Metpack 2026, the world’s leading trade fair for metal packaging, has opened at Messe Essen, bringing together more than 350 exhibitors from 32 countries to showcase innovations across the industry.
Running until May 8, the exhibition has recorded a 15% increase in floor space compared to its previous edition, reflecting strong demand and growing industry engagement. The event spans the entire metal packaging value chain, covering machinery, plant engineering, printing, coating, filling, sealing technologies and related services.
Organizers highlighted the diversity of participants, ranging from global industrial players such as ArcelorMittal Europe and Belvac to specialized technology providers and niche innovators advancing specific processes and applications.
“This mix is exactly what makes Metpack so successful. The 15 per cent increase in exhibition space underlines its importance,” said Christina Kleinpaß, project manager of Metpack. “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.”
A key addition this year is the launch of “Talk in a Can”, a new forum format located within the exhibition halls. The platform features presentations, product demonstrations, panel discussions and podcasts, designed to facilitate direct engagement between exhibitors, visitors and media.
The event will also host the Metpack Innovation Awards, with 26 entries from 22 applicants across ten countries being evaluated by an expert jury.
Alongside the exhibition, the Metpack Conference at the Congress Center West will provide technical insights through expert-led sessions. A major highlight is the keynote by Clarissa Odewald, who becomes the first woman to open the conference.
The conference program will address key industry themes including decarbonisation strategies, emerging technologies and ongoing projects shaping the future of metal packaging.
