This year's OBALKO successfully behind us
Nearly 500 professionals discussed the current threats and the future of packaging
The biggest threats and opportunities for the packaging market. And the future of packaging. These were the two central topics addressed at OBALKO 10, the jubilee edition of the largest packaging congress in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
“The past is usually the focus at jubilee editions of events. However, from the beginning we wanted the tenth annual OBALKO congress to focus on the future. That is why the main topic FuturePack was chosen. However, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, just a few weeks after the announcement of the main topic, reminded us that we cannot ignore the present, as it exacerbated several already serious threats to the packaging market,” explains Jeffrey Osterroth, the managing partner of ATOZ Group, the “dualism” in regards to this year’s main topic. “I think we ended up finding a balance between discussing the current threats during the morning program and focusing on future opportunities in the afternoon workshops.”
The OBALKO 10 congress took place on October 13 and 14 at the Aquapalace Hotel Prague. The congress was attended by 480 participants, 43 trophies for the best packaging were handed out, 43 speakers including four keynotes spoke during 21 program parts, 10 case studies were presented, debates took place in two panel discussions, and visits to three operations were on offer. The event was supported by 36 partners and 20 media partners. 84 contacts were made during speed-dating meetings.
Next edition in October 2023. What can you look forward to?
A joint morning program on the hot topics of the day
The joint morning program features keynote speakers both from the Czech and Slovak Republics and from abroad whose goal is to inspire the participants. In addition, a panel discussion of the leaders of the local packaging market will give participants a chance to hear the views of the leading packaging professionals.
Three topical sections: Immerse yourself in the depth of packaging!
The afternoon features three specialized workshops on current topics that move the packaging world. The workshops are divided into sections dedicated to design and innovation, technology and materials and sustainability. In each section, there will be professional presentations or panel discussions led by experienced and professional moderators.
Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 14 to 15:40 – Design & Innovation section
The Design & Innovation section will present the latest examples and case studies of packaging innovation, focusing on how brands communicate their innovation to consumers and how best to apply consumer insights for a holistic approach to packaging design.
Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 14 to 15:40 – Technology & Materials section
The search for new packaging materials is now in the center of attention of many manufacturers. The section will focus on these material innovations from different points of view. The second key line of the workshop will be technologies, their implementation, economic demands and returns.
Thursday, October 19, 2023, from 16:00 to 18:00 – Sustainability section
In the area of sustainability, Czechia and companies themselves have committed themselves to strict goals. The section will discuss the future of sorting and recycling, the advantages and disadvantages of deposit systems, eco-design of products and eco-modulation of the authorized packaging company and the importance of a sustainable approach not only in the context of the whole society, but also the economy of companies.
Rich accompanying program: Contacts, awards, entertainment, networking and inspiration
Thursday, October 19, 2023, during lunch break – BizPACK: New contacts in 10 minutes
The goal of the BizPACK program is to mediate meetings between the partners and participants of the OBALKO congress. Listen briefly and without obligation to the offer of leading companies in the packaging industry. One meeting will last 10 minutes, and if you are interested in the offer, you can arrange a follow-up meeting.
Thursday, October 19, 2023, after the conference – Obal roku ceremony: Awards for the best packaging
A unique opportunity to see the best packaging at the best packaging congress. A unique chance to meet all packaging experts in one place at one time. The ceremony will take place after the end of the professional part of the congress program. Thanks to the connection between the OBALKO congress and the Obal roku (Packaging of the Year) ceremony, there will be more participants than ever before. The event has a truly international reach thanks to the connection with the WorldStar Packaging Awards.
Thursday October 19, 2023, in the evening – Packaging Business Mixer: The chance to network
After a demanding conference day, the Packaging Business Mixer, with its rich program, will provide the perfect setting for networking. Over a drink and a plate of tasty food, you can continue the discussions started during the conference day or start a whole new discussion.
Friday, October 20, 2023 – Packaging in action: A behind-the-scenes look at production
We encounter packaging at every turn, but how well do we really understand it? OBALKO offers a unique opportunity to visit the production plants of selected congress partners with expert interpretation. You will not only get a chance to see the whole production process and better understand the benefits of such products, but you will also get a second chance to discuss issues related to the packaging industry.
