Trade show offers specialised food and eco packaging focus

Food and the environment will take particular prominence at this year's UK Processing Equipment & Packaging Machinery Association (PPMA) show to be held in the Birmingham from 30 September.

Two news areas aimed at these specific sectors will be open at the three day event, granting processors a more specific focus for their packaging needs, according to the PMMA.

Such a decision by the shows organisers reflects the growing need of processors within these areas, amidst changing consumer and regulatory demands.

Under the banner of EcoTec and FoodTec, the respective areas, which are to be situated opposite the show's existing machinery section, will be used to reflect key developments in food and green packaging, said the PPMA chief executive Chris Buxton.

EcoTec will represent companies that will aim to assist processors in meeting the various legislative and consumer requirements to ensure a more environmentally friendly production and output.

FoodTec, perhaps unsurprisingly, will display the latest developments both in terms of packaging equipment and materials for letting manufacturers meet the various safety, visual and

"The environment is a hugely influential factor today in all areas of processing and packaging while food is one of the largest and most buoyant sectors," Buxton stated. "The EcoTec and FoodTec features therefore ideally complement the main focus of the PPMA Show. In addition, the purchasing and specifying responsibilities of many of our visitors are continuing to widen and we need to reflect this."


Waste management and recycling have become increasingly important to food producers, both in the UK and Europe, in light of pressure from legislators and customers.

This includes the EU Landfill Directive, the UK government's commitment to reducing waste and emissions, and general consumer pressure for more environmentally friendly packaging and solutions.

About 200 exhibitors are already expected to attend the show, with more expected to sign up ahead of the vent, according to organisers.
Source: foodproductiondaily