Voting is now open for the Packaging Machine of the Year category at the International Bakery Awards 2026, giving readers the opportunity to recognise outstanding packaging machinery demonstrating innovation, efficiency and technical excellence.
The award celebrates the engineering expertise behind modern bakery packaging, recognising manufacturers developing advanced technologies that improve product protection, packaging speed, flexibility and operational performance across the global bakery industry.
Recognising Bakery Packaging Machinery Innovation
This year’s shortlist brings together four finalists representing different areas of bakery packaging innovation, from high-speed flow wrapping and automated cartoning to advanced preservation technologies and flexible packaging systems.
The finalists for Packaging Machine of the Year 2026 are:
FT-iFLEX Flow Wrapper – Developed by Bradman Lake, this next-generation horizontal flow wrapper uses Rockwell Automation’s iTRAK intelligent track technology to deliver zero-pressure product positioning and variable-pitch feeding. Featuring automatic size changes, tool-less changeovers and compatibility with recyclable films, the machine helps bakery manufacturers improve packaging accuracy, reduce downtime and accommodate multiple product formats.
CL 156-169 – Developed by Cama Group, this high-speed cartoning range combines servo-driven product handling with flexible side-loading capabilities. Designed for bakery and biscuit manufacturers, the machines incorporate an optional air-blast carton opening system to improve reliability at high production speeds. Modular construction and semi-automatic format changeovers support efficient integration into automated packaging lines.
HFX3 – Developed by Syntegon, this modular flow-wrapping platform delivers speeds of up to 1,000 packs per minute while supporting a variety of packaging materials, including mono-material and paper-based films. Featuring adaptable sealing technologies and intelligent automation, the HFX3 enables manufacturers to improve production flexibility, packaging quality and operational efficiency across applications including biscuits, crackers and multipacks.
DELTA VacMap™ – Developed by IMA, this innovative horizontal flow wrapper combines vacuum technology with modified atmosphere packaging to improve product preservation and extend shelf life. Designed particularly for spongy bakery products, the machine removes residual oxygen trapped within products while offering three operating modes. Its flexible design helps manufacturers reduce packaging material consumption while maintaining freshness and product quality.
Together, the finalists highlight the diversity of packaging machinery development across the bakery industry and the different approaches manufacturers are taking to improve automation, product protection, sustainability and operational flexibility.
Joseph Clarke, Senior Editor of International Bakery, said: “The quality and diversity of nominations we have received this year highlight the creativity, innovation and expertise driving the global bakery industry forward. From exciting new products and innovative ingredients to advanced manufacturing technologies and inspirational industry leaders, there are some exceptional achievements to recognise.
“Now it is over to our readers to decide who deserves to win from our finalists. These awards provide an opportunity for the industry to celebrate the products, solutions and individuals making a genuine contribution to the future of baking, and I would encourage everyone across the sector to get involved and cast their votes.”
Cast Your Vote Today
Voting for Packaging Machine of the Year is now open here.
Readers can explore the four shortlisted machines before selecting the innovation they believe deserves this year’s award.
Voting closes on 9 November 2026.
The winner of Packaging Machine of the Year will be revealed during the International Bakery Awards 2026 ceremony on Thursday, 26 November, broadcast via LinkedIn Live.
