From 1 to 4 February 2026, ProSweets Cologne at the Cologne Exhibition Centre will focus on the future of sustainable packaging. In view of new legal requirements and changing consumer demands, topics such as recyclability, material efficiency and the circular economy will be at the centre of the trade fair for suppliers to the confectionery and snack industry.
The European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) demands significant progress in the use of resource-saving materials. The aim is that by 2030, only packaging that is demonstrably recyclable or reusable will be placed on the market. The exhibitors in Cologne will be presenting new materials and technologies that support this transition - from paper-based packaging to highly flexible machines that can process it
One focus is on optimising existing packaging. Smaller formats, thinner materials and more precise processing are intended to conserve resources, without compromising product quality. Modern pick-and-place systems, cartoning machines and flow-wrapping machines play a central role in this. They enable precise filling, short changeover times and the use of new materials such as monofilms or fibre composites.
Paper solutions on trend
The trade fair also addresses the technical challenges involved in switching to recyclable or paper-based solutions. Paper reacts more sensitively to mechanical stress and requires customised processes. New machines enable the processing of such materials without compromising on quality or speed. For vertical packaging in particular, into which individually wrapped confectionery falls, the technologies presented in Cologne show how even sensitive paper solutions can be processed safely.
Another issue is the mandatory use of recyclates in plastic packaging. While this can already be largely implemented in areas such as PET drinks bottles, manufacturers of confectionery and snack packaging still face major challenges. Suitable materials for sensitive food applications have hardly been available to date. In order to fulfil the requirements, many companies rely on paper-based alternatives or modular systems that can flexibly process different types of material.
The Digitalisation of packaging processes is gaining in importance. The PPWR provides for more detailed reporting obligations in the future, which can only be realised with digitally supported quality management systems. Accordingly, ProSweets Cologne will also present tools and systems that enable PPWR-compliant reporting and document the transformation process.
„Sustainable packaging solutions are not an option, but a success factor. The new EU packaging regulation is significantly accelerating this change.“
Guido Hentschke, ProSweets Director
The trade fair accompanies the theme with an extensive supporting programme. At the Expert Stage in Hall 10.1, experts from industry, research and politics will be discussing packaging trends, recycling and the circular economy on all four days of the trade fair. The aim is to objectify the debate on sustainability and provide companies with practical guidance for upcoming investment decisions.
Source: Cologne Trade Fair
