Packs shows to premier next-generation concepts

The NEC plays host to easyFairs’ Packaging Innovations, EcoPack, PackTech and Contract Pack, which between them provide a platform for exhibitors and visitors, showcasing everything from the latest packaging designs and trends to the machinery and equipment needed to deliver them.

The shows span every role of packaging from brand enhancement, security and hygiene to green agenda solutions.EasyFairs UK managing director Peter Heath says: “In the old days, new packaging ideas and concepts used to come along every now and then – and when they did they would herald the start of a new category or major new direction for a product.

“But today new product developers and marketers are under such immense pressure to innovate regularly that they have to be constantly on the look out for the next big thing and their packaging strategy has to be razor sharp. They simply cannot afford to be outsmarted by a competitor in the packaging stakes; that’s why our Packaging Innovations show has grown so fast.”

Packaging Innovations will bring together those involved in pushing back the boundaries of packaging design, including manufacturers, design and brand agencies, and retailers and brand owners.

While many leading packaging suppliers, contract packers and design and brand agencies are returning for a second or third year, including Constar, Macpac, Robinson Plastic Packaging, PET Power, DCA Design, PDD and, major UK glass packaging specialists William Croxson & Son, the 2008 show will also see some major new names coming onboard, such as Sun Chemical, Tetra Pak, M&H Plastics, Seymour Powell and Wincanton.

Already bigger than last year, the 2008 show will include the latest developments in printing, labelling and flexible packaging technology from the likes of BASF, Easibind, ELAG, Kurz UK, Holland & Watts, and Opus 21 Digital.

Show launches will include special printed effects from ink manufacturer Intercolor. The Interact range includes coin reactive coatings, textured and tactile coatings, glow-in-the-dark phosphorescent inks, thermochromic inks, metallic ink effects, photochromic inks and UV fluorescent inks.

Miniature finishing specialist Clinical Print Finishers is hoping to break into new markets with an innovative machine that allows it to produce die-cut miniature booklets, whilst Johnsen & Jorgensen’s SmartPack offers an eco-friendly bulk packaging solution for drinks.

Visitors to the Constar stand, one of the largest suppliers of PET containers for conventional applications in soft drinks and water, can find out about the company’s expansion into the growing custom PET market for food, juices, teas, sport drinks, new age beverages, beer and flavoured alcoholic beverages.

And Clifford Packaging will offer a complete service from design to delivery, supplying a wide range of corrugated and solid fibreboard containers. One of the latest innovations from the company is the BottleBuddie, a new range of drop-in wine boxes that meet all the necessary RRP criteria including an integral handle for easy in-store handling.

A recent study by easyFairs revealed that almost 60% of new product developers and marketers are looking to identify packaging innovations that deliver environmental benefits over the next 12 months. And with such a strong environmental message EcoPack is an opportunity for innovative packaging and materials suppliers.

Exhibitors range from Omni-Pac’s moulded fibre made from forestry thinnings and waste paper to 100% compostable PLA film from Sidaplax, and from environmentally aware design from ECO3 and Kinneir Dufort to low carbon transit packaging from Trak-Rap Ltd, the show will cover environmental issues from every angle.

“Brand owners appear to be looking for environmental improvements in every aspect of their packaging operation. They’re not just after breakthrough concepts and formats from industrial designers,” says Heath.

Also making its debut in 2008 is a focused event for contract packers in co-ordination with British Contract Manufacturers & Packers Association (BCMPA), reflecting the significant growth of this sector of the industry. Contract Pack will showcase the full spectrum of services, including pack design, blister/clam packing, shrink-wrapping, labelling, point-of-sale displays, pick and pack, warehousing and distribution.

BCMPA chief executive Rodney Steel has welcomed the development, and confirmed that at least 26 firms will participate, companies who are already working successfully with brand owners in the pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, chemicals, toiletries, cosmetics and general packaging industries to exhibit at the new show. PackTech will highlight the latest innovations in packaging machinery, printing systems and converting technology. Playing a critical role in turning new concepts into tangible packaging products, there will be everything from new transit packaging to converting equipment on show, and robotics, automation and labelling. Major manufacturers and suppliers, including Faruc Robotics, Imaje UK Ltd, Morray Beltyne, OCME UK, Pago, Pregis Ambassador and Prins UK, will showcase new technology.

The easyFairs packaging events also host free and independent learnShops to help visitors and exhibitors stay ahead. Highlights in the programme include a keynote address from top designers Seymour Powell.

At the EcoPack learnShops industry experts will explore some of the major challenges facing the industry, from biodegradable and compostable polymers to on-pack labelling and the impact of packaging design on food waste.

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