London Packaging Week has unveiled a significantly enhanced visitor experience for its 2026 edition, introducing a range of new features aimed at helping packaging professionals navigate the industry’s rapidly evolving landscape. Taking place at Excel London on September 16-17, 2026, the event has been built around the theme of Discovery, reflecting its focus on innovation, design, sustainability and networking.
With packaging playing an increasingly strategic role in brand differentiation and regulatory compliance, the organizers have expanded the show’s content to provide visitors with practical solutions to today’s key challenges — from material innovation and circularity to consumer expectations and commercial performance.
Among the headline additions is a redesigned Innovation Gallery, which will showcase some of the latest packaging developments through a curated exhibition complemented by twice-daily guided tours explaining the technologies and concepts behind the featured innovations.
Design will also take centre stage with the launch of the Design Hub, powered by Pentawards. The new space will host expert presentations, curated content and networking opportunities for brand and packaging designers. Pentawards will also return with an expanded exhibition featuring 50 award-winning packaging designs, alongside an exclusive networking reception.
The event is further broadening its content offering with the debut of a Podcast Studio, where industry leaders will discuss market trends, creative challenges and commercial opportunities, as well as a Start-up Zone and Discovery Theatre dedicated to emerging companies and disruptive packaging technologies.
Visitors will also be able to preview the trailer of a new documentary exploring the history and craftsmanship of James Cropper, the UK’s last remaining producer of coloured paper, offering a behind-the-scenes look at one of the country’s most iconic paper manufacturers.
To encourage attendees to explore the exhibition floor, London Packaging Week is launching the Trail of Secrets, an interactive visitor journey highlighting key innovations, exhibitors and attractions. Participants who complete the trail will receive a complimentary refreshment at The Inner Circle Bar.
The networking programme has also been expanded with daily Happy Hours, an evening drinks reception and a new Women in Packaging Networking Breakfast & Powerhour.
"A great event isn’t measured by how much there is to see. It’s measured by what visitors take away from it," said Josh Brooks, Divisional Director – Packaging at Easyfairs. "Every new feature we’ve introduced this year has been designed around helping people solve real problems, discover new ideas and make valuable connections that they can take back into their business."
The new attractions complement London Packaging Week’s established conference programme, which brings together experts from across packaging, branding, retail and sustainability. Returning highlights include the London Packaging Week Innovation Awards, the VIP Lounge and The Inner Circle Bar.
The organizers expect the 2026 edition to welcome more than 220 exhibitors and over 5,700 visitors, reinforcing the event’s position as one of the UK’s leading meeting places for packaging innovation across the luxury, beauty, food, beverage and FMCG sectors.
Registration is already open, please click here for your free ticket to London Packaging Week 2026.
