Conference programme to tackle sustainability, regulation and innovation at UKPackaging Expo

UKPackaging Expo will put insight, regulation and real-world best practice centre stage this November with a strengthened conference programme designed to help packaging teams navigate one of the most transformative periods the sector has ever faced.

Returning to the Exhibition Centre, Liverpool on 10-11^th November 2026, the show’s Future Packaging Conference will run across both days of the event, bringing together industry leaders, major brands and technical specialists to examine the forces reshaping packaging – from sustainability and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to digital transformation, smart materials and consumer trends.

With packaging teams under pressure to redesign for recyclability, meet tightening regulatory requirements and deliver stronger commercial performance, the conference aims to give visitors practical guidance, credible insight and a clearer view of what’s coming next.

Major brands join the conversation

This year’s programme brings together major brands including Unilever, Reckitt and Lil Packaging, alongside leading sustainability and compliance authorities, such as the FDF, BPF and Valpak.

Valpak’s speakers will present a highly informative session on “Understanding PPWR Responsibilities, Packaging Challenges and Sustainable Solutions”, offering visitors a rare opportunity to hear directly from the organisations shaping the future of packaging materials, design, regulation and digital transformation. Their participation signals the importance of the conversations taking place at the show and the appetite among global brands to share best practice.

Speakers from across the UK and European packaging ecosystem will also take part, including specialists in circularity, carbon reduction, compliance, material innovation, food and beverage packaging, beauty and personal care, and ecommerce performance.

A programme built around the issues shaping the market

Sustainability and regulation sit at the heart of this year’s agenda. Sessions will explore the realities of EPR, the implications of Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), and how brands can turn emissions data into better packaging decisions. These themes mirror the pressures facing packaging teams today, with sustainability now the organising principle behind investment, innovation and compliance.

The conference content also reflects the rapid pace of technological change across the sector. Panels and presentations will examine AI and machine learning in packaging operations, smart packaging and IoT integration, and the role of advanced materials in reducing environmental impact while maintaining performance.

Joining the stellar line-up is Matt Fullard, Business Development Director at KLN Freight (UK), with his talk, ‘Your Biggest Supply Chain Risk Is Probably Not What You Think’. Matt draws on more than two decades of experience in international logistics to explore the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of packaging supply chains. He will also discuss how businesses can build greater resilience, agility and competitive advantage in an unpredictable world, providing practical tips for packaging manufacturers, suppliers and industry leaders looking to future-proof their operations and improve supply chain performance.

Another highlight is a session hosted by Jason Galley, Director & Chief Executive of the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA). In his session, ‘Permanent Materials, Circular Futures: Why Metal Packaging is Built for the Circular Economy’, Jason explores why metal is the ultimate circular economy champion, pointing out that around 75% of the steel and aluminium ever produced is still in circulation today. Attendees will learn how metal packaging eliminates waste, reduces emissions and grows the circular economy, whilst understanding what stewardship is needed from policymakers is required to truly capitalise on metal’s natural gifts.

Designed to deliver value beyond the show floor

While UKPackaging Expo is already positioned as the North’s leading sourcing event, with more than 100 exhibitors showcasing innovations across materials, machinery, automation, coding, labelling and contract packing, the conference is designed to give visitors a deeper layer of value.

Attendees will be able to:

• Understand regulatory change and what it means for packaging design, procurement and compliance
• Hear directly from brands and specialists navigating sustainability, recyclability and carbon reporting
• Explore emerging technologies, from smart packaging to digital transformation
• Gain practical, commercially focused insight to support decisionmaking and future strategy

The conference is fully integrated with the exhibition, enabling visitors to move seamlessly between sessions and the show floor to see technologies, materials and solutions in action.

Packaging teams are facing unprecedented change, and the conference has been built to give them clarity, confidence and practical guidance. Whether it’s navigating EPR, redesigning for recyclability or understanding how digital tools are reshaping operations, the programme tackles the issues buyers and brands are dealing with right now. We’re delighted to welcome major names to the stage, and we’re excited to help visitors explore the ideas, technologies and partnerships that will define the next phase of packaging.

Naomi Stewart, Head of Marketing at UKPackaging Expo.

UKPackaging Expo takes place on 10–11 November 2026 at the Exhibition Centre, Liverpool. To find out more, visit www.ukpackagingexpo.co.uk.