UKPackaging Expo 2026: Leading the next wave of packaging innovation
UKPackaging Expo 2026 is set to return bigger, bolder, and more influential than ever, cementing its place as the must-attend meeting point for packaging professionals across the UK.
Liverpool provides the perfect setting for the next stage of the show’s growth. The North West is the UK’s leading manufacturing region, producing £29.5 billion in output - more than any other part of the country. With manufacturing accounting for nearly 15% of the region’s economic activity, it remains a vital hub for the packaging supply chain. By hosting UKPackaging Expo in Liverpool, the event is positioned at the heart of active production, cutting-edge innovation, and genuine buyer demand.
A hub for networking, insight and innovation
UKPackaging Expo 2026 features a dynamic programme of networking and thought leadership, including the exclusive networking drinks reception and the Future Packaging Conference. These sessions connect senior decision makers, innovators and thought leaders from across the sector. Attendees can exchange ideas, discuss regulatory changes and explore emerging trends in sustainable materials, digital transformation, smart labelling and circular economy design.
With most major packaging shows held in the Midlands or the South, many Northern manufacturers face travel disruption, scheduling barriers or cost challenges that limit access. UKPackaging Expo removes these obstacles by positioning suppliers directly within reach of thousands of factories, co packers and engineering teams across the North, North Wales and Scotland who cannot always spare one or two travel days for events further south.
Why attend UKPackaging Expo 2026
As the premier packaging event dedicated to the North of the United Kingdom, the expo offers unmatched value for brands, manufacturers and suppliers looking to expand their reach in a region where production is concentrated. Attendees can explore technologies in action, discover emerging materials and meet suppliers who are shaping the future of packaging.
For exhibitors, UKPackaging Expo offers a strong commercial advantage. Northern venues typically provide lower exhibiting, logistics and accommodation costs compared with southern event centres. This allows for better return on investment, especially for SMEs and mid tier suppliers seeking visibility without inflated budgets. Exhibitors gain direct access to buyers across FMCG, food and beverage, automotive, pharmaceutical, retail and ecommerce markets, many of whom rarely travel south for industry events.
Who should exhibit
UKPackaging Expo 2026 welcomes organisations from across the packaging supply chain.
Key exhibition sectors include:
Packaging materials: Sustainable, biodegradable and high performance materials meeting environmental and legislative demands.
Packaging machinery and equipment: Automation systems and advanced manufacturing technologies that enhance efficiency and precision.
Printing and labelling: Digital printing, branding tools and compliant labelling solutions.
Supply chain and logistics: Approaches that improve warehousing, distribution and packaging flow.
Sustainability and recycling: Circular economy materials and eco friendly innovations that reduce environmental impact.
Design and innovation: Creative concepts that elevate functionality, usability and consumer engagement.
Food and beverage packaging: Solutions that improve safety, freshness and shelf life.
Pharmaceutical and healthcare packaging: Secure, compliant and tamper evident designs.
Retail and ecommerce packaging: Packaging that enhances durability, brand presence and logistics efficiency.
Leading exhibitors confirmed
The event is already welcoming major industry names, including:
Unilever
Markem Imaje
Air Sea Containers
Dura ID
Tirrit UK
Protek Packaging