Foodpro, an Australian trade event for food processing, packaging and innovation, has announced a new partnership with the Australasian Institute of Packaging (AIP) in Melbourne from 26–29 July 2026.
Over four dynamic days, foodpro 2026 will bring together more than 400 exhibitors in the food manufacturing and packaging industries with displays, and hands-on learning opportunities for attendees. Including the chance to take part in AIP-led mini training courses and forums, covering key topics in food packaging innovations, sustainable packaging design and regulations, food waste and the intersection with packaging and more.
The AIP will also be hosting the 2026 Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Awards Gala Dinner on Tuesday, 28 July, alongside foodpro. The PIDA Awards program celebrates Australia and New Zealand’s innovative packaging solutions and is the exclusive entry point for the WorldStar Packaging Awards.
“This prestigious awards night brings together the best-of-the-best to be recognised for their leading-edge designs. The entire industry is invited to attend the 2026 PIDA Awards,” said Nerida Kelton FAIP, executive director of the AIP.
“Having the awards night aligned with foodpro is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the food and beverage finalists and winners in a dedicated space at the show, so everyone can see which packs took home a PIDA award.”
foodpro returns to the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, celebrating over 50 years of connecting and inspiring Australia’s food manufacturing and processing community.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome the AIP as an official Association Partner for foodpro 2026 — a partnership that reflects our shared commitment to driving innovation, excellence, and collaboration across the entire food manufacturing and packaging supply chain,” said Louise Brooks, commercial product manager of foodpro.
“The addition of the PIDA Awards Gala Dinner to the foodpro program is a true milestone for the event. It not only celebrates the most ground-breaking packaging designs from Australia and New Zealand but also brings the industry’s brightest minds together under one roof.”
The PIDA Awards Gala Dinner will be held at The Crown Aviary on the 28th of July with tickets available through the AIP in early 2026.