The European packaging landscape gathered under the spotlight of Nuremberg for FACHPACK. More than just a trade fair, it is a privileged observatory of the trends shaping the future of packaging.
With the 2025 edition now concluded, it is time for reflection: what has this event revealed about the present and future of flexible packaging?
The guiding concept of FACHPACK 2025: “Transition in Packaging”
The official leitmotif of the event was “Transition in Packaging”—a strong signal encapsulating the sector’s immediate challenges: recyclability, digitalization, and regulatory compliance.
This is not an abstract idea, but a practical directive that permeated halls, forums, conferences, and booths, forcing every player, big or small, to question their positioning and capacity for evolution.
If in the past innovation was mainly driven by mechanical efficiency and cost reduction, today it is increasingly clear that this has been replaced by the concept of sustainable innovation—meaning the integration of performance, recyclability, and environmental compatibility. This is now the non-negotiable frontier.
Flexible meets recyclable
For those operating in flexible packaging, FACHPACK 2025 offered both inspiration and strategic confirmation:
Recyclable mono-materials
Many exhibitors strongly focused on mono-material (PP, PE) solutions designed to facilitate mechanical recycling while maintaining functional barriers and compatibility with existing lines. The “fewer layers, more recyclability” approach no longer seems utopian, but rather a concrete direction.
Paperization and hybrid paper-barrier packaging
This trend is a direct response to emerging European regulations (e.g., PPWR) and consumer requirements. The regulatory framework is becoming increasingly stringent, demanding packaging designed from the outset with end-of-life in mind.
Start-ups and innovators in the spotlight
In the “Newcomer Pavilion” and at the FuturePack Summit, the atmosphere was one of energy and boldness: lighter solutions, new compostability systems, and emerging organic materials. This is an important signal: transformation in the sector will not only come from large companies, but also from those daring to look beyond established models.
The numbers confirm the event’s significance
For market observers, the official figures highlight the importance of FACHPACK 2025:
- Around 1,400 exhibitors across 11 halls, covering the entire packaging value chain;
- Strong international presence, with nearly half of exhibitors coming from outside Germany;
- A rich program of forums, workshops, and conferences, particularly in “SOLPACK 6.0,” “InnovationBox,” and “PACKBOX”;
- Recurring themes: regulation, digitalization, and alternative materials.
These figures reflect a genuine commitment to transition.
Conclusions and strategic insights for flexible packaging operators
From a sector perspective, several key takeaways stand out:
- Strategic review of material portfolios
The “legacy” line, based on traditional multilayer laminates, will have to coexist with new families (mono-layer, paper-barrier, specialized coatings). Within this mix, those able to offer “optimized hybrid solutions” (performance / recyclability) will gain a competitive edge; - Investment in R&D
Adopting recyclable and high-performance solutions will be essential for building a forward-looking vision; - Regulatory compliance
The European regulatory wave—PPWR—is already a reality. Those able to “anticipate” with compliant packaging will be able to turn regulatory obligations into strengths, attracting environmentally conscious customers, who are growing in number; - Credible and transparent B2B communication
Being able to clearly articulate the value chain of one’s packaging—from raw materials to end-of-life—is no longer optional, but a commercial requirement; - Sensitivity to emerging niches
Not all flexible packaging projects will be the same. Some segments (premium food and cosmetics) will be more willing to invest in innovative and intelligent packaging. Targeting these niches can be a lever to drive change and position oneself as a reference innovator.
In summary: FACHPACK 2025 confirmed that the world of flexible packaging is undergoing a profound transformation.
Flexie’s solutions
Flexie already offers mono-material solutions that the event identified as the future of the industry: maximum recyclability without compromising performance.
Our expertise in flexible packaging enables us to deliver exactly what post-FACHPACK analyses highlight as winning factors: logistical efficiency and competitive differentiation.
Want to discover how Flexie can bring to your business the same innovations that made headlines at FACHPACK 2025? Contact us for a free consultation.
The future of flexible packaging starts with your next package.
