METPACK 2026 opened today at Messe Essen. Until Friday 8 May, over 350 exhibitors from 32 countries will be showcasing their innovations in the field of metal packaging – ranging from machinery and plant engineering to printing, finishing and coating technologies, as well as related services. Demand is high, with the exhibition recording a 15 per cent increase in floor space compared to the previous edition. The supporting programme also marks a new milestone: the “Talk in a Can” forum will make its debut. In addition, the established METPACK Conference will, for the first time, feature a female keynote speaker.
METPACK 2026 combines trade fair business, knowledge transfer and networking into a comprehensive package that brings together the international metal packaging industry in Essen. It is here that innovations are presented and global product launches introduced to the market. As the world’s leading trade fair, METPACK covers the entire value chain of the industry across approximately 30,000 square metres of exhibition space: from equipment for manufacturing cans, lids and tubes to filling and sealing technology, as well as printing, coating and drying systems. The offering is complemented by materials, coatings, quality assurance and services related to production and logistics.
Wide diversity among exhibitors
This diversity is also reflected in the exhibitor line-up. METPACK brings together global industrial corporations, innovative SMEs and highly specialised niche providers in one place. Companies such as ArcelorMittal Europe and Belvac, as international market leaders, will present their latest developments in packaging steel and production equipment. At the same time, numerous specialised machinery manufacturers and technology suppliers will be represented – alongside smaller, highly innovative companies advancing individual process steps or developing new applications. “It is precisely this mix that makes METPACK so successful. The 15 per cent increase in exhibition space underlines its importance,” says METPACK Project Manager Christina Kleinpaß. “With ‘Talk in a Can’, we are also creating a platform where this very dynamic becomes visible – compact, international and in direct exchange with the industry.”
Talk in a Can: New forum format at the heart of the exhibition
“Talk in a Can” is METPACK’s new forum format located directly within the exhibition hall. On all days of the fair, exhibiting companies and experts will present current topics and innovations through specialist presentations, product demonstrations, panel discussions and podcasts. This vibrant meeting point enables exhibitors, visitors, media representatives and partners to engage quickly in conversation – making innovations immediately tangible. The area, designed to resemble a beverage can, is complemented by a media lounge, podcasts and a kick-off event for press and interested participants on the morning of the first day of the fair.
26 submissions for the METPACK Innovation Awards
Another highlight is the presentation of the METPACK Innovation Awards on the “Talk in a Can” forum area (Hall 2, Stand 2E57) on the Wednesday of the fair from 1:30 pm. A total of 22 applicants from ten countries have submitted 26 innovations, which will be assessed by the jury.
In-depth expertise at the METPACK Conference
In addition to the exhibition and “Talk in a Can”, the established METPACK Conference at the Congress Center West (Berlin Hall) provides in-depth content through presentations by leading experts. A programme highlight is the keynote by Clarissa Odewald, CEO of thyssenkrupp Rasselstein. As the first woman, she will open the conference on the second day of the fair. Topics include the decarbonisation strategy of the metal packaging industry, new technical processes and projects.
Further information and tickets for the METPACK Conference are available at www.metpack.de
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