The packaging trade show, Empack, was held last week in the Netherlands. And for the first time in the Evenementenhal Gorinchem, after last year's event at Jaarbeurs Utrecht was canceled. Next year is Den Bosch's turn. On April 5-7, more than 250 exhibitors presented themselves to 5,500 visitors. People mostly networked, and professionals from the packaging sector also followed inspiring knowledge sessions given by partners.
When it comes to fruit and vegetables, there is always much to be found at Empack. Often 70 to 80 fruit and vegetable-related companies participate. There is still much emphasis on cardboard, rPET, and raw material savings. Think of things like paper bands replacing plastic lids, holes for product visibility, and resource savings. Packaging problems and solutions that can help reduce waste are being considered.
“What a debut," says Corine Visser, Head of Cluster at Easyfairs, the company that organized this event. "Three fantastic days of trade fair. On behalf of team Empack, I'd like to thank our exhibitors and partners enormously. Together with them, we could put on a fantastic event. It's great to receive so many positive reactions about the show's look and location. And don't forget how our exhibitors turned out on these three days; incredible."
New location changes Empack's dynamic
The event hall in Gorinchem was enthusiastically received as a new location. The network café and the flex-work hotspot provided this Empack edition with a new dynamic. Visitors, partners, speakers, and met and exchanged know-how in the networking café. Those who wanted to know more than the show floor offered could find extra inspiration in the Smart Packaging Gallery, a space packed with clever innovations.
Knowledge sessions responded to current issues
The speakers' program also enjoyed ample attention. Topics included circular packaging issues, sustainability in turbulent times, and current packaging challenges and their immediate solutions. Speakers were people from HelloFresh, KIDV, Circo, Zwerfinator, and EkoPlaza. "There was much interest in these talks, which led to nice audience interactions," says Sharon Haans, Empack's Content Coordinator.
Empack 2023 and 2024
After three relatively well-attended trade show days, Easyfairs, the exhibitors, partners, and visitors can reflect on a successful event. "We received positive comments and feedback, and exhibitors are very enthusiastic about the next edition. They have a shared goal to make the packaging industry more sustainable and include circularity in the packaging process. It's essential to share knowledge and insights to take the next step in packaging," Corine concludes.
Starting next week, you can find the presentations and recorded live sessions on www.empack.nl.
Empack will next be held on April 5 and 6, 2023 in Brabanthallen, Den Bosch. In 2024, the event will return to Evenementenhal Gorinchem on April 9, 10, and 11.
See the photo report and meet the fruit and vegetable suppliers here.