The conference packaging teams actually want to attend.

Dr Russell Sion

Technical Director

Day 1 | 10:30-11:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Connected Packaging - From consumer engagement to compliance, it's all about the data

Since obtaining his PhD from the University of Southampton in 1993, Dr Russell Sion has worked extensively across many aspects of the food industry and has specialised in end of line automation since the mid 2000s. He is Technical Director of the Jenton Group, and also as CEO of Jenton Dimaco for the last 9 years his particular focus has been on connected packaging and label verification in the food processing sector, particularly within meat, poultry and fish as a means to reduce food waste. Russell works closely with the many industry stakeholders including processors, supermarket development and technical teams and various standards organisations such as GS1. He is a regular contributor to food and packaging waste reduction discussions and has presented at various conferences in the UK and Europe, as well as being invited to join panel discussions as an industry expert.

Clare Bottle

Chief Executive

Day 1 | 11:00-11:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

IoT-Enabled Packaging and Supply Chain Transparency

Session synopsis: A sensor does not improve a supply chain by itself. The value comes when we use data to change decisions on receiving, storage, picking, quality or despatch. This keynote will outline how sensors, smart labels and connected devices can improve tracking and monitoring and explore the practical warehouse decisions which need to follow.

Clare Bottle FCILT is Chief Executive of the UK Warehousing Association (UKWA) and Vice-Chair of Women in Logistics UK. She has more than 30 years’ experience in logistics and warehousing, gained across sectors including chemicals, construction, retail, parcel delivery and food and drink. Before joining UKWA in 2021, she held senior operational and leadership roles with organisations including Coca-Cola Europacific Partners and Lafarge Tarmac, as well as delivering projects for major logistics and retail businesses. At UKWA, Clare represents a diverse community of more than 1,000 member companies and works closely with warehouse operators, suppliers, policymakers, educators, training providers and other industry bodies. She is a passionate advocate for warehousing as essential national infrastructure and for the people, skills and innovation that underpin it. Her leadership combines deep practical knowledge of warehouse operations with a strong commitment to building connections, sharing expertise and helping the sector achieve economic, social and environmental sustainability.

Brian Lodge

Director of Packaging

Day 1 | 11:30-12:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

The Future of Plastics and Sustainable Material Innovation

Session synopsis: Brian intends to cover emerging polymer-based materials, their uses and acceptance within the industry, and the drivers for change, including sustainability initiatives, legislation and public opinion.

Brian joined the BPF in November 2022 as Director of Plastics and Flexible Packaging. Having spent his career in various roles within the industry, mainly in design, NPD and management, he has accumulated a wide range of knowledge relating to plastic packaging in the UK and abroad. Brian chairs the RECOUP Recyclability by Design Committee and the WRAP Flexible Plastics Committee, sits on the OPRL and RAM Technical Advisory Committees, and is involved in a number of other industry initiatives.

Michael Jennings

Policy & Public Affairs Advisor

Day 1 | 12:00-12:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

PRN Reform: Why it matters to your business

Session synopsis: The PRN system has played a fundamental role in supporting UK packaging recycling for almost 30 years, but as reform continues and 2026 brings unprecedented levels of uncertainty, what does it all mean for your business? This session takes a critical look at the journey to where we are today: what has happened, what was meant to happen, why are we here, and what needs to change for the future? We’ll explore the purpose and value of the PRN system, the reforms designed to strengthen it, and how changes in the wider packaging landscape have contributed to the challenges businesses are facing in 2026. Most importantly, we’ll look beyond 2026. What has this year reinforced about how the PRN market works? What should businesses be thinking about when planning for future compliance costs and obligations? And what needs to change to create a system that is more transparent, predictable and effective, while retaining the market mechanisms that have helped drive UK recycling?

Michael Jennings is an expert in UK and EU policy with a passion for keeping things simple and driving practical industry change. He works closely with the Environment Agency and Defra to support the development of Packaging EPR guidance and industry best practice and is also actively involved in industry events and stakeholder engagement, helping Beyondly stay connected with the latest regulatory developments and market changes. Michael works alongside Beyondly's Director of Policy and Public Affairs and wider policy team representatives, providing technical regulatory support and helping ensure compliance requirements are interpreted and applied accurately for our clients. He is delighted to be speaking for the second time at UKPackaging Expo!

George Wade

Co-Founder & Chief Commercial Officer

Day 1 | 12:30-13:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Beyond Compliance: Turning Packaging Emissions Data into Better Decisions

Session synopsis: Emissions reporting in packaging has moved beyond compliance. The real challenge now is how that data is used to make decisions. This session looks at how packaging emissions are becoming a commercial and competitive variable, not just a sustainability metric. With packaging sitting at the centre of value chains, the same emissions data increasingly needs to support reporting, procurement, and customer conversations. Attendees will leave with a clearer view of the gaps in their emissions data and how to use carbon data for better, faster decisions across the value chain.

George Wade is the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer at Zevero, where he works with businesses around the world to turn carbon data into climate action. His career began in waste management, where he saw firsthand how difficult it was for companies to understand and act on their environmental impact. Named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list in 2026, George is passionate about making sustainability more accessible, engaging, and grounded in good data. Outside of work, George is a passionate cyclist who rarely misses an opportunity to get out on two wheels.

Camilla Young

Programme Lead - Next Generation of Barcodes

Day 1 | 14:00-14:30 | Future of Packaging Stage · Day 2 | 12:30-13:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage (Women in Packaging panel)

The Barcode Revolution: How Connected Packaging Is Reshaping Retail

Camilla Young is on a mission to change the way the world shops. As Programme Lead for the next generation of barcodes at GS1 UK, she is driving the industry-wide shift to QR codes powered by GS1: technology that will redefine how we experience products, from farm to checkout. Camilla joined GS1 UK from Johnson & Johnson where she led customer value creation and commercial strategy across brands such as Listerine, Johnson’s Baby, Aveeno and Neutrogena. She has over 20 years’ experience in the retail industry, working across a broad range of retailers, brands and categories through commercial roles at Hasbro, Bic & Pernod Ricard.

Madison Wright

Strategic Engagement Manager

Day 1 | 14:30-15:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Scaling Circular Packaging Systems Across the UK

Madison Wright is a Strategic Engagement Manager at WRAP, where she works closely with UK and global members to advance the organization’s circular economy goals for plastics and packaging. In her role, she leads member engagement and collaboration efforts, supporting organizations to eliminate waste, improve recyclability, and accelerate the transition to a circular packaging system. Madison is currently supporting the UK Packaging Pact’s new 10-year strategy and plays a key role in ensuring members are informed, engaged, and equipped to deliver long-term targets and system-wide change. Previously, Madison worked at Circular Economy Consultancy as a Project Lead, supporting circular design and innovation initiatives, and held roles with the International Air Transport Association and the World Health Organization as a consultant. She holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Management and Policy from Lund University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington.

Millie Main

Global Compliance

Day 1 | 15:00-15:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Understanding PPWR: Responsibilities, Packaging Challenges and Sustainable Solutions

Session synopsis: The upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is transforming how packaging is designed, used, and managed across Europe, driving reductions in waste and pushing businesses toward a circular economy. This session will outline the key requirements, including stricter sustainability standards, recyclability and reuse targets, and reduced excess packaging, while highlighting how PPWR compliance services can support organisations in understanding obligations and maintaining EU market access. It will focus on the growing complexity of packaging data and documentation, including Declarations of Conformity, alongside the role of recyclability assessments in meeting PPWR criteria. Attendees will explore the crucial difference between recyclable in theory and recyclable in practice, and the financial impact of packaging decisions, where smarter design can reduce costs and risk. PPWR isn’t just changing packaging it’s changing how businesses think about packaging entirely

Rory Baird

PPWR Specialist & International Account Manager

Day 1 | 15:00-15:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Understanding PPWR: Responsibilities, Packaging Challenges and Sustainable Solutions

Session synopsis: The upcoming EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) is transforming how packaging is designed, used, and managed across Europe, driving reductions in waste and pushing businesses toward a circular economy. This session will outline the key requirements, including stricter sustainability standards, recyclability and reuse targets, and reduced excess packaging, while highlighting how PPWR compliance services can support organisations in understanding obligations and maintaining EU market access. It will focus on the growing complexity of packaging data and documentation, including Declarations of Conformity, alongside the role of recyclability assessments in meeting PPWR criteria. Attendees will explore the crucial difference between recyclable in theory and recyclable in practice, and the financial impact of packaging decisions, where smarter design can reduce costs and risk. PPWR isn’t just changing packaging it’s changing how businesses think about packaging entirely

Keith Barnes

Former Chair, Institute of Packaging (now IOM3 Packaging Group); Member, Midlands Packaging Society

Day 1 | 15:30-16:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Roger Wright

Waste Strategy & Packaging Manager

Day 1 | 10:00-10:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Closing The Loop On The Future of Packaging

Session synopsis: You love the summaries, you’ve heard the soundbites, and you’re figuring out the strategy. But what does a Circular Economy actually mean for packaging and how can a waste management business like Biffa help with that? We’ll answer this question with some practical examples of how the good, the fad and the ugly solutons we asses each day can point you in the right direction. And we promise, it won’t be a wasted journey!

Roger’s bringing over 25 years of knowledge and experience gained in the Packaging Manufacturing and Retail sectors, into the UK’s leading Waste Management business. His team have developed a unique perspective in support of retailers and brand owners’ efforts to become more sustainable and circular, by thinking differently about the business models they choose, the materials they consume and the waste they create. A creative and collaborative approach helps Biffa and its customers design-out or redesign the packaging they don’t need, and implement the innovative, scalable alternatives they do.

Jack Hill

Global Director of Marketing

Day 1 | 10:30-11:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Retaining Brand Loyalty and Building Trust with Compliant Packaging

Jack Hill is the Global Director of Marketing at Chubby Gorilla®, where he leads global marketing strategy for one of world’s most recognized specialty packaging manufacturers. Jack drives initiatives that position packaging as a critical component of brand integrity, regulatory compliance, and consumer safety in highly regulated markets. A recognized thought leader in beverage, food, pharmaceutical and cannabis packaging, Jack frequently speaks on the importance of quality standards, compliance-driven design, and emerging market trends shaping the future of the industry. He has presented on sustainable packaging and regulatory best practices at the International Cannabis Business Conference (ICBC) and the UK Vaping Industry Association (UKVIA). With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and global market expansion, Jack continues to champion responsible packaging solutions that support both brand growth and regulatory excellence.

Harry Baker

Commercial Director

Day 1 | 11:30-12:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

The True Cost of Flexible Packaging: Price v Value

Session synopsis: The session explores why unit price is the wrong metric and what brands should measure instead, including supply chain risk, hidden costs of over-ordering, stock waste, and the commercial case for choosing agility over apparent savings.

Harry Baker is Commercial Director at BakPac, the flexible packaging division of Baker Labels - one of the UK's most respected independent label and packaging manufacturers, with over 50 years of family heritage. He joined the business after graduating with a First-Class Honours degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Nottingham, bringing an engineer's rigour to the commercial and operational realities of modern flexible packaging. Under Harry's direction, BakPac has become a recognised innovator in digitally printed flexible packaging - including becoming the first company in the UK to operate dual HP Indigo 200K digital presses and a fleet of five pouch converters. This capability enables brands across sports nutrition, supplements, pet care, and wellness to bring products to market faster, with greater flexibility and less waste than traditional packaging models allow. As a Hyrox athlete himself, Harry occupies a rare position in the supplement and sports nutrition supply chain: he is simultaneously expert supplier and end consumer. That dual perspective shapes everything he brings to client conversations - and to the stage.

Sam Lloyd

Commercial Director

Day 1 | 14:00-14:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

How AI Search Is Changing How Brands Discover Packaging Suppliers

Session synopsis: As procurement and brand teams increasingly use AI tools to research and shortlist packaging suppliers, visibility in AI-generated answers is becoming a meaningful growth channel for suppliers , and one that few marketing agencies are talking about in this space yet.

Sam combines a decade of hands-on marketing expertise with commercial leadership to help businesses accelerate growth. Making complex marketing concepts clear and actionable with practical insights backed by years of real client experience. Key areas include: Commercial growth planning; Multi-sector marketing; Practical, no-jargon advice; AI search optimisation.

Alex Stewart

Head of Commercial, UK Channel

Day 1 | 15:30-16:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Successfully Transitioning to a Connected Packaging and Circular Economy Ecosystem

Session synopsis: What can the food industry learn from 25 years of successful 2D barcode deployment? This session explores the lessons learned from large-scale implementations across multiple industries and demonstrates how 2D codes are transforming product identification, traceability, and consumer engagement. Attendees will discover how connected packaging can help reduce food waste, improve supply chain efficiency, support the transition to circular economies, and deliver enhanced consumer experiences. Through real-world examples and proven adoption strategies, we will examine how 2D codes are becoming a critical enabler of a more sustainable, transparent, and connected future.

Alex Stewart is Head of Commercial for Domino's UK Channel business, bringing more than ten years of experience across capital equipment and aftermarket sales. A key focus of his role is helping manufacturers prepare for and successfully adopt GS1-powered QR codes, ensuring compliance while unlocking broader opportunities in traceability, consumer engagement, operational efficiency, and sustainability. Alex is passionate about supporting businesses in taking a proactive approach to digital transformation and connected packaging. Outside of work, he enjoys travelling and recently spent three weeks exploring South America.

Anup Pala

Conference Chair, Day 2 Future of Packaging

Day 2 | 10:00-16:00 | Future of Packaging Stage (stage chair)

Anup runs the independent Anup Pala Packaging Consultancy. He is a packaging innovation and sustainability leader with over 18 years' experience across FMCG, Food & Beverage, Retail, Luxury goods and emerging Packaging Technologies. He works with brand owners, packaging companies, NPD teams, and operation leaders who need senior packaging expertise on tap, for a single project, a full innovation programme, or ongoing sustainability transition, without the cost and delay of a permanent hire. He takes packaging projects from brief to material selection, supplier sign off and complete on shelf, all while making sure the numbers behind them stack up.

Jason Galley

Director & Chief Executive

Day 2 | 10:00-10:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Permanent Materials, Circular Futures: Why Metal Packaging is Built for the Circular Economy

Session synopsis: Explores why metal is the ultimate circular economy champion. Ever since the Bronze Age and Iron Age we have been remelting and repurposing metals. Around 75% of the steel and aluminium ever produced is still in circulation today. Learn how metal packaging eliminates waste, reduces emissions and grows the circular economy, and what stewardship from policymakers is required to truly capitalise on metal’s natural gifts.

Jason Galley is Director and Chief Executive of the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA) with responsibility for the overall management of the trade association. The MPMA represents metal packaging companies in a UK sector which employs close to 5,000 employees across 47 factories. Jason is the lead voice for the metal packaging sector, championing and promoting the unique sustainability and economic benefits of metal packaging while demonstrating its role in the circular economy and food security. Prior to his MPMA role, Jason has held senior innovation, sustainability and operations roles within global metal packaging organisations.

Dr Margaret Bates

Packaging & Circular Economy Consultant

Day 2 | 10:30-11:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

How Do We Make Packaging Truly Circular?

Dr Margaret Bates has nearly 40 years experience in waste management and the circular economy, across academia, government, and industry. She led the establishment of the UK’s Packaging Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme Administrator working across governments and the packaging value chain. Previously she has held roles as Managing Director of OPRL, Professor of Sustainable Wastes Management and President of the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management. Margaret is a Chartered Environmentalist, Chartered Wastes Manager, International Wastes Manager, and a Fellow of both CIWM and IOM3 as well as a Founding Fellow of the Circular Economy Institute.

Tom Giddings

Executive Director

Day 2 | 12:00-12:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Future of Aluminium Packaging

Session synopsis: Aluminium packaging has long played a vital role in protecting products while supporting modern supply chains, and today it represents a significant and growing global market. This session will explore how the sector has evolved, from its origins to its increasing importance in a circular economy. It will examine the current policy landscape, highlighting the opportunities and challenges created by evolving packaging, recycling and environmental regulations. The presentation will then showcase the latest innovations from across the industry that are helping companies meet both consumer expectations and sustainability goals. Finally, the session will outline the practical government support needed to unlock the next phase of growth for sustainable aluminium packaging, including policies that encourage investment, strengthen recycling infrastructure, create a level playing field across materials, and reward circular, low-carbon packaging solutions.

Tom Giddings is Executive Director of the Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation (Alupro), where he works with government, industry and local authorities to drive improvements in packaging recycling and support the UK's transition to a more circular economy. Before joining Alupro, Tom held sustainability roles at paper and cardboard packaging giant DS Smith, giving him first-hand experience of the commercial and environmental challenges facing the packaging sector. Today, he draws on that expertise spanning packaging policy, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) and circular economy strategy to help shape policy, promote collaboration across the value chain and deliver practical solutions that improve recycling outcomes. Tom holds a Master's degree in Environmental Dynamics & Climate Change from Swansea University.

Wayne Barron

Refill & Reuse Packaging Specialist

Day 2 | 12:30-13:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Reuse in Practice

Session synopsis: In our dedicated reusable packaging session, Wayne Barron will break down the design requirements necessary to enable large scale implementation and adoption of refill and reuse systems. Using existing reuse case studies, physical reusable packaging samples and his experience in dedicated research and development, he will analyse the existing reuse landscape and propose solutions with the power to overcome the many barriers currently holding back mainstream adoption. Reusable packaging and circular closed loop systems have a vital role to play in the circular economy, with the potential to reduce costs, drastically reduce packaging waste and lower carbon emissions. By looking at the entire system with a holistic design perspective, this session will endeavour to introduce reuse solutions that could operate and succeed at scale.

Wayne is a respected Refill & Reuse Packaging Specialist, with over 25 years packaging industry experience working for retailers, global brands, innovation consultancies and design agencies. An advocate of circular design and closed loop business models, he supports the development of standardised reuse systems, with a clear understanding of the design specifications required to enable reusable packaging to operate at scale. Wayne provides expertise in reuse research and development projects, delivers presentations on reusable packaging innovation at major packaging events, and runs reuse training sessions attended by international brand owners. As a regular attendee and contributor at dedicated reuse events and workshops, he has written, produced and contributed to industry recognised reuse reports. His sole objective is to support the transition to circular reuse systems, to end single-use packaging waste.

Kevin Stacey

Head of Packaging

Day 2 | 11:00-11:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Delivering Smarter Packaging: Reducing Costs Without Compromising Quality

Sam Perrikin

Head of Circular Packaging

Day 2 | 15:30-16:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Session synopsis: Panel topics supplied: Welsh inclusion of Glass; Deposit value/incentive to customers; Learnings from IRE

Sam Perrikin is Head of Circular Packaging at Ecosurety, where he leads advisory services focused on helping businesses navigate the rapidly evolving packaging policy landscape. With experience spanning FMCG, beverages, textiles and cosmetics, Sam works with brands, retailers and producers to translate complex regulations into practical packaging strategies that deliver both compliance and environmental improvement. At Ecosurety, Sam and his team support organisations across areas including packaging EPR, Deposit Return Schemes (DRS), recyclability assessments, packaging data improvement, international packaging regulations and circular packaging design. Their work combines regulatory insight with real-world packaging expertise, helping businesses prepare for change while identifying opportunities to reduce environmental impact and cost.

Phil Fenton

Public Affairs Manager

Day 2 | 15:30-16:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Session synopsis: Panel topics supplied: Welsh inclusion of Glass; Deposit value/incentive to customers; Learnings from IRE

Phil Fenton is Public Affairs Manager at Alupro, the Aluminium Packaging Recycling Organisation where he supports Alupro members in understanding and influencing key legislative changes that will shape the industry for years to come, from implementation of Deposit Return Schemes to Extended Producer Responsibility. Phil has spent his career navigating the complexities of packaging policy, including experience working within Westminster on recycling policy and previous roles at British Glass and the Confederation of Paper Industries. Phil holds a Masters degree in International Public Policy Analysis from the University of Bath.

Frederick Michell

Public Affairs Manager

Day 2 | 15:30-16:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Session synopsis: Panel topics supplied: Welsh inclusion of Glass; Deposit value/incentive to customers; Learnings from IRE

Frederick leads Asahi UK's response to policy and regulation that impacts the brewing and drinks sector. His work includes packaging regulation, particularly Deposit Return Schemes (DRS) and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), where he partners with government and industry bodies across the UK and Ireland to help shape their development and implementation.

Jayne Cunningham

Packaging Specialist

Day 2 | 11:30-12:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Packaging for People

Session synopsis: Packaging is designed to protect, preserve, transport and provide convenience , but how often do we stop and ask whether it is designed for everyone? This talk explores packaging through a human-centred lens, considering convenience, accessibility and the realities of using and disposing of packaging in everyday life. From the experience of opening and handling a pack to navigating what happens at the end of its life, Jayne asks whether we are designing packaging around the people who use it , and whether the systems surrounding it work for everyone. Because if packaging is designed for people, shouldn’t we be designing for all people?

Jayne Cunningham is a packaging and materials professional, entrepreneur and creative thinker whose ambition is simple: to leave the planet better than she found it. With experience across packaging materials, legislation, manufacturing, new product development, business ownership and teaching, Jayne brings entrepreneurship, creativity and a practical and questioning perspective to conversations about packaging, circularity and waste. She is passionate about challenging the linear systems we have inherited and pioneering materials and solutions designed to work within genuinely circular systems, connecting what we make today with what happens to it tomorrow. Jayne speaks with a combination of technical knowledge, curiosity, creativity and real-world experience, and is not afraid to ask the uncomfortable questions that can lead to better solutions.

Nicola Peacock

Senior Relationship Manager

Day 2 | 12:30-13:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Women in Packaging

Nicola is the Printing Charity’s Senior Relationship Manager. She is a true advocate of the importance of mental wellbeing support in the workplace, and through her role at the charity, works to bring the charity’s free, confidential helpline, along with other services, to as many people as possible working in the sectors the charity supports. Nicola grew up surrounded by print, her father was a printer, and she worked in his business through school, college and university holidays, but she never intended to follow in his footsteps. However, she began to fall in love with the industry with the introduction of digital printing in the early 1990s, after achieving her degree in Manufacturing Systems Engineering from Leeds Met University. She took this passion to her father’s business, Blackburn’s of Bolton, and there established a division focusing on digital print when the company invested in one of the first Indigo presses in the UK. After seven years, she moved to HP, where she spent 13 years, first in Business Development and then as European Customer Programme Manager, selling Indigo presses into the packaging industry. After a career break following the birth of her son, Nicola joined the Printing Charity in 2019 to support the industry she is so passionate about.

Karen Graley

Chief Operating Officer

Day 2 | 12:30-13:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Women in Packaging

Karen Graley is Chief Operating Officer of UK Packaging PRO and has been central to the organisation’s establishment and mobilisation phase. She brings extensive experience in packaging policy, producer responsibility systems and large-scale operational delivery. Her career reflects a sustained focus on building and operating large-scale environmental compliance and producer responsibility systems. She is a Board member of the On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL), where she contributes to strategic oversight of one of the UK’s most widely recognised consumer recycling communication schemes. In this role, she helps guide the organisation’s direction on labelling standards, consumer behaviour change and industry alignment, providing independent expert advice on packaging policy and implementation.

Catherine Conway

Director & Policy Lead

Day 2 | 14:00-14:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Circularity & Packaging

Catherine set-up the first version of Unpackaged in 2006 and has been driving reuse for the last 20 years. Rebranded as GoUnpackaged, and now a leading UK consultancy with a dedicated team helping clients globally with the transition to reuse - working with brands, retailers, NGO’s and governments. GoUnpackaged drives real world reuse projects, operates the logistics for reuse systems (currently managing the washing and logistics for Ocado's reuse offer), and undertakes research to drive an evidence base for the benefits of reuse to support policymakers. Catherine sits on DEFRA's Circular Economy Taskforce designing reuse into England's national Circular Economy Strategy.

Stephanie Poole

Director

Day 2 | 14:00-14:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Circularity & Packaging

An experienced Business Development Director with a career spanning over 30 years’ built in the food industry and a deep specialism in packaging. Stephanie is passionate about combining strategy, delivery and people to drive results. She says “What motivates me most is helping organisations think differently. I bring a diverse perspective, challenge the status quo and work collaboratively to find solutions that are both practical and progressive.” Drives sustainable food packaging solutions by aligning packaging strategy with ESG goals, regulatory compliance and commercial performance through strong sustainability expertise. Outside of work, Stephanie has four grown-up children and two grandchildren. She enjoys a number of different craft activities, upholstery being the latest addition. Stephanie enjoys cycling, mountain walking and sailing. Stephanie is a member of Warwickshire County Cricket Club and owns a VW Campervan with her husband David.

Vikas Chhajer

Chief Executive Officer and ESG Board Director

Day 2 | 14:00-14:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Circularity & Packaging

Chief Executive Officer and ESG Board Director. Enabling Circular Economy - Eliminate, Circulate and Regenerate. Sustainable & Responsible Procurement and Supply of Materials and Feedstock. Enabling Advanced and Chemical Recycling. Investing in impact driven circularity companies. Self-Starter, Game Changer and Lifelong Learner.

Rob Fell

Non-Executive Director

Day 2 | 14:30-15:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

The Self-Cooling Can: Turning Packaging Innovation into Reality

Robert has over 37 years’ experience in the metal packaging industry, 16 years as a senior R&D manager at Ardagh Group (now Trivium); with a similar time at Crown Corporate Technologies, together with nearly 5 years as Director and CEO of the Metal Packaging Manufacturers Association (MPMA). During his metal packaging career Robert worked in all the key packaging sectors, predominantly in product and process development roles. Prior to taking up the position of CEO of the MPMA Robert spent nearly 3 years as Chief Executive of British Metals Recycling Association. Robert took early retirement from the MPMA in January 2024, with the intention of just taking on the occasional piece of consultancy, only to be lured back into the industry in March this year as a Non-Executive Director of deltaH innovations, the home of the inventor of the Cool<Can. Robert is also a Fellow of the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining.

James Vyse

Founder & CEO

Day 2 | 14:30-15:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

The Self-Cooling Can: Turning Packaging Innovation into Reality

James Vyse is the founder and CEO of DeltaH Innovations, an innovative, self-cooling packaging company. Under his leadership, DeltaH has developed a sustainable, patented, cooling mechanism that chills drinks instantly in the hands of consumers. With no fridge, ice or energy required this innovation has gained interest from major global beverage and packaging companies across the world. With over a decade of experience in the drinks industry, James began his career as a bartender before launching a successful cocktail business. This entrepreneurial journey inspired the creation of deltaH and its mission to transform the consumer drinking experience. Today, James leads the company's innovation, product development, strategic partnerships, and commercial growth. He has guided DeltaH from idea to product, building relationships with leading brands across the drinks, packaging, and sustainability sectors. His goal and focus is on delivering consumer convenience through innovative, sustainable packaging solutions.

Francesco Pinci

Marketing Manager

Day 2 | 15:00-15:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

What Makes Consumers Pick Up Your Product? The Science Behind Packaging Design

Joe Horton

Sales Director, Health, Beauty & Wellness, UK, Benelux & Scandinavia

Day 2 | 15:00-15:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Balancing Sustainability, Performance and Consumer Expectations

Joe Horton is Sales Director, Health Beauty & Wellness, UK, Benelux & Scandinavia at Amcor, where he leads a team supporting customers across the health, beauty and wellness sectors with high-quality, sustainable packaging solutions. Joe began his career in logistics at M&H Plastics, now part of Amcor, before progressing through customer service, business development, commercial leadership and product line management roles. Alongside his professional development, he completed a BA in Business Management and Economics with the Open University, an experience he credits with strengthening his commercial, financial and strategic perspective. Passionate about making packaging more circular, Joe works with customers and colleagues to balance business performance with sustainability goals, from recycled content and recyclability to lightweighting and refill innovation.

Georgia Phetmanh

Head of Certification Schemes Management, REAL Compost, Biofertiliser & Compostable Materials

Day 2 | 14:00-14:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Industrial Compostability: Building Trust in Compostable Packaging

Richard Cham

Technical Manager

Day 2 | 14:30-15:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Designing Plastic Packaging for Real-World Recyclability

Stuart Hayward-Higham

Chief Technical Development & Innovation Officer, Recycling and Recovery UK

Day 1 | 11:00-11:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Going beyond packaging EPR, what else is needed to complete the circle for packaging in a circular Economy

Session synopsis: pEPR and modulation fundamentally consider recycling performance and are starting to include reuse. A circular economy starts from a wider vista and this session will include a journey through the complimentary and challenging aspects that may arise, how EPR could consider their inclusion and how other aspects could be included in EPR systems. Further it will explore how the different regulatory and financial drivers could contribute to better outcomes.

Stuart Hayward-Higham is Chief Technical Development & Innovation Officer at SUEZ Recycling and Recovery UK. He is currently responsible for a range of strategy, policy, commercial and innovation development activities for SUEZ UK, working across the whole value chain from collection to end of waste and from how design influences waste outcomes to new products from waste, including repaired and reused items, fuels and chemicals from residual waste. Stuart uses data to help define and deliver waste prevention, reuse, circular and sustainable solutions, carbon or resource consumption reduction and insight for improvement across the full value chain. Stuart has over 30 years of experience in the environmental, resource and waste industry and has amassed wide technical and commercial skills and experience in systems of management, markets, strategy, technologies and the environment. He is a Fellow of CIWM. His wider sector roles include membership of the Government Circular Economy Task Force and the pEPR PACKUK Scheme Administrator Steering Group and Efficient and Effective Technical Advisory Committee; Trustee of Recoup; Sherpa for the Net Zero Council; Steering Board member of the Renewable Energy Association Organic Recycling Group; and lead SUEZ group worldwide expert in carbon and GHG monitoring.

Alice Harlock

Director of Technical and Member Services

Day 1 | 14:30-15:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage · Day 2 | 12:30-13:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage (Women in Packaging panel)

The future of labelling – what does harmonisation really mean?

Session synopsis: Alice will talk through navigating the complexities of a changing regulatory landscape. The session will focus on PPWR and harmonised waste sorting labelling in Europe and the implications for mandatory labelling in the UK, whilst also taking a broader look at how OPRL are evolving to meet their members needs.

Alice has worked for OPRL since 2014 and heads up the Member Support team, providing support on labelling of packaging and determining its recyclability. Alice started her career at HDRA as part of the Sustainable Waste Team. She moved to WRAP in 2005 to work on consumer communications through the Home Composting Programme, Recycle Now and Recycle for London campaigns before moving into the world of packaging.

Anna Roberts

Head of Market Development

Day 1 | 15:00-15:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

EUDR is Coming: What Packaging Businesses Must Do Now

Session synopsis: From 30 December 2026, wood-based packaging can’t enter the EU without proof of origin and deforestation-free status. PPWR, already in force since August, is layering on its own design and reporting requirements at the same time. For most packaging businesses, this isn’t two compliance projects. It’s one data problem. This session covers what EUDR actually requires, who counts as the “operator” responsible for filing, and how it interacts with PPWR. We’ll look at why traceability is becoming table stakes, what your systems need to handle due diligence statements and PPWR reporting, and the practical steps to take now, whether you’re an EU manufacturer, a UK exporter or several links removed from the mill.

Anna Roberts specialises in scaling solutions to enhance trust within multi-party networks. With a background in strategy consulting, she played a pivotal role in developing bespoke simulation technologies for leading organisations before venturing into sustainable trade networks as a square-rig sailor.

Sarah Greenwood

Independent packaging, plastics and sustainability specialist

Day 2 | 10:30-11:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Blue Planet II: What Has Changed Nine Years On?

Session synopsis: Nine years after Blue Planet II ignited a global wave of anti-plastic sentiment, single-use packaging remains stubbornly dominant. Why has the gap between public outrage and retail reality remained so wide? This talk explores the hidden systemic clashes, operational trade-offs, and behavioural barriers that still stand in our way.

Sarah Greenwood (PhD, FIMMM, APkgPrf) is an independent packaging, plastics and sustainability specialist with over 25 years’ experience across the packaging supply chain. Her career spans packaging manufacture, retail, food manufacturing, consultancy and academic research, giving her a broad perspective on the technical and practical challenges facing packaging today. Sarah’s recent PhD research examined plastic packaging in the circular economy, with a particular focus on reuse and elimination. She is Chair of the North of England Packaging Society and a member of the Plastics Consultancy Network. She has contributed to national media discussions on packaging and sustainability, including BBC Breakfast.

Gareth Jones

CEO

Day 2 | 14:00-14:30 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Circularity & Packaging

Raffi Schieir

Founder

Day 2 | 11:00-11:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Turning Ocean-Bound Plastic into Circular Packaging Solutions

Raffi Schieir is a social entrepreneur and recycled plastic specialist. Originally from Canada, Raffi moved to the UK in 2011, taking a hands-on approach to understanding the problems and solutions around plastic pollution as he established Bantam Materials UK Ltd. Working with the best global thought leaders in recycling, he went on to create the market-leading Prevented Ocean Plastic™ Programme with its head office on the Richmond Green. Since that time, the Programme has prevented more than four billion bottles from reaching the ocean, been nominated for the Earthshot Prize, supplied the NHS, and grown into an award-winning initiative that works in partnership with global brands ranging from Lidl to LVMH. Prevented Ocean Plastic™ delivers best-in-class traceability and responsible sourcing with the highest quality and clarity available. This plastic has a second life as new products on the shelves of socially responsible partners such as Patagonia and Lush. In January 2020, Raffi and his team established the Prevented Ocean Plastic™ Research Centre to establish data-based truths for recycling culture change. Projects include collating first collector demographics, exploring the movement of litter from land to sea, and understanding consumer purchasing behaviour regarding recycled materials. In 2024, the programme announced a world-first innovation: polypropylene mechanically recycled to the European food-safe standard. Raffi has served as chair of Europe’s main plastic recycling conference (ICIS), and been nominated for numerous awards, including the Recycling Ambassador Europe three years in a row and winning UK Environmental Champion 2025. He is an expert on ocean plastic pollution, and is often called upon to share his knowledge with media ranging from Sky News and The Independent to Business Green and Packaging Europe.

Raymond Gianotten

Lead DRS Advisor

Day 1 | 12:30-13:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

Preparing for Deposit Return: What the Packaging Industry Needs to Know One Year Out

Raymond Gianotten is Lead DRS Advisor at Exchange for Change, the industry-led organisation responsible for delivering the UK’s Deposit Return Scheme. With more than 20 years’ experience in Deposit Return Schemes, Raymond has worked across policy development, system design, governance and operational delivery. His career has included helping to develop and lead the Dutch deposit return system, as well as advising governments, producers and industry bodies internationally. He brings extensive practical experience of turning complex DRS policy into effective, workable systems, with a strong understanding of the operational challenges involved in implementation.

Christophe Convert

Founder & Director

Day 2 | 15:30-16:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Deposit Return Scheme Panel

Christophe Convert is the Founder & Director of Bottld. The concept began as a brand of Convert Design in 2022, with Bottld formally founded in February 2025 to explore how bottle collection and recycling could be made more efficient and better suited to modern consumer demand. Christophe developed the Bottld Reverse Vending Machine to simplify the recycling process from the point of collection. The machine is designed to accept bottles regardless of whether they have a barcode or label, or whether they have already been crushed. Bottld also provides machine servicing, bottle collection and recycling, managing recovered material through to sale to plastic wholesalers and manufacturers. Alongside Bottld, Christophe is the owner of Convert Design, specialising in product and mechanical design with a plastics specialism. He previously worked as a toolmaker within the plastic injection moulding industry in France's Plastic Valley near Lyon and has more than 25 years' experience in product design and plastics. His career has included work with brands including Aston Martin Lagonda, Dyson Automotive, Plastic Omnium and Worcester Bosch.

Matthew Kay

Public Affairs Lead

Day 2 | 15:30-16:00 | Future of Packaging Stage

Deposit Return Scheme Panel

With British Glass since late 2023 and working as their Public Affairs Lead since July this year, Matthew has a background in national politics, local government, and working for Members of Parliament. In his role he coordinates engagement with political stakeholders and businesses within the glass packaging supply chain. He is also a Trustee at a Yorkshire based Tourette’s Syndrome charity and is currently raising money for them in conjunction with Movember.

Peter MacQueen

Speaker

Day 1 | 13:00-13:30 | Future of Packaging Stage

Showcasing the Packaging Professional BSc: Developing the Next Generation of Packaging Professionals

Jane Skelton FIMMM

Head of Packaging Innovation & Creative

Day 2 | 15:30-16:00 | Packaging Strategy & Insights Stage

What If Packaging Was a Strategic Pillar of Every Business?

Session synopsis: In my experience, packaging is often brought into product development once many of the key decisions have already been made. But what if we thought about packaging differently? Packaging influences consumer experience, brand perception, sustainability, operational efficiency, compliance and commercial success. It isn't simply something that contains the product. It is a fundamental part of the product that consumers buy and experience. In this session, I'll challenge the industry to rethink the role of packaging within organisations and explore what could be achieved if packaging was considered from the very beginning of the innovation process, rather than as an afterthought. I'll also share my perspective on why packaging remains underrepresented in education and business structures, and why we have an opportunity to elevate packaging as a strategic discipline that drives innovation, growth and positive consumer outcomes.

Jane Skelton FIMMM is Head of Packaging Innovation & Creative at Nichols plc and a widely respected packaging leader with almost 30 years' experience across FMCG, retail and manufacturing. Formerly Head of Packaging at Sainsbury's, Jane has led major packaging, innovation and sustainability programmes throughout her career. She is passionate about helping organisations use packaging as a driver of brand growth, consumer engagement and environmental progress, and is a strong advocate for recognising packaging as a strategic business asset. Jane's belief that 'Packaging is an Ingredient' reflects her view that packaging should be considered as fundamental to product success as the ingredients inside it, influencing consumer experience, brand value, sustainability performance and commercial outcomes.