Explore what makes the PPMA Show the premier event for manufacturing professionals in the UK internationally.
1. Introduction: Why the UK Remains a Leader in Packaging & Processing
The UK has long been recognised as a global centre for manufacturing excellence, particularly in processing and packaging technology. With strong roots in engineering, automation, and innovation, UK companies continue to set benchmarks for efficiency, safety, and sustainability across various industries, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and personal care.
At the heart of this innovation landscape is the PPMA Total Show, the UK’s flagship event for processing and packaging machinery. Held every three years at the NEC Birmingham, it brings together the very best in automation, robotics, materials handling, and packaging design.
As the most comprehensive event of its kind in the country, the PPMA Total Show is more than a trade fair; it’s a launchpad for new technologies, a hub for business connections, and a barometer for where the industry is heading.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- What the PPMA Total Show is and why it matters
- Who exhibits and the sectors they serve
- What makes the event a standout on the UK manufacturing calendar
- Why businesses, from startups to multinationals, should attend or exhibit
- And how Secomak will be contributing to this year’s event
Planning to upgrade your packaging line, invest in smarter automation, or launching new products? This is the go to event for forward-thinking manufacturers.
2. What Is the PPMA Total Show? The UK’s Flagship Processing & Packaging Event
The PPMA Total Show is the UK’s most expansive and influential trade fair for processing and packaging machinery. Held every three years, unlike the annual PPMA Show, it brings together three major exhibitions into one comprehensive event:
- PPMA Show – Focused on machinery for packaging and processing
- Pakex – Centred on packaging materials, containers, and technologies
- Interphex – Dedicated to pharmaceutical and biotech manufacturing solutions
Together, these co-located exhibitions create a 360-degree view of the UK manufacturing ecosystem, from primary production to end-of-line automation.
Who Organises It?
The event is run by the Processing and Packaging Machinery Association (PPMA), an industry body established in 1988 to support UK-based and international manufacturers of automation equipment and processing technology.
What You’ll See at the PPMA Total Show
Spanning multiple halls at the NEC Birmingham, the PPMA Total Show covers a wide array of sectors and technologies, including:
- Packaging Machinery – Filling, sealing, capping, and shrink-wrapping systems
- Automation & Robotics – Including cobots, inspection systems, and smart control interfaces
- Materials Handling – Conveying, weighing, palletising, and sorting
- Digital Integration – Line monitoring, traceability software, and Industry 4.0 solutions
Serving a range of industries, including:
- Food and Beverage
- Pharmaceuticals and Biotech
- Personal Care and Cosmetics
- Household and Cleaning Products
This year’s event promises a greater number of exhibitors, cutting-edge innovations, and more actionable insights than ever before, all under one roof.
3. Who Exhibits at the PPMA Total Show? An Industry-Wide Showcase of Innovation
One of the most valuable aspects of the PPMA Total Show is its wide range of exhibitors, covering every facet of the production, packaging, and automation processes. From complete turnkey systems to individual components for upgrading existing lines, this event brings together leading global suppliers and agile UK-based innovators.
Core Exhibitor Categories
These are the exhibitors you can expect to see at the show:
1. Machinery Manufacturers
Exhibitors support everything from small batch operations to large-scale continuous production lines.
- Filling, capping, and sealing machinery
- Flow wrapping and shrink-wrapping solutions
- Labelling and coding systems
- Palletising and end-of-line equipment
2. Automation and Robotics Specialists
Automation companies are increasingly showcasing Industry 4.0-ready solutions, designed to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase data visibility.
- AI-powered inspection systems
- Vision-guided robotics and collaborative robots (cobots)
- Smart control panels and SCADA software
- Integrated production line automation
3. Packaging Designers and Material Suppliers
From recyclable plastics to custom-printed flexible films, packaging design companies are responding to the growing demand for sustainability. ,including innovations in:
- Sustainable packaging
- Smart labelling
- Tamper-proof and resealable pouches
4. OEM Component and Systems Providers
Critical components, such as sensors, valves, drives, and enclosures, are all on display, essential for engineers looking to repair, upgrade, or retrofit.
5. Turnkey Solution Providers
Looking for a fully integrated system? Several exhibitors specialise in end-to-end line design and implementation, delivering everything from initial concept to final commissioning.
With a mix of established global leaders and high-performance niche innovators, the PPMA Total Show stands out as a dynamic marketplace for cutting-edge production solutions.
4. What Makes the PPMA Total Show Stand Out?
In a crowded landscape of trade events, the PPMA Total Show distinguishes itself through depth, relevance, and accessibility. It’s not just another machinery exhibition, it offers a comprehensive view of the entire production lifecycle, framed by UK industry expertise and resonating with a global audience.
1. UK-Focused, Internationally Connected
While it champions British manufacturing excellence, the show welcomes exhibitors and buyers from across Europe and beyond. This blend of local expertise and global insight creates an ideal space for sourcing, networking, and benchmarking.
2. Full Production Line Coverage
Unlike events with a narrow niche, the PPMA Total Show spans:
- Primary processing equipment
- Packaging machinery and systems
- Inspection, labelling, and traceability solutions
- Automation, robotics, and digital technologies
This makes it uniquely positioned to serve everyone from plant managers and engineers to packaging designers and procurement leads.
3. High-Value Networking
The event attracts a senior-level audience, including:
- Operations and production directors
- Procurement and purchasing managers
- R&D and technical engineers
- C-suite executives from manufacturing and supply chain firms
Face-to-face meetings with key decision-makers provide genuine opportunities to establish partnerships, discuss projects, and gain hands-on experience with new technologies.
4. Education Built In
The show features a packed programme of:
- Free-to-attend seminars and expert panels
- Live equipment demonstrations
- Discussions on industry-critical topics like sustainability, AI integration, and smart factories
This makes it just as valuable for strategic learning as it is for sourcing.
5. Easy to Attend
- Free registration for all trade visitors
- Held at the NEC Birmingham, a major UK venue with excellent road, rail, and airport links
- Central location for domestic and international visitors
5. Why Should You Attend or Exhibit at the PPMA Total Show?
From buyers upgrading production lines to tech suppliers launching innovations and startups breaking into the market, the PPMA Total Show delivers unmatched value.
For Manufacturers & Plant Operators
- Discover the Latest Machinery: From high-speed pouch dryers to intelligent inspection systems, the show is a one-stop shop for exploring innovations that can improve production output and reduce downtime.
- Evaluate Automation Upgrades: Compare integrated robotic solutions, software platforms, and retrofitting options side by side to determine the best fit for your needs.
- Meet Engineering Specialists: Engage directly with technical reps and consultants who can advise on process optimisation or equipment customisation.
For Technology Providers & OEMs
- Showcase Solutions in Action: Demonstrate your machinery or system capabilities to a targeted audience actively seeking upgrades.
- Generate Quality Leads: The PPMA Total Show is attended by procurement professionals, site engineers, and senior buyers looking for viable vendors.
- Build Market Awareness: Present yourself alongside industry leaders and grow your visibility in the UK and European markets.
For Startups & Innovators
- Cost-Effective Market Entry: Exhibit in a space designed to welcome emerging technologies and new brands.
- Test Concepts in Real Time: Gain valuable feedback from qualified visitors, industry veterans, and potential investors.
- Form Strategic Partnerships: Whether you’re developing sustainable packaging or IoT solutions, the PPMA network opens doors to new opportunities.
For Buyers, Distributors & Consultants
- Compare Equipment Live: Get hands-on with machines, view demos, and assess build quality and functionality first-hand.
- Negotiate Face-to-Face: Finalise deals or initiate conversations directly with manufacturers, involving fewer middlemen.
- Understand Emerging Trends: The show offers a macro view of where packaging and processing are heading in the UK.
No matter your role in the manufacturing supply chain, attending the PPMA Total Show can accelerate decision-making, improve operations, and forge long-term commercial relationships.
6. Secomak’s Attendance at the PPMA Total Show
As a trusted UK manufacturer with over 90 years of engineering excellence, Secomak will be returning to the PPMA Total Show to demonstrate our latest innovations in drying technology.
Where to Find Us
Our stand location is E82. Check the Secomak Events Page, PPMA for updates or follow us on LinkedIn for real-time announcements.
We’ll be based in one of the show’s high-traffic demonstration zones, ideally placed for live product walk-throughs and expert-led consultations.
What We’re Showcasing
At this year’s PPMA Total Show, we’re bringing live demonstrations of our most in-demand products, including the DryGuide Essential system and an innovative conveyor
cleaning solution. All of our drying technologies will also be accessible via our interactive 3D showroom.
We’ll also provide hands-on advice on:
- Custom drying and heating system integration
- Retrofitting Secomak units to existing lines
- Energy efficiency strategies to reduce running costs
Our Track Record at PPMA
Secomak has been a regular exhibitor at PPMA for over a decade. In previous shows, we’ve connected with hundreds of engineers, plant managers, and procurement teams, many of whom went on to become long-term customers.
We’re proud to say our stand consistently attracts high-quality conversations, real project enquiries, and strong post-show engagement.
“Secomak’s live demos were a highlight of the show. Their team really understands what manufacturers need.”
Production Manager, Food Packaging Firm (previous PPMA attendee)
Stay connected by following us on LinkedIn for pre-show behind-the-scenes content, stand previews, and live updates during the event.
7. Conclusion: Innovation, Connection & Opportunity at PPMA
The PPMA Total Show isn’t just a date in the calendar, it’s the UK’s flagship stage for processing and packaging innovation. For manufacturers, engineers, and technology providers, it offers a rare opportunity to step out of the day-to-day and engage with the people, tools, and ideas shaping the industry’s future.
As the sector continues to evolve toward greater automation, energy efficiency, and system integration, events like PPMA are where decisions are made, trends are defined, and relationships are built.
Secomak’s presence at the show reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering solutions that make a real impact.
Next Steps
Register for the PPMA Total Show. It’s free and only takes a minute.
Contact Secomak to schedule a demo or meeting at the show.
Visit the Secomak Events Page – PPMA for updates, product previews, and resources.
Follow Secomak on LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes access, booth setup content, and highlights from the event.
Whether you’re upgrading your line, sourcing automation, or just exploring what’s possible, we’ll see you at the NEC.
