James Montero MacColl, senior marketing manager at Easyfairs, answers Packaging Scotland’s questions about Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025, which returns to NEC Birmingham on February 12-13
Q) Why should people visit Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025?
A) Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 is a must-attend date for professionals across the packaging sector. With over 430 exhibitors confirmed so far and more than 7,000 attendees expected, this event serves as a hub for discovering cutting-edge innovations shaping the future of packaging. Visitors can interact with leading brands like Waitrose, Diageo and Kellanova, gaining exclusive access to new technologies, sustainable solutions and packaging designs.
The event offers a comprehensive view of the latest packaging trends, including advancements in smart packaging, food service innovations, and sustainable packaging materials. The event’s specialised zones allow attendees to dive deeper into critical areas of development, ensuring they walk away with actionable insights.
Additionally, DEFRA will host a dedicated clinic, providing suppliers and buyers with a valuable opportunity to ask questions and address concerns about the newly implemented EPR Scheme. Networking with industry leaders and innovators also provides invaluable opportunities for collaboration, idea-sharing, and forging meaningful business relationships.
Q) How do you keep the event fresh every year?
A) Packaging Innovations & Empack evolves each year to remain relevant and ahead of the curve. For 2025, the event will introduce exciting new features, including the all-new Smart Packaging Zone, which will showcase the technologies that will transform the packaging sector by offering enhanced product tracking capabilities and highly interactive consumer experiences.
Over 50 expert-led sessions will also be available across themes including sustainability, the circular economy and supply chain management. These sessions are designed to tackle the industry’s most pressing issues, such as navigating environmental regulations and ensuring the circularity of packaging. What is more, the Innovation Gallery and Packaging Start-up Awards, sponsored by Ocado Retail, will honour the most creative and forward-thinking packaging solutions while celebrating industry achievements and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Q) What can we expect from the speakers and conference programme?
A) The programme at Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 promises to be one of the most insightful components of the event.
With over 70 speakers across three main stages – Circular Economy, Supply Chain and Innovation – attendees will hear from industry pioneers and thought leaders on the full spectrum of packaging challenges and opportunities, including innovations in sustainable packaging materials, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in design, and the growing importance of circular economy principles in packaging development.
Notable speakers include Miguel Arevalo from Google, discussing the company’s efforts towards plastic-free packaging; and Tey Bannerman from McKinsey Design, exploring how AI is revolutionising packaging creativity. Other key speakers include Lowelle Bryan from WRAP, who will address sustainability challenges; Thomas Stone from Bakkavor, who will share insights into the latest packaging trends and materials; and Martin Settle from Reckitt, who will delve into the role of packaging in driving a circular economy. These sessions are invaluable for businesses seeking to stay ahead of legislative changes and meet the growing demand for environmentally responsible packaging.
Q) How has innovation helped address challenges in the packaging sector?
A) With the 2030 deadline for recyclable packaging fast approaching, companies must find new, creative ways to balance environmental goals with market realities, particularly in terms of packaging cost and consumer demand for sustainability.
Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 will highlight some of the most innovative solutions in materials and technologies, such as recyclable plastics, paper-based alternatives, and bio-based packaging options. These materials are increasingly important as brands seek to reduce their environmental footprint and meet consumer demand for more sustainable products.
Elsewhere, AI and smart packaging advancements are helping companies streamline supply chains, reduce waste, and deliver more personalised packaging solutions. AI allows for more efficient packaging designs that meet sustainability goals and functional requirements, helping businesses stay agile in a rapidly changing marketplace.
As consumer preferences shift toward sustainability, companies leverage these innovations to stay ahead of the curve and build brand loyalty.
Q) What is the Future Trailblazer initiative?
A) The Future Trailblazer initiative recognises the next generation of leaders within the packaging industry. The initiative helps spotlight emerging talent and encourages others to consider a career in the packaging sector, which continues to evolve and offer diverse opportunities.
Winning a Future Trailblazer Award brings recognition from industry peers and opens doors for career advancement and further innovation. By celebrating these rising stars, the initiative underscores the importance of fostering talent and creativity in the ongoing packaging transformation. Additionally, winners will receive a one-year complimentary membership to the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). This membership provides access to valuable resources, professional development opportunities, and a global network of experts, further supporting their journey as leaders in the industry.
Overall, Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025 is a must-visit event for anyone in the packaging industry, offering essential insights, cutting-edge technologies, and a platform to drive the future of packaging.
