Cosmetic Business 2026, held at the MOC Munich in mid-June, brought together 371 exhibitors and represented companies from 28 countries. According to Leipziger Messe, the focus of discussions was primarily on sustainable packaging solutions, the circular economy, and the implications of the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), alongside ingredients and formulations.
The international trade fair for the cosmetics industry showed that packaging continues to be one of the most important drivers of innovation in the sector, according to the organisers. The focus was on concepts for material reduction, refill solutions, and the use of recyclates. Around half of the visitors were particularly interested in the packaging exhibition area. In total, trade visitors travelled from 50 countries to Munich, with a quarter of them coming from abroad.
Sustainable packaging is gaining importance
A central theme was the new Green Area, dedicated to sustainable solutions for the cosmetics industry. On the second day of the trade fair, the focus was on packaging solutions. Topics discussed included the circular economy, resource-efficient materials, and the implementation of regulatory requirements.
Sustainability also played an important role on the exhibitor side. Mégane Bereyziat, Cosmetics Product Manager at texen/Quadpack, said: „For the German market, but also for regions like Switzerland, it is becoming clear that local production, a lower CO2 footprint, and sustainable products are becoming increasingly important.“
The PPWR creates a need for consulting
According to Total Packaging B.V., many visitors sought guidance on the European Packaging Regulation PPWR. Wim Pulskens, the company's CCO, explained: „Many visitors were looking for guidance on the PPWR and wanted to know what the new regulation will mean from 2030 onwards, particularly for gift sets and future packaging requirements.“ Additionally, the relocation of production capacities from the Far East to Europe and ongoing price pressure were important topics of discussion.
Positive feedback from exhibitors and visitors
According to a survey, 90 percent of exhibitors rated their achievement of objectives positively. The quality of visitors was rated as high by 93 percent of respondents, while 80 percent expect good post-fair business. The conclusion was also positive on the visitor side: eight out of ten respondents stated that the trade fair visit had been worthwhile and that they would attend again in 2027.
The next Cosmetic Business will take place again at the MOC Munich from 2 to 3 June 2027.
Source: Leipziger Messe GmbH
