Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 show preview

In a few short weeks, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 will unite the brightest minds and cutting-edge technologies in the packaging industry at the NEC Birmingham on 12 & 13 February.

Forget the fireworks and Jools Holland’s Hootenanny – the packaging industry’s new year doesn’t truly begin until Packaging Innovations & Empack opens its doors. And, with the packaging industry set to go through one of the most consequential years in its history in 2025, it can’t come a moment too soon.

With seismic new regulations on the horizon, a ticking clock set by the 2025 and 2030 sustainability targets of brands across the world, and a dash of geopolitical uncertainty thrown into the mix, many in the industry are seeking inspiration that they can use to develop the innovations to see them through this turbulent period.

And, if it’s inspiration you’re looking for, there’s no better place to be than Packaging Innovations & Empack.

As the premier event for the entire packaging supply chain, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 offers a unique opportunity to connect, collaborate, and innovate. With over 430 exhibitors and more than 7,000 visitors expected, attendees will gain exclusive access to the latest trends and technologies in packaging design, materials, machinery, and sustainability.

From smart packaging and food service innovations to the latest sustainable solutions, the event will showcase the future of packaging across various industries. Dedicated zones will spotlight key growth areas, including Food Service, Label & Print, and Smart Packaging. These zones are:

• Food Service Zone: Showcasing the latest in sustainable, recyclable food packaging, this area will feature innovations that enhance shelf life and improve eco-friendliness, addressing environmental and consumer demands alike.
• Label & Print Zone: This space highlights advancements in labelling and flexible packaging, showcasing new technology and software that boost quality, sustainability, and efficiency—perfect for those keen on the evolving role of labelling in branding and compliance.
• Smart Packaging Zone: A glimpse into the future, this zone offers interactive packaging solutions such as NFC chips, RFID tags, and augmented reality (AR) that are revolutionising customer experiences and adding real-time tracking to products.
• Contract Pack & Fulfilment Zone: Powered by BCMPA, this zone, the UK’s only event focused on outsourced packaging services, connects brand owners and retailers with co-packing and e-commerce fulfilment experts, essential for those relying on efficient, specialised packaging and delivery solutions.

Companies like Autajon Packaging, Simply Cartons, FlexPET BV, Coveris UK, and AstroNova® will present their attention-grabbing latest innovations.

Prestigious attendees will include renowned UK brands Waitrose, PZ Cussons, Diageo, Sainsbury’s, and Amazon, making this a vital platform for networking and discovering cutting-edge solutions. Exhibitors like OPRL, Taghleef, Sun Branding, Elopak, and Hazel 4D will showcase to attendees innovative packaging approaches that drive growth and sustainability.

And a core feature of Packaging Innovations & Empack remains its extensive educational programme, which includes over 50 free talks and interactive sessions. Industry experts will lead discussions on vital topics across the Circular Economy, Supply Chain, and Innovation Stages. Highlights include Miguel Arevalo, Packaging Innovation Lead at Google, who will share Google’s progress towards plastic-free packaging, and Tey Bannerman from McKinsey Design, who will delve into AI’s transformative impact on packaging creativity.

Cathy Cook, Chair of LARAC, will also moderate a panel on sustainability efforts led by local authorities, spotlighting community-driven recycling and reuse initiatives that support a circular economy, and Defra will also dispatch a significant delegation at an important juncture for pEPR in the UK, as part of a speaker lineup that is not to be missed.

Everyone leaves Packaging Innovations with something, whether it’s a new supplier agreement, networking contact, or just a spark of inspiration. So what will you find to boost your business in 2025? The only way to find out is to register for a free visitor pass at attend the NEC on 12 & 13 February for Packaging Innovations & Empack.