London Packaging Week 2025 has unveiled the finalists for the second annual Innovation Awards, spotlighting the most inventive, sustainable, and design-led packaging innovations that are shaping the future of global brands.
This year’s shortlist celebrates bold thinking across every sector, from luxury spirits to everyday food, beauty, wellness, and home fragrance. The awards honour entries that elevate packaging beyond function into a medium for storytelling, sensory experience and positive environmental impact.
A total of 81 finalists have been whittled down from hundreds of entries across 12 categories, reflecting the global momentum behind sustainable, consumer-centric packaging innovation. Among the finalists are industry icons and rising disruptors alike, including Charlotte Tilbury, Harrods, Macallan, Glenmorangie, Hendrick’s Gin, Hennessy, Clive Christian, Hotel Chocolat, Innocent, LUSH, Starbucks, Belvedere, The Glenlivet, and Mondelez International.
From prestige advent calendars and illuminated bottle caps to refillable skincare and paper-based chilled food packs, each of these breakthrough projects will be showcased at London Packaging Week, held at Excel London on 15 & 16 October 2025. A dedicated Innovation Awards display will give visitors an exclusive opportunity to explore these solutions in person. The winners will be revealed during the Innovation Awards Ceremony on Thursday, 16 October.
“The breadth and depth of innovation in this year’s entries reflect an exciting future for packaging,” said Co-Chair of the awards, Christelle Anya. “It’s clear that brands are responding to consumer demand for sustainability by pushing boundaries in design and functionality like never before. What stands out most is the collaboration and bold thinking across sectors, from luxury spirits to everyday essentials. These awards celebrate that spirit of innovation, which is crucial for driving positive change in how we package products.”
The 2025 judging panel brought together a diverse group of senior experts from global brands, industry bodies, and sustainability leaders. With expertise spanning luxury, FMCG, retail, sustainability, and regulatory affairs, the 18-member panel ran the rule over hundreds of entries in a lively day of discussion and debate that reflected the evolving priorities of the packaging industry.
Simon Elmer, Global Head of Innovation Practice at William Grant & Sons, said: “The standard of entries was very good, but what really stood out was the tone of the judging – it felt less analytical and more engaging, more conversational. That’s the strength of bringing people together from different sectors and backgrounds: it gives you a fresh perspective on your own work, and reminds you why packaging matters.”
Nikki Grainge, Packaging Technician at Marks & Spencer, added: “There were some fantastic entries across the board, especially at the high end, showcasing impressive craftsmanship and creativity. What stood out was the strong focus on sustainability, with many brands reevaluating their materials and packaging formats to reduce plastic use and minimise environmental impact. It’s encouraging to see innovation and responsibility advancing hand in hand.”
Michelle Atkinson, Global Head – Sustainable Solutions, Marketing & Innovation at Diageo, said: “The Innovation Awards play a vital role in fostering progress across the packaging industry. By bringing together experts from drinks, beauty, grocery, and retail, the awards create a rich, diverse conversation that challenges and inspires. Celebrating these achievements not only highlights outstanding creativity and sustainability but also drives the entire sector forward.”
2025 Innovation Awards Finalists
Luxury & Premium Packaging – Powered By Packaging Première
Luxury Drinks – Powered By PLD
Premium Drinks – Powered By PLD
Everyday Drinks – Powered By PLD
Perfume – Powered By PCD
Skincare – Powered By PCD
Haircare – Powered By PCD
Beauty Accessory – Powered By PCD
Food Packaging – Powered By Food & Consumer Pack
Consumer Goods – Powered By Food & Consumer Pack
Homeware – Powered By Food & Consumer Pack
Sustainable Packaging – Powered By London Packaging Week
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