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Corrugated Conference 2026: The Industry’s Most Awaited Event
Fespa is all set to launch Corrugated, a new conference exhibition that is focused on corrugated packaging & displaying products for driving sales. The first edition is going to take place along with FESPA Global Print Expo and other programmes such as European Sign Expo & Textile and Personalisation Experience from May 19 to May 22, 2026, at the Fira Barcelona.
The innovative event is actually a collaborative venture between Brunton Publications & FESPA. It is designed to provide a dedicated platform for all the producers of corrugated boxes so that they can connect and hold a discussion with the suppliers and importers of corrugated cardboard machinery, workflow software, and other related technologies.
Additionally, Corrugated Conference 2026 will also offer business analysts, business owners, and operations teams the platform to socialise and discover the latest technological innovations for corrugated boxes. Furthermore, manufacturers can also build relationships through networking and by sharing industry insights.
Exhibition Set-Up & Discussion Topics for Corrugated Conference 2026
The Corrugated Conference 2026 has already booked almost 1,500 sq ft of exhibition space, and the conference is going to explore themes such as shaping the industry’s future with sustainable corrugated boxes.
The following themes will most likely be discussed, including EU packaging legislation; AI’s trends and changing role in the packaging industry; cybersecurity in the modern box plant, and the role of global associations for trading corrugated boxes and correlated materials.
Case studies of corrugated boxes will be discussed from around the world, and the advantages of using them will be further highlighted.
This conference is going to be significant for printers and packaging manufacturers looking to connect with international corrugated suppliers. This conference is also expected to grab the attention of small and mid-sized box plants.
FESPA has just appointed Nick Kirby (non-executive director of Zeus Packaging) as corrugated ambassador. Recently, in an interview, he stated that
“Corrugated” is indeed an exciting event, and I’m proud of my new role linked to FESPA. I will be there assisting the team to build new relationships and acquaintances in the global corrugated community, and will try my best to raise awareness of FESPA’s campaign across the packaging sector. I’m looking forward to participating in it and watching it live in Barcelona in 2026.”
Brunton Publications Co-Partnering
Additionally, Brunton Publications (FESPA’s partner for the event) will cover the official news and will also give some exclusive promotional offers and discounts, especially for visitors and exhibitors.
History of Corrugated Conference
‘Corrugated’ is an innovative, newly launched packaging industry exhibition, initiated by FESPA in collaboration with Brunton Publications. It was initially announced in 2025 to meet the growing demand for a platform to discuss the role and benefits of eco-friendly corrugated boxes and how their use can impact the planet in a positive way. Additionally, the conference also aimed at the socialisation of corrugated manufacturers with global suppliers and visitors.
As automation and digital printing are getting popular and sustainability demands are getting wider, it reflects an industry shift towards corrugated boxes. The event is going to be of great value for any brand that wants to invest in corrugated boxes to package their products.
Key Themes of the Conference
The following is a list of key themes that are going to be discussed in the conference:
1. Eco-Friendly Packaging & Circular Economy
- Discussion on closed-loop production systems.
- Debate around Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).
- Emphasis on biodegradable and recyclable corrugated materials.
2. Green Materials
- Discussion on fibre-based alternatives replacing plastic packaging.
- Suggestions regarding lightweight yet sustainable packaging solutions.
- Idea sharing regarding eco-friendly coatings and substrates.
3. AI-Based Manufacturing
- Suggestions regarding digital transformation in corrugated plants.
- Exchange of ideas about incorporating AI in workflow automation.
4. Robotics & Workflow Automations
- Debate around high-speed converting systems and the use of robotics
- Discussions around efficient plant logistics.
5. Changing Market Trends
- Speeches and information sharing regarding the growth of e-commerce packaging.
- Display of customised corrugated boxes and correlated solutions.
- Encouragement of cross-industry (textile, print & packaging) industries.
The Duration of the Conference
The exhibition is going to take place for 4 days and will be an excellent showcase aimed at connecting manufacturers of graphical and decorative corrugated packaging. Leading brands are going to display their machinery, software, and services during the corrugated event at different stalls during the 4-day conference.
Wrap Up
The Corrugated Conference 2026 is going to be held in Barcelona from 19 to 22 May 2026. Visitors from 40+ countries are going to be part of this global conference. It is a great opportunity for corrugated manufacturers and suppliers to meet and discuss changing industry trends, AI automation, and sustainable solutions.
Here at Emenac Packaging UK, we also support green initiatives. Check out our corrugated boxes on our website that are completely customisable!
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