The Ravenwood Packaging World Conference 2026 brought together distributors, partners and industry experts from around the globe for a full day of insight, innovation and collaboration in Bury St Edmunds.
Held at the Athenaeum and Ravenwood HQ, the event highlighted a year of significant progress for linerless technology, with a clear message: global growth is accelerating and the opportunity is bigger than ever.
A Year of Momentum for Linerless
Opening the conference, leadership reflected on how dramatically the market has evolved over the past year. While previous discussions focused on strong UK performance, 2026 shifted the spotlight to global expansion.
Sales updates revealed a positive trajectory across multiple regions. The UK continues to perform strongly, driven by conversions to linerless solutions, while Europe is recovering steadily. Notably, APAC and the Americas showed particularly strong momentum, supported by restructuring, new distributor partnerships and increased market demand.
Despite some ongoing challenges – including economic pressures, longer investment cycles and regional regulatory differences – the overall outlook remains highly optimistic.
Insights from Industry Leaders
A key highlight of the event was a series of guest speaker sessions offering real-world insights into packaging trends and market dynamics.
Siobhan Parks, Head of Packaging at Hilton, explored how global regulations are reshaping packaging design, including developments such as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the upcoming PPWR framework. Her session also examined linerless label performance in repulpability trials, reinforcing sustainability credentials.
European partners Finnvacum and Lexit shared valuable distributor perspectives, highlighting how linerless solutions are delivering both environmental and commercial benefits – from reduced waste to improved operational efficiency.
Innovation Driving the Future
Innovation remained at the heart of the conference, with new product developments and machinery demonstrations showcasing the latest advancements in linerless technology.
Highlights included:
- The Nobac 5000W Wrap Labeller, designed for efficient, tray-free packaging
- Expanded applications in fresh produce, ready meals and food-to-go sectors
- Enhanced vision systems offering high-precision inspection and data capabilities
Live demonstrations and workshops at Ravenwood HQ allowed attendees to see these technologies in action, reinforcing their real-world impact on productivity and sustainability.
Sustainability and Market Opportunity
Sustainability was repeatedly mentioned throughout the day – not just as a responsibility, but as a commercial advantage.
Linerless technology continues to gain traction due to its ability to:
- Eliminate liner waste
- Reduce logistics and storage costs
- Deliver measurable CO₂ reductions
- Improve efficiency with more labels per roll
Case studies presented during the event demonstrated how these benefits translate into tangible results. One standout example showcased the launch of linerless fresh produce packaging in Mexico, achieving rapid adoption, strong retailer feedback and significant waste reduction.
Strengthening the Global Network
Beyond technology and sales, the conference emphasised the importance of collaboration across the Ravenwood network.
Sessions focused on strengthening relationships between distributors, printers and the Ravenwood team, highlighting how alignment and communication drive long-term success. Initiatives such as website audits, marketing best practices and a new partner rating system aim to elevate standards across the network.
As one key message summarised: success in linerless is built on strong partnerships.
Looking Ahead
With strong sales momentum, expanding global adoption and a clear focus on innovation, Ravenwood is well positioned for continued growth in 2026 and beyond.
The conference concluded with an awards ceremony, recognising achievements across the network and reinforcing a shared commitment to shaping the future of packaging. Delegates also enjoyed a three course dinner and music with a live band – The ZZ Top Tribute Show. Beards and sunglasses were provided.
As the industry evolves, one thing is clear: linerless technology is no longer emerging – it is becoming a global standard.
Until next year.
For further information, reach out to our marketing team on +44(0)1284 749144. View our Global Distributor Network
Watch the highlights from the Ravenwood World Conference 2026
