ULMA Packaging showcases smart and sustainable solutions for meat and protein industry at IFFA 2025

At the bustling IFFA trade fair—one of the world’s premier platforms for the meat and protein industry—ULMA Packaging once again showcased why it remains a global leader in automated packaging machinery. With a presence that commands attention and a legacy that dates back to 1969, the company continues to drive innovation and set benchmarks in the packaging sector. Speaking from the ULMA stand, Jesus Mª Del Rio, Commercial Director of ULMA Packaging, offered insight into the company’s vision, innovation strategies, and approach to global expansion.

A legacy of packaging excellence

“ULMA is a company that has been producing packaging machines since 1969,” said Jesus Mª Del Rio, reflecting on the company’s long-standing heritage. “We have many years of experience in developing, designing, and manufacturing packaging machines for various sectors. One of our main sectors is meat—including poultry and proteins—which is why IFFA is one of the most important exhibitions for ULMA, along with Interpack.”

With more than five decades of expertise, ULMA has built what Del Rio confidently describes as “probably the largest portfolio of packaging machines in the industry.” The company's diverse offerings include horizontal and vertical flow packs, thermoforming, tray sealing, stretch film, and shrink-wrapping machines.

Complementing these primary packaging systems, ULMA also integrates advanced automation through ULMA Packaging Automation (UPA), which handles pre- and post-packaging processes. “We are showcasing our capabilities not just in primary packaging, but also in loading, unloading, secondary packaging (like placing items in cartons), and even tertiary packaging such as palletizing,” Del Rio noted. “We cover the complete packaging process.”

A showcase of innovation at IFFA

At IFFA, ULMA put the spotlight on three major pillars: sustainability, digital transformation, and innovation.

“We are presenting machines compatible with more eco-friendly materials,” said Del Rio. “One of our key focuses is developing smart machines that leverage Industry 4.0 technologies. These machines are not just efficient but also user-friendly, with intuitive control panels and connectivity features that give customers valuable data.”

ULMA’s R&D strategy is deeply rooted in evolving market demands, particularly around environmental concerns and hygienic design. “A lot of our innovation is focused on sustainability, hygienic machine designs, and digitalization,” Del Rio emphasized.

Staying ahead of market trends

When asked about market trends and ULMA’s positioning, Del Rio made a confident assertion, “I believe we are leading the industry. We operate in many different packaging lines, and in each segment, ULMA is a reference point. Even if customers explore other suppliers, they usually know ULMA.”

ULMA’s strong presence at IFFA is a clear reflection of its market leadership. “Just look at the size of our exhibition stand—it reflects that we’re one of the main players in packaging,” Del Rio added.

Balancing sustainability and product integrity

While sustainability is a dominant theme in modern packaging, ULMA approaches it with a balanced, sector-specific understanding. “Sustainability is very important to us,” Del Rio noted. “We are showcasing machines that work with more sustainable materials. But when it comes to proteins and meats, food protection is critical.”

He emphasized that while paper-based packaging might be suitable for bakery products or fresh produce, proteins still require the protective qualities of plastic. “However, we use more mono-materials now, which are easier to recycle and more environmentally friendly.”

Global reach, local presence

ULMA’s reach is undeniably global, but its strategy is rooted in local responsiveness. “ULMA currently has 25 subsidiaries,” Del Rio said. “Just last year, we opened three new ones.” He added that while the company often works through distributors in smaller markets, “once a market shows enough potential, we set up our own presence.”

Europe remains a cornerstone for ULMA’s business, particularly in the meat and poultry segments. “Meat and poultry together make up more than 50% of our total sales,” Del Rio shared. “We are also active in fish and cheese.”

Simultaneously, ULMA is expanding through major events and parallel exhibitions, including a seafood show in Barcelona and another presence in Italy during the week of IFFA—highlighting the company's strategic global footprint.

The value of IFFA

Events like IFFA are essential to ULMA’s growth and visibility. “IFFA is a good platform to showcase ULMA and build new connections,” Del Rio said. The fair also facilitates face-to-face meetings with distributors, partners, and clients. “It’s hard to quantify, but yes—customers and distributors come here and meet us. Opportunities definitely arise.”

As the show progressed, Del Rio expressed optimism. “Very good, as always,” he said of ULMA’s experience at the event. “For us, IFFA is very important. We’ve always participated, and we plan to continue, growing bigger each time.”

With a strong foundation in engineering excellence, a commitment to sustainable innovation, and a clear global expansion strategy, ULMA Packaging is not just keeping pace with the packaging industry—it’s helping shape its future.

“We are happy with where we are and where we are headed,” concluded Jesus Mª Del Rio. “The focus remains on solving real customer problems with smart, efficient, and sustainable solutions.”