Innovation Award
During Empack 2026, Empack introduced the very first Innovation Award. Fifteen exhibitors put their innovation in the spotlight by participating in the Innovation Route.
Visitors held the key: with their votes, they determined which solution took home the coveted prize.
On Thursday, April 16, 2026, the votes were counted, and Kortho Coding & Marking was declared the winner of the 2026 Innovation Award with its patented Robocap™ system.
Kortho wins Innovatie Award 2026
The 2026 Innovation Award went to Kortho Coding & Marking for the TI-Series.
The TI-Series stood out thanks to the patented Robocap™ system, which puts an end to common TI challenges such as clogged nozzles, poor first prints, spilled ink, and unnecessary waste.
Want to know more about Kortho’s innovation? Read the full article here.
Participants of 2026
1. LiteWrapper®A102.5
Ergonomic work is one of the 3 E’s in EVC’s E3 concept. The LiteWrapper® enables ergonomically responsible manual pallet wrapping. Move straight ahead, using one hand, without bending down. In addition, the LiteWrapper® is coreless and leaves no cardboard cores behind when the roll is finished. The film is also made with 30% PCR content.
2. Vision inspectiesysteem LeakSecure C37
LeakSecure by Bizerba is an advanced detection system developed for food processors using CO₂ in their MAP packaging processes. The system is designed for semi-rigid packaging and reliably detects leaks from the tray, providing immediate feedback on packaging quality.
3. Pallet strapping machine C20
The EasyStrap provides a back-friendly and ergonomic strapping process, leading to happier employees and fewer sick days. At the same time, it helps secure products for shipment quickly and consistently with high quality. Optimised load securing improves safety, reduces stress, and lowers costs.
4. Customised belts C31
Angst+Pfister is happy to design custom label timing belts with you. The belts can be produced in any desired colour and can be provided with a logo or article number. There is a suitable application for every requirement, and Angst+Pfister is pleased to think along with you regarding design and specifications.
5. M5 Series Metal Detectors C46a
The latest metal detection system from Mettler Toledo offers highly future-proof detection and sets a new standard in reliability and precision. Thanks to advanced technologies, you can count on maximum efficiency and minimal product losses.
6. Makebright Laser J09
MakeBright is a patented laser solution from Koenig & Bauer Coding that allows direct coding on (corrugated) cardboard boxes without ink, labels, or other consumables. The technology enables near-white marking on corrugated cardboard.
7. Spider Gantry Robot
An engineered system with 20 years of evolution. The Spider from Wals Systems is an easy-to-operate palletizing robot and is 90% standard. The Spider is supplied in lengths from 2 to 20 meters, for example allowing 15 lines to be palletized with one Spider, optionally with multiple heads/shuttles.
8. Data-Driven Pest Management
Anticimex Smart is a digital, sustainable system that monitors and protects your site against rodents 24/7. By providing continuous protection and taking immediate action when movement is detected, it helps prevent pest infestations.
9. Data-driven winder and Fiber Film Marathon
Those who choose certainty in the packaging process benefit from the combination of the data-driven winder and Fiber Film Marathon from Topa. Together, they form a solution that not only optimally stabilizes loads, but also provides insight and savings.
10. High-speed roll-up door EFA-SRT® MS USD
The EFA-SRT® MS USD is the first EFAFLEX machine safety door that closes from bottom to top. This reliable, space-saving, and low-maintenance upside-down high-speed door has been specially developed for heavy industrial applications.
11. Just Eat Takeaway.com
Xampla’s plastic-free Morro Coating enters 10 European markets in partnership with Just Eat Takeaway with new packaging range from Huhtamaki. This packaging solution offers the food delivery market a high-performance plastic-free alternative to traditional takeaway boxes, typically lined with plastic or PFAS.
12. Valid-Pack & Valid-Code
With Valid-Pack & Valid Code from De Koningh, you structurally minimize risks such as rejections and delays. Valid-Pack automatically checks whether products are fully and correctly packaged. Valid Code ensures that each product carries the correct label or code, from barcode to data matrix.
11. TI-Series G38
The patented Robocap™ system from Kortho features fully automated nozzles. The shut-off valve and ink catcher are integrated into the consumable rather than the printer itself. No more poor print quality, ink spills, or other issues!
15. Eco-handholds E14
A sustainable handhold protector by Item Products Limited made from 100% recycled moulded fibre, designed to reinforce die-cut hand holes and prevent box tearing under heavy loads or repeated use. This open design adds strength and durability without plastic.