Could your project be a standout example of innovative packaging to be seen at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025?

Easyfairs UK is excited to start the search for the Innovation Gallery Class of 2025, to be featured at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025.

Set to take place on 12 & 13 February at the NEC in Birmingham, the UK’s flagship packaging exhibition will feature over 430 exhibitors and will draw more than 7,000 visitors. This will include key representatives from leading global brands.

As part of the event, attendees can explore the renowned Innovation Gallery, where the top 10 most innovative packaging projects from the past year will be displayed. Visitors can vote for their favourite project by swiping their visitor passes at the dedicated plinth, ultimately determining the winner of this esteemed accolade.

A crack team of experts will choose and whittle down these projects. The selection process will be meticulously overseen by industry experts Paul Jenkins, Founder of ThePackHub, Jude Allan, Interim Managing Director of OPRL, and Margaret Bates, Defra’s Head of EPR scheme administrator.

“The packaging industry is constantly evolving, driven by ever-changing consumer demands and sustainability challenges,” said Jenkins. “As a bellwether for innovation, the final ten projects in the Innovation Gallery often reflect the collective ingenuity of over 430 exhibitors, showcasing where the sector is headed in the coming year. These finalists exemplify our remarkable resilience and creativity, demonstrating how quickly we can pivot to meet emerging demands. The relentless pace of change drives us to continuously push boundaries, making these ten projects a vital glimpse into the future of packaging innovation, where sustainability and excellence will lead the way.”

The Innovation Showcase at Packaging Innovations & Empack has previously highlighted an impressive selection of groundbreaking projects that pushed the boundaries of sustainability and functionality in packaging. Among the standout entries was FunctionalBarrier Papers by Mondi, which was recognised for its exceptional mechanical properties and recyclability in most European wastepaper streams. Another notable innovation, Morro Coating by Morro – A Xampla Brand, showcased a fully biodegradable, plant-based alternative to traditional coatings that is safe for food contact, marking a significant step towards more sustainable packaging solutions.

The showcase also featured Pure-Pak® eSense cartons from Elopak, the first aluminium-free aseptic carton designed with a unique polyolefin barrier that reduces its carbon footprint while remaining recyclable. PapairWrap from LEIPA UK Ltd introduced a sustainable bubble wrap alternative made entirely from paper, addressing the growing demand for sustainable packaging. Innovations like Eco Low Profile Tube Closures by Selectpackaging demonstrated a commitment to sustainability by cutting plastic use by 50% and lowering shipping costs. Taghleef Industries Spa presented two significant entries: Recyclable Label Solutions, utilising 30% post-consumer recycled content, and the Mars KIND® Recycled Content Packaging, a mono-material design that enhances recyclability through a circular approach. Other highlights included the Rapilock Pro by Carlton Packaging, a glue-free, recyclable box offering improved tamper evidence, and the FACER. Plastic-Free Blister Pack is a pioneering board-to-board heat-seal solution replacing traditional plastic blister packs. Additionally, Aquaseal Barrier and Heat Seal Coatings by Paramelt combined paper with advanced coatings, showcasing versatility and sustainability in packaging. The showcase ultimately celebrated the industry's commitment to innovation and a sustainable future.

Exhibiting at Packaging Innovations & Empack offers an unparalleled opportunity to get your products in front of industry giants such as Waitrose, PZ Cussons, Diageo, Sainsbury’s, Superdrug, Warburtons, Müller, Amazon, Bosch, The Hut Group, and Just Eat. With an all-inclusive stand package, the event provides a cost-effective, easy way to capture qualified leads using the EasyGo smart badge system and My Easyfairs platform. Exhibitors can showcase their solutions to major brands and SMEs across packaging machinery, food & beverage, and FMCG markets, helping to plan future projects and grow business opportunities.

The event also enables companies to expand their reach by connecting with these leading brands through targeted networking initiatives, VIP programs, and digital platforms. Additionally, with personalised marketing tools and PR support, exhibitors can raise their profile, drive footfall to their stand, and boost on-site and online visibility. Presenting products live to an engaged audience while benchmarking against competitors and gaining insights from industry trends makes Packaging Innovations & Empack the ideal platform for businesses looking to shape the future of packaging.

Secure your place and showcase your innovations at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2024, get in front of top brands like Waitrose, PZ Cussons, Diageo, and Amazon. Don’t miss the chance to connect with industry leaders and shape the future of packaging!