AI and data take centre stage at the UK Corrugated Industry Trade Show 2026

AI and data take centre stage at the UK Corrugated Industry Trade Show 2026

Artificial intelligence, automation and smarter use of data were firmly in the spotlight at this year's UK Corrugated Industry Trade Show (UKCITS26). But what do these developments mean for the future of corrugated packaging?

Held at Telford International Centre on 6–7 October, the event brought together manufacturers, suppliers and industry experts to explore the technologies, innovations and challenges shaping the sector.

For us, one message stood out loud and clear: AI and data are becoming increasingly important tools for improving manufacturing performance and making better business decisions.

Here are three key themes we took away from the event.

1. AI is creating new opportunities for manufacturing

AI was a prominent topic at the show, with the conference programme exploring its potential to improve manufacturing processes and support greater efficiency.

For corrugated manufacturers, possible applications range from production planning and scheduling to identifying inefficiencies and supporting faster decision-making.

But adopting new technology raises practical questions. Where can AI deliver the greatest value? How can it be integrated into existing operations? And what skills will teams need to use it effectively?

As AI continues to develop, understanding where it can make a meaningful difference will be important for manufacturers looking to stay competitive.

2. Better data means smarter decisions

Closely connected to AI was another important theme: the growing value of manufacturing data.

Manufacturers generate information across almost every part of their operations, from production output and material usage to machine performance and waste. The challenge is making that information useful.

Access to accurate, relevant data can help businesses understand what's happening across their operations, identify areas for improvement and make more informed decisions.

It also provides an important foundation for AI, where the quality and accessibility of data can influence how effectively these technologies perform.

This was one of the most interesting takeaways from UKCITS26 from our perspective. As manufacturing becomes more data-driven, knowing how to interpret and act on that information will be increasingly important.

3. Manufacturing's future depends on people as well as technology

While AI and digitalisation attracted plenty of attention, the show's wider programme also highlighted the importance of developing the skills needed to support the industry's future.

Sessions explored workforce development, attracting young talent and the role of digital tools in supporting learning and skills development.

Introducing new systems and processes is only part of the challenge. Businesses also need people who understand how to use them, interpret the information they provide and turn new capabilities into meaningful improvements.

For the corrugated industry, that means continuing to invest in both innovation and the people who will help put it into practice.

Looking ahead

Beyond AI and data, UKCITS26 also explored developments in packaging sustainability, plastic substitution and the changing regulatory landscape, including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR).

Together, these topics reflect an industry facing significant change, with technology, commercial pressures and environmental expectations all influencing how manufacturers operate.

Attending events like UKCITS26 is always a great opportunity to gain valuable insights, learn from others across the sector, and consider how emerging ideas and technologies could support our own approach to packaging innovation and manufacturing.

Our biggest takeaway? The corrugated industry's future will increasingly depend on how effectively manufacturers use data, embrace AI and develop the skills to make the most of both.

Massive thanks to the organisers, speakers and exhibitors for a memorable and insightful event.

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