Program
Current topics, inspiring presentations, top speakers...Registration
The opening words of the congress
Joint morning program
From Compliance to Innovation — How to Turn PPWR into Your Competitive Edge
With a proven track record working with top brands and driving change from the frontline, Marius Tent is ideally suited to lead OBALKO participants on a journey through the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), understanding that it is not as a burden to manage but a powerful springboard for innovation and market leadership. In this presentation, we’ll explore five essential steps that every business in the packaging ecosystem can take to transform compliance into a true competitive advantage. From smarter design choices to scalable operational changes, and from a portfolio audit that sparks fresh thinking to strategies that inspire your board of directors, these steps will open opportunities far beyond simply meeting legal requirements. For the PPWR is more than just legislation; it’s a catalyst for building resilient, sustainable, and future-ready packaging solutions. This is your chance not just to be ready for it but to get ahead of the curve.
A new era of packaging: How do consumers perceive legislative changes and what does this mean for brands?
European PPWR legislation is fundamentally changing the world of packaging. Certain single-use packaging – such as small fruit and vegetable packaging, sauce portions, and miniature cosmetics in hotels – will be gradually banned, as will microten bags. At the same time, the deposit system will be expanded and requirements for reusable and recyclable packaging will be increased. Exclusive research by Ipsos reveals how Czechs perceive these changes, how they will affect their shopping behavior, how they perceive new trends, and what they really expect from brands in the area of packaging.
Morning coffee break
Joint morning program
Summary of the main objectives of the PPWR legislation, the current situation, and what it will mean for Czech companies in practice
PANEL DISCUSSION: The future of the packaging industry in the era of digitalisation and regulation
Where is the packaging industry heading? Are we at a crossroads where a clear direction needs to be chosen, or are we rather following evolution and gradual, often ambiguous steps that shape the development of the industry in the long term? There is no doubt that the pressure on sustainability and compliance with strict legislative requirements is increasing, especially in connection with PPWR or EUDR. At the same time, digitalization and artificial intelligence are increasingly reflected in the packaging design and production process. However, the reality of operations and supply chains often shows that they are not yet fully prepared for this development. The panel discussion will focus on how packaging companies and manufacturers are adapting to the conditions of upcoming regulations, how quickly they can introduce digital tools and automation, and how these trends are reflected in the development of materials or recycling. The panelists will offer their practical experience, present successful practices and tips on how to prepare for the future.
The panel discussion will be moderated by Stanislav Břeň, the editor-in-chief of the magazine Svět balení.
Lunch break & BizPACK
BizPACK speed-dating meetings
BizPACK meetings allow you to make contact with new suppliers or clients within ten minutes.
For more information: BizPACK
Interactive Workshops
Best practices and expert lectures
4SC Pouch Premade Machine: Efficient Packaging of Fried Lentils
Čočkýna, a specialist in fried lentil production, faced the challenge of packaging its products quickly, flexibly, and efficiently. The solution came in the form of a line consisting of a 4SC pouch premade machine, a volumetric filler, and a metal detector, all connected via a conveyor system. The compact design of the 4SC machine, along with its user-friendly operation and low running costs, allows the company to easily switch between bag sizes and adapt swiftly to market demands. Implementing this solution gave the start-up a professional technological foundation, significantly boosted production efficiency, and created a stable platform for future growth and improved competitiveness.
The 2D (r)evolution in retail
The introduction of barcode scanning at cash registers in 1974 is now considered a technological revolution in retail, and the implementation of 2D codes represents at least as significant a milestone. Two-dimensional codes are already becoming a powerful communication tool. With the support of the GS1 standard, they not only provide consumers with greater information comfort, but also remain a key element in the efficient process of passing goods through the checkout system of retail stores.
The story of a sustainable bag from Czech forests
Can packaging help protect Czechia’s nature? The inspiring example of a paper bag, whose journey begins in PEFC-certified Czech forests, shows that it can. Through the cooperation between Litobal s.r.o. and Lidl, we demonstrate how a transparent supply chain and the use of local resources contribute to reducing the carbon footprint, supporting responsible forest management, and strengthening the Czech economy. The story of this bag proves that sustainability is not just a trend, but an essential path to effective and long-term business success.
A digital product passport is like an ID card for a product, revealing its origin and future fate
In today’s digital age, the way we find and perceive information is also changing. What if we could ask a product where it came from, what it is made of, and what its future holds? That is exactly what an electronic product passport is. Let’s take a look at what we know about it today in the context of the upcoming European legislative reality.
From Pallet to Planet – Cost-Efficient and Sustainable Pooling in Tamda Supply chain
What happens when a fast-growing food distributor teams up with a global leader in pallet pooling? Tamda Foods and CHEP share the results of their long-term collaboration, which started in 2012. This case study shows how smart pallet flow management and the use of CHEP pallets enabled Tamda Foods to reduce CO₂ emissions by over 27 tons, generate 2.5 tons less waste, and save dozens of trees by minimizing wood use. The presentation highlights both the environmental benefits and the practical improvements in operational efficiency, supply chain stability, and partner cooperation.
EUDR in a nutshell for the packaging industry
The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) fundamentally changes the rules for the packaging industry. This lecture will clearly show whether and how the EUDR affects you, what obligations will come into force on December 31, 2025, and how to prepare for them. You will also learn how the National Forestry Institute, as a key player in ensuring compliance with the EUDR in the Czech Republic, can help you.
Afternoon coffee break
Best practices, expert lectures and talk show
Hol(e)y Tray – How Holes in Packaging Improve Pallet Stability and Save Money
Can a few holes in packaging really “make a hole in the world”? In our case – yes. Thanks to clever interlayers, we managed to speed up packing by more than a quarter, significantly improve pallet stability, and at the same time eliminate claims for transport-damaged pallets. Come and hear how the customer Avena and the Smurfit Westrock team arrived at a solution that proved even a simple idea can lead to a big change.
Crunchy Recycling: Duplex Film with AlOx for Sustainable Popcorn Packaging
Hopi Popi, in collaboration with OTK, is introducing an innovative recyclable popcorn packaging that combines product durability with environmental responsibility. The new mono-material duplex film with a transparent aluminum oxide (AlOx) layer offers the same protection against oxygen and moisture as traditional metallized packaging—without contaminating the recycling stream. The use of eco-friendly PU inks allows for easy recycling of the entire package. The result is a solution that extends product freshness, lets customers see what they’re buying, and supports the circular economy.
Sustainability of packaging: what to read between the lines
Carbon footprint or comprehensive LCA analysis is now becoming a common criterion for assessing the environmental and business sustainability of packaging. However, conducting a high-quality analysis of environmental impacts is challenging, and identifying the shortcomings of such analyses is even more difficult. We will therefore look at the most common and significant shortcomings of such assessments and discuss how to recognize them when processing studies and reading them.
How to be prepared for the future? Get “packed” by AI
Generative AI is changing the way we work, think and create. In the packaging industry, where creativity and technology meet, AI opens up new opportunities. And it also raises questions: how do we know when its use makes sense? When to rely on it, and when to be cautious? You’ll get answers. Senta Čermáková and Miloš Čermák will show you concrete examples of the use of AI tools – from ChatGPT and Copilot to Perplexity or NotebookLM – and how to use them in marketing, planning, business or even in team management. Factual, smart and humorous. After sixty minutes, you will not only take away know-how, but also new ways of thinking about the future. And basic information on how to use AI so that in a changing world you never have to say, “We can wrap this up.”
Evening program
Obal roku ceremony
The best innovations will receive the prestigious Obal roku 2025 award.
More information: The Obal roku ceremony
Packaging Business Mixer
The evening Packaging Business Mixer will bring together hundreds of experts in an informal atmosphere.
More information: Packaging Business Mixer
Interactive Workshops
Making Possible: Packaging that makes sense
How to create packaging that is sustainable, functional, and attractive to customers? This workshop will focus on the principles of EcoDesign and demonstrate that sustainability doesn’t have to mean compromise. Participants will learn about the role of labels in the recycling process and how the right choice of materials and technologies helps meet the objectives set by the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation). The session will present strategies to improve the recyclability and reusability of packaging. The program will include practical tips for designing packaging with maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The workshop will also feature an interactive segment: participants are encouraged to bring their own packaging and consult on how to optimize it to meet both current and future demands.
Packaging as a marketing tool – The practical application of digital technologies
Digital technology, artificial intelligence, QR codes, and augmented reality open up new possibilities in packaging design. How can they be used specifically to make packaging not only a functional element but also an effective marketing tool? The workshop will show the connection between original ideas, functional design, and modern technologies and demonstrate how this can work in practice. Participants will gain immediately applicable inspiration—from creative marketing solutions to tips suitable for the 2025/26 Christmas campaigns, for example. They will be able to try out the technologies, learn about their possibilities in practice, and discuss their use for their own projects. The program will include specific practical examples, such as gift packaging for Stará žitná myslivecká, which, thanks to QR codes and digital content, has transformed packaging into a powerful marketing channel.
Plastic packaging with a future: The path to more sustainable and recyclable packaging
Plastic packaging is an integral part of our everyday lives, but it also represents one of the biggest challenges in terms of sustainability. The workshop will focus on key aspects of the development of molded plastic packaging, with an emphasis on its environmental impact and recyclability. Participants will learn how the choice of material affects the overall sustainability of packaging and how it influences recyclability. We will also look at packaging decoration, i.e., how adding an additional element affects its recyclability. Special attention will be paid to cup lids, which have a major impact on the recyclability of the packaging as a whole. The workshop will offer specific examples, recommendations, and space for discussion on current trends and technologies in packaging design. The aim is to inspire the search for innovative solutions that will reduce the environmental impact of packaging while meeting the requirements of the market and consumers. The workshop guests will be Petr Balner and Martin Doležal from CROK, who deal with the issue of waste sorting lines and subsequent recycling.
Packaging in action excursions
Excursion to the Philip Morris factory in Kutná Hora
Philip Morris ČR a.s. has been operating on the Czech market since 1992. However, its manufacturing facility in Kutná Hora has much deeper roots. Tobacco processing began here in 1812 on the grounds of a former Cistercian monastery, and cigarette production started 70 years later. Today, the factory ranks among the most complex manufacturing operations within the Philip Morris International group. It holds the prestigious AWS (Alliance for Water Stewardship) certification for water management and has achieved carbon neutrality. Currently, the plant produces cigarettes and other tobacco products for approximately 40 global markets, with over 93% of total production exported (as of 2024). The annual production volume reached 37.7 billion cigarette-equivalent units. In line with a 2023 announcement, investments have begun to expand the plant to establish a new European production capacity for ZYN nicotine pouches, with the goal of launching in early 2026—marking a key milestone in the factory’s transformation towards a smoke-free future.
Participants will get an inside look at the production process of tobacco products and their subsequent packaging into both unit and group packs. The plant produces various cigarette pack formats—from standard 20-piece packs to large packs containing 84 pieces.
Maximum number of participants: 20 people
Visit information:
- Time of visit: 9:45 AM – 12:00 PM
- The group will be guided by a professional in Czech
- Participants will receive mandatory safety training via email through the INSTRUCTOR system prior to the visit
- On-site, personal protective equipment (safety shoes, helmet, vest, hearing protection) will be provided
- Long pants are required for the production area – skirts and shorts are not allowed
- Long hair must be tied up in a bun, and all jewelry and watches must be removed. Thank you for your understanding
- Own transportation is required, and arrival at the plant reception is no later than 9:30 AM
- Address: Vítězná 1, 284 03 Kutná Hora
- Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/G9TrxDhn2oqyeXGV8
Excursion to the Odkolek factory in Prague
The Odkolek Praha plant, part of United Bakeries, is located in Prague’s Jihozápadní Město district. It is the group’s largest bakery and also serves as the company’s headquarters. The extensive premises combine daily baking operations with the management of the entire company. The complex includes modern industrial lines, the Baker Street artisan bakery with handmade baked goods, a redistribution center, offices, and a company store that is popular with both employees and the general public. Participants in the excursion will have the opportunity to learn about the entire production process – from the preparation of raw materials, shaping and baking to the packaging and storage of baked goods. The plant produces a wide range of products, from classic rolls and breads to strudels, buns, pastries, and other sweet baked goods. Among the best-known products are Odkolkův’s artisan loaf and traditional Czech buns.
Maximum number of participants: 20 people
Visit information:
- Time of visit: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- The group will be accompanied by an expert guide and provided with commentary in Czech
- Own transportation, arrival no later than 15 minutes in advance
- Address: Pekařská 598/1, Jinonice, 155 00 Prague 5
- Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TVYBjxNngVNSCB2aA
Excursion to the Poděbradka factory
The plant, which is part of the Mattoni 1873 group and produces Poděbradka mineral water and other beverages from the brand’s portfolio, was put into operation in Velké Zboží in April 1994 and has been undergoing continuous expansion and modernization ever since. Currently, there are two PET lines, one KEG line, and one syrup line. It also includes palletizing, a laboratory, and a warehouse. Today, this plant, which employs 54 people, belongs to Mattoni 1873, the largest producer of non-alcoholic beverages in Central Europe.
Excursion participants have the opportunity to see the production, filling, group packaging, and storage processes. The plant fills 0.5l, 0.7l, and 1.5l PET bottles, 0.7l syrup bottles, and 30l and 50l KEG barrels. In total, the plant currently produces 30 SKUs. The key product is Poděbradka mineral water, which this year celebrated 120 years since the discovery of the spring and is a pioneer in flavored mineral waters. The plant also produces a wide portfolio of flavored variants, including the ProLinie range, which is the only flavored sweet water on the Czech market without sugar and calories. Poděbradka is bottled in clear PET bottles containing 30% recycled material. After bottling and sealing, the bottles are labeled and packed into group packages.
The tour of the plant also includes a visit to a natural site near the plant, where you can see how Mattoni 1873, together with the Czech Union for Nature Conservation, cares for the area around the mineral water springs, and where a previously neglected area has been transformed into a blooming refuge for rare species of animals thanks to the Louky Rudiho Mattoni project.
Maximum number of participants: 20 people
Visit information:
- Time of visit: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- The group will be accompanied by an expert guide, interpretation will be in Czech
- Work shoes are recommended (high heels or open-toed shoes are not allowed)
- Own transport, arrival no later than 10 minutes in advance
- Adress: Nymburská 239, 290 01 Poděbrady 1
- Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/B6hqYuQN7QD3bXHp6
Excursion to ZEVO Malešice
The waste-to-energy plant (ZEVO) in Prague’s Malešice district, operated by Pražské služby, a.s., is the largest municipal waste incinerator in the Czech Republic and an important center for the production of heat and electricity from waste. The plant was commissioned in 1997 and has since undergone a number of upgrades, particularly in the areas of flue gas cleaning technology and energy efficiency.
Excursion participants have the opportunity to see the process of converting mixed municipal waste into useful energy. The visit begins with a short film and an introductory lecture, followed by a tour of the plant itself, during which participants will see waste being dumped into a solid municipal waste bunker, crane operators handling and loading it into boilers, the combustion and steam production process, the flue gas cleaning system, the cogeneration unit for electricity and heat production, and the separation of scrap iron – a by-product of combustion. ZEVO Malešice processes municipal waste from Prague and part of the Central Bohemian Region and also supplies heat to thousands of households. The tour thus shows not only how a modern incinerator works, but also its role in sustainable waste management and the city’s energy supply.
Maximum number of participants: 25 people
Visit information:
- Visiting hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m
- The group will be accompanied by an expert guide and provided with commentary in Czech.
Sturdy work shoes are recommended. The tour is not suitable for people who suffer from vertigo, as the route includes winding staircases and footbridges with views downwards. Participants will be familiarized with the safety rules; entry is at your own risk. Photography and filming are only permitted with the guide’s consent. - Own transport, arrival no later than 10 minutes in advance.
- Address: Průmyslová 615/32, 108 00 Prague 10 – Malešice
- Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kkN1eR6fVD1uwGpA8
