Future Trailblazers wanted: Entries now open for the Class of 2027

Packaging Innovations & Empack has opened entries for the Future Trailblazer Awards 2027, inviting the UK’s most promising early-career packaging professionals to showcase the work they’re doing to improve packaging across design, production, sustainability, branding and operations.

Now entering its fourth year, the Future Trailblazer Awards have become one of the UK’s leading platforms for recognising emerging talent across the packaging sector. Open to anyone within the first 10 years of their packaging career, the awards celebrate individuals who are making a measurable difference across design, engineering, sustainability, production, operations, branding, and circularity. Entries are free and open until 6 November 2026, with winners announced live at Packaging Innovations & Empack on 24 February 2027.

The launch follows another record year for the initiative, with entries received from some of the industry’s biggest brands, manufacturers, agencies, technology businesses and start-ups. Previous finalists have represented organisations including Nestlé, Unilever, James Cropper, McCain Foods, Greyparrot, Carlton Packaging and DS Smith, with many going on to become recognised voices across the packaging community, using the platform to build industry networks, raise their professional profile and accelerate their careers.

The awards are open across eight categories, recognising excellence in Design for the Future, Production Delivery, Sustainable First Thinking, Operational Excellence, Brand Visionary, The Packaging Most Valuable Person (MVP) and Circularity Champion, reflecting the increasingly diverse skills driving innovation across the packaging value chain. New for 2027, the awards also introduce Packaging Mentor of the Year, recognising individuals who help develop, support and inspire the next generation of packaging professionals.

Casey McHugh, Senior Conference & Community Manager – UK & Global at Easyfairs, said: “Packaging has never changed faster than it is changing today. New regulations, new technologies and changing consumer expectations mean the industry needs fresh thinking more than ever.

“Future Trailblazer is about celebrating the people bringing that thinking to life. Every year we’re inspired by individuals who are already making a genuine impact early in their careers, and it’s incredibly rewarding to give them the recognition they deserve.”

Jordan Scott, Head of Marketing at James Cropper and a member of the Future Trailblazer Class of 2026, added: “It’s a bit surreal, but mainly it means that the persistence to challenge how things are done and push our approach forward is working.

“I’d say to anyone thinking of entering: just go for it. Focus on what you’ve genuinely changed or influenced and recognise the impact your work is having, regardless of what others may say or think. That’s what stands out.”

Yaseed Chaumoo, Managing Director at Greyparrot and Packaging MVP winner, said: “Winning this award amplifies that we are a critical voice in this space. It’s a big achievement, not just for us but for the wider industry.

“My advice is simple: do it. It can be anyone from any division, at any point in their packaging journey. It helps you understand the value you have as part of a wider ecosystem.”

Entries will once again be judged by an independent panel of respected leaders from across the packaging industry, who will look for individuals demonstrating practical impact, innovative thinking, and the determination to move the industry forward.

The finalists will be announced ahead of Packaging Innovations & Empack 2027, with the winners revealed live during the event at the NEC Birmingham on 24 February 2027.

Entries are free and open to anyone within the first 10 years of their packaging career. Professionals can nominate themselves or a colleague by 6 November 2026 by clicking here.

Future Trailblazers wanted: Entries now open for the Class of 2027

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