Crunch, Code, Cocoa – these were the key talking points at interpack 2026

From TikTok-ready snack innovations and rising quality demands in cocoa processing to AI, digitalization, and cybersecurity: interpack 2026 has shown just how much the industry is in motion. While new flavors and textures are setting trends on the product side, data-driven solutions and global requirements are driving transformation in mechanical engineering – and sparking plenty of conversation at the exhibition stands. We asked exhibitors what they saw as the key trend topics of the trade fair. Here’s what they said. 

Sebastian Clemens, Aasted: “The product variety in the confectionery and bakery industry is growing enormously – as a result, production runs are becoming shorter and machines need to be far more flexible. Here at interpack, we see that energy efficiency and fast changeover processes are currently key topics across the industry. With our new tempering system, cleaning times can be reduced from up to 16 hours to around three hours. Especially in Europe, there is strong pressure to save energy while at the same time increasing equipment availability.”   

Dr. Bernd Meyer-Roscher, BASF: “The trend at interpack is clearly moving towards sustainable packaging solutions and recyclable materials. At the same time, regulation and carbon footprint requirements are increasingly shaping the industry. We are working on replacing conventional plastic coatings with recyclable paper-based alternatives while still maintaining important barrier properties. The market is moving in the right direction – even though it will still take time before these solutions become widely established.”   

Enrico Franz, SweetConnect: “The number one topic at interpack right now is data – many companies are looking for ways to make better use of and analyze their production data. Right behind that comes the topic of artificial intelligence, especially with a focus on concrete applications that create real added value. At the same time, I am always impressed by the innovative strength of German and international mechanical engineering. When everyone is talking about AI, people sometimes forget what is already technologically possible today.” 

 Monica Cuatrecases Valls, Mespack  

“Many companies today want to connect their entire factory – regardless of which manufacturer the individual machines come from. That is why we are seeing a strong trend towards digitalization, AI and integrated system solutions at interpack. At the same time, sustainability remains a key topic, especially when it comes to recyclable materials and flexible packaging. Compared to previous events, we are also seeing significantly more demand for complete turnkey solutions instead of standalone machines.” 

Rainer Mundt, Mettler Toledo: “At interpack, we clearly see that automation and product safety must go hand in hand today. Companies are looking for solutions that work more efficiently, evaluate data intelligently and at the same time ensure the highest quality standards. Especially in the field of AI and machine learning, new possibilities are emerging to make production processes more reliable and flexible. Another striking development is that international requirements are becoming increasingly similar – the major issues facing the industry today are comparable worldwide.”