interpack 2026 brought together thousands of packaging professionals, manufacturers, distributors, importers, and food service brands from around the world. While the exhibition showcased cutting-edge technologies and sustainable innovations, one thing became very clear throughout the event: global buyers are now asking smarter, more sustainability-focused, and future-oriented questions than ever before.
From eco-friendly materials to production capacity and export logistics, buyers are carefully evaluating long-term packaging partners rather than simply sourcing products.
Here are some of the most common questions buyers asked during interpack 2026.
- Is the Product Sustainable and Recyclable?
Sustainability was the number one concern for most international buyers. Companies are actively searching for packaging solutions that help reduce plastic waste and comply with growing environmental regulations across Europe, North America, and global export markets.
Buyers frequently asked about:
- Recyclable materials
- Compostable packaging
- FSC-certified paper products
- Plastic-free alternatives
- Food-safe sustainable solutions
Paper-based food packaging and disposable paper cutlery attracted significant interest as businesses continue transitioning away from single-use plastics.
- Can You Handle Large Export Volumes?
Production capacity and supply continuity became another major discussion topic during the exhibition. Buyers are no longer looking for only competitive pricing — they want reliable manufacturing partners capable of handling consistent large-scale orders.
Common questions included:
- What is your monthly production capacity?
- Can you support long-term supply agreements?
- Which countries do you currently export to?
- How fast is your production lead time?
- Can you scale production during seasonal demand?
Manufacturers with strong export infrastructure and flexible production capabilities gained considerable attention from international distributors and wholesalers.
- Are Your Products Food Safe?
Food safety remains one of the most critical requirements in the packaging industry. Buyers increasingly requested certifications and technical details regarding product safety and regulatory compliance.
Questions often focused on:
- Food contact safety
- Migration test reports
- EU and FDA compliance
- Hygienic production standards
- Safe raw material sourcing
For food packaging manufacturers, transparency and documented quality control processes are becoming essential competitive advantages.
- Can Packaging Be Customized?
Customization was another major topic throughout interpack 2026. Many buyers are seeking unique branding opportunities and tailored packaging designs to strengthen brand visibility in competitive markets.
Frequently requested options included:
- Private label production
- Custom printing
- Different sizes and dimensions
- Special packaging designs
- Branded food service products
Flexible manufacturers capable of offering both standard and customized solutions attracted stronger buyer interest.
- How Competitive Are Your Logistics and Delivery Operations?
Global supply chain efficiency continues to play a crucial role in buyer decisions. International buyers increasingly evaluate manufacturers based on logistics reliability and export experience.
Common logistics-related questions included:
- Which ports do you ship from?
- What are your average delivery times?
- How do you optimize container loading?
- Can you support international documentation processes?
- Do you have experience with global distribution networks?
Efficient export operations and reliable international shipping capabilities became strong differentiators during the exhibition.
The New Buyer Mindset in Packaging Industry
interpack 2026 revealed a major shift in buyer priorities. Today’s packaging buyers are not simply purchasing products — they are selecting long-term strategic partners who can support sustainability goals, regulatory compliance, supply chain stability, and brand growth.
The most successful manufacturers at the exhibition were those able to combine:
- Sustainable production
- High-quality standards
- Export expertise
- Scalable manufacturing
- Flexible customization
- Reliable logistics
As global packaging markets continue evolving, companies investing in sustainable and innovative packaging solutions are expected to remain at the forefront of industry growth.
For more information about sustainable paper packaging and paper cutlery manufacturing, visit:
VAV Paper Official Website