22 July 2025 | News
Image Courtesy: Public Domain
The packaging industry across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) is undergoing a significant transformation. With the introduction of the new EU Packaging Regulation and increasing demands for efficiency and sustainability, companies are under pressure to rethink their processes. To support this shift, the KUKA Innovation Award 2026 is launching under the motto “Circular Packaging Challenge.”
“New technologies in robotics and artificial intelligence open up countless possibilities for the packaging industry—whether it’s recycling, waste prevention, or completely redesigning the entire packaging process,” says Volker Schmirgel, Head of the KUKA Innovation and Technology Center. “We are looking for bright minds and young talents who can look to the future and present us with their ideas on how robots can be used in the packaging of consumer goods.”
KUKA is seeking innovative robotics-based solutions that address the entire packaging lifecycle—from manufacturing to end-of-life recycling. The challenge is open to teams from across the globe, including startups, academic groups, and research institutions.
Application Deadline: End of August 2025
Submission: Teams submit their concept proposals online
Selection: An international jury will evaluate submissions and choose finalist teams
Finalists will receive:
A KUKA robot free of charge
Access to Roboception 3D vision system and KUKA software
Hands-on guidance from KUKA experts during development
Finalist teams will showcase their solutions live at interpack 2026 in Düsseldorf, the world’s leading trade fair for the packaging industry. The winner of the KUKA Innovation Award—who will receive a prize of €20,000—will be announced at the KUKA booth in front of an international audience of industry experts.
The KUKA Innovation Award is an annual global competition designed to bridge the gap between research and industry. By providing access to advanced robotics platforms and expert mentorship, KUKA empowers the next generation of innovators in automation. The competition is open to developers, graduates, and research teams from companies and universities worldwide.
