This white paper provides research-driven insights into how packaging and processing OEMs are approaching innovation today, highlighting the organizational barriers, capability gaps, customer expectations, and emerging trends shaping the industry. Drawing from PMMI member surveys and customer interviews, it helps OEMs better understand where innovation efforts succeed or stall while identifying opportunities to strengthen customer partnerships, accelerate technology adoption, and expand beyond traditional product-focused innovation. For practical tools, frameworks, and step-by-step guidance to apply these findings, readers can reference the accompanying 2026 Innovation Guide.
Published by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, and researched, developed, and produced by LabHat Consulting LLC in May 2026. Based on a PMMI member survey (n=63), 16 in-depth member interviews/focus group sessions, and six customer interviews collected in 2026.
