Upcoming Trade Shows Köln, Germany for Packing & Packaging

Companies involved in the food packaging industry can head to Cologne for Anuga Foodtec–the definitive event for packing and packaging in the food products industry. Given that the global food and beverage sector has to contend with great pressures to be sustainable in processing and packaging, the fair provides a platform for industry leaders to showcase cutting-edge solutions and discuss emerging trends. Sustainability continues to be a driving force in packaging, and one of the most anticipated developments at Anuga FoodTec is the growing role of reusable packaging solutions. A key player in this movement is Vytal, a leading provider of software-driven reusable packaging systems, which recently secured €6.2 million in growth financing. The funding, which mostly came from Emerald Technology’s Sustainable Packaging Innovation Fund, will enable Vytal to scale their operations and further integrate technology into its reusable packaging offerings. With over 60 billion single-use food and drink containers wasted annually in the EU, regulations such as the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) are accelerating the transition towards a circular economy. Vytal’s smart reusable packaging solutions have already demonstrated success in large-scale events. At the OMR Festival in Hamburg, 70,000 participants used Vytal’s traceable reusable cups and food containers, significantly reducing waste and streamlining operations. Packing and packaging manufacturers based in Cologne can learn a lot from innovations brought to the industry by international exhibitors. Case in point, IMA has debuted several pieces of state-of-the-art equipment designed to optimize efficiency, hygiene, and automation at the 2024 event like the Vegatronic 6000 DZ and the Delta Flobag. IMA’s packaging experts from divisions such as IMA Erca, IMA Fillshape, IMA Gasti, IMA Corazza, and IMA Gima were available to discuss their contributions. The IMA End of Line Hub will also highlight advanced machinery for overwrapping, shrink wrapping, case packing, and robotic palletizing.