AIP elevates packaging discussions at foodpro 2026

Over four dynamic days, foodpro 2026 will bring together the full spectrum of food manufacturing and packaging with more than 400 exhibitors, cutting-edge displays, and hands-on learning opportunities for attendees. Visitors will also have the chance to take part in AIP-led mini training courses and forums, covering key topics in food packaging innovations, sustainable packaging design and regulations, food waste and the intersection with packaging, and more.

As one of the leading Association Partners for foodpro, the Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) has developed an action-packed week for anyone who is interested in learning more about packaging for the food and beverage industries.

During foodpro, the AIP will be offering six educational sessions including two mini training courses, four packaging panel discussions, a walking tour of the show, and an Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Award showcase with the winners being announced on 28 July. The AIP will also have an exhibition stand.

AIP Packaging Panel Discussions x4 — Monday, 27 July

The AIP will be hosting four panel discussions on the Innovation Stage at foodpro, which will bring together leading technical packaging experts covering a broad range of topics, including the latest global and regional regulatory framework for extended producer responsibility, design for recycling vs design for circularity, innovative materials and trends in food and beverage packaging design, sustainable packaging design, fibre alternative, data and digitalisation, and more. The experts will offer global, regional and local perspectives to the discussions.

AIP Packaging Training Courses x2 — Tuesday, 28 July

Training Course 1. Unboxing Accessibility: Easy to Open, Reclose, Grip & Handle Packaging Design
Training Course 2. Future of soft plastics and flexible packaging: Sustainable Trends & Innovations

On 28 July, the AIP will be running two mini training courses which are designed for the micro and SME sector, as well as the multinationals. The training courses are a paid program so all attendees will need to register early. Visitors can attend one or two courses and attain a Certificate of Completion and points towards the Certified Packaging Professional designation.

Register to attend here.

Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Awards — showcase and gala dinner — Tuesday, 28 July 2026

The AIP will be running the annual Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) awards on 28 July across the road at The Aviary, Crown Complex. Coordinated by the AIP, the Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Awards are designed to recognise companies and individuals who are making a significant difference in their field in Australia and New Zealand. The PIDA Awards are the exclusive award program for all Australia and New Zealand entries into the prestigious WorldStar Packaging Awards, which are coordinated by the World Packaging Organisation (WPO). All of industry is invited to join the gala awards ceremony. The AIP will also have a unique PIDA showcase area at foodpro for everyone to visit and see the 2026 round of finalists. Winners will be announced at foodpro on 29 July.

AIP expert walking tour for foodpro — Wednesday, 29 July 2026

The AIP will have an expansive Education team attending foodpro, so they will be guiding walking tours of the show for AIP Members and industry colleagues, as well as for all of the students that the AIP has across the Diploma in Packaging Technology, the Certificate in Packaging, the Fundamentals of Packaging Technology course and the Master of Food & Packaging Innovation degree. Anyone is welcome to join the walking tour with the AIP experts, visit AIP member stands, and discuss key trends and innovations that are being showcased. This walking tour will also include the Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) showcase and announce the winners of the 2026 round.

All attendees who participate in the AIP educational program will receive a Certificate of Attendance and points towards the Certified Packaging Professional (CPP) designation.

Images: Supplied