Kick off 2026 with a competitive edge at PACK EXPO East. Register now!
Get a jump on your 2026 goals at PACK EXPO East. Put projects in motion, accelerate timelines and solve challenges—all in one trip to Philadelphia.

WPO and AIPIA Partner to Promote Sustainable Smart Packaging

The two global organizations agreed on a MoU to work together when furthering the causes of sustainable and smart packaging.

Andrew Manly, Communications Director at AIPIA, and Pierre Pienaar, President of WPO.
Andrew Manly, Communications Director at AIPIA, and Pierre Pienaar, President of WPO.

The WPO (World Packaging Organisation) and AIPIA (The Active & Intelligent Packaging Organisation) signed a Memorandum of Understanding furthering their collaboration on smart packaging and the science that underpins it. This will include WPO supporting AIPIA on the technology of material science, which is particularly important in active packaging. In turn, AIPIA will support WPO’s agenda of encouraging sustainable and appropriate packaging innovation.

Already cooperating at various events, including ProPak and CPHi exhibitions in Asia, MENA, and South Asia, the two organizations will aim to develop joint agendas wherever possible to further the creation of smart packaging solutions that meet the goals of the global industry and particular market needs.

“Both organizations have been aware for some time that we share common goals and objectives, and it is a logical next step to formalize these in a constructive and practical way," said WPO President, Pierre Pienaar. "The two of us have a clear focus on our responsibility to the sector and the way packaging can be a solution, not a problem - as it is so often characterized today. Packaging for good is high on our agendas, and we see this collaboration as a way to demonstrate these benefits in a very impactful way.”

Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Hiring remains a major challenge in packaging, with 78% struggling to fill unskilled roles and 84% lacking experienced workers. As automation grows, companies must rethink hiring and training. Download the full report for key insights.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Workforce
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
The road ahead for CPGs in 2025 and beyond—Packaging World editors review key findings from a survey of 88 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG readers.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability