Future Trailblazers Wanted: Entries Open for Class of 2026
- Published: August 5, 2025
Packaging Innovations & Empack’s Future Trailblazer initiative is returning at the 2026 event, providing a platform for young talent in the packaging industry to showcase their skills and innovations. Entries open August 5, with applicants able to submit their free entries until the closing date of November 4.
2026’s Future Trailblazers presents a revamped list of criteria and new categories covering brand storytelling and circularity, inviting entries from a broader audience of young talent. The initiative is designed to shine a spotlight on tomorrow’s innovators today, highlighting those breaking down barriers and offering exciting new perspectives on industry challenges.
Casey McHugh, Conference & Community Manager – UK & Global at event organizer Easyfairs, looked ahead to the event, saying: “The standard is always so high in the Future Trailblazer, but with the addition of new categories and broader entry criteria, 2026’s is set to be our most exciting and expansive to date.
“Packaging Innovations is all about the future of packaging, and the Future Trailblazers are the talented professionals who will shape it. Giving them a platform to highlight their achievements and perspectives is like having a window into the future, letting us see tomorrow’s trends and innovations before they happen. Packaging is such a vibrant industry bursting with fresh talent and new ideas – let’s celebrate that talent and help it thrive.”
The Future Trailblazer entries will be judged by industry experts from organizations spanning the packaging sector. The finalists will be announced ahead of the Packaging Innovations & Empack show, where the winners will be revealed February 11, receiving industry recognition and exclusive networking opportunities.
The Future Trailblazers initiative takes place at Packaging Innovations & Empack as part of a two-day programme of talks and networking events. Nominations are free and open to anyone working within the first ten years of their packaging career. To submit an application, either for yourself or on behalf of a colleague, visit www.packagingbirmingham.com/future-trailblazer.
