Packaging is more than just a wrapper. It protects, it informs, it advertises - and it is increasingly shaping the sustainability strategy of entire companies. Every three years, Interpack in Düsseldorf shows just how dynamic and innovative the world of packaging really is. At no other trade fair is it clearer what role packaging technology plays today in production, logistics and consumption. Interpack is not only the largest trade fair of its kind, it is also an international showcase for the entire value chain: from packaging machines and processing systems to packaging materials and customized solutions for sectors such as food, beverages, confectionery, baked goods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and industrial products. Anyone looking for an overview of other international trade fairs will find what they are looking for at Düsseldorf Trade Fair.
A walk through the halls reveals the enormous range of the industry. Huge packaging lines that pack products in a matter of seconds stand alongside flexible solutions for small batches and individualized packaging. From fully automatic filling systems to high-tech inspection systems, everything is represented. Interpack covers all relevant industrial sectors: whether food and beverages, confectionery and baked goods, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics or non-food articles - every industry will find its specific solutions here. Interpack is particularly strong in the so-called “Target Groups”, which are precisely tailored to the needs of different markets and end consumers.
Hardly any other topic characterizes the trade fair as strongly as sustainability. The call for resource-saving packaging is getting louder - driven not least by legal requirements and growing environmental awareness among consumers. At Interpack, many companies are presenting new materials that are either recyclable, biodegradable or developed on the basis of renewable raw materials. But sustainability does not end with the packaging material. Energy-efficient machines, optimized logistics solutions and concepts for reducing material consumption are also part of the overall picture. The circular economy has long been more than just a buzzword: numerous exhibitors will be showing approaches for designing packaging in such a way that it can be reused or recycled in closed material cycles.
The packaging industry is not unaffected by digitalization either. Networked production facilities, smart packaging solutions and digital twins are changing the way products are developed, manufactured and distributed. At Interpack, you can see how far the industry has already come: machines that communicate with each other and independently optimize processes are just as much a part of this as intelligent packaging equipped with sensors that monitor freshness conditions or enable traceability along the supply chain, for example. Another major topic is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into production processes. Predictive maintenance, real-time quality control and flexible adaptation to production changes are increasingly becoming a reality thanks to machine learning algorithms.
The area of packaging for the pharmaceutical industry is developing particularly dynamically. Issues such as counterfeit protection, hygiene and traceability play a key role here. Technologies such as serialization and track-and-trace systems have long been standard - Interpack showcases the latest developments and innovations in this sensitive area. In the food sector, the focus is on shelf life, product protection and convenience. Packaging solutions today must not only be functional, but also cater to new consumer habits: smaller packaging units, resealable systems, lighter materials. Interpack makes it clear that this often calls for finely balanced solutions that take equal account of product quality, cost efficiency and environmental aspects.
With over 2,800 exhibitors from almost 60 countries and trade visitors from all over the world, Interpack is a genuine world-class industry event. It not only offers an overview of global trends, but also regional specialties. While sustainability and recyclability dominate in Europe, in other markets - such as Asia or South America - the focus is more on cost efficiency and scalability. This international character makes Interpack an ideal platform for exchanging experiences across national borders. This is where small, highly specialized companies meet global players - a field of tension that creates dynamism and inspires innovation.
The industry is dependent on qualified specialists - and young talent is in demand like never before. That's why Interpack focuses on training and promoting young talent. Universities, colleges and associations use the trade fair to inspire young talent for packaging and process technology. Workshops, lecture programs and career fairs offer contact points for students and young professionals. The demand for well-trained specialists is high in view of growing technical requirements - and Interpack helps to build bridges between theory and practice.
Interpack impressively demonstrates that the packaging industry is facing major challenges, but also has great opportunities. The requirements for sustainability, digitalization and individualization will continue to increase. Companies that react flexibly to these trends and drive innovation will be successful in the market. The trade fair in Düsseldorf proves that packaging is more than just a function: it is a driver of innovation, a brand ambassador and increasingly also an important building block for sustainable corporate strategies. Further information can be found on the organizer's website: www.interpack.com