
The UK’s packaging industry is gearing up for a major event in the north, as the UKPackaging Expo 2025 opens in Manchester this autumn.
Set to take place at Manchester Central on 3rd – 4th September 2025, this new event aims to offer a practical, cost-effective alternative to traditional packaging exhibitions, typically held in the south of England.
It will cater to professionals across various sectors, including food and beverage, beauty, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, providing a platform for networking, innovation, and solutions-focused discussions.
An accessible and affordable event for the north
With a focus on practicality and value, UKPackaging Expo 2025 has been designed to meet the real-world needs of professionals in Northern England’s packaging industry.
The event is expected to attract over 2,500 attendees and will be significantly more affordable than traditional packaging shows, with exhibition costs priced at 40% less than those typically seen at southern-based events.
This pricing model is part of the event’s commitment to offering an accessible platform for businesses to showcase their products and connect with potential customers.

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By GlobalDataThe expo will feature more than 100 exhibitors, representing the full range of packaging solutions, from materials and supplies to machinery and sustainable alternatives.
It will also offer educational opportunities, including live demonstrations and sessions aimed at providing practical takeaways on everything from cost reduction to operational improvements.
A focus on sustainability and innovation
One of the key themes of UKPackaging Expo 2025 is sustainability. The event places a strong emphasis on environmental credentials, encouraging exhibitors to present solutions that align with circular economy principles and net-zero targets.
This focus is especially important as industries continue to explore more sustainable practices in packaging.
The expo will showcase a variety of innovative packaging technologies, from eco-friendly materials to advancements in machinery and automation.
Visitors will have the chance to explore new solutions that could address the pressing challenges within the packaging sector, particularly those related to sustainability and efficiency.
Manchester’s strategic location for packaging professionals
Manchester has long been a hub for industry and manufacturing, making it an ideal location for the UKPackaging Expo 2025.
Positioned centrally within the UK, the city offers excellent transport links and is easily accessible for professionals from across the country.
The event will take place at Manchester Central, a venue with a rich history of hosting industry-focused exhibitions, providing a fitting backdrop for this inaugural packaging event.
As a city known for its industrial heritage, Manchester serves as a symbolic location for the expo, highlighting the importance of the north in the broader UK economy.
The event promises to be a valuable addition to the packaging calendar, offering practical solutions and fostering long-term partnerships for businesses in the region.
UKPackaging Expo 2025 will be a significant event for the packaging industry, offering a unique opportunity for professionals to connect, learn, and explore new innovations.
With its focus on accessibility, affordability, and sustainability, the event is set to become a must-attend occasion for anyone involved in the packaging sector.