The highly anticipated Metpack 2023 event has been an outstanding success, according to Oliver P. Kuhrt, CEO of Messe Essen. The leading trade fair for metal packaging exceeded expectations, with around 6,500 trade visitors from all corners the world having attended. The well-attended event explored key issues such as decarbonisation, resource efficiency, and digitalisation, and received a large amount of positive feedback from attendees.
The 10th edition of the event saw 313 exhibitors showcasing innovative technology, new products, and further developments related to the production, refinement, and recycling of metal packaging. Metpack claimed that the number of visitors from abroad was particularly high, accounting for 73% of all attendees.
Italy, the USA, and the UK featured at the forefront of the national rankings. Visitors with purchasing and procurement expertise constituted 88% of the trade show audience, which made for encouraging news for exhibitors. The event provided them with a platform for closing successful deals with customers. A quarter of exhibitors’ customers placed orders directly during the trade show, while 72% of those surveyed expressed the intention of placing follow-up orders, following the event.
Metpack Committee Chairman, Wolfgang Niemsch, observed that the industry’s key objectives were to reduce costs, improve quality while using fewer resources. He noted that the trade audience had the opportunity to catch up on the latest developments and experience innovative products at the event. The willingness to invest was prominent, which will have delighted the manufacturing companies in attendance.
The organisers of Metpack set high expectations for the event, and the participating companies confirmed that their expectations were met. 82% of the visitors rated the range of products and services as “very positive,” while the mechanical engineering products on display were related to automation and the Internet of Things. Digital printing processes that allow for design flexibility were also part of the trends showcased at the event.
The awards for the best innovations went to Koenig & Bauer MetalPrint for a new closed-loop colour control system that won the Gold Metpack Innovation Award. Actega received silver for their innovation ROTARflow and Can Man won Bronze for the development of “PowerCUT SuperFLEX.” The international Metpack Conference, attended by around 70 participants, provided detailed insights into other technical innovations at the event.
The sustainable nature of metal packaging made it a significant consideration at the event, especially as the industry awaits the new EU packaging regulation, a matter currently under discussions.
In conclusion, Metpack 2023 was a resounding success for all parties concerned, from the event organisers to the manufacturers who participated. A reputation as the world’s leading trade fair for metal packaging was further cemented. It provided excellent opportunities for manufacturers to explore new technologies while encouraging participants to exchange ideas and network. The countdown begins for Metpack 2026, and we can expect more exciting developments at the next event.
