Discover the key packaging trends shaping the future — from regulation and cost competitiveness to fibre-based innovation.
This year’s FACHPACK brought together more than 38,000 visitors under the theme “Transition in Packaging.” With nearly 40% of attendees travelling from outside Germany, the event confirmed its status as Europe’s leading packaging fair.
Kerstin Dietze, Key Account Manager Packaging Solutions at Sappi, captured the atmosphere well:
You could really feel how international the fair has become. In the past, it was mostly DACH and German-speaking, but this year even paper producers from Asia were here - it’s definitely developing.
The clear message across the halls? Sustainability is no longer a differentiator - it’s the baseline. From automation and AI to new materials and circular design, the packaging industry is transforming fast, and fibre-based solutions are now leading that change.
From plastic to paper: The new normal
One of the strongest trends was the shift from plastics to fibre-based packaging in food applications. High-barrier paper is closing the gap with plastic, opening possibilities that were once out of reach.
“Paper is the most recycled material; it is sustainable by nature,” said Simone Vezzu, R&D and Innovation. “With paper, it is easy for the consumer to do their part.”
On display at the Sappi booth was the expanded barrier paper portfolio, including Guard Pro OHS and Guard Pro OMH - recyclable solutions for confectionery and chocolate packaging. Designed for flow wraps, sachets, and pouches, they combine oxygen, moisture and grease protection with sustainability and cost-efficiency.
Turning regulation into opportunity
The EUDR and Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) dominated discussions. Waste reduction, recyclability, and CO₂ reduction are at the top of the agenda, and Sappi’s investments help customers turn these rules into a competitive advantage.
“Regulations are moving quickly, but also with many grey zones. Customers need guidance - and Sappi is providing both innovative products and the consulting expertise to navigate these changes,” said Dietze.
Balancing sustainability and cost
One of the biggest challenges for the industry is ensuring that sustainability also makes business sense. At FACHPACK, it became clear that the solutions gaining traction are those that combine environmental benefits with cost competitiveness. Exhibitors, including Sappi, showed how mono-material paper innovations are making recyclability practical and affordable.
“The players that can bring the most cost-competitive sustainability push will be winning the game,” said Filip Van Ranst, Sales Director Specialty Papers. “It’s the only way to support the industry.”
Sappi’s portfolio reflects this balance. Mono-material barrier papers are designed to run smoothly on existing packaging lines, helping customers avoid costly changes while meeting recyclability demands.
Gustavo Duarte, Head of Business Development, put it simply:
Sappi has always been a pioneer in functional papers, and we continue to lead in this area. By partnering with suppliers and converters, we ensure our solutions are both sustainable and cost-efficient. Packaging must always be fit for purpose, there’s no reason to spend more money or resources than needed.
Celebrating innovation
The German Packaging Awards 2025 once again celebrated the most innovative solutions in the industry, with 37 winners recognised across all material categories. Sappi was proud to support the awards as a partner alongside FACHPACK, IGEPA Group, Mitsubishi Electric and leading industry media.
A standout presence
FACHPACK 2025 confirmed that the transition to fibre-based packaging is accelerating. Sappi’s stand was one of the most talked-about at the event, praised for its open, welcoming design and clear presentation of product groups.
“The feedback on our booth was overwhelming,” said Thomas Cotta, Sales Manager Packaging and Specialty Papers. “Visitors appreciated how clearly the different product groups were presented, and even the FACHPACK social media team stopped by after hearing it was one of the most impressive stands at the fair.”
This strong reception reflects Sappi’s role as a trusted partner in shaping the future of sustainable packaging, and demonstrates our continued commitment to driving meaningful change across the industry.
FACHPACK confirmed the momentum behind fibre-based packaging, and the journey continues. We’re already preparing for Interpack 2026, where Sappi will showcase the next generation of barrier papers as well as label and packaging papers and boards. Save the date and meet us in Düsseldorf, 7–13 May 2026.
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When evaluating new packaging materials, the conversation starts with product protection. Bakery ingredients have diverse protection needs. While products such as vanilla sugar and dessert creams can be packaged with relatively low barrier materials, ingredients containing nuts, seeds, or fats require stronger protection against oxygen, water vapour, grease, and mineral oil to preserve quality and shelf life. To address varying protection needs, Sappi has developed a comprehensive portfolio of functional papers that combine sustainability with tailored barrier performance across a wide range of bakery applications.