The interpack 2026 year has started and the global processing and packaging sector is looking towards its key industry meeting with clear expectations. In a phase of fundamental decisions, under the simultaneous impact of regulation, automation and cost pressure, interpack provides the framework for jointly structuring trends, technologies and solutions. The importance of artificial intelligence, automation and data-based production models is growing rapidly, while stricter regulations, rising costs, skills shortages and geopolitical tensions are changing the operating conditions for companies. At the same time, technological progress and increasing demand, especially for pre-packaged food and pharmaceutical products, are creating new opportunities for businesses that selectively invest in future-oriented solutions.
In this environment, interpack is gaining particular significance. Around 2,800 exhibitors will present processing and packaging technologies and concepts in Düsseldorf from 7 to 13 May 2026. The trade fair programme focuses on three main thematic areas, defined as Hot Topics: smart manufacturing, innovative materials and future skills. Along the entire value chain, both integrated line solutions and stand-alone systems will be showcased, all aimed at improving efficiency, flexibility and stability of production processes.
Answers across the value chain
For Monica Cervellati, Corporate Communication Manager at IMA Group, technical progress, materials and skills are equally important. "At interpack 2026, IMA aims to showcase key technological innovations shaping the processing and packaging industry in pharma, medical and food industries. Smart manufacturing, new materials and future‑ready skills guide our vision of the future. The trade fair is essential to showcase technology news, meet industry partners and share our vision of tomorrow," she emphasises. IMA will be the largest exhibitor at interpack in terms of stand size, with a comprehensive presence in Hall 17.
Companies are faced with the task of making manufacturing processes more stable, flexible and efficient. Examples of such solutions will be presented by Theegarten-Pactec in Hall 1. "At interpack, we will showcase our latest developments in automation, digitalisation, and process optimisation for packaging technology, as usual. All approaches pursue one clear goal: enabling even greater efficiency in our customers’ processes," explains Markus Rustler, President and CEO of the company.
As production and packaging processes become more complex, the importance of holistic, integrated line solutions increases. "Coesia will participate at interpack 2026 as the leading partner for integrated lines in Food, Personal Care and Cosmetics, delivering smart and sustainable automation that reduces TCO, increases efficiency and supports long-term customer relationships," announces Alessandro Parimbelli, CEO of Coesia. The company will be present in Hall 6.
Multivac combines efficiency, automation and sustainability in its trade fair appearance. "As an innovative and strong partner for processing and packaging food we will showcase added-value solutions that perfectly reconcile the current requirements made on efficiency, automation, digitalisation and sustainability – from skilled crafts to industry. The focal themes here are Smart Packaging and Smart Production. Under the motto ‘Protecting what protects health’ we will additionally present solutions for industry-specific and individual needs of the medical and pharmaceutical industries," says CEO Christian Traumann.
Faced with growing regulatory requirements, sustainability targets and efficiency pressures, companies need to redefine their processes. One example of how to approach this transformation will be presented by Marchesini Group in Hall 15. "Sustainability and robotics will take centrestage to support our customers in implementing the PPWR, balancing product safety, traceability and material recyclability. Interpack 2026 will be an important opportunity for the Marchesini Group to showcase cutting-edge aseptic packaging solutions together with AST," stresses CEO Valerio Soli.
Hygiene and efficiency in food processing
Product safety and hygiene remain a recurring main theme, generating a range of new technical approaches. "Cleanability and resource efficiency are becoming decisive factors for manufacturers facing stricter requirements on food safety, sustainability and operational efficiency. Interpack is an important platform for discussing how technology can support these demands in practice," says Gitte Svenstrup, Head of Strategy at Aasted. The company will be present in Hall 1.
Sollich and Chocotech will present at interpack 2026 solutions aimed at increasing efficiency, hygiene and digital connectivity in confectionery production. "Our aim: to show customers how we shape the future with smart technologies and optimised processes. Interpack offers precisely the right platform to do so. The Sollich and Chocotec team looks forward to an in-depth exchange at our exhibits at our exhibition stand in Hall 3," announces Klaus-Dietrich Franzmeier, Board Member at Sollich KG.
Innovations in packages and packaging materials
However, the trade fair programme is not limited to machinery. The packaging materials segment at interpack 2026, with well over 1,000 exhibitors, is the largest of its kind worldwide. One of the exhibitors in this area will be Metsä Board in Hall 8a. "Regulation and changing consumer preferences are driving demand for fossil-free and recyclable packaging materials. A key focus for us at interpack is the development of lightweight cartonboard solutions with a reduced carbon footprint, particularly for food and pharma packaging. Through our daily 360 Services workshops, we demonstrate practical, easy-to-recycle packaging design solutions and how brand owners can work to reduce their Scope 3 emissions," announces Erja Hyrsky, SVP, Commercial Operations at Metsä Board.
Sonoco also draws attention to the growing complexity of packaging requirements. "Packaging solutions are increasingly driven by sustainability requirements, regulatory readiness and operational efficiency," says Francesco Giannolo, Vice President, Commercial Consumer Packaging, EMEA/APAC at Sonoco, describing current developments. "Regulatory readiness has become a decisive factor in packaging decisions, pushing brands to prioritise solutions with clear recycling pathways and long-term compliance across markets. This shift calls for partners who can combine sustainability with real industrial expertise. With a long-standing leadership position in sustainable packaging and strong capabilities in both rigid paper and metal packaging, Sonoco Consumer Packaging empowers brands to make confident, future-ready choices."
The interpack Exhibitor and Product Database will be continuously updated with product news and further information until the start of the trade fair.
