The metal packaging industry faces mounting demands on sustainability and efficient surface treatment in 2026. Metpack 2026 takes place from 5 to 8 May in Messe Essen and brings together manufacturers and suppliers across production, finishing and recycling for metal containers.
Practical information and opening hours
Metpack 2026 runs at Messe Essen with opening hours Tuesday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Friday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event site provides an interactive hall overview and an exhibitor list for 2026 to plan visits. Visitor enquiries can be made via the hotline +49.(0) 201 7244 0 and ticket enquiries via +49.(0) 201 3101-430.
Who exhibits and what to expect
The exhibition groups manufacturers of metal cans, drums and specialty containers alongside suppliers of stamping, forming, printing and coating technology. Equipment for lacquering, curing and surface preparation sits alongside systems for collection and recycling of metal packaging. The media center and catalogue offer product listings and exhibitor innovations.
Featured program and awards
The agenda includes the METPACK Conference and the METPACK Innovation Award plus the new Talk in a Can format. Conference sessions focus on applied technologies for metal packaging while the Innovation Award highlights technical advances such as high-performance UV LED curing systems that reduce ozone and hazardous radiation.
B2B prospecting tactics for Metpack 2026
For targeted prospecting set priorities before you arrive. Use the exhibitor list to identify suppliers and end users relevant to your value proposition in coating, forming or recycling. Prepare concise technical briefs and sample materials to support discussions. Block meetings during the event day and leave time for spontaneous technical talks on the stands.
Operational notes and warnings
The organiser notifies exhibitors and visitors about fraudulent approaches offering directory entries or visitor data for sale. Contracts and services should be handled via Messe Essen official channels. Travel information on the site covers arrival by car, rail, plane and bicycle and includes accessibility resources.
Final note Metpack 2026 concentrates the technical signals that will shape metal packaging in the short term. If your work touches manufacturing, coating or recycling, use the exhibitor list and interactive maps to lock in meetings and technical demos. Check the latest program and exhibitor details at http://www.metpack.de before your visit.
