Over 200 companies from 17 countries submitted their innovations to the German Packaging Award 2026. In the end, the independent expert jury selected 36 outstanding solutions across ten categories. The winners come from Germany, Austria, Italy, the Netherlands and the UK. They use plastic, fibre-based packaging materials, glass and metal. Three trophies were awarded in the packaging machinery categories. The dvi is hosting a special industry event in Berlin on 19 November 2026 for the awards ceremony and the announcement of the Gold Awards.
With the new European Packaging Regulation (PPWR) due to come into force shortly, the 36 award-winning innovations from the 2026 German Packaging Award demonstrate that the industry has been, and continues to be, highly creative and focused in its efforts to find solutions.
„Sustainability and circularity are proving to be key drivers of progress across all categories – from economic viability to design, product presentation, logistics, mechanical engineering, and digitalisation.“
Dr Natalie Brandenburg, DVI Managing Director
Awards ceremony and Gold awards
The DVI, together with its premium partner Fachpack and partner Igepa Group, invites all players in the packaging industry to the festive awards ceremony in Berlin on 19 November. Participation is free of charge and only requires prior registration via the German Packaging Award homepage.
All winners at a glance
packaging journal lists all 36 winners here. An overview can also be found on the official websites packagingprice.com and packagingaward.com.
Category: Sustainability (overall concept)
Applicant: Siegwerk Druckfarben AG & Co. KGaA
White printing ink with an oxygen barrier
Jury: Cirkit Oxybar White is the world's first barrier ink that integrates an oxygen barrier directly into the printing ink. This allows the barrier layer in the film to be replaced, increasing recyclability. This enables more cost-effective, sustainable mono-material packaging made from PE and PP. Industrial tests confirm a high oxygen and grease barrier, high opacity, reliable lamination strength, and suitability for commercial printing speeds.
Submitted by: Mondi Consumer Flexibles
Bag-in-box
Jury: This packaging solution from Mondi combines decarbonisation, design for recycling and economic efficiency throughout the value chain. It meets PPWR requirements and offers advantages for smaller batch sizes and a wide variety of variants, which led the jury to award it the prize. The solution shifts the packaging design to the end of the value chain: labelling is carried out using laser marking directly during the converting process rather than by printing. This eliminates the need for printing inks, plates and energy-intensive processes, reduces set-up costs and allows for flexible implementation of variants. A PIA (Product Impact Assessment) shows a CO₂ reduction of over 50% compared with laminated, printed PE pouches.
Submitted by: CurTec
Bio-based mono-material HDPE drums
Jury: CurTec’s Eco Lite Drum was developed for the pharmaceutical and speciality chemicals industries and demonstrates how the environmental footprint of packaging can be significantly reduced without compromising on safety, quality or regulatory compliance. The jury particularly commends the single-material design made from HDPE with an integrated lip seal, which improves recyclability and circularity. Through geometric optimisation and finite element analysis, material usage has been reduced by 25 per cent, whilst maintaining full UN-compliant performance. The use of 30 per cent bio-based material reduces the carbon footprint by around 30 per cent.
Submitted by: Linhardt Viechtach
Aluminium closure with integrated plastic inlay
Jury: With the newly developed aluminium closure featuring an integrated plastic inlay, Linhardt is setting new standards for recyclable tube packaging. This innovative hybrid solution reduces the plastic content to the technically necessary minimum, thereby significantly improving the recyclability of aluminium tubes in accordance with the PPWR. At the same time, it guarantees the highest requirements for leak-tightness, product protection, and process reliability, and is fully compatible with existing production, filling, and capping processes. A compelling example of how design for recycling, resource efficiency, and industrial practicality work together successfully.
Category: Sustainability (Material Reduction)
Submitted by: Jokey SE
Lightweight packaging for 1L dairy products
Jury: The 1-litre bucket JSLB 1090 is a packaging solution that has been recognised for demonstrating how material usage can be specifically reduced. The developers have succeeded in reducing the total weight of the complete unit – comprising the bucket and lid – to just 30 grams, which represents a significant saving of 35 per cent compared with the previous model. Through a simplified rim system, an optimised tamper-evident closure, the consistent minimisation of headspace and the deliberate omission of non-functional components such as the handle, a new benchmark for resource efficiency has been set.
Despite this massive material saving, the crucial performance features such as product protection, stackability, and industrial processability are fully retained.
Category: Sustainability (use of recycled materials)
Submitted by: Aptar Closures, Werner & Mertz GmbH
Single-material push-pull cap made from 100% recycled material for washing-up liquid
Jury: The jury recognises this closure as a pioneering technical solution for circular plastic packaging for washing-up liquid. The closure is based on a consistent mono-material design and is made from 100 percent post-consumer recycled material from the Yellow Sack. By specifically adapting production to an in-mould assembly process, the particular requirements of using recycled material in terms of process stability, dimensional accuracy and functionality have been successfully met. The submission impressively demonstrates how innovative process engineering and circular design merge into a scalable solution for the packaging industry.
Category: Sustainability (Recyclability)
Submitted by: Evonik Operations GmbH, Constantia Flexibles Group GmbH
TEGO Res 1100: Co-binder for solvent-based printing inks
Jury: The jury is recognising this innovation because it addresses a key challenge in the recycling of flexible plastic packaging at source. The additive enables the removal of printing inks from flexible packaging during the recycling process, thereby significantly improving the quality of the recyclate. This solution provides a crucial enabler for high-quality plastic recycling and the sustainable use of this fraction from the yellow bin.
Category: Sustainability (Reusable, Refill, and Deposit Systems)
Applicant: Avery Dennison Europe Holding (Germany); Malzfabrik Weyermann, All4Labels Group
Washable adhesive WW8031
Jury: With the Wash-Off adhesive WW8031, the bridge is successfully built between high-quality brand presentation and an efficient reusable system. The label remains reliably adhered during use, yet detaches almost residue-free in the washing process. It is particularly convincing that the adhesive remains firmly bonded to the paper fibres of the detached label and does not transfer into the washing liquor. This conserves bottles, process media, and resources equally.
Category: Design
Submitted by: Telefónica Germany GmbH, Design3, touch Design Ltd.
Sustainable packaging for o2 HomeBox 4 router
Jury: The packaging for the o2 HomeBox 4 is a compelling solution that consistently combines user guidance, resource efficiency and inclusivity. As an SIOC (Ships in Own Container), it requires no additional outer packaging, whilst the installation instructions printed directly onto the box eliminate the need for printed leaflets. The compact cardboard box design increases container utilisation by 33 per cent, thereby significantly reducing transport emissions. Featuring 100 per cent FSC-certified recycled cardboard, solvent-free soy-based ink and Braille labelling for accessibility, the design combines environmental responsibility with genuine user-centred design.
Submitted by: Kao Germany GmbH
JOHN FRIEDA Design Refresh 2026
Jury: The jury is impressed by the JOHN FRIEDA Design Refresh 2026 due to its balance of iconic brand DNA and a contemporary, clean design language. They particularly liked the lighter, more subtle, yet consistent brand band, which ensures immediate recognition across all product lines and formats. The design system is also convincing: despite different formats, materials, and printing techniques, the quality of the results remains high. With the use of PCR materials, design, functionality, and sustainability create a strong brand presence.
Applicant: 1001 Gewürze GmbH; Agency „Design for human nature“, Hamburg
Compostable spice packaging system with clear colour coding and reduced material usage
Jury: The jury is awarding „1001 Spices“ for outstanding design which convincingly combines sustainability, functionality and aesthetics. The plant-based, compostable tin reduces material complexity and protects the product optimally. A clear colour and barcode system for the ingredients creates clarity and brand strength. The modular, refillable concept sets new standards on the spice shelf.
Submitter: Brandpack GmbH
Recyclable cosmetic bottle for skincare brand Salthouse
Jury: The packaging for Salthouse's therapeutic skincare products is convincing as a holistic design solution that consistently combines brand identity, functionality, and sustainability. The seamless transition between bottle shoulder and cap, inspired by the shape of traditional clay vessels, creates a distinctive silhouette with high recognition value and clearly differentiates the brand in the competitive landscape. The intentionally set-off cap improves ergonomics and allows for intuitive, comfortable opening. The bottle can be stood upside down for almost complete residual emptying, and the switch to a screw cap supports refilling.
Category: Digitalisation
Submitted by: Packmatic GmbH
AI-powered packaging management platform for automated sustainability analysis and regulatory compliance
Jury: Packa is an AI-powered platform for digital packaging management that enables companies to automatically digitise scattered, incomplete and unstructured packaging data from sources such as PDFs, Excel files or emails, and convert it into structured, item-specific data records. A particularly distinctive feature is that sustainability, compliance and operational packaging decisions are directly linked: carbon footprint, recyclability and regulatory requirements such as PPWR, EPR and declarations of conformity can be assessed and documented in real time. At the same time, Packa automates time-consuming documentation and audit processes, improves data quality and facilitates collaboration between procurement, quality management, packaging development, suppliers, brand owners and retailers.
Submitted by: Coca-Cola; CCEP; The Coca-Cola Company; Vetropack Group; Mineral Labs
Digital Identity for Reusable Bottles: Serialization of Glass Bottles Using Data Matrix Codes
Jury: Glass is becoming even more transparent! Permanently incorporated data matrix codes in glass give each bottle its own digital identity. These enable reliable traceability, data-based quality control and transparent circulation analyses. The industry-compatible hot-end marking, the collaborative implementation and the universally applicable solution create transparency regarding circulation, dwell times and quality parameters, without fundamentally changing existing reusable systems. The submission is impressive due to its technical maturity, measurable benefits and its feasibility in existing reusable systems. The jury sees this as a pioneering contribution to the digitalisation and data-based further development of the circular economy.
Applicant: Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics IML
CASTN – Optimisation software for minimising empty space in shipping boxes in the online retail sector
Jury: The jury recognises CASTN because the software addresses the challenge of empty space minimisation in e-commerce with an innovative, scientifically sound, yet practical approach. The concept is convincing due to its intelligent combination of artificial intelligence, mathematical optimisation, and logistical application orientation. This allows CASTN to create measurable ecological and economic added value. The use of two combined algorithms enables precise, data-based optimisation, which systematically reduces both empty space in shipping boxes and the use of packaging material. At the same time, logistical framework conditions such as packaging machines, conveyor technology, and the requirements of logistics service providers can be incorporated into the calculations. For the first time, CASTN calculates an individually optimised shipping box set based on real order and product data. In addition to e-commerce companies, logistics service providers, packaging retailers, and manufacturers of packaging machinery and logistics systems can benefit from the precise calculations and the resulting planning possibilities.
Category: Functionality & Convenience
Submitted by: Puracon GmbH, Elos Medtech
Elos-Easy-Pick-Blister with angled sealing seam for medical devices
Jury: Operating theatre staff often face the challenge of removing metal screws from blister packs without direct contact, in order to fix fractures. This is very difficult to do while wearing gloves. This is where the Elos Easy-Pick Blister comes in. Thanks to its bevelled, three-dimensional seal, screws can be removed directly by operating theatre staff using a screwdriver. The solution simplifies handling in the operating theatre and increases process reliability. The special feature of the PETG blister lies in its three-dimensionally designed, bevelled seal. After opening the sealing lid, the screw can be picked up directly, without contact, and horizontally with the screwdriver. Additionally, an integrated holding function in the blister design fixes the screw head and ensures a defined removal position for the screw. The blister thus takes on an active role in the application process.
Submitted by: Kao Germany
Bioré Kids UV Stamp: Squeeze bottle with a paw-shaped applicator
Jury: Bioré UV Kids sun cream impressed the jury in the Functionality & Convenience category with a child-friendly packaging solution that makes applying sun protection easier, more fun and, at the same time, more reliable. An ingenious nozzle design in the cap and the precise distance between the cap and the skin ensure that the sun cream is applied in the shape of a clearly recognisable paw print – without the need for any additional pump or dispensing systems.
Compared to conventional sun cream packaging, the system makes application easier and more understandable for children. At the same time, material usage and complexity are reduced without compromising recyclability. The concept is supplemented by a resource-saving cardboard-based secondary packaging.
Applicant: Delkeskamp Verpackungswerke GmbH; Kampmann GmbH
3-in-1: Transport packaging, assembly aid and product protection during assembly
Jury: The packaging for the KaDius air conditioning unit provides protection during transport, protection during installation and an installation guide, all in one. The corrugated cardboard packaging makes no use whatsoever of plastic components and features printed assembly instructions which the installer can also use as a guide for ceiling mounting. The installer can access the video guide via a QR code on the packaging lid.
The unique feature of the solution is that the device is mounted on the ceiling within the packaging to prevent damage during installation. Only after this are the remaining packaging elements removed. The packaging is simple to assemble without tools and can be opened on-site without any equipment.
Submitted by: Smurfit Westrock
Bag-in-box solution with improved ergonomics
Jury: The Bag-in-Box Powergrip, made of corrugated cardboard and a flexible plastic bag, combines ergonomic handling with sustainable resource conservation. The integrated Powergrip allows for safe and clean pouring without splashing or dripping. The jury particularly praises the fact that pouring can be done one-handed, whereas a canister of the same container size typically requires two hands. The solution not only enables more ergonomic and cleaner pouring but also reduces plastic consumption by up to 86 percent, minimises empty space, and improves transport efficiency. It thus sets new standards for user-friendliness, sustainability, and packaging functionality.
Category: Logistics & Material Flow
Applicant: Der Grüne Punkt– Duales System Deutschland GmbH (Cologne), Duo Plast AG (Lauterbach)
Stretch film with post-consumer recyclate from the yellow bin for transport and load securing
Jury: The submission is compelling due to its technological relevance and clear circular economy benefits with regard to minimum recycled content in plastic packaging (PPWR Art. 7). Duo Earth Yellow Back uses up to ten percent post-consumer recyclate from the yellow bin (German recycling.
Submitters: Papierverarbeitung Hanns Julius Lichtenberger GmbH, SEW-Eurodrive GmbH, Wetropa Packaging GmbH
Sustainable paper-based packaging solution for high-quality automated guided vehicles (AGVs)
Jury: This value-added cardboard packaging for the transport of very heavy (up to 850 kg) automated guided vehicles (AGVs) replaces wood, simplifies handling, improves safety and ergonomics, and reduces loading and unloading times. The solution stands out for its sustainable innovation, significant weight reduction and measurable cost and process benefits across the entire supply chain. The forklift-free assembly, the paper ramp and the recyclable materials create genuine added value for customers, the environment and logistics. A clear recommendation for sustainable, efficient logistics.
Submitted by: Bekuplast GmbH
Innovative intralogistics container for safe processes and smart order picking
Jury: The intralogistics container presented here impresses with its practical innovation, proven process reliability in highly automated warehouse systems and consistent commitment to a circular economy. The reusable container enhances stability, reduces disruptions and replaces single-use materials with durable and ergonomic solutions. Key features such as a double base, lockable and ergonomic sliding flaps for rapid goods retrieval, safety grilles and labelling demonstrate clear added value in terms of order picking, efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Submitted by: Jokey SE & circolution GmbH, Kaffee Braun GmbH
Multi-way buckets for the transport, smart tracking and storage of products in the B2B sector
Jury: The submission impresses with practical innovation: The multi-way bucket combines robust construction, ergonomic handles, a rectangular shape with rounded corners, and subsequent Euro-pallet compatibility. It replaces single-use containers with a scalable circular system, optimises transport and handling, and increases transparency throughout the entire supply chain. Tracking via the GS1 code enables unique identification of each individual container, as well as transparency of location, circulation cycles, and fill history. A sustainable benchmark for B2B logistics.
Category: New material
Submitted by: H.B. Fuller Deutschland GmbH
Patented foam adhesive that enables plastic-free PET multipacks
Jury: The technology patented by H.B. Fuller Deutschland GmbH, which utilises a foamed adhesive, sustainably replaces conventional PET shrink film in multipacks with lightweight, elastic adhesive dots that combine stability, bottle protection and easy separation for the consumer. At the same time, it reduces material usage and plastic waste, improves recyclability and supports efficient production processes. An absolutely award-worthy contribution to greater sustainability and functionality in beverage packaging.
Category: Young talent
Submitted by: Lennart Standtke, Neubrandenburg University of Applied Sciences (M.Sc. Food Chain Environment)
EcoTrace: AI-powered CO₂ assessment based on food packaging – from a single photo, in seconds, affordable for SMEs
Jury: EcoTrace is revolutionising the environmental assessment of food packaging: a transparent CO₂ life-cycle assessment is generated in seconds from just a few photos. This award-winning innovation combines artificial intelligence, scientifically validated life-cycle analysis and high practical applicability to create an affordable solution for small and medium-sized enterprises. In doing so, EcoTrace lays the foundation for more sustainable packaging decisions and supports companies in meeting the increasing requirements of the European Packaging Directive. This pioneering combination of innovation, sustainability and economic benefits makes EcoTrace a well-deserved award winner.
Submitted by: Fine K., Lilly B., Moritz H., Lisa B., Siri B., Prof. Steffen Schulz; Münster University of Applied Sciences, Münster School of Design
Functional pregnancy test
Jury: Ease re-imagines the pregnancy testing experience, transforming the packaging into an intuitive companion. Whether hoping for a child or concerned about a (further) pregnancy, the discreet packaging conveys emotional security through its features and instructions.
The cardboard packaging guides users through every step, serves as a holder whilst the test result is developing, and subsequently allows for discreet storage. By integrating several functions into a single design, Ease reduces resource consumption whilst offering users guidance, comfort and reassurance at one of the most sensitive moments in their lives. The solution demonstrates how packaging can create real added value that goes far beyond mere product protection.
Submitted by: Lena Peitzmeier, Michèle Brandt, Hanna Otte, Ines Dahlmann and Nicola Matuschak, Prof. Steffen Schulz; Münster University of Applied Sciences, Münster School of Design
Convertible and reusable six-pack for drinks
Jury: OpenUp transforms classic beverage packaging into an interactive, social experience made from robust, reusable cardboard. The distinctive triangular design combines two different additional functions to encourage analogue interaction: a bottle cap toss game and a passive speaker. A clear colour system and intuitive illustrations directly on the packaging make its use playfully simple and understandable. While the pink side offers a toss game for spontaneous group activities, the funnel-shaped construction on the green side amplifies music purely acoustically, without any electronics. OpenUp reduces digital distraction from mobile phones and shows how packaging, through a clever secondary use concept, can promote genuine encounters and sustainability to an equal measure.
Submitters: Wiebke Wendorff, Sophia Reinecke, Lara Thole, Pina Schmitz; Münster University of Applied Sciences
Packaging for table tennis bats and balls with integrated net
Jury: It’s not just a play on words – the packaging plays a part too. With Net’s Play, the packaging itself becomes part of the gaming experience: in just a few simple steps, it transforms into a table tennis net. In this way, the original packaging offers real added value and a compelling secondary or additional benefit. NetsPlay thus makes spontaneous exercise and playing together easy – for everyone, anytime and anywhere.
Category: Packaging machines
Submitted by: Koch Pac-Systeme GmbH
KMO folding box module
Jury: The machine is made up of several modules, each offering different options in the folding box manufacturing process and covering an expandable or changeable packaging spectrum. The combinatorial selection of formats and products, as well as the consistent implementation of format flexibility with the aid of the movers, supports more flexible production with comparable outputs. The adjustment of the format.
Submitted by: Multivac Sepp Haggenmüller SE
Slicing Line NextGen
Jury: The Slicing Line NextGen from Multivac redefines efficiency in slicing processing by combining high performance, maximum flexibility, and consistent hygienic design in a particularly compact line solution. With around 28 per cent reduced space requirements, it offers a significant advantage for production environments with limited space, without compromising on performance.
A key unique selling point is the continuous revenue monitoring across all process steps – from the slicer's.
This data foundation enables the sustainable optimisation of processes and significantly improves cost-effectiveness. At the same time, the well-thought-out hygienic design ensures the highest safety standards and makes cleaning particularly easy. The line allows for quick and easy changeovers of all components, making it ideally suited to changing product ranges and small batch sizes. For full-range retailers in particular, this results in exceptionally high flexibility whilst maintaining stable production output.
Submitted by: Optima Consumer GmbH
Flexible high-performance filling and capping line with format-independent transport system
Jury: The submission VMT-0146 – Optima SpeedCare Line Smart – Machine Platform introduces a flexible, high-performance filling and capping machine with a format-independent transport system for fast format changes, small batch sizes, and short time-to-market. The advantages of the SpeedCare Line Smart compared to conventional filling and capping lines include significantly reduced changeover and cleaning times, as well as increased flexibility and cost-effectiveness, particularly for the small batch sizes typically encountered in pharmaceutical production.
The equally innovative and complex transport system for linear filling machines plays a decisive role in the achievable format flexibility. It enables tool-free, largely automated format changes (<20 minutes) at speeds of up to 240 packages/min, as well as flexible use with or without pucks on one system. Less waste, reduced downtimes, and demand-oriented production lead to reduced energy and material consumption per package and enable overall ecologically advantageous resource utilization.
Category: Product presentation
Submitted by: STI Group | STI – Gustav Stabernack GmbH
Shelf-Ready Packaging with gravity feed function
Jury: One challenge in the retail sector is that customers only buy what they can see. That’s why products on the shelf should always be positioned in the front row. However, this doesn’t work without some support. This is exactly where the Gravity Feed Tray comes in: it combines transport packaging and secondary placement in a compact solution. Without any additional elements or filler pieces, the design ensures that products are always positioned in the front row, thereby generating impulse purchases.
During transport, the cover protects the goods and ensures a stable, easily stackable unit without empty space. At the point of sale, the packaging can be opened quickly and intuitively thanks to defined perforations and adhesive points. With a few simple steps, it transforms into a high-impact display thanks to the integrated folding mechanism. Gravity ensures that the products automatically slide forward after each removal, making them always visible and easy to take.
Submitted by: Seyfert GmbH, Palm Verpackung
Remote POS display for impulse shopper activation
Jury: The Sensodyne display impresses with its exceptionally high-quality execution and strong point-of-sale presentation. The well-thought-out corrugated cardboard construction combines stability, functionality, and appealing design in a convincing manner. High-quality finishing treatments give the material a noble feel and underline the premium character of the overall presentation.
The large-format Sensodyne tube acts as an effective eye-catcher, generating high levels of attention and ensuring immediate brand recognition. At the same time, the product presentation is clearly structured, easily understandable at first glance, and unambiguously assignable for the end consumer. Overall, the display combines intelligent construction, high-quality material appearance, and excellent product staging to create a thoroughly successful overall presentation that is impressive both visually and functionally.
Submitted by: Kolb Group | Gebr. Knauer GmbH; Hitschler International GmbH
Corrugated cardboard advent calendar
Jury: The hitschies „Around the World“ Advent calendar case impresses with its exceptionally high-quality and eye-catching design on corrugated cardboard. Particularly noteworthy is the impressive number of finishing elements, which have been realised on this material in a manner that is technically and creatively extremely sophisticated. This design creates both a tactile and visual experience.
The combination of lacquers and further decorative finishes gives the calendar a high-quality look and feel, ensuring an emotional unboxing experience. Despite the challenges that corrugated cardboard presents as a printing substrate, the various effects have been implemented precisely and harmoniously. The elaborately designed packaging clearly stands out from the competition and creates a strong brand and gift impression at first glance.
Submitter: Rotoprint Sovrastampa Srl
Braille and raised print from embossing on flexible packaging
Jury: This innovation deserves the German Packaging Award because it combines patented embossing technology with genuine inclusion. Braille, raised print, and logos can be applied directly to flexible packaging during production with millimetre precision. This creates accessible, safe, and everyday-suitable packaging for blind and visually impaired people, with added value for brand profile, differentiation, and CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility).
Category: Economy
Submitted by: Smurfit Westrock
Transport and sales packaging with self-erecting stacking rim, automatic base and mechanical locking
Submitted by: Panther Packaging
Transport and sales packaging with self-erecting stacking rim, automatic base and mechanical locking
Jury: The new shelf packaging combines product protection, easy removal, and secure stackability with significantly higher process efficiency.
The reduction in set-up time and complexity, as well as improved accessibility during filling, cut filling time by 86 per cent whilst also saving on materials. This solution is as simple as it is ingenious and significantly boosts efficiency during manual filling. It is well deserving of the German Packaging Award.
The packaging development was submitted independently by two companies. The jury finds the solution convincing and awards a German Packaging Award to Panther Packaging and Smurfit Westrock.
Source: German Packaging Institute
