Big-name brands expected to turn out in force for Packaging Innovations & Empack

Big-name brands are set to turn out in force to Packaging Innovations & Empack 2024, with organisers Easyfairs confirming representatives from powerhouse brands are up 40%.

The news comes against a backdrop of increasingly complex legislation, with the full implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) due in 2025 and is perhaps a sign of businesses starting to rethink their packaging ahead of the introduction of fees next October.

Already one of the highlights of the global packaging industry’s calendar, Packaging Innovations is the premier event for professionals in packaging, NPD, R&D, marketing, buying, branding, and design. The two-day showpiece, due to take place at Birmingham’s NEC on February 21 & 22, has an unrivalled reputation for connecting key decision-makers from the packaging and FMCG worlds, celebrating today’s innovations and shaping the trends of tomorrow.

And with the final countdown well underway, event organisers have confirmed the number of big-name brands expected to be in attendance is up 40% on last year’s figure.

“As new EPR legislation continues to tighten its grip, the news will come as little surprise,” said Naomi Stewart, Marketing Manager at Easyfairs. “The exhibition, and indeed the entire packaging agenda, has been propelled by the sustainability story for a good number of years.

“But now we’re seeing brands transition from the talking and planning stage, to physically doing something about it. It’s likely some of this upturn can be attributed to the realities and practicalities becoming abundantly clear. Whether it’s assurance they’re doing the right thing or inspiration, looking for an overhaul or seeking the final piece in their packaging puzzle, it’s fantastic to see them turning to Packaging Innovations once again.”

Exhibitor places are sold out ahead of what is set to be a blockbuster show, with over 400 preparing to network with brands such as Aldi, Asda, Britvic, Boots, Cadburys, Costa Coffee, Diageo, DHL, Heinz, Holland & Barrett, Hovis, Iceland, KFC, M&S, Molson Coors, Nestle, Oh Polly, Sainsbury’s, Sky, Superdrug, TATA, Tesco, Unilever, and Waitrose.

“We’re continuing to register VIP attendees from some of the biggest brands around,” continued Stewart. “As things stand, hundreds are set to explore the diverse array of suppliers offering a comprehensive range of packaging products and services, spanning from design to cutting-edge primary and secondary packaging, contract packing, e-commerce fulfilment, labelling and printing, and advanced packing and processing technology.”

This year’s edition of Packaging Innovations & Empack already looks set to be the biggest ever, with a record-breaking number of visitors expected and over 400 exhibitors in attendance for the UK’s flagship exhibition.

“When you combine some of the biggest names in packaging with household names like John Lewis, Interfora, Mars INC and Amazon, and then throw in the 30+ complimentary talks from leading brands, packaging designers, and thinkers, the already strong proposition is now bordering on unmissable,” added Stewart.

Complimentary visitor tickets for Packaging Innovations & Empack 2024 will remain available right up until the day of the event, and you can register now by clicking here.