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Packaging is entering its most expensive era yet and the North is right at the centre of it

In 2026, packaging is no longer just a procurement conversation. It has become a financial, operational and regulatory issue sitting directly at boardroom level. And nowhere is that pressure being felt more clearly than across the North of England. Because this is where many of the UK’s largest food manufacturers, ecommerce operators, beauty brands and distribution networks are based.

15 May 26

Clear advantage: why the North of England is a powerhouse for glass packaging

Glass packaging has long been a cornerstone of the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries. In 2026, it is experiencing renewed momentum. Driven by sustainability demands, premium branding and recyclability, glass is once again at the centre of packaging conversations. And in the UK, much of that story begins in the North of England — the location of UKPackaging Expo!

30 Apr 26

Power in the North West: The UK’s most valuable region is shaping the future of packaging

England's North West is not just a manufacturing hub. It is one of the most economically powerful regions in the UK, home to global brands, high growth businesses and a supply chain that underpins entire industries. For the packaging industry, this concentration of activity creates a unique opportunity. It is not operating in isolation here, but embedded within one of the UK’s most productive and diverse industrial regions.

16 Apr 26

AI is reshaping the packaging industry faster than we think

As the industry faces rising cost pressures, sustainability targets and increasing complexity, AI is emerging as a powerful solution and the scale of this transformation is significant. For packaging companies, AI is no longer a future possibility. It is already beginning to reshape how packaging is designed, produced and delivered.

12 Mar 26

UKPackaging Expo 2026: where Gen Z and the future of packaging meet

The packaging industry is not just being reshaped by technology and sustainability goals in 2026. A powerful new force is influencing how packaging looks, feels and performs — Generation Z. Born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, Gen Z is rapidly becoming a dominant force in both the workforce and consumer marketplace, and their influence is driving major change.

02 Mar 26

Is your packaging strategy ready for 2026, or is it still built for 2020?

The pace of change in this industry is no longer gradual. Regulation is tightening, consumer expectations are sharper, and technology is embedding itself into the very structure of packaging. Businesses that treat this as incremental change will struggle. Those that treat it as transformation will lead.

20 Feb 26

UKPackaging Expo 2026: navigating new seas in the packaging industry

As the packaging industry moves into 2026, it is entering a period of significant change. Shifting consumer expectations, tighter regulations and rapid technological progress are reshaping how packaging is designed, produced and delivered. Familiar approaches are being left behind and for brands and suppliers alike, understanding what is in and what is out has never been more important.

06 Feb 26

UKPackaging Expo 2026: a new year, a new appetite for packaging in the North

As the packaging industry enters a new year, one thing is clear. The market is changing, expectations are shifting and there is a growing appetite for something different. UKPackaging Expo 2026 is stepping forward as the challenger event, questioning long held assumptions and offering a fresh alternative built specifically for the North of the United Kingdom.

20 Jan 26

A new kind of event for a changing industry

Packaging is shifting faster than ever. Sustainability expectations, supply chain pressures, automation, digital workflows and new regulations are redefining how brands operate. The industry needs an event that does not simply mirror the past but instead pushes conversations forward.

19 Dec 25

UKPackaging Expo 2026: where the industry turns upside down to get it right-side up again

While many shows repeat the same formula and attract the same visitor base year after year, UKPackaging Expo is breaking that cycle. This event flips expectations by delivering something fresh, disruptive and regionally focused, opening the door to audiences who have long been underserved by southern based exhibitions.

18 Dec 25

UKPackaging Expo 2026: shaping the future of packaging in the UK

UKPackaging Expo 2026 is set to return bigger, bolder and more influential than ever, establishing itself as the essential meeting point for packaging professionals across the United Kingdom. Taking place on November 10 and 11, 2026, at the expanded Hall C in Liverpool, the event will bring together more than 2,000 attendees and 120 exhibitors, showcasing the ideas, technologies and partnerships driving the future of packaging.

02 Dec 25

Are you visible where your customers operate?

As the industry shifts its focus for 2026 budgets, more brands are asking themselves a simple question: are we visible in the regions where our customers actually operate? The packaging sector in Northern England is accelerating at pace. That is why so many suppliers are now moving early and securing their position at UKPackaging Expo.

25 Nov 25

3 Packaging Trends Shaping 2025

The packaging world is evolving fast. Here are three key trends you need to know.

03 Oct 25

UKPackaging Expo sees strong industry backing

Created as a dedicated platform in the north of England for packaging suppliers and professionals, UKPackaging Expo provides a unique experience as well as a valuable hub for networking, education and sourcing.

26 Sep 25

UKPackaging Expo debuts in Manchester with inspiring array of packaging innovations and solutions

The first edition of UKPackaging Expo ran from 3rd – 4th September at Manchester Central, a landmark venue at the heart of a buzzing northern city. The event quickly established itself as a valuable hub for networking, education and sourcing, giving packaging suppliers and professionals a dedicated platform in the north of England

23 Sep 25

What will it take to transition towards a circular economy?

Join our expert panel as they explore how businesses can adopt sustainable practices, reduce waste, and build a more circular future for packaging. Gain actionable insights into how companies can implement circular strategies, improve resource efficiency, and shape the future of packaging.

02 Sep 25

DRS: Return to Value

The Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) is set to be a defining moment for packaging, turning waste into value and making recycling second nature. Join our expert panel as they explore how DRS can reshape consumer habits, support businesses, and drive a nationwide shift towards greater environmental responsibility.

01 Sep 25

Speaker Spotlight: Sarah Greenwood

Sarah Greenwood is a sustainable plastics expert and multidisciplinary researcher working across industry, academia, and policy. In her talk, “Top-Trumps, Greenwash and Building a Better Packaging Community”, Sarah calls for smarter collaboration, stronger professional networks, and system-wide thinking to drive real progress in sustainable packaging.

05 Aug 25

Speaker Spotlight: Luke Wilson

An active packaging influencer on LinkedIn, Luke Wilson openly shares perspectives on how packaging can empower progressive brands to captivate their consumers globally. As a speaker at UKPackaging Expo, he will showcase two not dissimilar case studies centred around plastic-free innovation, that arrive at two unique outcomes.

29 Jul 25

Speaker Spotlight: Prof. Sally Beken

With over 30 years of experience in research, innovation and forging powerful industry connections, Sally Beken is a true force in the world of sustainable materials and plastics. At UKPackaging Expo this September Sally will be exploring UK innovations that are shaping the packaging industry.

22 Jul 25

Speaker Spotlight: Michael Jennings

What do EPR, RAM, and disposal fees really mean for your packaging strategy moving forward? Join Michael as he explores the challenges, opportunities, and the long-term translation of EPR legislation -and what it means for brands, suppliers, and the broader packaging ecosystem.

15 Jul 25

Only 5% of floorplan remains for inaugural UKPackaging Expo as demand surges

UKPackaging Expo, set to debut at Manchester Central on 3rd–4th September 2025, has officially reached 95% floorplan capacity, confirming its place as the must-attend packaging industry event of the year. The response from exhibitors and brands has been nothing short of phenomenal—highlighting a clear and long-overdue appetite for a world-class packaging show rooted in the North of England.

04 Jul 25

First edition of UKPackaging Expo: Registration now officially open

It’s all happening on 3–4 September in Manchester, right in the heart of the UK’s manufacturing scene. Don't miss a brilliant opportunity to connect, share ideas, and see the latest in packaging innovation up close. Register now!

02 Jun 25

Manchester is the Next Big Destination for Packaging!

Manchester is known for its industrial heritage, innovation, and thriving business ecosystem—but did you know it’s also becoming the UK’s leading hub for packaging?

16 May 25

Innovation Meets Impact: Webpac x UKPackaging Expo

UKPackaging Expo 2025 is already shaping up to be the destination for innovation in packaging and we're proud to be working alongside Webpac, a global leader in digital packaging solutions. Their innovative cloud-based platforms are reshaping how brands and suppliers connect and collaborate - setting the tone for an event that’s all about cutting-edge solutions, sustainability, and progress.

15 Apr 25

UKPackaging Expo 2025 brings practical innovation and exceptional value to Northern England

With a clear mission to champion practical packaging innovation and foster meaningful business connections, UKPackaging Expo 2025 is designed to serve the real-world needs of packaging professionals across the region’s thriving food & beverage, beauty, manufacturing, e-commerce, and pharmaceutical sectors.

11 Apr 25

The packaging industry is entering a new era!

We are sharing what you can expect to see more of in 2025. These will be key themes at the premier edition of UKPack Expo taking place in Manchester, UK on 3rd & 4th September, 2025.

19 Dec 24

UKPackExpo: North England’s Premier Packaging Expo – Enjoy an Early Bird 10% Discount!

The packaging industry is set to converge in Manchester as UKPackExpo takes center stage, cementing its position as the UK’s premier packaging event. Strategically located in the heart of the nation’s manufacturing industry, this groundbreaking expo is the ultimate destination for industry professionals and innovators.

10 Dec 24

Prime Events Group Ltd's UKPackExpo supported by Webpac investment

Prime Events Group Ltd, the organiser of UKPackExpo, the North of England's premier packaging trade show, has received a significant investment from Webpac Ltd, a global leader in digital solutions for brands and packaging suppliers. This strategic partnership will help fuel the growth of UKPackExpo and introduce cutting-edge technology to enhance the exhibitor and visitor experience.

19 Nov 24

Jo Webb
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English
Created 19 Nov 2024
Modified 04 Mar 2026
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