Ms. Slotta, why do we need FACHPACK in 2024 and what impulses do you expect from the event?

Heike Slotta: Networks and personal exchange are more important than ever after the pandemic. And in Europe, FACHPACK is the 'class reunion' of the packaging industry and its users. It brings national and international packaging professionals and idea seekers together in a total of 11 exhibition halls with well-known market leaders, established medium-sized companies and fresh start-ups. Our main theme 'Transition in Packaging' is dedicated to the current changes in the packaging industry: legislators and consumers have expectations regarding sustainability and the circular economy that must be met. At the same time, demographic change is presenting the industry with challenges. And there are also topics relating to energy supply, supply chains, digitization and artificial intelligence. FACHPACK as an industry platform can provide impetus and guidance for the packaging industry, especially in challenging times like these: What solutions for the PPWR requirements are already available, who has new ideas, where are there successful best practices? Personal discussions with customers, partners and market competitors also generate impulses for new ideas that no one has thought of before.

The PACKBOX and INNOVATIONBOX forums are established and tried-and-tested formats. Are there any changes this year? What can visitors expect?

H.S.: Both forums have recently been very well received and will take place free of charge at FACHPACK 2024 as usual. Visitors can expect top-class presentations on all the topics currently affecting the industry and get to know innovative products. This time, our PACKBOX expert forum will be moderated by industry experts Matthias Mahr from LebensmittelPraxis magazine, Dr. Johannes Bergmair from Pack Experts and the World Packaging Organisation, and Oliver Berndt from the German Packaging Institute. In the INNOVATIONBOX, registered exhibitors present their new products and process innovations in short, snappy presentations. The popular moderators Nina Schönrock and Petra Bindl will lead the program.

The “Alternative Packaging Solution” pavilion is intended to present alternative materials and provide a glimpse into the future. A look into the crystal ball: Where and how do you see the future of packaging? And what trends are perhaps already emerging today?

H.S.: As part of the sustainability theme, FACHPACK is this time taking a look at alternative packaging solutions to wood fiber or plastic at this pavilion, which is accompanied by the SOLPACK 5.0 forum in cooperation with pacoon. We are concerned with thinking outside the box, knowing full well that these materials are not available or not yet available in the necessary quantity or quality. But there are some interesting approaches among the participants. In the future, it is and will remain important that the optimal packaging is used to ensure the best product protection. Because that is the primary task of packaging.

September 26 is Student's Day at FACHPACK. What is behind this idea?

H.S.: At the invitation of FACHPACK and the German Packaging Institute (dvi), over 60 students from German-speaking countries are meeting with professionals from packaging companies and brand manufacturers to exchange ideas about the requirements of the future and to work on specific issues in workshops. In addition to the main topic of sustainability, the focus for both sides is above all on building valuable networks.

According to official figures, this year's drupa had to accept a drop in visitors of around 36% and a drop in exhibitors of almost 11% compared to the last in-person event. In your opinion, is this the general trend in a shrinking industry, or are you going into FACHPACK with completely different, justified expectations?

H.S.: I can and would like to speak only for us. FACHPACK, with a focus on Europe, is once again the way the industry knows and appreciates it: over 1,450 exhibitors are taking part; including everyone who is well-known in the packaging industry, but also many smaller, medium-sized companies that find their customers here. We are also expecting around 35,000 visitors. If we take a closer look at the exhibition areas, around 40% are allocated to packaging technology - packaging machines, labelling technology, automation - and around 60% to packaging - packaging materials, packaging materials, packaging aids. This is supplemented by offers for packaging printing and finishing as well as internal logistics. In addition, one in five exhibitors at the FACHPACK class reunion is new this time. Visitors can therefore also look forward to new suppliers.

Last question: Do you have a special tip for all trade fair visitors?

H.S.: I recommend that all visitors visit the Young Innovators joint stand and the international newcomer pavilion in Hall 2. Here you can experience new, fresh products. Women in the packaging industry are highly recommended to attend our new networking event Women4Packaging on the first day of the trade fair. Dear colleagues: don't miss it and register online now!

Ms. Slotta, thank you very much for the interview!

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