Zipform Packaging's David Kilpatrick has been recognised as the 2026 Industry Packaging Professional of the Year for more than two decades of technical innovation and leadership in fibre-based packaging.
Kilpatrick began his packaging career in 2002 before establishing SOTA Packaging – now Zipform Packaging – in 2010 with a vision of replacing plastic with paper-based alternatives. Since then, he has played a leading role in introducing linear-formed fibre technology to Australia and pioneering paper-bottomed packaging well before sustainability became a mainstream industry priority.
Beyond his commercial achievements, the judges recognised Kilpatrick's broader contribution to the industry through standards development, APCO working groups, technical presentations and his involvement in the AIP-led Save Food Packaging Design Guidelines project, which has since been adopted internationally through the World Packaging Organisation.
His work continues through the development of next-generation fibre packaging, including a paper bottle containing more than 95 per cent fibre and over 60 per cent post-consumer recycled content, together with world-first trials of a dry-moulded fibre meat tray.
The Industry Packaging Professional award recognises individuals who have made a sustained contribution to the Australasian packaging industry over at least 20 years.
