FDBusiness.com

Four zones, three debate stages, and over 350 exhibitors on show at the Birmingham NEC

Packaging Innovations & Empack, Featuring Contract Pack & Fulfilment has finalised a packed programme for its 2023 showing, offering inspiration and insights on every step of the packaging journey.

The two-day event, held on 15 & 16 February at the Birmingham NEC, is free to attend and is expected to draw over 6,000 attendees from the world’s leading businesses across a broad range of sectors including FMCG, food, beverage, pharma, and more.

Attendees can expect to network with over 350 exhibitors on the show floor, which is divided into four zones – Packaging Innovations, Empack, Contract Pack & Fulfilment, and a new Foodservice area coordinated with the Foodservice Packaging Association (FPA). In addition to the lively conversations that will take place in these zones, attendees will be able to hear insights on sustainability, innovation, and supply chain efficiency from a range of industry luminaries on one of three presentation stages.

These stages – Circular Economy, Innovation & Design, and Supply Chain – will host presentations and debates involving Linda Crichton MBE, Packaging Producer Responsibility Team Leader at Defra; Margaret Bates, Managing Director of OPRL; and panel discussions hosted by the BCMPA, OPRL, The FPA, and Rethink Packaging.

“Packaging Innovations is an invaluable forum for brands and creatives looking to discover new ideas and inspiration, whether in the form of a new format, process or cutting-edge material,” said Renan Joel, Managing Director, Packaging at multi-format event organiser Easyfairs.

“With its focus on future technologies, Empack is a must-attend for anyone looking for the ‘next big thing’ in packing and filling equipment to help squeeze every drop of performance from their production lines. And the Contract Pack & Fulfilment showcase is all about outsourcing services, from packing to logistics – it’s a bustling hub that matches brand owners, retailers, and manufacturers to their ideal contracted service.”

The Circular Economy stage will also see an exciting new feature launch; the inaugural Future Trailblazer of Packaging feature. This special presentation, held in partnership with IOM3 and Mercury Search & Selection, highlights individuals that are going above and beyond to shape the future of packaging. Those highlighted will be able to demonstrate unique perspectives on how they are driving sustainable change in the industry, making for what is sure to be an unmissable event.

The show has long been regarded as a highlight of the year for many businesses, enabling attendees to network with packaging manufacturers and value-adding service providers and get inspired to enhance their ranges over the coming year.

“As this year’s show takes place at a crucial time for the industry, when every business is faced with pressure to become more sustainable, while also dealing with inflation and the cost of living, we’re expecting it to be our biggest and most important show ever,” added Joel. “Anyone who has yet to book their visit should do so – it’s going to be an unmissable show.”

Tickets to Packaging Innovations & Empack, Featuring Contract Pack & Fulfilment can be booked for free at www.packagingbirmingham.com. Sponsorship opportunities are available.