Packaging Innovations & Empack, in collaboration with the British Contract Manufacturers and Packers Association (BCMPA), is excited to announce the hand-picked companies taking part in Pitch the Co-Packers 2026, a fast-paced, Dragons’ Den-style competition showcasing the UK’s most innovative start-ups and early-stage brands.
The 2026 edition features four pioneering companies, each bringing bold ideas and unique products to the stage. HANGOV Group Ltd is the UK’s first biotech pre-drink supplement, formulated with science-backed ingredients to support energy, hydration, gut balance, and liver health before and after alcohol consumption. Positioned at the intersection of modern wellness and social lifestyle, HANGOV empowers ambitious professionals and wellness-driven socialisers to enjoy life fully—without compromising performance the next day.
Hydracaddie Golf Nutrition addresses the gap in proper nutrition for golfers. Noticing that amateur players often rely on sugary or caffeinated snacks on the course, Hydracaddie developed an innovative, caffeine-free electrolyte sachet with just 0.2g of sugar. Designed to fuel the body effectively during a round, it brings performance-driven nutrition to the golf space.
Naija Flavia Foods is a modern food brand bringing the authentic flavours of Nigeria to everyday kitchens. Born from Nigerian heritage and perfected in London, Naija Flavia makes West African sauces convenient, accessible, and premium. From aromatic Egusi Stew to rich Ayamase (Ofada Sauce) and smoky Jollof Stew, each jar captures the heart of home cooking—traditional recipes simplified for the modern cook.
RED-Scue High Carb Energy Jar is an award-winning food and wellness brand tackling one of sport’s most under-recognised problems: chronic under-fuelling due to low energy and carbohydrate availability. Founded by a former international track athlete, RED-Scue produces portable, high-carbohydrate energy jars for athletes and active people. Already trading with growing demand, the brand is seeking to scale production and packaging to meet market needs.
These brands will pitch their products, share packaging challenges, and outline their growth ambitions to a panel of industry leaders, including Andrew Dawson, CEO at IPS; Laura Ball, Marketing & Business Development Director at PHL Group; Mike Williams, Co-Founder at Flake Bake; and Mitch Lee, Sales Lead at PACK'D. Drawing on years of expertise in contract packing, manufacturing, FMCG, and entrepreneurship, the panel will provide invaluable insights into what makes a perfect brand–packer partnership.
"Pitch the Co-Packers is a fantastic platform for early-stage brands to showcase their ideas and connect directly with the UK’s leading co-packers,” said Emma Verkaik, CEO of BCMPA. “It’s an opportunity for these innovators to share their products, discuss packaging challenges, and gain insights that can help them scale successfully. This isn’t just about pitching -it’s about opening doors, building partnerships, and turning ambitious concepts into market-ready success stories."
Casey Hugh, Conference & Community Manager – UK & Global, at Easyfairs, said: "We’re thrilled to welcome HANGOV, Hydracaddie, Naija Flavia Foods, and RED-Scue to this year’s session. Each of these brands demonstrates creativity, vision, and a clear understanding of how the right packaging and manufacturing support can accelerate growth. Events like this are vital for fostering innovation across the UK’s contract packing and manufacturing sector, and I’m excited to see the ideas and energy these entrepreneurs will bring to the stage."
The session will take place at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026 on Thursday, 12 February, 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM on the Supply Chain Stage, offering the audience a rare opportunity to see bold ideas come to life and gain a behind-the-scenes look at scaling through co-packing. Participants and attendees alike will benefit from real-world insights into packaging, production, and growth strategies, while forging connections that can accelerate business success.
Pitch the Co-Packers is a unique platform for start-ups and early-stage brands across food & drink, health & wellness, beauty, nutraceuticals, pet care, and household products to gain visibility, expert feedback, and potential partnerships. Register now for a free visitor pass and connect directly with leading co-packers.