Global Packaging Industry Prepares for interpack 2026
The global processing and packaging industry is preparing for its largest gathering as interpack 2026 approaches in Düsseldorf, Germany.
Scheduled to take place from 7 to 13 May 2026, the event is expected to bring together companies from across the value chain to discuss major industry developments, including artificial intelligence, automation, emerging materials and evolving workforce skills. Market leaders as well as newer entrants are preparing to showcase their latest technologies, while the event’s ticket shop is already open to visitors.
Preparations for the exhibition are well underway. Roughly 2,800 companies from around the world are expected to present new technologies and concepts designed to shape the future of a globally connected processing and packaging sector.
The broader backdrop for the event reflects both strong demand and mounting pressure across the industry. Global population growth, rapid urbanization and shifts in consumer habits are driving the need for more efficient processing and packaging systems. At the same time, companies face significant constraints, including shortages of raw materials, tighter regulatory requirements, supply chain risks and an ongoing lack of skilled labor.
Against this backdrop, the upcoming exhibition will emphasize several major themes, including Smart Manufacturing, Innovative Materials and Future Skills. Smart Manufacturing highlights data-driven and resource-efficient production methods, ranging from artificial intelligence applications to robotics. Innovative Materials focuses on the development of new packaging substances, enhanced functionality and design-for-recycling concepts. Future Skills addresses the changing nature of work and the competencies required for increasingly digitalized and automated production environments.
The scale of participation reflects the event’s global reach. About 2,800 companies from 67 countries are expected to attend, including many of the industry’s leading manufacturers. Firms such as Aasted, Sollich, Theegarten-Pactec and SACMI Packaging & Chocolate will represent the confectionery and bakery sectors, presenting technologies in Halls 1, 3 and 4.
Companies serving the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries will also play a prominent role. In Halls 15 through 17, exhibitors including IMA Industria Macchine, the Marchesini Group and OPTIMA will present equipment and solutions tailored to those sectors.
The exhibition space dedicated to food, beverage, consumer and industrial goods will span six halls, including Halls 11 through 14 as well as Halls 5 and 6. Companies such as the COESIA Group, Duravant, Gerhard Schubert, Ishida, KHS, Krones, MULTIVAC, Syntegon Technology and ULMA Packaging are expected to showcase advancements in automation, efficiency and sustainable packaging processes.
Packaging materials will be another major focus of the fair. More than 1,000 exhibitors will present materials and finished packaging products in Halls 7 through 10, reinforcing interpack’s position as the world’s leading trade fair for packaging materials. Among the companies expected to exhibit are BERICAP, Jokey, Metsä, Sappi Europe and SCHÜTZ.
Labelling and marking technologies will also be featured prominently in Halls 8a and 8b, where companies such as Bluhm Systeme, Domino Printing Sciences and Totani will present their latest systems.
The exhibition further highlights its global scope through the presence of numerous national pavilions. In these dedicated areas, companies from individual countries present collectively under a national banner, pooling expertise and offering visitors a concentrated view of regional capabilities. Pavilions from India, China, Taiwan, Korea, Turkey, Malaysia and several European countries are among those expected to participate.
Beyond the exhibition halls, interpack will host a range of accompanying programs designed to foster discussion and highlight emerging ideas. The interpack Spotlight Forum, located near the North Entrance, will feature experts examining industry developments and strategic challenges. The Start-up Zone will offer a platform for young companies to present new technologies and business models. The exhibition grounds will also host the presentation of the WorldStar Global Packaging Awards.
Supplier industries will also play a central role in the event’s programming. Companies will present solutions in areas such as drive technology, control systems, sensor technology, robotics, machine components and industrial software, illustrating the technological infrastructure behind modern processing and packaging operations.
Sustainability and food waste reduction will receive particular attention through several initiatives, including the SAVE FOOD Expert Talks, the SAVE FOOD Highlight Route, the SAVE FOOD Awards and the SAVE FOOD Project Competition. The program will also include Women in Packaging on 11 May, which will focus on the role of women in the industry. Meanwhile, interpack TV will provide live coverage from the exhibition grounds, reporting on innovations, trends and perspectives from across the global packaging community.
Organizers have also introduced new digital and logistical tools designed to help visitors navigate the event. An exhibitor and product database allows attendees to review companies, products and innovations in advance and plan their schedules accordingly. A digital matchmaking tool known as Fair Match suggests potential business contacts based on individual interests and helps facilitate meeting arrangements. The event website provides information on travel planning and accommodation, including a newly introduced hotel service that compiles available lodging options and simplifies comparison. Early reservations are recommended as demand for accommodation is expected to rise in the weeks leading up to the exhibition.