Where packaging innovation begins

Packaging Solutions

Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 is a premier event where the packaging supply chain converges to connect, collaborate, and innovate. Taking place on 12 and 13 February 2025 at NEC Birmingham, the exhibition is at the forefront of the trends and technologies shaping the future of packaging.

With over 460 exhibitors and more than 7000 visitors expected, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 offers a platform to showcase cutting edge solutions in design, materials, machinery, and technology. From sustainability to smart packaging and food service innovations, the event serves as a hub for the industry's biggest players to exchange ideas and drive progress.

‘As 2025 approaches, the need for businesses to stay ahead of the latest trends in packaging has never been more crucial,’ said Naomi Stewart, marketing manager at Easyfairs UK. ‘Many businesses set ambitious sustainability targets for 2025, and whether they hit those targets or not, they have to keep moving forward as 2030 is on the horizon – and with it comes another raft of sustainability goals, including the UN's Sustainable Development agenda.

‘Between the increasing emphasis on sustainability and new regulations, the challenges are plentiful – but so are the opportunities. By attending Packaging Innovations & Empack, businesses will be well placed to take these opportunities.’

Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 presents an opportunity to connect, learn, and get inspired. It is the ideal space where suppliers, buyers, designers, and specifiers gather to exchange knowledge, discover trends, and explore emerging technologies. Whether it is smart packaging, sustainable materials, or advancements in labelling and printing, the event covers all facets of the packaging industry.

‘There are very few opportunities where you can gather almost the entire sector in one place, and Packaging Innovations is truly that opportunity for anyone interested in packaging,’ said Margaret Bates, head of the UK pEPR scheme administrator. ‘This is the place to catch up with people, learn about the latest innovations, discover current trends, and even learn about future plans. You can see not only what is currently on the shelves but also what will be on the shelves and what influences those behaviours.’

For exhibitors, the event provides access to thousands of targeted visitors, including CEOs, research and development leaders, procurement managers, and marketing professionals. On average, exhibitors generate over 86 leads per stand, benefiting from networking opportunities and VIP programmes designed to foster connections with decision makers across the FMCG and packaging sectors. A wide range of marketing tools allows exhibitors to raise their company profile and attract traffic to their stands.

The 2025 event will once again feature three dedicated zones, each spotlighting key growth areas in the packaging sector:

Food Service: engage with the UK's top food retailers and food to go outlets. Whether focusing on shelf life, sustainability, or recyclability, this zone is the gateway to opportunities in the fast-growing food service sector.
Label & Print: explore the machinery, software, and processes that drive packaging success. Ideal for suppliers of labels, corrugated, and flexible packaging, this zone connects exhibitors with brands seeking to invest in new technologies.
Smart Packaging: showcase intelligent packaging innovations like NFC chips, RFID tags, and AR technologies, which offer interactive, futuristic experiences for customers and brands.

The Contract Pack & Fulfilment zone, powered by BCMPA, is the UK's only dedicated event for outsourced packaging services. This area allows brand owners and retailers to discover trusted partners in co-packing, gift packing, and e-commerce fulfilment.

Emma Verkaik, CEO of the BCMPA, praised the Contract Pack & Fulfilment Zone, highlighting the success of previous shows, saying: ‘BCMPA enjoys its relationship with Easyfairs in Contract Pack & Fulfilment. It is always a busy event, and our members continue to respond positively.’

The Future Trailblazer Awards return to honour the industry's brightest visionaries driving creativity, Innovation, and sustainability in packaging.

The programme spotlights and rewards the industry's most innovative and forward thinking professionals who are reshaping its future. These include technologists, designers, print technicians, engineers and production operatives, sustainability managers and specialists, project managers, artwork coordinators, and production leaders, and those excelling in operational roles such as buyers, supply chain managers, logistics experts, and quality assurance professionals.

Organiser Easyfairs has announced that entry submissions for the 2025 awards are now open, free of charge, and will close on Sunday, November 10, 2024, at 5 pm. The winners will be announced as part of the event's conference programme.

Building on the success of the inaugural Packaging Start-Up Awards, the 2025 edition, sponsored by Ocado, will spotlight groundbreaking start ups in the packaging sector. Last year's winners were Konvoy Group, Releaf Paper, and The Good Cup, demonstrating how fresh ideas can lead to significant industry advancements.

Additionally, the Innovation Gallery offers visitors a first hand look at the future of packaging, from advanced materials to automated solutions.

The more than 50 speaker conference programme at offers attendees expert insights into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations shaping the industry. Featuring thought provoking presentations, case studies, and interactive discussions, the programme covers key topics such as sustainability, smart packaging, and cutting edge technologies. Best of all, access to this comprehensive educational content is free, providing a valuable opportunity for professionals to gain new perspectives and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry.

Register for your free visitor pass to gain exclusive access to packaging innovations, industry leading brands, and the speaker conference programme. This event offers an opportunity to connect with top decision makers, explore the latest trends, and be inspired by the future of packaging.