Shanghai World of Packaging (swop) 2024, jointly organized by Messe Düsseldorf (Shanghai), and Adsale Exhibition Services, was held from 18 to 20 November at the Shanghai New International Expo Center. Part of the interpack alliance, this event highlights innovations across the packaging industry, with a focus on sustainability, digitalization, automation, and intelligent packaging. Marking its shift to an annual format, swop 2024 aimed to address key challenges like cost efficiency, lightweight design, and green solutions.

The exhibition spanned 65,000 square meters, featuring over 900 exhibitors, including national pavilions from Germany, the US, Finland, Spain, and others. These showcases provided visitors with insights into cutting-edge technologies and solutions, catering to diverse needs across the packaging value chain.

Innovative approaches to matchmaking and insights

swop 2024 introduced a “buyer-centric” navigation model with three themed routes, enabling visitors to connect efficiently with the right suppliers. The routes focused on intelligent packaging, container production, and specialized materials, streamlining exhibitor-buyer interactions.

The event also hosted multiple forums and activities to explore the latest industry trends:

• SAVE FOOD Forum and Awards: Partnering with the FAO China Office, this forum addressed issues like food loss reduction and sustainable packaging. The event featured the presentation of the Save Food Design Award & Sustainability Design Award China.
• E-commerce Packaging Seminar: This seminar showcased green materials, sustainable flexographic printing, and innovative e-commerce packaging solutions, with insights from companies like Perfetti Van Melle and Konica Minolta.
• Green Packaging Engineer Training: In line with global sustainability goals, discussions focused on circular and biodegradable solutions to drive eco-conscious practices in packaging.
• Launch of Innovative Packaging Materials: Industry experts unveiled groundbreaking materials, providing guidance on regulations like the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and promoting sustainable development.
• Cross-border E-commerce Forum: This forum offered strategies for Chinese manufacturers to navigate global trade challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

Engaging events and collaboration opportunities

swop 2024 featured dynamic events such as the Food Equipment and Intelligent Manufacturing Forum, Sustainable Packaging Life Cycle journey, and business matchmaking meetings. These forums addressed critical topics like food processing, green packaging, and global business opportunities, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Global participation and partnerships

With robust support from organizations like VDMA, WPO, FAO, and CCPIT, swop 2024 attracted industry leaders from across the globe. Associations from sectors including food, daily chemicals, plastics, and printing contributed to its success. The event provided a vibrant platform for exploring advancements and forging global partnerships.