Packaging Matters
Sept 16–17, 2026
Burlington, Vermont
FROM VISION TO PRACTICE: Driving Change and Delivering Value
Packaging is one of the most visible expressions of a company’s values — and one of the most complex challenges to solve at scale. For two years, Packaging Matters has brought together the sharpest minds in the packaging supply chain to ask hard questions and forge unlikely alliances. This year, we’re raising both the stakes and the bar.
“FROM VISION TO PRACTICE” is the theme that defines where the industry stands right now: past the point of awareness, past the pilot project, and squarely in the messy, consequential work of making systemic change actually happen inside real organizations and across real supply chains. The conversations have been had. The frameworks have been proposed. Now comes the harder work — operationalizing sustainability, harmonizing policy, closing loops, and delivering value that holds up under scrutiny.
Expanded to 100 hand-selected participants, Packaging Matters ’26 brings together packaging professionals, brand leaders, material innovators, policy architects, and investors for two tightly focused days of working sessions, case studies, and cross-disciplinary conversation. We’ll celebrate what’s working, wrestle with what isn’t, and leave with something more valuable than inspiration: real tools, real relationships, and real next steps.
The Guides
Stay tuned, guides will be announced here in the coming weeks!
Session Schedule
Built In Partnership With…
A New Earth Project
A New Earth Project is Atlantic’s values communication framework—a platform that connects brands, consumers, and supply chain partners around a shared vision: a healthier planet powered by responsible packaging. Originally launched as a collaboration with outdoor athletes and ocean advocates, ANEP has evolved into a movement to align material innovation with environmental integrity, storytelling, and systemic change.
Atlantic Packaging
Atlantic Packaging is a leader in performance-tested, data-driven packaging solutions—backed by the most advanced research, testing, and monitoring infrastructure in the industry. As an independent, family-owned company, Atlantic has long believed that the health of people, the planet, and the packaging supply chain are deeply interconnected. That belief now drives every aspect of our innovation and operations—from materials science to circularity strategy to workforce well-being.
Together, Atlantic Packaging and A New Earth Project are building a future where packaging performance and purpose go hand in hand.
FAQs
Where to stay?
Check out our discounted room rates at these partner hotels:
- Hilton Garden Inn — Last day to book: August 14, 2026
- Best Western Windjammer Inn — Last day to book: August 14, 2026
- Hotel Vermont — Last day to book: August 24, 2026
- Courtyard Marriott — Last day to book: August 24, 2026
- Lang House — Call their front desk (802) 652-2500 to make a reservation or use the promotional code SeeChange26 when booking online.
How do I register for the sessions?
Step 1: Pick the track that best fits your passion and skills.
Step 2: Submit the “Express Interest” form for your selected track.
Step 3: Within 30 days, you’ll receive an update on your submission.
Tracks are intentionally kept small to create a more meaningful experience, so placements are based on availability and alignment with each track’s focus. If a track isn’t available for any reason, we’ll share waitlist options and keep you in the loop on future opportunities.
Registration details and pricing vary by track. If you’re selected to register, we’ll share all the information you need at that time. Need financial support? We offer a limited number of fully-funded passes through our work study program. Express interest early to be considered and we’ll follow up with application details.
How does one navigate the Burlington Airport?
If you’re flying — be prepared — the Burlington airport is small. Uber/Lyfts are often unavailable or have lengthy wait times, especially during off-peak hours. Taxis tend to prefer cash. Please plan accordingly.
Is there a dress code?
Nah, you're good.
What to bring (above & beyond the usual!)
- Comfortable clothing for activities like yoga, outdoor walks
- Base layers
- Jacket and/or rain jacket
- Extra socks
- Hat
- Waterproof & warm shoes/boots
- Bathing suit
- Water bottle
