ENTRIES are now open for the 25th anniversary edition of The Plastics Industry Awards 2026.
Two new categories are featured this year: EPR Leadership and Smart Manufacturing. Companies and individuals from across the UK and Republic of Ireland plastics industry are invited to enter online at: www.plasticsawards.com.
Winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on November 20.
“For more than a quarter of a century, the Plastics Industry Awards has recognised excellence, innovation and dedication across the sector,” said Matt Barber, global events director at Crain Communications. “As we celebrate this special anniversary, it is the right time to introduce new categories while continuing to honour the outstanding achievements of the industry’s individuals and companies. Entry is free, and I would encourage everyone in the industry to consider entering this year and joining us for this special celebration.”
The EPR Leadership Award recognises brand owners and companies that demonstrate outstanding leadership in implementing EPR for plastic packaging. It highlights organisations driving measurable improvements in plastic collection, recycling and responsible material use.
The Smart Manufacturing Award celebrates excellence in smart manufacturing and engineering, recognising the integration of smart technologies such as digital solutions, AI, connectivity and Industry 5.0.
The Polyurethane Innovation Award is also open to European companies. It focuses on the development of sustainable, high-performance materials and solutions that use renewable resources, improve recyclability and help reduce the environmental impact of this material.
The newly combined Auxiliary Equipment & Tooling Innovation Award recognises outstanding innovation in plastics processing auxiliary equipment and tooling technologies.
Individual awards include Apprentice or Trainee of the Year, which carries a £500 prize donated by the Polymer Machinery Manufacturers and Distributors Association (PMMDA), as well as the Unsung Hero Award and Plastics Industry Ambassador.
One of the most sought-after awards remains the Processor of the Year trophy, sponsored by Platinum Sponsor Engel UK. Celebrating its 70th anniversary this year is new Gold Sponsor The Plastek Group. Additional Gold Sponsors are Meusburger and PlastikCity, while Interplas is Silver Sponsor.
The awards are supported by the British Plastics Federation (BPF), the GTMA (toolmakers’ trade association), PMMDA (Polymer Machinery Manufacturers & Distributors Association) and the Scottish Plastics & Rubber Association (SPRA), as well as Sustainable Plastics and Urethanes Technology International magazines and websites.
The deadline for entries is 24 July, and finalists will be announced in September.
