IMFA to host its largest ever annual conference in Barcelona, signalling renewed focus on European sustainable packaging
The International Molded Fiber Association (IMFA) has announced that its 28th Annual Conference will be held from April 13 to April 17, 2026, in the vibrant city of Barcelona, Spain. This event signifies an important milestone as it marks IMFA's return to Europe for the first time in over a decade, indicating a renewed commitment to strengthen ties with European members and stakeholders within the molded fiber industry.
With the global demand for sustainable and fiber-based packaging solutions on the rise, the upcoming conference is poised to be IMFA's most internationally connected event ever. The association hopes to leverage this gathering to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration among industry professionals, fostering innovation and development in molded fiber applications.
The venue for this year's conference will be the luxury Torre Melina Gran Meliá Hotel, which will host a full agenda of expert-led technical presentations. Topics are set to include advancements in fiber thermoforming, tooling, sustainability, and automation. In addition to the technical programming, IMFA plans to offer exclusive guided site visits to operational molded fiber facilities located in and around Barcelona. This initiative provides an invaluable opportunity for attendees to witness production processes firsthand, thereby enhancing their understanding of how leading companies are prioritising sustainability and product quality throughout the molded fiber value chain.
Speaking about the significance of the event, IMFA Executive Chairman Gary Visser stated, “The momentum is real. We’re thrilled to bring our global community together in Barcelona to share ideas, explore innovations, and connect in ways that move this industry forward. Between the plant tours, technical programming, and international reach, this event is truly a can’t-miss opportunity for anyone committed to the future of molded fiber.” This sentiment reflects the enthusiasm and expectations surrounding the conference, aiming to attract a diverse range of participants from around the globe.
In previous iterations, such as the 27th Annual Conference held in Miami, which hosted nearly 200 attendees from 88 companies across 18 countries, IMFA has demonstrated its pivotal role as a premier forum for professionals in the molded fiber sector. The success of that event highlighted the increasing interest in renewable molded fiber packaging and the emphasis on sustainable solutions. With 2026’s event predicted to draw even more attendees, the association is positioning itself as a catalyst for knowledge sharing and strategic partnerships within the industry.
Beyond the conference itself, IMFA has seen significant growth and engagement over the past year. In December 2024, the association noted a 52% increase in membership and introduced various initiatives aimed at enhancing professional development, such as the Molded Fiber Masterclass training series. This reflects IMFA's commitment to delivering educational resources that resonate with the evolving needs of the industry.
Pre-registration for the 28th Annual Conference is currently open, with discounted accommodation options available at the Torre Melina Gran Meliá Hotel. As the event approaches, anticipation is building for what promises to be a landmark gathering in the molded fiber sector, shaping the future landscape of sustainable packaging solutions.