Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026 has revealed over 10 new show features for its upcoming edition at the Birmingham NEC. The event brings together over 450 suppliers, 7,500 visitors, and 80+ expert speakers, promising to be the most forward-thinking edition yet.
New Features for 2026
Material ConneXion: A curated showcase of breakthrough materials transforming packaging, from sustainable composites to advanced polymers.
Museum of Failure: An interactive experience turning corporate missteps into innovation lessons, from Kodak's digital camera to modern AI errors.
Guided Empack Tours: One-hour focused sessions bringing visitors directly to machinery, automation, and processing solutions on the show floor.
Discovery Theatre: A platform for start-ups, SMEs, and suppliers to present breakthrough technologies including AI and smart packaging.
Pitch the Co-Packers Competition: A Dragon's Den-style contest in partnership with the BCMPA, offering networking, funding, and visibility.
Automation and Robotics Zone: Live demonstrations of robotics and automation innovations designed to streamline operations and boost efficiency.
CPD-Accredited Sessions
Across two days, the CPD-accredited programme delivers practical insights on automation, robotics, AI, compliance, and sustainability for operations, engineering, and supply chain professionals.
A Platform for Every Professional
Whether exploring materials, learning from failure, experiencing automation first-hand, or pitching the next big idea, Packaging Innovations and Empack 2026 delivers clarity, insight, and opportunity in an ever-evolving industry.
