23 Feb. 2026: The Moulded Fibre Packaging Europe 2026 conference will return on 27 May 2026, bringing together global leaders from across the paper and fibre-based packaging value chain to explore the future of sustainable packaging innovation.

Launched in 2025, the event has quickly established itself as a key meeting point for professionals seeking to advance moulded fibre solutions and replace single-use plastics through scalable, circular alternatives.

Organised by Smithers, the conference offers a unique platform for industry collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic networking.

Attendees include representatives from major global brands, packaging manufacturers, and solution providers such as Procter & Gamble, Unilever, Huhtamaki and MM Group.
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Expert Speaker Line-Up
The 2026 programme will feature insights from leading voices shaping the future of fibre-based packaging, including:
• Anna Altner, Founder, Yangi
• Tahsin Dag, President, EMPPA
• Dr. Joerg Zacharias, Senior Expert, Krones AG
• Ciaran Little, VP Global Consulting, Smithers
• Mathilde Bernard-Catinat, Research Engineer, Grenoble INP
Together, they will deliver critical insights into material innovation, production scalability, and the evolving regulatory landscape impacting the moulded fibre industry.
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Industry-Led Advisory Board
The conference programme is guided by an expert advisory board ensuring relevance and technical depth, including:
• Janet Preston, Senior Scientist, Artemyn
• Alexey Vishtal, Head of Cellulose, Capsul’in Pro
• Björn Lindqvist, Strategic Projects Leader, Solenis
• Dr George Kellie, Director, Kellie Solutions
This group of recognised industry experts helps shape the agenda to address the most pressing technical and commercial challenges facing fibre-based packaging today.
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Pre-Conference Workshop
Ahead of the main conference, delegates can attend the Pre-Conference Workshop on
26 May 2026: Functional Barriers for Moulded Pulp Packaging: Material Structure, Lamination and Coatings.
This half-day session will provide a practical and technical overview of:
• Designing effective barrier systems
• Selecting coatings vs laminates
• Achieving recyclability and performance
• Understanding real-world application requirements
Participants will also explore emerging compostable and plastic-free technologies and learn about coating techniques for 3D fibre packaging formats.
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Conference Agenda Highlights
The one-day conference will explore the key themes shaping the industry’s future, including:
• Market outlook and regulatory impact
• Scaling production of fibre packaging
• Recycled fibre in food contact applications
• Advances in moulded pulp technologies
• Innovations in coatings and barrier solutions
• AI and process optimisation in fibre packaging
Sessions will also address the impact of European legislation such as PPWR and SUPD, alongside the latest developments in recyclable and plastic-free material solutions.
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Networking Opportunities
In addition to a full day of presentations and panel discussions, the event will feature:
• A dedicated Networking Drinks Reception
• Informal collaboration opportunities across the supply chain
• Access to senior decision-makers and innovators
Previous editions have offered over five hours of networking, providing attendees with valuable opportunities to build partnerships and exchange ideas in a collaborative environment.
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A Platform for Industry Progress
As sustainability pressures continue to reshape the packaging landscape, Moulded Fibre Packaging Europe 2026 offers a critical forum for stakeholders across the ecosystem to:
• Share innovation
• Address regulatory challenges
• Explore scalable alternatives to plastic
• Accelerate the transition to circular packaging systems
By combining technical expertise, market insight, and collaborative discussion, the conference aims to drive meaningful progress toward a more sustainable packaging future.