Interpack 2026 once again confirmed its position as a key meeting place for the global processing and packaging industry. This year's edition of the trade fair showed that the changes taking place in the sector are no longer merely a subject of discussion, but are reflected in concrete technological, material and process solutions. High visitor activity, intensive business discussions and a strong international presence were visible throughout the exhibition halls. According to the organisers, interpack 2026 became a place where the entire value chain was presented, discussions on new concepts were held, solutions were tested and investment decisions were made. The event took place on fully booked exhibition grounds in Düsseldorf and brought together participants representing both technology suppliers and end users from many industrial segments.
From 7 to 13 May, 2,804 exhibitors from 65 countries and trade visitors from 161 nations gathered in Düsseldorf. According to the organisers, 75 percent of visitors came from outside Germany, and 28 percent from outside Europe. The components supplier exhibition was also held in parallel with the trade fair, with around 100 additional companies participating. In terms of the number of exhibitors, this was the largest edition of interpack in its history. Summing up the event, Thomas Dohse, Director of interpack, said: "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."
Industry growth, but under pressure to change
Interpack 2026 took place during a period of intensive transformation for the industry. Demand for packaged products continues to grow, but at the same time the requirements for materials, production systems and supply structures are changing. One of the most important issues present at the fair was the European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation, PPWR, which in the organisers' view marks an important turning point for the sector.
The trade fair showed that companies are not responding to these challenges in isolation, but in a systemic way. Exhibitors presented solutions in which materials, machines and processes are increasingly analysed together and aligned with one another. In this context, interpack also confirmed its function as an economic driver for the industry, as a place for initiating projects, preparing investments and building market momentum.
Systems, materials and skills
Among the showcased solutions, automation, data-based applications and flexible plant concepts occupied an important place. At interpack, these were presented no longer as visions, but as concrete examples of the practical use of smart manufacturing in an industrial environment. In the field of materials, the focus was primarily on solutions that perform under real conditions while also meeting regulatory requirements.
Future workforce skills were also an important theme. The development of connected and data-driven production systems is increasing demand for new qualifications in production and process operation. The organisers emphasise that personal meetings, direct exchange of experience and open dialogue gave this year's edition a particular intensity.
Supporting programme broadened the discussion
The exhibition was complemented by an expanded supporting programme. The interpack Spotlight Forum, SAVE FOOD Expert Talks, Women in Packaging, Start-up Zone and Young Talents Day brought additional perspectives to the discussion on the industry's development paths. The topics addressed included technology, sustainability, diversity, start-up culture, support for young talent, as well as qualifications and future skills.
According to the organisers, the outcome of interpack 2026 goes beyond assessing it as a successful trade fair edition. The event was intended to send a clear signal that the industry is facing major challenges, but is responding to them through innovation, cooperation and a willingness to actively shape the future. This edition was also defined by a strong international presence, technical depth of presentations and a clearly perceptible sense of a new beginning.
The next edition of interpack will take place in 2029. The exact date will be announced shortly.
