Avant-Garde Award 2026: innovation takes shape

October 7, 2026

From the simplicity of cardboard to the precision of laser technology, from replacing plastic to connected labels: the winners and the special mention of the Avant-Garde Award 2026 showcase four different directions, all driven by the desire to rethink packaging based on real market needs.

A cardboard tube becomes a functional object designed to become part of everyday life: Coffee Hub, the coffee pod dispenser by Tubettificio Robbiese, winner of the Design category. The project stems from the desire to go beyond the concept of packaging and transform an element of the company’s production into a durable, customisable product. A concrete example of how, sometimes, innovation simply means looking at a familiar material with new eyes.

Ultra-precise laser technology transforms the mould itself into a tool for security and storytelling. Microauthenfy, developed by Microrelleus and winner of the Innovative materials category, uses laser technology to engrave microstructures directly into the mould, which are then replicated onto the product’s surface during injection moulding. No labels, coatings or additional materials: the effect becomes an integral part of the packaging.

Replacing plastic with paper without compromising performance: this is the challenge at the heart of Vela Renew Paper Transport Bag, Seaman Paper’s project and winner of the Sustainability category. The solution replaces the LDPE used in polybags with paper designed to be lightweight, durable and recyclable within the paper stream. The project is the result of years of development, required to create a paper thin and strong enough to perform even in modern automated distribution centres.

NFC and RFID technology meet sustainability with Ephém by Ma Balise, winner of a special mention. The solution rethinks traditional connected labels by reducing their complexity: four layers instead of seven, featuring FSC-certified paper and an antenna printed directly using ink. The result is a label designed to be disposed of through standard paper recycling streams and conceived to be compostable.

Applications for 2027 are now open. Ready to take innovation into the future? Follow this link to find out more!

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