Empack launches the Packaging Woman award

The packaging industry is gaining a new platform for female talent. With the launch of Verpakkingsvrouw Nederland (Packaging Woman the Netherlands), Empack Nederland and the NVC Packaging Centre are putting the spotlight on women who contribute every day to innovation, sustainability, and growth within the field.

Women making an impact

The organisers aim to show how much female strength lies behind packaging. “With the Verpakkingsvrouw Nederland we want to make visible how many inspiring women are active in packaging,” says Michaël Nieuwesteeg of the NVC. “They contribute every day to innovation, sustainability and quality in a sector that is constantly evolving.”

The initiative ties in with the SAGE (Sustainable Ageing) movement, which focuses on a sustainably growing society. “The power of diversity is essential for balanced decision-making,” emphasises Susanne den Otter of Empack Nederland. “That’s why we encourage not only the influx of new female professionals, but also their visibility and influence.”

Appointment during Empack 2026

Every woman with Dutch nationality, or employed by a company established in the Netherlands, and with at least one year of experience in a packaging role, may apply or be nominated.

The festive appointment of the first Verpakkingsvrouw Nederland will take place on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, at 4:00 p.m. during Empack at the Evenementenhal Gorinchem. A committee of leading female professionals will assess the candidates. The elected Verpakkingsvrouw will later join this committee in preparation for the appointment of her successor in 2027.

A year of opportunities and visibility

The Verpakkingsvrouw Nederland 2026 will have countless opportunities to make her voice heard. She will be supported by the teams of Empack Nederland and the NVC, can make use of NVC training courses, classes and association activities free of charge, and will be given a platform during Empack Gorinchem 2026. The winner will also have access to other European packaging trade fairs.

“The network you build, the knowledge you share and the inspiration you pass on – that’s what makes this title special,” says Susanne den Otter, Head of Event. “You become part of a movement that helps shape the future of packaging.”

Empack.nl