UK | Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026 has announced the first speakers confirmed for its February event, giving an early view of the themes and conversations that will shape the two-day programme.
The initial line-up includes contributors from major international brands such as Nestlé, Unilever, Diageo, Coca-Cola, Greggs and Rolls-Royce, alongside organisations including PackUK, WRAP, RECOUP, BCMPA, McKinsey and Smithers. Together, they will cover a wide range of topics, from packaging design and sustainability through to automation, co-packing, skills development and regulatory change.
Across the Design and Innovation stage, sessions will explore how brands are responding to tighter compliance requirements while still delivering commercial value. Speakers will look at practical approaches to innovation, the use of new design tools, and what can be learned from projects that did not go to plan. There will also be a dedicated session linked to the London Packaging Week Innovation Awards, offering insight into what judges look for and how strong ideas are turned into workable solutions.
The Supply Chain stage will focus on the operational side of packaging. Discussions will include market shifts, the role of software in co-packing, and how automation and robotics are being applied across packaging lines. A panel featuring Rolls-Royce will look at how the sector can attract and support the next generation of packaging engineers, alongside input from universities and apprentices.
On day two, attention turns to inclusive design, start-up growth and the balance between performance, cost and compliance. Early-stage brands will take part in a live pitching session to co-packers, while other sessions examine how artificial intelligence is being used to better understand recycling outcomes and material losses.
The Circular Economy stage will host updates on policy and labelling, including guidance on EU requirements and UK packaging reforms. Panels will bring together manufacturers, retailers and brands to discuss how recyclability can be designed in from the start, rather than treated as a later fix. Deposit Return Schemes will also be under the spotlight, with speakers sharing lessons from markets where DRS is already in place.
Packaging Innovations & Empack 2026 is free to attend and offers a concentrated look at how packaging is evolving across design, operations and regulation. The full programme will be released closer to the event.
