For one week, Düsseldorf brought together manufacturers, converters and suppliers from the global packaging sector. From May 7 to 13, Interpack 2026 welcomed 2,804 exhibitors (the same as the previous edition) from 65 countries, and visitors from 161 countries to a sold-out exhibition grounds. The organizer, Messe Düsseldorf, did not specify the number of visitors this year, but indicated that 75% of visitors came from abroad, 28% of them from outside Europe. The food and pharmaceutical sectors were among the most represented visitors.
PPWR, automation and AI at the heart of discussions
According to Thomas Dohse, Director of Interpack, "the halls were very busy, exchanges were intense and many concrete projects emerged" .
This year's event took place against a backdrop of rapid change in the processing and packaging industries. Discussions focused on the evolution of materials, line automation and the consequences of the European PPWR regulation on packaging and packaging waste.
Manufacturers presented approaches combining materials, processes and production equipment. Several exhibitors highlighted more flexible lines, packaging adapted to recyclability constraints, and devices designed to reduce material consumption.
Feedback from exhibitors also confirms the growing importance of artificial intelligence and the use of production data.
Italian packaging machinery manufacturer IMA cites strong interest in its AI-driven robotic systems and applications, while German manufacturer Theegarten-Pactec, which specializes in packaging lines for confectionery, food and non-food products, says it has launched several projects around digital solutions designed to improve line efficiency through data analysis.
At Marchesini Group, an Italian manufacturer of packaging equipment for the pharmaceutical and cosmetics sectors, discussions focused in particular on equipment developed to meet PPWR requirements and on line clearance systems.
Flexible Packaging Europe, the European association of flexible packaging manufacturers, is emphasizing more concrete exchanges on raw material prices, European regulations and developments in end-user markets.
Connected production and new industrial needs
Automation and data-driven production applications took center stage in the halls. Manufacturers demonstrated a wide range of connected lines, digital control and analysis tools designed to enhance production flexibility.
Interpack also highlighted the issue of industrial skills. The progress of connected systems and digital tools requires new profiles in processing and packaging workshops.
Alongside the stands, a number of themed areas rounded off the show's program. The Spotlight Forum, Save Food Expert Talks, Women in Packaging, the Start-up Zone and Young Talents Day addressed issues of recruitment, training, sustainability and innovation.
The next edition will be held in 2029, with exact dates to be announced.
