Innovation & Design Stage Content
Catch up on the full conference programme on demand below.
Watch any sessions you missed or revisit your favourites anytime.
Illuminating the Future of Packaging: Macro trends to 2050
Today, more than ever before, global retailers and brands need to assess their packaging requirements on a macro and micro level to survive and thrive through seismic shifts in global supply chains, sustainability demands, and ever changing consumer expectations. Focusing on sustainability, innovation and operational efficiency, this session will equip you with actionable strategies to future proof your brand!
Wednesday 12th February – 11:00 – 11:30 (30 minutes)
Redesigning For The Future: Googles journey to plastic free packaging
By utilising new materials such as stronger, stretchable paper and moulded fibre pulp made from recycled newspapers, Google has achieved 100% plastic-free packaging for its devices. Going beyond their own products, Google has also created an open-sourced ‘Plastic-Free Packaging Design Guide’ to inspire and collaborate with designers worldwide. Join us to explore how sustainability and innovation come together, and what this means for the future of design.
Wednesday 12th February – 11:45 – 12:15 (30 minutes)
Talking Rubbish Live! – Innovating with Diageo
James Piper and Robbie Staniforth, hosts of the Talking Rubbish podcast, will be hosting their first live episode featuring an interview with William Connolly, Senior Principal Scientist at Diageo. This episode will delve into the latest innovations Diageo has been pioneering for brands like Johnnie Walker and Baileys. This podcast will discuss the challenges that brands face when it comes to designing a premium product while emphasising recyclability, the latest challenges in lowering carbon emissions and the case for implementing reuse and refill systems.
Wednesday 12th February – 12:30 – 13:15 (45 minutes)
Now Trending: Discussing Impactful Designs
Jennifer Clements, Senior Project Manager at Pentawards and Chloe Scanlan, Marketing Manager at Pentawards, discuss the 2024/25 trend report and the trends that have made an impact in the packaging design industry over the last year, and beyond.
Wednesday 12th February – 3:30 – 13:50 (20 minutes)
Designing with AI: The end of creativity as we know it?
As new technologies such as GenAI disrupt the design and business landscape, there is a significant level of uncertainty about the role of design in many organisations in the future. However, AI is also enabling designers to explore more ideas and creative innovative product experiences faster than ever before. McKinsey estimates that generative AI could unlock $60 billion in productivity within product research and design. This technology will reshape design, enhance productivity but will artistry and individualism suffer? Will you be on the frontlines of new technologies or be left in the dust?
Wednesday 12th February – 14:00 – 14:30 (30 minutes)
Paperisation in Practice: Exploring the potential and limitations of fibre based packaging
As companies around the world work to reduce plastic waste and embrace sustainable alternatives, fibre-based packaging—often termed “paperisation”—is emerging as a promising solution. This panel will explore the practical realities of this trend, addressing questions such as: How can fibre based packaging uphold product integrity and meet consumer usability standards? And as these innovative packaging methods gain traction, how can companies ensure recyclability without compromising on quality, durability, or cost-effectiveness?
Wednesday 12th February – 14:45 – 15:30 (45 minutes)
Forward to Nature: How juice experts Mulrines are rethinking beverages
Creating a great-tasting beverage is only the first step. Determining the most effective way to package and present the drink to consumers, while also prioritising sustainability, is essential. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the overall product and brand resonate with shoppers and stand out on the shelf. The partnership between Elopak and Mulrines demonstrates a true commitment to nature and highlights their collaborative efforts in relaunching a key brand in their portfolio. Join them to find out what’s cooking!
Thursday 13th February – 11:45 – 12:15 (30 minutes)
Packaged to Persuade: The importance of building lasting impressions with your products
There’s no doubt that packaging has become a critical part of the marketing mix, particularly in the context of e-commerce where the physical retail experience has been largely replaced by digital interactions. Looking at the importance of personalisation, digital print and innovative design, our panellists will provide you with valuable insights on how to leverage packaging to create lasting impressions and cultivate brand loyalty.
Thursday 13th February – 12:30 – 13:15 (45 minutes)
Packaging Startup Awards 2025: In Partnership with ThePackHub
The Packaging Startup Awards 2025, proudly brought to you by ThePackHub in partnership with event hosts Easyfairs, is a initiative designed to recognise and celebrate the most innovative solutions created by packaging startups from around the globe. These awards offer a platform for emerging startup talents to showcase their ideas, providing us with a glimpse into the future of packaging innovation.
Thursday 13th February – 14:30 – 15:00 (30 minutes)
