interpack 2026 Sends a Global Signal for the Packaging Industry

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 apparent in the exhibition halls. High visitor traffic, lively discussions and a consistent international presence characterized the event.  Everywhere, it was evident how determined companies are to work on solutions for the future. Ideas were discussed, tested and decisions were made. The entire value chain was demonstrated in live operation.

From May 7 – 13, 2,804 exhibitors from 65 countries and trade visitors from 161 countries came together at the fully booked exhibition center in Düsseldorf, Germany.  A total of 75% of all  visitors came from outside Germany, 28% of whom were from overseas. Around 100 additional companies were represented at components, the supplier trade fair which took place concurrently. This made interpack 2026 the largest  in its history in terms of exhibitors, underlining what was clearly evident in the halls: this was an event with exceptional impact.

From the U.S., 92 exhibitors participated with 14 showcasing their products within the successful U.S. Pavilion organized by Messe Düsseldorf North America.

“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,” said Thomas Dohse, Director of interpack, at the close of the trade fair.

For seven days, the focus was on concrete solutions and partnerships. 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 concentration of leading and innovative suppliers.

Market growth – industry under pressure

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 European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), which marks a turning point for the industry in many respects.

It became clear at interpack that companies are not responding in isolation, but systemically. Exhibitors presented solutions in which materials, machinery and processes are increasingly designed and coordinated as an integrated whole. In this way, interpack confirms its role as an economic driver for the industry: this is where projects are initiated, investments are prepared and economic momentum is generated.

Systems, materials, skills

Automation, data-driven applications, and flexible plant designs have become standard practice in the industry and were showcased at interpack 2026 as concrete examples of smart manufacturing. In the materials sector, the focus was on innovative solutions that function under real-world conditions and meet regulatory requirements. Future skills became tangible where networked and data-driven systems require new competencies in production. The personal connection, shared experiences, and open dialogue gave interpack a special intensity.

Specials provide additional impetus

interpack also made its mark beyond the exhibition booths. The enhanced specials complemented the trade fair activities and introduced additional perspectives. The interpack Spotlight Forum, SAVE FOOD Expert Talks, Women in Packaging, the Start-up Zone and Young Talents Day clearly demonstrated 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. It is a clear signal: the industry faces major challenges and is tackling them with innovative strength, cooperation and the determination to actively shape the future. Added to this is a unique combination of international presence, technical depth and a noticeable sense of new beginnings that defined this edition of interpack.

The next interpack will take place in 2029 in Düsseldorf, Germany. Exact dates will be announced soon.

Source: Messe Düsseldorf

The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Packaging Impressions. The views expressed within may not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of the staff of Packaging Impressions.