In an economically challenging environment, operators of bulk solids and liquid filling systems are under growing pressure: investments must become more flexible, equipment more efficient, and processes more transparent. The GREIF-VELOX CONNECT 2026 in Lübeck demonstrated how the industry is responding to these demands.
With 115 trade visitors, 22 partner companies and ten expert presentations, the in-house exhibition sent a clear signal:
the key lies in connected thinking, modular technologies and new business models.
Focus on Practice: Equipment Live in Operation
Unlike traditional trade fairs, the event format emphasizes proximity to real-world applications. Visitors experienced machines directly in the production environment, including ongoing retrofit projects.
One highlight was the BVP gross pneumatic packer, currently being upgraded with additional automation and safety modules, including:
- automatic bag feeding
- valve technology solutions such as ValvoCare and ValvoSeal
- modular upgrades for existing lines
A key advantage: these solutions are not limited to new machines but can also be integrated into existing third-party equipment.
For operators, this means:
→ step-by-step modernization instead of full replacement
Essential Line: Faster Machine Availability
A central topic at CONNECT was the Essential Line—a standardized machine concept designed to address economic pressures:
- preconfigured solutions covering around 80% of typical applications
- significantly reduced engineering effort
- delivery times of approximately four weeks instead of three to four months
In uncertain market conditions, speed becomes a decisive competitive factor. The Essential Line directly addresses this need by offering:
predictability, availability, and investment security.
Pay-per-Use Instead of Capital Commitment
Another key focus was Packaging as a Service (PaaS). Together with partners such as CHG-MERIDIAN, GREIF-VELOX demonstrated how modern financing models can reduce investment barriers.
At the center: the pay-per-use model, where costs are directly linked to production output.
Benefits for operators include:
- no high upfront investment
- flexible cost structures
- improved balance sheet management
- option for pilot or test phases
In times of fluctuating demand, such models are gaining importance—
transforming investments into scalable operating costs.
AI in Production: From Buzzword to Practical Use
Artificial intelligence was one of the dominant themes—presented with clear practical relevance.
GREIF-VELOX showcased concrete application areas:
- Condition monitoring for early fault detection
- Preventive maintenance based on operational data
- Predictive maintenance for forward-looking service planning
- OEE monitoring and optimization
- Data-driven process optimization
These developments are complemented by new service approaches, including:
- remote monitoring
- digital spare parts catalog
- future use of AR-supported maintenance
The message is clear:
digitalization is no longer a future concept—it is already part of day-to-day operations.
Networking as a Success Factor
One defining characteristic of the CONNECT format is its emphasis on direct exchange rather than pure product presentation.
Bringing all activities together at the company site intensified interaction between:
- plant operators
- technology partners
- machine manufacturers
Despite a challenging economic environment, visitor numbers remained consistently high—highlighting the demand for practical, dialogue-driven formats.
Conclusion: Solutions Instead of Visions
GREIF-VELOX CONNECT 2026 demonstrated above all one thing:
the industry is no longer looking for broad visions, but for concrete, implementable solutions.
Three key trends stand out:
- modularization instead of complete system replacement
- more flexible investment models
- data-driven process optimization
In short:
efficiency today is created through the interplay of technology, financing and networking.
The continuation is already planned—GREIF-VELOX CONNECT is set to return in 2027.
