham.
Professionals can nominate themselves or a colleague by 2 November 2026. Submit a nomination for the Packaging Mentor of the Year Award here.