Registration is now open for Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026, the UK’s largest and most comprehensive packaging event, taking place at NEC Birmingham on 11 & 12 February 2026. Over two days, more than 7,400 visitors, 450 world-class suppliers, and 80 expert speakers will come together to explore the full packaging supply chain under one roof. From concept to fulfilment, every stage of the journey is represented, and real-world challenges are addressed by experts across design, materials, automation, machinery, logistics, and sustainability.
The 2026 edition highlights how packaging can meet today’s demands while preparing for tomorrow. Visitors will explore cutting-edge solutions in automation, robotics, AI, and smart manufacturing, gain practical insights in CPD-accredited seminars, and hear from regulators, brand owners, suppliers, and disruptors tackling the industry’s biggest challenges. Dedicated show zones, including the Smart Packaging Zone, Start-Up Zone, and Foodservice Zone, provide tailored insights, while live demonstrations at Empack showcase automation and machinery innovations in action. Contract Pack & Fulfilment, hosted by the BCMPA, connects brands with over 200 trusted outsourcing partners to streamline production, improve efficiency, and scale e-commerce fulfilment, while offering startups and emerging disruptors opportunities to pitch to co-packers.
The event also champions inclusivity and talent development. Partnerships with charities and industry programmes celebrate diversity and accessibility, while the Future Trailblazers Awards, supported by The Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining (IOM3), will once again shine a spotlight on the next generation of leaders shaping the future of packaging. Leading FMCG brands and retailers such as Unilever, Boots, Tesco, Mondelez, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, P&G, Diageo, Red Bull, Nestlé, Nando’s, ghd, and LUSH attend year after year, alongside top suppliers including Zeus, Saica Flex, Wepack, Constantia, and Pont Packaging.
“Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026 will once again bring the full packaging ecosystem together under one roof,” said Josh Brooks, Divisional Director, Packaging – Easyfairs. “From brand owners to suppliers, start-ups to scale-ups, visitors will have the chance to explore innovations across design, materials, machinery, and sustainability, all in a single, accessible location.
“The show is about more than just products and solutions - it’s about collaboration, learning, and preparing for the challenges of tomorrow.”
Visitors can benchmark innovations across sectors, gain actionable strategies to cut costs, reduce waste, and future-proof operations, and connect with a multi-sector audience spanning FMCG, beauty, food and drink, pharmaceuticals, retail, automotive, and e-commerce. Networking opportunities in the VIP Lounge, cocktail bar, and beer bar complement the learning experience, enabling attendees to build meaningful connections while exploring the full breadth of packaging solutions.
Rob Thompson, Senior Packaging Manager at Co-op, commented: “I have been attending Packaging Innovations at the NEC for over 20 years. It’s the UK’s premier event for anyone looking to network with other packaging professionals.”
William Guest, Sustainable Packaging Manager at Tesco, said: “It’s a really well-organised event in a fantastic location. There is a good mix of suppliers and speakers, allowing you to see the latest innovations while listening to the thoughts of industry leaders and specialists.”
Lionel Barnett, Operations Manager at Oh Polly, added: “We find the show very interesting and always make a lot of contacts, some of whom we ended up doing business with.”
Secure your complimentary visitor pass today and join thousands of packaging professionals at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026. Discover the latest innovations, connect with leading suppliers, and gain practical insights to future-proof your business - all under one roof.