Regulatory pressure and retail requirements are accelerating the shift to circular packaging and alternative materials. The Summit in Utrecht concentrates conversations and commercial activity around those shifts.
Dates and venue details
Sustainable Packaging Summit 2026 runs 10 to 12 November at the Beatrix Theatre within Jaarbeurs. Published day schedules are 08:00 to 21:30 on 10 November, 08:00 to 23:00 on 11 November and 08:00 to 16:00 on 12 November.
Who will attend and company mix
The event lists 1,000 delegates representing over 300 major brands and retailers. Attendees include brand decision makers, material suppliers, recyclers, investors and policy stakeholders. The programme features more than 130 speakers and over 90 partners. Notable keynote speakers include Paul Polman, Lee-Ellen Dreschler and Archana Jagannathan.
Programme highlights and special activities
Expanded to three full days, the Summit combines panels, breakout sessions and innovation showcases. Evening programming includes an International Block Party and the Sustainability Awards, both designed to surface practical innovations and recognize measurable impact.
The Sustainable Packaging Coalition serves as a content collaborator and has curated a suite of keynotes and workshops focused on metrics and methodologies for the value chain.
Commercial prospecting: actionable steps
With 1,000 delegates and strong brand representation, the Summit supports targeted B2B outreach. Practical steps:
- Preselect 15 to 25 target accounts and map their role in the packaging value chain using the partner and speaker lists.
- Book meetings across daytime networking slots and use the evening Block Party for informal follow-ups.
- Bring physical samples and technical datasheets that demonstrate recyclability and cost implications.
- Set clear meeting goals: technical validation, pilot agreement or commercial terms. Short meeting scripts save time during busy days.
Key numbers to bear in mind
Official figures published for the event include 1,000 delegates, 130+ speakers and 90+ partners, with representation from 43+ countries.
Closing note and official link
If your activity touches materials, design or recycling, use the Summit to benchmark technical claims and to lock short pilot agreements with brands and recyclers. Full programme and registration details are available at the event website http://www.packagingsummit.earth
