A new generation of packaging innovators was celebrated at Packaging Innovations 2025, as the Future Trailblazers Programme recognised outstanding young professionals shaping the industry's future.

The winners of the Future Trailblazers Programme were announced at the record-breaking Packaging Innovations & Empack 2025, recognising exceptional young professionals shaping the future of the packaging industry. The highly anticipated awards ceremony on Wednesday, 12 February, celebrated individuals making significant contributions to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence.
Sponsored by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3), the awards aim to support and nurture the industry's rising stars. Winners will receive an IOM3 membership, offering exclusive access to world-class resources, professional networks, and training opportunities to support their growth and future contributions further.
Aden Newbury from Kingfisher took home the Production Delivery Award for his excellence in operational execution, revolutionising packaging compliance data systems with automation and efficiency. Jade Capp, also from Kingfisher, was recognised in the Making it Happen category for her outstanding problem-solving skills, including eliminating 56 tonnes of non-recyclable EPS and optimising packaging space.
The Sustainable Thinking Award was presented to Hope Fletcher from Unilever for pioneering contributions to recyclability and alternative materials, ensuring packaging meets sustainability goals while mentoring the next generation of STEM professionals. Robert Rigby from Mailway secured the Delivery Management Award for transforming stock management and mail waste solutions, improving efficiency, reducing costs, and lowering carbon emissions.
Josephine Cooper from DS Smith received the Design for Future Award, recognising her innovative and forward-focused approach to streamlining design processes and introducing waste-reducing packaging solutions. Special commendation certificates were also awarded to Michael Thompson from Bake & Bag, James O'Rourke from Mailway, and Anaïs Dubois from Kingfisher for their outstanding contributions to the industry.
The Meet the Trailblazers of 2025 session on the Circular Economy stage provided a platform for these talented individuals to share insights into their work and future aspirations. Chaired by Jude Allan, Interim Managing Director at OPRL, the session featured esteemed judges Martin Kersh (Foodservice Packaging Association), Peter Macqueen (Sheffield Hallam University), Ian Roe (Mercury Search & Selection), Joanna Stephenson (Think B2B Marketing), and Emma Verkaik (BCMPA).
Reflecting on the winners, Allan said: "The level of talent, innovation, and dedication we've seen is incredible. It's truly inspiring. Each of them is already making a real impact in the packaging industry, and it's clear that the future is in very capable hands, which makes me very happy."
Hope Fletcher commented on the importance of sustainability in packaging: "When looking at sustainability trends for the next five to ten years, I think waste will be a major issue. With a growing population and increasing product demand, more packaging is on shelves than ever. Consumers want more variety, which means more products are being developed, leading to challenges in waste management. The industry must focus on making packaging more recyclable, incorporating recycled content, and discovering alternative materials. There's still a lot of work to be done, but it's an exciting space with many opportunities. For anyone considering a career in packaging, I'd say it's an incredibly diverse industry.
"Working in a global team has shown me how vast the industry is. I collaborate with teams worldwide, each with different infrastructures and packaging methods. There are countless materials in use, and every day brings something new. It's a dynamic and exciting field to be in."
The Future Trailblazers Programme highlights the next generation of leaders driving innovation and sustainability in packaging. As the industry evolves, these winners pave the way for a more efficient, environmentally conscious future.
www.packaginginnovations.com

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