Empack's new look and direction – what it means for the print and packaging industry

As a new year rapidly approaches, a fresh look and feel for a gem in the print and packaging supply chain promises to unlock huge potential for the industry, when Empack returns next February.

As the packaging manufacturing industry races through the last quarter of 2026, the attention of many has turned to 2027 and how to tackle the myriad challenges they continue to face.

Whether rising costs and financial pressures resulting from global geopolitical turmoil, more local challenges posed by updated legislation and regulation, or the industry-wide skills shortage that shows no sign of abating, everyone in the supply chain has something that is causing them sleepless nights.

This is where Empack comes in, with a sharpened focus on the practical challenges facing packaging production and the solutions that allow businesses to respond.

As the print and packaging supply chain continues to combat multiple challenges on different fronts, the need for an annual focal point that provides robust and meaningful insights and engagement has never been in more demand. Empack is exactly that and empowers the industry to think bigger, be bolder, and do better.

Josh Brooks, Divisional Director – Packaging at Easyfairs.

Chris Newhouse, Sales Director – UK Packaging Portfolio at Easyfairs, adds: “The evolving profile of the suppliers exhibiting at Empack is evidence of this and clear to see on the show floor.

“Exhibiting side-by-side are global names new to 2027, long-standing specialists exhibiting once more, and returning suppliers looking to leverage the opportunities provided by Empack. “For attendees, this maximises their time at the show and enhances the value they will derive from walking the aisles, as they are able to meet the entire packaging supply chain, from end-to-end.”

For example, Kronus (Stand X118) is a European manufacturer of reusable wooden packaging, supplying pallet collars, pallets, wooden boxes, lids, accessories, and customised packaging for demanding supply chains.

Combilift (Stand AD50) designs and manufactures material handling equipment and is one of the world’s leading names in multidirectional, sideloading, and articulated forklifts, as well as customised solutions for long-load and heavy-load handling.

Jokey (Stand F44) has been active in plastic injection moulding for more than 50 years and operates its own toolmaking company and a dedicated business unit for technical plastic parts.

Durham Duplex (Stand X52) is one of Europe's biggest manufacturers of machine knives and industrial razor blades for the packaging industry.

tesa (Stand G40) supports the packaging industry with high-performance tapes and self-adhesive products used in printing and converting and end-of-line applications for the production of paper-based and fibre-based packaging, flexible packaging, and corrugated board.

Follmann (Stand F54) develops high-performance water-based printing ink systems for paper, board and, flexible packaging applications, combining colour brilliance, process reliability and regulatory compliance with a strong focus on sustainability.

Uv-Technik International (Stand AB80), which is now under the Hoenle brand, supplies, supports, and services industrial UV curing and disinfection technologies.

AM Labels (Stand Z60) is a supplier of manufacturing and warehouse automation, barcoding and in-house label production systems from the likes of Epson and Afinia.

Codeology (Stand AB54) designs and manufactures large character inkjet printers, outer case print and apply label printers, and end-of-line automation systems for packing, carton sealing, box labelling, barcoding, and identification through to palletising and pallet labelling.

Boix (Stand AA50) specialises in the design and manufacture of industrial machinery for the forming, closing, and gluing of cardboard boxes.

Sunala (Stand W102) specialises in handling systems, conveyor accessories, and production line requirements with expertise in the pharmaceutical, toiletries, aerosols, and food and beverage industries.

Sovereign Labelling Machines (Stand U60) builds tailored labelling and sleeving solutions for brands and co-packers needing to maximise the look and feel of products on the shelf.

Then there are Lundberg Tech (Stand Y64) and integratedAIR Systems (Stand V88). Lundberg Tech is one of the world’s leading suppliers of waste handling systems with a broad line of granulators and cutters. integratedAIR Systems is a UK-based project engineering company that designs, manufactures, and installs turnkey waste extraction, dust extraction, LEV, and air conveyance systems for the packaging and processing industries.

Chris opines: “With the days of silos long behind us and cooperation and interoperability essential for successful packaging manufacturing businesses, it is this unmatched mix that makes Empack standout.”

Beyond the exhibitors

Alongside meeting hundreds of exhibitors, those visiting Empack can take part in the Expert Trail and engage specialists in one-to-one discussions on the most pressing topics for them. Guided Empack tours get straight to the heart of the key technologies and reveal how automation and equipment transform packaging and production operations. Then there is the new-look Production Line conference stage, which is focused on operations and efficiency and hosts sessions that tackle the challenges shaping modern packaging production, from automation and logistics to compliance and cost reduction.

There’s also an updated visual identity for Empack, featuring a striking lime-green ‘P’ that is inspired by folded cardboard and paired with contemporary typography.

This will all be realised during the next edition of Packaging Innovations & Empack 2027, taking place at the NEC Birmingham on 24 & 25 February. Empack brings the practical realities of modern packaging production into fresh focus and connects visitors with the technologies, expertise, and solutions needed to address their operational challenges.

Empack is a dedicated destination for printing and packaging industry suppliers and end users, plus the processing technologies that ensure packaging makes the impact brands demand. There is going to be a heady combination of the collective market insights and knowledge unlocked in the supply chain; technology innovations made by the market’s best and brightest minds; and the trends and future gazing shared by the foremost names in print and packaging.

This makes Empack a must-attend event for anyone in the supply chain.

Packaging Innovations & Empack 2027 takes place 24 & 25 February 2027 at the NEC Birmingham.

The event is free to attend for all those involved in the print and packaging supply chain. Registration is open now at www.packaging-birmingham.com.