Sustainable and fully automated packaging solutions

From 7 to 13 May 2026, interpack in Düsseldorf will once again bring together the global packaging industry – and Krones will be there. At stand B75 in Hall 13, the technology group will demonstrate how sustainability, flexibility and automation can be seamlessly combined – with live technology in operation and presentations delivered by Krones experts with hands‑on industry experience.

Variopac Pro with autonomous material supply and LitePac Top

The centrepiece of Krones’ exhibition is the Variopac Pro. This 17‑metre packaging machine for non‑returnable containers will demonstrate how sustainable packaging concepts can be implemented using proven machine technology. With LitePac Top Strap, Krones will present a pack example in which six 1.5‑litre PET bottles are held together solely by a cardboard clip and a strap banderole.

This solution offers clear sustainability advantages: it requires no energy‑intensive shrink tunnel, and both the clip and the banderole are made from renewable raw materials and are fully recyclable. LitePac Top is also suitable for glass bottles and cans in various sizes and pack formats, which will likewise be exhibited at interpack.

Krones will also showcase how fully automated material supply could look in the future. As part of the Ingeniq autonomous material‑handling concept, an Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) from the Italian subsidiary System Logistics will deliver and load packaging material directly to the machine. This demonstrates how routine tasks in filling and packaging lines can be automated to reduce operator workload. The AGV is, of course, controlled via a digital solution from the Krones Group.

Robotics in container distribution

For gentle yet highly flexible container distribution, Krones will present the new Robobox SynFlow sorting system, which can be positioned upstream of the Variopac Pro. A parallel‑kinematics robot distributes single‑lane and dual‑lane container flows precisely into three to nine lanes. The system is suitable for all common container types.

Technical presentations every day

To provide insights into current technology trends and the future of the beverage industry, Krones will host a series of expert presentations at its stand. Alongside the Ingeniq concept – a data‑driven, fully automated line system for still water in PET containers – Krones specialists will offer further insights into upcoming developments in packaging technology. The detailed programme will be published on the Krones website ahead of interpack.

In addition to Krones AG, three subsidiaries will exhibit in Düsseldorf: Kosme will present its Flectra labeller for small and medium output ranges in Hall 16, while Ampco Pumps and Perfinox will showcase their process‑technology solutions in Halls 3 and 4

About Krones

The technology company Krones, headquartered in Neutraubling, Germany, is a leading international developer and manufacturer of state-of-the-art machines and complete lines for the areas of process, filling, and packaging technology. Additional products and services from Krones' subsidiaries, such as those relating to digitalization, intralogistics and recycling, complement the product portfolio. Krones employs more than 20,000 people worldwide. Sales in 2024 amounted to EUR 5.3 billion. In addition to the listed Krones AG, the Krones Group includes more than 100 subsidiaries and locations worldwide.