UKPackaging Expo 2026: shaping the future of packaging in the UK

UKPackaging Expo 2026 is set to return bigger, bolder and more influential than ever, establishing itself as the essential meeting point for packaging professionals across the United Kingdom. Taking place on November 10 and 11, 2026, at the expanded Hall C in Liverpool, the event will bring together more than 2,000 attendees and 120 exhibitors, showcasing the ideas, technologies and partnerships driving the future of packaging.

Liverpool offers the ideal backdrop for this growth. The North West remains the UK’s number one manufacturing region, generating £29.5 billion in output, the highest of any region in the country. Manufacturing also represents nearly 15 percent of the North West’s economic activity, making the region a core hub for the packaging supply chain. Hosting UKPackaging Expo in Liverpool ensures the event sits at the centre of real production, real innovation and real buyer demand.

A hub for networking, insight and innovation

UKPackaging Expo 2026 features a dynamic programme of networking and thought leadership, including the exclusive networking drinks reception and the Future Packaging Conference. These sessions connect senior decision makers, innovators and thought leaders from across the sector. Attendees can exchange ideas, discuss regulatory changes and explore emerging trends in sustainable materials, digital transformation, smart labelling and circular economy design.

With most major packaging shows held in the Midlands or the South, many Northern manufacturers face travel disruption, scheduling barriers or cost challenges that limit access. UKPackaging Expo removes these obstacles by positioning suppliers directly within reach of thousands of factories, co packers and engineering teams across the North, North Wales and Scotland who cannot always spare one or two travel days for events further south.

Why attend UKPackaging Expo 2026

As the premier packaging event dedicated to the North of the United Kingdom, the expo offers unmatched value for brands, manufacturers and suppliers looking to expand their reach in a region where production is concentrated. Attendees can explore technologies in action, discover emerging materials and meet suppliers who are shaping the future of packaging.

For exhibitors, UKPackaging Expo offers a strong commercial advantage. Northern venues typically provide lower exhibiting, logistics and accommodation costs compared with southern event centres. This allows for better return on investment, especially for SMEs and mid tier suppliers seeking visibility without inflated budgets. Exhibitors gain direct access to buyers across FMCG, food and beverage, automotive, pharmaceutical, retail and ecommerce markets, many of whom rarely travel south for industry events.

The expanded Hall C layout allows for enhanced innovation features, networking zones and more than 120 exhibitors, creating a vibrant and productive environment for meaningful business connections.

Who should exhibit

UKPackaging Expo 2026 welcomes organisations from across the packaging supply chain. Key exhibition sectors include:

• Packaging materials: Sustainable, biodegradable and high performance materials meeting environmental and legislative demands.
• Packaging machinery and equipment: Automation systems and advanced manufacturing technologies that enhance efficiency and precision.
• Printing and labelling: Digital printing, branding tools and compliant labelling solutions.
• Supply chain and logistics: Approaches that improve warehousing, distribution and packaging flow.
• Sustainability and recycling: Circular economy materials and eco friendly innovations that reduce environmental impact.
• Design and innovation: Creative concepts that elevate functionality, usability and consumer engagement.
• Food and beverage packaging: Solutions that improve safety, freshness and shelf life.
• Pharmaceutical and healthcare packaging: Secure, compliant and tamper evident designs.
• Retail and ecommerce packaging: Packaging that enhances durability, brand presence and logistics efficiency.

Leading exhibitors confirmed

The event is already welcoming major industry names, including:

• Unilever
• Markem Imaje
• Air Sea Containers
• Dura ID
• Tirrit UK
• Protek Packaging

Their involvement reinforces the expo’s position as a vital platform for innovation, collaboration and growth in the UK packaging sector.

UKPackaging Expo 2026 takes place at the Exhibition Centre Liverpool on November 10 and 11. Join thousands of buyers from FMCG, food and beverage, automotive and pharmaceutical sectors as we bring suppliers closer to the customers who matter most in Northern England. If you are not showcasing your latest innovations to the North, someone else will.

For more information and to register your interest, visit: www.ukpackagingexpo.co.uk