A wide range of exhibitors showcased an impressive selection of packaging innovations and manufacturing solutions for sectors spanning FMCG and pharmaceuticals to automotive and aerospace. The show floor brought together major brands such as Unilever, established British manufacturers including Facer, Protek and Record Packaging Systems, and first-time exhibitors such as N&E Innovations (ViKang), which made its debut in the UK market.

Turnkey production line machinery, adhesive applications, sustainable packing tape, pallet stabilising solutions, cartons to prevent leakage, recycled plastics, roll bags and e-commerce ready delivery packets were all on display. Meanwhile, organisations including Sheffield Hallam University, Innovate UK, the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, the North of England Packaging Society, WWF, and expert sustainability consultants Beyondly and Aura Pioneering offered guidance on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and other urgent issues for the sector.

Luke Wilson, owner of Facer, said he was impressed by the quality of engagement:

‘It has been quality over quantity, and those conversations equalled what we have had at shows with much higher footfall. Some visitors came specifically to see us, and we met everyone from start ups to established brands and even some major retailers. The location in the north really works, and it has been great for networking.’

For N&E Innovations (ViKang), the event marked a UK first with its cashew based, industrially compostable clingfilm. The company’s Devi Krishna said, ‘We think this is the only product in the global market offering antimicrobial properties, tensile strength and cost competitiveness all in one. Some catering companies have stepped away from clingfilm because they couldn’t find a sustainable option – this could be a game changer. Networking here has been excellent, with buyers, manufacturers and potential partners showing real interest – even in non-food applications.’ 

If one message stood out from the inaugural UKPackaging Expo, it was that sustainability and EPR compliance are now non negotiable. The Content Theatre drew consistent crowds as exhibitors and visitors sought clarity on the complex and fast evolving regulations and their cost implications.

With a clear mission to champion practical innovation and foster meaningful business connections, UKPackaging Expo 2025 will continue to serve the real world needs of packaging professionals across food and drink, beauty, manufacturing, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals and beyond. Sustainability will remain at the heart of the show, with exhibitors encouraged to demonstrate genuine environmental credentials and technologies aligned with circular economy and net zero goals.

Read the full article at Earth Island