1. Innovative Processing System

This award recognises manufacturers or end users who have engineered or implemented an innovative processing system that has delivered significant improvements in productivity, cost efficiency, or operational safety.

Judges will look for creative approaches, intelligent system integration, and measurable improvements in waste reduction, throughput, or resource use.

2. Innovative Packaging Machinery 

This category celebrates manufacturers or users of packaging machinery who have introduced a truly innovative solution that enhances efficiency, reduces costs or waste, and improves production safety.

Entries should showcase standout engineering, design innovation, or functionality that drives meaningful business improvement.

3. Innovative Robotics / Automation Solution 

This award is open to robotics and automation manufacturers, systems integrators, and end users who have developed or adopted a robotic or automated solution that significantly boosts productivity or cuts operational costs.

Judges will be looking for smart use of robotics, software, or integrated systems that improve processes and workplace safety.

4. Innovative Vision Solution 

Open to vision system providers, integrators, or end users, this category highlights exceptional use of industrial vision systems to improve quality control, efficiency, safety, or cost effectiveness.

Entries should demonstrate a novel and intelligent application of vision technology with strong results.

5. Outstanding Customer Service 

This award will recognise a business that has delivered exceptional customer experience, demonstrating excellence in service delivery, response times, engagement, and/or after-sales support.

Judges will reward customer-centric innovations that have resulted in measurable satisfaction, retention, or growth.

6. Apprentice of the Year

(sponsored by Automate BEST)

This award celebrates the emerging talent shaping the future of the UK processing and packaging industry.

It will be presented to a promising apprentice who shows clear leadership potential, commitment to the sector, and a positive impact in their role. The aim is to inspire more young people to pursue careers in automation and manufacturing.

7. Apprenticeship Champion of the Year 

(sponsored by Automate BEST)

This award recognises individuals who have shown outstanding commitment to supporting and promoting apprenticeships and skills programmes.

It celebrates those who nurture talent and create opportunities through mentoring, leadership, or programme delivery. Judges will look for clear evidence of impact on apprentice development and the wider workforce

8. Partnership of the Year 

This award recognises the most effective collaboration or partnership within the industry.

Open to any partnership—be it between manufacturers, integrators, consultants, end users, or public sector bodies—the award will highlight joint ventures that have delivered real value through innovation, efficiency, or shared expertise.

9. Environmental Initiative of the Year 

This category celebrates organisations that have made measurable progress in sustainability, through the implementation of green initiatives or environmentally responsible practices.

Entrants should outline the impact of their initiatives over the past 12–18 months, supported by key performance indicators and clear environmental outcomes.