interpack, the Flagship of the Global Processing and Packaging Industry, Returns to Düsseldorf
This year, interpack will again offer the packaging and related process industry the biggest international overview of the market, thereby more than earning its motto “simply unique”. To help visitors not get lost in 18 trade fair halls, the halls feature a custom concept based on the core target groups food, beverages, confectionery and baked goods, pharmaceutical products, cosmetics, non-food and industrial goods.
Around 2,700 companies from around the world will meet in Düsseldorf from 4 -10 May, 2023, to present cutting edge technologies and packaging trends from along the entire value chain, demonstrate chances for growth and respond to the challenges of the industry.
In an exclusive interview for European Baker & Biscuit, Thomas Dohse, interpack Director, shared with us a few insights on the upcoming trade fair and the challenges it had to overcome as well as the long-awaited opportunities it brings for the industry.
1.Can you tell us what your expectations are for this edition of interpack?
We are obviously excited to welcome the world of processing and packaging back to Düsseldorf in May. The last few years have been challenging to say the least but here we are, in the final stages of preparation for interpack 2023. I’m extremely proud of the team here in Düsseldorf and everything they have been able to accomplish, a fully booked show and sizable waiting list. As each day goes by, the excitement grows and we are expecting a great interpack.
2. What are some of the novelties this edition brings for visitors?
With so many international exhibitors, you can bet there will be a lot to see. The processing and packaging industry will show us everything it has to offer, in addition to discussing current trends and setting the course for the future. The range of products and services is therefore as impressive as ever. A new aspect since the last interpack is the addition of several digital services and offers, which are taking on a much greater role. We see ourselves as an active platform 365 days a year. A key focus here is on networking and how to better bring exhibitors and visitors together. There are also new digital tools to aid in improving your overall trade fair experience. Maximizing your time through better and more efficient planning.
3. Tell us a bit about your registered exhibitors. What is the return rate, what sectors are best represented and what can newcomers expect?
After the cancellation of interpack 2020, we were obviously disappointed but we still had a great deal of support from the industry. The overwhelming majority of exhibitors from 2020 retained their spaces for 2023. Also, this year we can finally implement our new hall concept, which sets clear focal points and helps visitors to more efficiently plan their time. The confectionery and bakery sectors are concentrated in Halls 1, 3 and 4. Packaging materials and packaging means are also an important contact point and can be found as a cross-sectional area for all target groups in Halls 7 and 7a, 8a, 9 and 10.
4. The COVID restrictions have disrupted interpack’s calendar, having the 2021 edition cancelled. How did that affect this edition, and what are the ramifications of that decision both for you as organizers, and for exhibitors?
Six years without an interpack is a long time. After the initial postponement in 2020, we tried to fit the event into the 2021 calendar but as we now know, the uncertainties were simply too great at the time to meet the demands of a leading trade fair. Everyone agreed on that. The industry though has continued to show its support for interpack and the 2,700 exhibitors plus the waiting list are proof of that. The processing and packaging industries are ready to come together and this year’s edition might just be the most anticipated interpack yet.
5. Can you give us some details regarding the program?
You can read the rest of this article in the March-April issue of European Baker & Biscuit, which you can access by clicking here.