BIRMINGHAM, UK — PPMA Show 2026 will showcase the latest processing, packaging and automation technologies as manufacturers adapt to tightening sustainability regulations, changing packaging materials and increasing production flexibility requirements.

Taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 22–24 September 2026, the exhibition is expected to feature more than 350 exhibitors representing over 1,500 brands, covering machinery, robotics, automation, vision systems and processing technologies.

The event comes as manufacturers face growing pressure to improve efficiency while complying with evolving environmental legislation and consumer expectations.

Sustainability and Regulation Drive Investment

Sustainability is expected to be one of the central themes throughout PPMA Show 2026.

Packaging manufacturers are increasingly adopting new materials, including fibre-based packaging and bioplastics, as governments introduce stricter packaging regulations.

Among the major regulatory developments influencing investment decisions are:

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes
• The EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
• The EU requirement that all packaging placed on the market must be recyclable by 2030

Consumer demand is also shaping packaging strategies. According to PPMA, between 40% and 80% of consumers across Europe and the United States say they are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.

New Materials Create Production Challenges

While sustainable packaging materials offer environmental benefits, they also introduce new manufacturing challenges.

Alternative substrates can affect machine compatibility, production speeds and packaging performance.

At the same time, manufacturers are managing:

• Shorter production runs
• Increasing SKU numbers
• Greater packaging format diversity
• More complex compliance requirements

These factors are increasing demand for flexible machinery capable of handling multiple materials and package formats while maintaining production efficiency.

Live Demonstrations and Technical Expertise

Visitors to PPMA Show 2026 will have the opportunity to see new equipment operating under production conditions through live demonstrations.

The exhibition will feature technologies including:

• Processing equipment
• Packaging machinery
• Robotics
• Industrial automation
• Machine vision systems

Technical specialists will also be available to discuss equipment integration, production performance and applications for different manufacturing environments.

Seminar Programme Focuses on Industry Trends

Alongside the exhibition, PPMA Show 2026 will host a seminar programme covering many of the industry’s most significant developments.

Sessions are expected to address:

• Sustainable packaging innovation
• Packaging legislation
• Artificial intelligence in manufacturing
• Automation strategies
• Future production technologies

The programme is intended to provide practical guidance for manufacturers evaluating new investments and responding to changing market requirements.

Industry Collaboration Remains Important

Networking will remain a key element of the exhibition, with manufacturers, equipment suppliers and industry experts expected to discuss common challenges related to sustainability, productivity and regulatory compliance.

As packaging manufacturers continue to balance operational efficiency with environmental objectives, PPMA Show 2026 is expected to highlight the technologies and innovations shaping the future of processing and packaging.

Last Updated on 22/07/2026 by Jota Machinery