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?
From cutting-edge sustainability initiatives to world-class research and unbeatable logistics, the city is shaping the future of packaging across FMCG, food & beverage, beauty, retail, and pharma industries.
UKPackaging Expo 2025 is becoming the destination for innovation in the packaging world. We're transforming how brands and suppliers connect and showcase products - setting the tone for an event centred on cutting edge tech, sustainability and progress.
The Northern Powerhouse Advantage
Why Manchester? Manchester is the beating heart of the Northern Powerhouse - unlocking a £330 billion economy and unrivalled access to the UK’s key manufacturing and distribution hubs.
Here’s what that means for packaging:
📍 Prime logistics location – 60% of UK businesses are within a 2-hour drive. That’s real-time access to partners, suppliers, and customers across every sector.
🚛 Home to the UK’s largest freight terminal outside London, and a direct gateway to global trade via Manchester Airport - currently undergoing a £1.3 billion transformation to future-proof international logistics.
🏭 Strategic cluster networks – From packaging to plastics, Greater Manchester’s industrial base is tightly integrated, making collaboration seamless.
UKPackaging Expo takes place at Manchester Central on 3-4 September. See you there!