New ideas rarely emerge in conference rooms – they arise where people are brave enough to try new things, rethink old ideas and simplify solutions. That's exactly why interpack 2026 will feature the
Start-Up Zone: the meeting place for young companies, fresh technologies and innovations that are really shaking up the packaging industry.
Here you will discover start-ups working on the topics that are currently on everyone's agenda:
sustainability and the circular economy, smart packaging, material innovations, digitalisation, automation and more efficient processes – practical, tangible and with an eye on what comes next.
Why it's worth a visit
In the Start-Up Zone, you can experience innovation first-hand:
- See new solutions live – instead of just reading about them
- Talk directly to founders – honestly, quickly, on equal terms
- Understand trends earlier – and identify opportunities for your business
- Take away partners, inspiration and ideas – for development, purchasing, production and marketing
Whether you come from the food, pharmaceutical, cosmetics or consumer goods industry, are looking for machines and components or are developing packaging concepts: the Start-Up Zone is the place where you will find inspiration – and often the right answer to very specific challenges.
Innovation that suits youMany start-ups don't solve ‘just anything’, but precisely the questions that companies face every day: How can packaging be made more recyclable? How can we reduce material usage? How can we increase efficiency on the line? How can data, track & trace or AI be integrated in a meaningful way? In the Start-Up Zone, you will find shortcuts to solutions – and the people behind them.
Your next step: experience interpack 2026 liveIf you want to see what will shape the industry tomorrow, then the Start-Up Zone should definitely be on your itinerary. Plan your visit to interpack 2026 – and discover where the future is being created.
Come by. Get to know the newcomers. Take ideas with you.
