interpack 2026 Sends Global Signal for Packaging Industry
interpack 2026 made the energy of an entire industry truly tangible; once again, it became global meeting place for processing and packaging industry and impressively demonstrated how concrete transformation is already being implemented in technology, materials, and processes
interpack 2026 sent a clear signal: the packaging industry is more closely connected, more innovative, and more dialogue-oriented than ever before. This momentum was immediately visible in the exhibition halls. High visitor traffic, intensive discussions, and a consistent international presence shaped the atmosphere. Everywhere, it was possible to experience the determination with which companies are working on solutions for the future. Ideas were discussed, tested, and decisions were made. The entire value chain was presented in live.
From 7 to 13 May, 2,804 exhibitors from 65 countries and trade visitors from 161 countries came together in Düsseldorf on the fully booked exhibition grounds. Of all visitors, 75% came from outside Germany, including 28% from outside Europe. Around 100 additional companies were represented at components, the supplier trade fair held in parallel. This made interpack 2026 the largest edition in its history in terms of exhibitors, underlining what was clearly felt in the halls, as this was an event with exceptional impact.
“That was a top interpack. Busy halls, intensive exchange and concrete projects showed the strength of this global community. interpack is the most important meeting place for the industry worldwide, and this edition impressively confirmed that,” says interpack Director Thomas Dohse, at the close of the trade fair.
For seven days, concrete solutions and partnerships took centre stage. Many discussions led to projects and investment decisions. The trade fair thus confirmed its role as the leading platform for the global processing and packaging industry—with strong visitor attendance, particularly from the food and pharmaceutical industries, as well as a high quality and density of leading and innovative suppliers.
Industry Under Transformation
interpack 2026 took place at a time when the industry is undergoing transformation. Demand for packaged products continues to rise, but requirements for materials, production systems, and supply structures are changing. A key focus at the trade fair was the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which marks a turning point for the industry in many respects.
interpack made one thing clear that companies are not responding in isolation, but systemically. Exhibitors presented solutions in which materials, machines, and processes are increasingly considered together and coordinated with one another. In this way, interpack confirms its role as an economic driver for the industry: this is where projects are initiated, investments prepared, and economic momentum generated.
Systems, Materials, Skills
Automation, data-based applications, and flexible plant concepts have arrived in industrial practice and were presented at interpack as concrete applications of smart manufacturing. In the field of materials, the focus was on innovative solutions that work under real-world conditions and meet regulatory requirements. Future skills became tangible wherever connected and data-driven systems require new competencies in production. Personal proximity, shared experiences, and open dialogue gave interpack a special intensity.
Specials Provide Additional Impetus
interpack also set important accents beyond the exhibition stands. The enhanced specials complemented the trade fair activities and brought in additional perspectives. The interpack SPOTLIGHT Forum, SAVE FOOD Highlight Route, SAVE FOOD Expert Talks & Awards, SAVE FOOD Project Competition, SAVE FOOD Design & Sustainability Design Awards, Women in Packaging, the Start-up Zone, and Young Talents Day showed how broadly the industry’s transformation is being discussed—from technology and sustainability to diversity, start-up culture, and the promotion of young talent, as well as qualification and future skills.
What remains is more than a successful trade fair. The industry faces major challenges and is meeting them with innovative strength, cooperation, and the will to actively shape the future. Added to this is a special combination of international density, technical depth, and a palpable spirit of new beginnings that characterised this year’s interpack.
The next interpack will take place in 2029. The date will be announced shortly.
