Trend article
4 trends at K2025
This 2025 edition of K Messe, the spotlight was on Shaping the Circular Economy, Embracing Digitalization, and Caring about People. With 8 event days, 177.500 visitors and 3.020 exhibitors, there was a lot to see and discover, especially for the injection molding industry. We sent our team across the 177.516 square meters of exhibit space and asked them to list 4 not-to-miss trends.
Sustainability through lightweighting and alternative materials
Sustainability remains a top priority in our industry. Injection molding technologies are increasingly focused on lightweighting: reducing material use without compromising strength or performance.
“We saw injection-compression molding (ICM) technology in action: the molten plastic is injected into a mold cavity that is not completely closed. The mold is then quickly closed, compressing the polypropylene to completely fill the cavity. Less material and energy is used, resulting in thinner-walled packaging. The packaging part is still produced and decorated in one step,” says Evie Vens, Business Development Manager.
At the same time, manufacturers are embracing alternative and recycled materials, aligning with circular economy goals and regulatory pressures. PET and rPET injection molding is one example. Circular-ready product design, chemical and mechanical recycling, and bio-based materials were also heavily featured.
Functional IML for connected packaging
IML is no longer just about decoration. Under K 2025’s ‘Embracing Digitalization’ theme, we saw a trend toward functional labels that add value to the final product.
“Think RFID tags, QR & unique codes, and digital watermarks. These smart labels enable traceability, anti-counterfeiting, and real-time data access, especially in sectors like healthcare, reusable packaging and logistics. The result: packaging that’s not only attractive but also intelligent and connected,” according to Nico Van de Walle, Product & Circular Economy Manager at MCC Global IML.
An AI revolution is looming
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing injection molding. At K 2025, several exhibitors showcased self-optimizing systems that use AI to adjust process parameters in real time.
“These smart cells reduce scrap, shorten setup times, and ensure consistent product quality. The trend reflects a broader shift toward autonomous manufacturing and zero-defect production, helping manufacturers tackle labor shortages and improve efficiency,” says Maurizio Carano, Marketing & Innovation Director at MCC Global IML.
Meeting PPWR targets
A key talking point at the fair was the EU’s Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. Exhibitors and industry leaders highlighted mono-material packaging as a key enabler of design-for-circularity. Its compatibility with automated sorting and material recovery systems makes it a practical solution for meeting the EU’s target of 100% recyclable packaging by 2030.
