In view of rising cost pressure, stricter regulation and the increasing use of digital technologies, exhibitors at interpack 2026 will focus on automation, innovative materials and qualification. The world's leading trade fair for processing and packaging will take place in Düsseldorf from 7 to 13 May 2026 and will bring together around 2,800 exhibitors from the entire value chain.
The packaging and processing industry is facing profound changes. Artificial intelligence, automation and data-based production models are becoming increasingly important, while a shortage of skilled labour, geopolitical uncertainties and regulatory requirements are tightening the framework conditions. At the same time, technological advances and the growing demand for pre-packaged food and pharmaceutical products are opening up new room for manoeuvre for companies that make targeted investments in future-proof solutions.
Efficient production and integrated line solutions
Stable, flexible and efficient production processes are at the centre of many trade fair appearances. Theegarten-Pactec will be presenting new developments in automation, digitalisation and process optimisation in Hall 1. President and CEO Markus Rustler explains: „As usual, we will be presenting our latest developments in the areas of automation, digitalisation and process optimisation for packaging technologies at interpack. All approaches pursue a clear goal: to enable even greater efficiency in our customers“ processes."
As manufacturing and packaging processes become increasingly complex, integrated line solutions are gaining in importance. Coesia will be showcasing concepts for networked and sustainable automation in the food, personal care and cosmetics sectors in Hall 6. CEO Alessandro Parimbelli says: „At interpack 2026, Coesia will act as a leading partner for integrated lines in the food, personal care and cosmetics sectors, presenting intelligent and sustainable automation solutions that reduce total cost of ownership, increase efficiency and support long-term customer relationships.“
Multivac also combines efficiency, automation and sustainability. CEO Christian Traumann emphasises: „As an innovative and strong partner for food processing and packaging, we present value-added solutions that optimally combine the current requirements for efficiency, automation, digitalisation and sustainability.“
Regulation, sustainability and hygiene as drivers
Regulatory requirements and sustainability targets are forcing many companies to reorganise their processes. The Marchesini Group will be presenting solutions in Hall 15 that combine product safety, traceability and material recycling. CEO Valerio Soli explains: „Sustainability and robotics will take centre stage to support our customers in implementing the PPWR and reconciling product safety, traceability and the recyclability of materials.“
Hygiene and resource efficiency are becoming increasingly important in the food processing sector. Aasted points to increasing demands on cleanliness and efficiency. Head of Strategy Gitte Svenstrup says: „Cleanability and resource efficiency are becoming decisive factors for manufacturers who are faced with stricter requirements for food safety, sustainability and operational efficiency.“
Focus on innovative packaging materials
In addition to machines, packaging materials characterise the trade fair. With more than 1,000 exhibitors, the packaging materials area is the largest of its kind in the world. In Hall 8a, Metsä Board will be presenting lightweight, recyclable paperboard solutions with a reduced carbon footprint, especially for food and pharmaceutical packaging. SVP Commercial Operations Erja Hyrsky explains: „Regulation and changing consumer preferences are driving the demand for fossil-free and recyclable packaging materials.“
Sonoco also sees regulatory requirements as a decisive factor in packaging decisions. Francesco Giannolo, Vice President Commercial Consumer Packaging EMEA/APAC, says: „Regulatory preparedness has become a decisive factor in packaging decisions, prompting brands to prioritise solutions with clear recycling routes and long-term compliance across all markets.“
interpack 2026 is thus positioning itself as a central platform for categorising technological developments, new materials and future qualification requirements for the global packaging industry.
Source: Düsseldorf Trade Fair Centre
