The future of food packaging with neXt at PACK EXPO International 2026

neXt makes its North American debut, combining Seamless Operation, Smart Decisions and Touchless Automation in one intelligent system architecture
New modular HFX platform delivers flexible flow wrapping across the medium- to high-performance range
The new scalable TRX platform extends neXt into secondary packaging with fast format changes and flexible topload cartoning

CHICAGO – Sept. 10, 2026 – At PACK EXPO International 2026, under the theme “re:imagine the Factory of the Future,” Syntegon is presenting its neXt packaging solution in North America for the first time.

Food manufacturers face rising costs, skilled-labor shortages, increasingly stringent quality requirements and a growing variety of products and pack styles. Syntegon’s neXt system architecture addresses these challenges through three guiding principles: Seamless Operation, Smart Decisions and Touchless Automation. Together, these principles are designed to create more seamless, efficient and future-ready packaging operations.

To mark the North American debut of neXt, Syntegon is presenting two new modular machine platforms integrated with Syntegon's robotic pick-and-place platform as part of an advanced system solution: the HFX flow-wrapping platform for primary packaging and the TRX topload cartoning platform for secondary packaging. The neXt system will be demonstrated live daily at the Syntegon booth, S-3514, in the South Hall.

Both new platforms are modular by design and serve as building blocks within the neXt system architecture. They are retrofit-capable and designed to support long-term scalability. Manufacturers can add new automation functions, digital features and sealing technologies as their requirements evolve.

neXt makes its North American premiere, bringing Seamless Operation, Smart Decisions and Touchless Automation together in one intelligent system architecture

Guide-by-Light is one example of seamless processes. It allows operating personnel to keep track of the status of all lines at all times, even from a distance.

Seamless Operation: Seamless processes, minimal downtime

Seamless Operation connects the machines integrated into the neXt system architecture through consistent operating philosophies, harmonized interfaces and a standardized format change concept. These common features help operators move between machines more easily, reduce sources of error and shorten changeover times. The result is a more consistent user experience across the packaging line and smoother transitions between production runs.

Quick, targeted decisions based on real-time data reduce downtime. Optimal data availability on the new MyHMI and mobile devices.

Smart Decisions: Data-based transparency in real time

The second pillar, Smart Decisions, brings real-time data analytics to the packaging line. As part of the operational system, neXt links networked machine platforms with software solutions such as the cloud-based Synexio, machine-based Logbook functions or 3D error view. Camera and AI-based quality controls, automatic error detection and status monitoring ensure transparency in terms of productivity, quality and efficiency. Operators are able to monitor line status remotely and respond more quickly to deviations. This results in fewer unplanned downtime, less waste and higher overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Production managers can make informed decisions – based on data, quickly and in a way that is precisely targeted.

Touchless Automation: More autonomy, less manual intervention

Touchless Automation takes the concept a step further by minimizing manual intervention and automating recurring, non-value-adding activities. For example, autonomous material supply systems take over the provision and insertion of film reels or cardboard blanks. Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) supply the machines independently, while high-performance splicing systems in flow-wrapping enable uninterrupted operation. Packaging lines can therefore run for hours without operator intervention. This reduces the workload on staff and increases availability, while freeing up time for truly value-adding tasks.

Syntegon HFX: Modular flow wrapping for evolving requirements

The modular HFX platform is designed to accommodate a broad range of products and flow-wrapping applications. At PACK EXPO International, Syntegon will showcase the new HFX3 for medium- to high-speed production. The platform supports a range of cold- and heat-sealing technologies to help manufacturers achieve their desired package results. It is designed to process a variety of film materials, including paper-based materials, without compromise.
A key benefit of the HFX3 is its modular flexibility. Sealing technologies can be retrofitted at a later stage, while modular neXt software features can be added as production requirements change. This enables manufacturers to configure the machine for current applications while staying ready for future upgrades.

The HFX3 reaches speeds of up to 1,000 products per minute and supports product lengths from 2 to 12 inches and product width from 0.5to 7.5 inches.

Syntegon TRX: Flexible topload cartoning with fast changeovers

The highly compact TRX platform extends the neXt system architecture into secondary packaging. Its modular design and guided, verified or semi-automated format-change features help manufacturers respond quickly to changing production requirements. Format changes can be completed in 10 minutes, while the number of format parts is significantly reduced. This minimizes downtime, simplifies parts handling, reduces cost and effort associated with adding new formats. This makes the machine easy to operate, particularly for less experienced operators.

The TRX platform is designed for scalable output with a maximum speed of 200 cartons per minute. The TRX21, which will be on display at PACK EXPO International, reaches speeds of up to 80 cartons per minute with an infeed speed of up to 1,500 products per minute.

Services as a cornerstone of strategic lifecycle partnership

Syntegon views service as an integral part of the customer relationship—one that extends well beyond the initial equipment investment. By supporting customers throughout the machine lifecycle, Syntegon helps maintain performance, availability, and long-term equipment value while providing greater planning predictability.
In North America, this support is backed by a $30 million investment in localized parts availability and a network of more than 100 local field service engineers.

Customers can grow with Syntegon, from entry-level solutions such as the Pack 103 to the neXt platform. Flexible service offerings are a key part of Syntegon's commitment to long-term partnerships and to helping manufacturers adapt as production requirements evolve.