As a pivotal member of the interpack alliance, a leading processing and packaging exhibition, swop (Shanghai World of Packaging) 2023 achieved resounding success at the Shanghai New International Expo Center (SNIEC) from 22 to 24 November 2023. Co-organized by Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai) and Adsale Exhibition Services, swop stands as one of the most influential events in the packaging industry, attracting global industry leaders, professionals, and visitors for a three-day exploration of the latest advancements in processing and packaging.
The event, which marked a positive return after four years of meticulous preparation, witnessed the participation of nearly 30,000 trade visitors, reflecting a 14% increase compared to the previous edition. The sprawling exhibition space covered over 62,000 square meters, hosting almost 900 exhibitors from both domestic and international fronts, and welcoming 30,000 professional visitors from 99 countries and regions.
Renowned companies like Multivac, Demag, Kuka, Youngsun, Tederic, Eiahe, and Zhongya, along with prominent German Pavilion exhibitors such as Hoerauf, Herma, Novexx, Wolf, and Herrmann, showcased cutting-edge packaging solutions and trends, fostering meaningful interactions with potential buyers.
swop 2023 garnered extensive support from over 100 domestic and international industry associations, welcoming nearly 300 visitor groups from China, Southeast Asian countries, the Middle East, South America, and Europe. Thomas Dohse, director of interpack at Messe , expressed his satisfaction, noting the event’s new records in exhibition space and attendance.
The exhibition’s thematic focus on sustainability and low-carbon development materialized in the introduction of the ‘Green Power Zone,’ featuring over 150 exhibitors presenting eco-friendly packaging materials, production equipment, and solutions. Celine To, general manager of Adsale Exhibition Services, highlighted trendy topics such as sustainable packaging, AI applications in packaging design, and the future trends of intelligent packaging solutions.
Partnering with the Packaging Family, the ‘FMCG Infinity Zone’ showcased over 400 superior packaging materials and product suppliers, catering to the demands of FMCG consumers. The addition of the ODM/OEM zone further enhanced the entire supply chain, displaying innovative materials, products, and designs for brand owners.
To embrace intelligent packaging solutions, swop 2023 launched the ‘Smart Packaging Zone,’ exhibiting numerous intelligent plastic and paper packaging containers, packaging machines, and back-end packaging equipment. Guo Haixiang, Deputy Secretary General of the Shanghai Packaging Technology Association, emphasized positive feedback from packaging machinery exhibitors.
High-profile industry players, including Marco Lu from Multivac and Jeff Yuan from KUKA ROBOTICS, expressed their satisfaction with the quality of visitors and positive outcomes from participating in swop 2023.
The concurrent events featured over 10 industry forums, new technology exchange sessions, and more than 60 thematic discussions, attracting 1,820 participants. The Save Food Forum, a major highlight, engaged experts, scholars, and corporate leaders in comprehensive discussions on reducing global food waste and loss.
Zhang Zhongjun of the FAO China Office stressed the importance of collaboration in the food supply chain to combat food loss and waste. The Save Food Initiative introduced the Save Food Design Award and Ssustainability Design Award for the first time, recognizing innovative products and solutions with positive environmental impacts.
The successful conclusion of swop 2023 marks a significant milestone in the packaging industry, with plans for the annual event’s continuation. Anticipated for 18 to 20 November 2024, the next edition will once again convene at SNIEC, promising further advancements and collaborations in the ever-evolving world of processing and packaging.
