South Asia’s packaging landscape is undergoing a paradigm shift, driven by faster manufacturing cycles, rising demand for automation, and a push toward sustainable operations. No longer viewed as a functional layer of protection, packaging has matured into a strategic driver for businesses looking to enhance operational efficiency and brand value.
Celebrating its milestone 20th edition, PackPlus has transformed from a localized, packaging-centric show into a comprehensive business platform spanning packaging, converting, processing, and supply chain solutions.
Umang Gupta, country head of event organizer RX India, told Packaging South Asia on how the show, scheduled on 20-22 August in Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam, will foster renewed momentum, navigate global geopolitical shifts, and introduce the next generation of manufacturing technologies.
Overcoming geopolitical headwinds through local resilience
While global macroeconomic and geopolitical developments have disrupted international trade routes and strained supply chains over the past few years, Gupta noted that the packaging industry had adapted with remarkable agility.
“Rather than hindering participation, the shifting global dynamic has accelerated a pivot toward supply chain diversification, localization, and operational resilience. This proactive mindset is strongly reflected in the enthusiastic response to the upcoming event,” he said.
According to him, organizations worldwide view India not just as a consumer market, but as a long-term manufacturing and growth hub. PackPlus 2026 continues to see robust international and domestic interest, turning geopolitical challenges into a catalyst for regional expansion.
“The upcoming edition is structured to display the entirety of the packaging value chain. Attendees will have direct exposure to advancements in packaging machinery, converting technologies, printing, labeling, automation, food processing, and logistics,” he said.
A major hallmark of this year’s exhibition will be the presentation of more than 500 live machinery demonstrations. These real-time showcases allow visitors to evaluate production speeds, material compatibility, and overall output efficiencies firsthand.
The event floor will feature dedicated zones for flexible and rigid packaging, coding and marking, filling and bottling, end-of-line packaging, and smart automation systems.
Adding substantial educational and networking value, the International Packaging Conclave 2026 will be held in conjunction with the main exhibition. The conclave will serve as a collaborative forum for industry leaders, policymakers, brand owners, and technology providers to debate responsible manufacturing, circular economy frameworks, and the regulatory future of packaging in India.
The co-location of PrintFair in Delhi expands the exhibition’s scope, bringing the latest breakthroughs in commercial and industrial printing technologies under the same roof.
“Innovation remains the primary anchor of the event,” he emphasized, adding “with numerous market leaders utilizing the platform to debut their newest equipment and sustainable solutions. Market demands are leaning heavily toward scalable, future-ready architecture that delivers faster return on investment (ROI).”
Visitors can expect a wave of product launches centering on automation-led manufacturing, integrated packaging lines, eco-friendly materials, and advanced converting solutions designed to maximize throughput while minimizing material waste.
Prominent domestic and international players will drive these innovations. Key participating companies include Brothers Pharmamach (India), Cosmo First, Datalogic USA, HYC (Singapore), Jay Instruments and Systems, KGOC Global LLP, PrintMach, Serac Packaging Solution, and Venus Rotoflex.
PackPlus 2026 is projected to welcome a targeted, business-focused audience of over 15,000 domestic and international visitors, alongside more than 250 exhibitors representing over 15 countries.
“The expected footfall stands out not just in volume, but in its high concentration of decision-making power. The attendee profile is comprised of CEOs, founders, procurement heads, plant managers, and specialized packaging professionals from the FMCG, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, retail, logistics, personal care, and e-commerce sectors,” he said.
Gupta said PackPlus‘ edge lies in the quality of engagement on the show floor. “Visitors arrive with predefined sourcing blueprints, clear investment intent, and concrete business objectives. This high-intent atmosphere ensures the 20th edition will serve as an unmatched ecosystem for building long-term buyer-seller partnerships and unlocking extensive commercial opportunities across South Asia.”
