Empack Mechelen felt more vibrant than ever this year. The event brought together 2,800 professionals and added a strong burst of energy to Mechelen with the first Belgian Packaging Festival. Two days filled with meetings, ideas, machines, and material innovations — all bundled into one dynamic setting.
Walking across the show floor meant seeing something new at every step. Machine demonstrations, creative packaging cases, and conversations that started almost on their own. The Packathon stood out in particular. More than 50 students worked on real packaging challenges, and visitors clearly noticed. The PakPraat podcast drew attention as well; its live recordings added an extra layer of buzz to the hall. Meanwhile, more than 450 professionals joined seminars on circular packaging, PPWR, ecodesign, Vision AI, sustainable materials, and data quality.
For the first time, Empack and Verpakking & Label Magazine (PMG) presented the Verpakking & Label Awards. The jury selected DW Reusables as the winner for the most innovative packaging. The public saw it differently and placed DUCAJU at the top. In labeling, Rembrandt Labels was mentioned twice: by the jury and by the public. Tallpack Belgium came out ahead with the award for the most innovative packaging machine.
Several other companies received recognition during the event. G.Mondini won the EasyGo Award for achieving the highest number of smart badge interactions. Bewel received the Sustainability Award for their circular and social contribution. And Presa attracted the most visitors, earning them the Marketing Award.
The sector’s confidence in the concept is clear. A solid rebook for Empack Mechelen 2027 and 60% of the floor space for Gent 2026 already reserved. Next year, Empack will again be held alongside Transport & Logistics in Gent, bringing the entire supply chain together at Flanders Expo.
Source: Empack België