Upcoming Trade Shows Düsseldorf, Germany for Packing & Packaging

Düsseldorf has once again made a splash in the packing and packaging industry in 2024, when it hosted the highly-anticipated edition of drupa. One of the standout features of this year’s event is touchpoint packaging, a dedicated hub that showcases the latest advancements in sustainable and digital packaging solutions. Under the theme “Ready to redefine packaging?”, touchpoint packaging is exploring the intersection of consumer needs, technological advancements, and evolving legal frameworks. Sustainability remains a driving force, with companies striving to integrate circular economy principles into their packaging strategies. Global brands such as Heineken, Ritter Sport, and Lego are sharing insights into their sustainability challenges and solutions. The initiative is structured around five core areas—neo-ecology, connectivity, future regulations, glocalization and consumer mind. Artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize the packaging industry, and drupa is providing a platform for industry leaders to explore its potential. AI-powered machine learning and robotics automation are optimizing production and supply chains, helping companies create more sustainable and consumer-centric packaging. Nestlé and Coca-Cola are among the pioneers leveraging AI for quality assurance and marketing, setting a precedent for others in the industry. Market research firm Mintel is leading discussions on AI’s impact, with Benjamin Punchard, Global Packaging Insights Director, delivering a keynote on how AI-driven innovations are reshaping the sector. Companies are increasingly using AI to reduce waste, improve material selection, and enhance product safety—all of which are crucial for meeting the industry’s sustainability goals. But most relevant for the packing and packaging industry in Düsseldorf is how collaboration drives packaging innovation. drupa 2024 is reinforcing this principle through joint projects between leading companies and academic institutions. A notable example is the partnership between the NABA design school and industry giants such as Mondi, Landa, and Koenig & Bauer.