Empack 2026 Gorinchem: focus on innovation

Evenementenhal Gorinchem was entirely focused on packaging on April 14, 15, and 16. During Empack 2026, more than 250 exhibitors presented their solutions. This included over 65 new participants. Visitors engaged in discussions about specific packaging challenges and received practical tools to improve their processes.

At Next Level, the Partner Village, the Kennis Theater, and the Pitch-Pack-Plein created a constant flow of meetings and idea exchange.

Knowledge program aligns with practice

Knowledge sharing took center stage in two theaters. Topics such as circular plastics, AI in logistics, and sustainable regulations were covered extensively. Plant-based innovations and future-proof warehouses also received attention.

Sessions such as ‘PPWR in sight: what you need to know now’ and ‘The big PPWR quiz’ attracted large audiences. Experts from NRK Verpakkingen, TNO, Brightlands Circular Space, and Pack4Food, among others, shared insights and practical experience. GS1 QR codes and developments in edible and bio-based packaging were also discussed.

New initiatives and award winners

Empack introduced several new elements this year. In collaboration with the NVC Packaging Centre, the first edition of Verpakkingsvrouw Nederland was organized. Kim Stemkens, Packaging Sustainability Manager at Jumbo, received this title.

With Dokter Empack, visitors were able to discuss their challenges directly with experts. This resulted in targeted advice and concrete action points.

The Innovatie Award made its debut this year. Kortho won with the TI-series and the patented Robocap™ system. During Pitch Your Smart Product, six companies presented their solutions. Francys Fernandez Zavarce won with Xampla’s Morro Coating.

Entire chain comes together

On the exhibition floor, attention was given to the entire packaging process. Within the intralogistics theme, solutions for transport, storage, and order picking were presented. Evofenedex shared knowledge on warehouses and AI applications, among other topics. New professionals were also supported through Start2Pack, developed in collaboration with Pack4Food.

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