This year’s edition of K – the world’s leading plastics and rubber trade fair – is sharpening its focus on industry transformation. Running from 8 to 15 October in Düsseldorf, the show’s official special event, Plastics Shape the Future, will bring together industry stakeholders to explore how plastics can enable a more sustainable, digital, and socially responsible future.
Jointly organised by Plastics Europe Deutschland and Messe Düsseldorf, the special show will feature a seven-day themed programme with daily spotlights ranging from circularity and climate action to digitalisation and career development. Each day will feature panels, expert talks, roundtables, and networking opportunities, with participation from high-level representatives across politics, science, NGOs, and start-ups.
Themes that drive the future
The programme kicks off on Wednesday 8 October with “The Power of Plastics”, where competitiveness and sustainability will headline discussions. Opening remarks from government and industry leaders will set the stage for sessions led by Plastics Europe’s Virginia Janssens and Dr Christine Bunte, examining how innovation and investment are fuelling sector-wide transformation.
On Circular Thursday, moderated by Prof. Manfred Renner of Fraunhofer UMSICHT, the spotlight turns to circularity. Experts will tackle the design of circular-ready products and explore the regulatory and business model shifts across packaging, textiles, electronics, construction, and automotive. The day concludes with a panel on chemical and mechanical recycling.
Climate Friday dives into the sector’s response to climate change, with discussions on lifecycle analysis, CO₂ reduction strategies, and the economic potential of sustainable products. The day will also examine Europe’s competitiveness in a green economy, through a high-level political panel.
On Smart Saturday, the transformative power of digitalisation and AI will be unpacked through real-world examples presented by companies such as Covestro, INEOS, and Netzsch. From optimising material development to improving recyclability and sustainability reporting, the potential of digital tools will be in sharp focus.
Career Sunday shifts the lens to talent, inclusion, and workforce development. With book presentations, a science and poetry slam, and the “Women in Plastics” networking event, this day is all about people, diversity, and the future pipeline of professionals.
Innovation Monday will highlight breakthrough thinking with start-up pitch sessions and the WAK Prize presentation, showcasing solutions in recycling, digitalisation, and bio-based materials. A concluding panel will explore how plastics enable innovation across multiple European industries.
On Visionary Tuesday, the programme looks ahead to 2050. Keynotes and panels will address circular design, carbon capture utilisation (CCU), bio-based raw materials, and strategies to prevent microplastics. A keynote by Prof. Michael Braungart, co-founder of Cradle to Cradle, will set a forward-looking tone.
A global forum for innovation
Held every three years, K in Düsseldorf styles itself as the definitive international platform for the plastics and rubber industry. The previous edition in 2022 welcomed more than 3000 exhibitors from 59 countries and over 177,000 visitors – 71% from outside Germany.
With its ambitious seven-day programme, Plastics Shape the Future at K 2025 aims to accelerate the industry’s transformation through dialogue, collaboration, and innovation.
For the full programme and updates, visit: www.k-online.com/plastics_shape_the_future.
