Diverse technology focus for PPMA Total Show event

A host of cutting-edge technology, machinery and systems will be on show at this year’s PPMA Total show, which returns to the NEC in Birmingham, UK, writes Neill Barston.

Staged between 23-25 September, some 350 exhibitors are anticipated for the annual cross-industry event, which includes lines for the confectionery, snacks and bakery market segments, will feature exhibitors from across the food and drink sector.

Notably, a tally of 1,500 brands will be in attendance, with the show targeting the complete manufacturing value chain, this year’s event in its ‘Total’ branding, is set to deliver enhanced features including live equipment demonstrations, tech insights and networking opportunities.

Organisers Automate UK have pledged to pull out the stops with its 2025 event, with an itinerary of expert speakers, a networking reception and a series of live demos to showcase the latest technology solutions.

The event has confirmed its keynote speakers will include founding CEO of AI and education technology firm, Century, Priya Lakhani OBE on its first day, while former Sainsbury’s supermarket CEO, Mike Coupe, will be offering some key industry insights on the second day of the show.

Significantly, the event has added its final keynote speaker, musician-entrepreneur, Levi Roots, who is set to deliver some fresh inspiration to visitors for the third and final day of the show.

In addition, his presentation, Roots to Success, will follow his impressive journey that has seen him start out from ordinary origins in Jamaica, through to building a household name culinary brand. He is expected to place an emphasis on how  passion, perseverance and creativity can overcome the toughest challenges.

Moreover, the event is now in its 38th year, with its live equipment demonstrations, and chance to explore a wide range of technology and systems on display.

As its team noted, last year’s show’s results found that 80% of visitors reported that they discovered new solutions to enhance and support their businesses as a direct result of their attendance.

Scott McKenna, Chief Operating Officer, said: “The PPMA Show 2024 was a great success, and this year’s show will build on that, giving attendees access to cutting-edge technology and solutions to optimise performance, reduce costs, and future-proof their businesses.

“This year, we’re offering visitors to chance to benefit and learn from expert-led seminars with relevant topics including sustainability, smart manufacturing, and operational efficiency, as well as dedicated networking opportunities throughout the course of the show.

“One of the standout successes of The PPMA Show 2024 was Innovations Eleven – a brand-new live demo theatre, in which 11 selected exhibitors launched new technology directly to attendees, and we’re enhancing that experience this year.

He added that one of its key features will be a live demo theatre, broadcast in real-time via the event’s PPMA Total Show TV, with innovation tours being hosted for visitors to the event.