Total Processing & Packaging 2010 is set to silence sceptics after expanding its floorspace for the second time in two months.

The triennial show, which is organised by Reed Exhibitions and takes place on 25-27 May at the NEC, has grown by a further 750sqm following last month's expansion of the show.

A key element of the show's growth will be in its Packaging Innovation Hub, which has doubled in size compared to original plans and covers packaging materials, containers, design and sustainable packs.

Leading names taking stands in the Hub include Artenius PET Packaging, Avery Denison, BCP Fluted Packaging, Clarke Rubicon, Plastique, Sleeve Solutions and Tinplate Products.

Elsewhere, the show's new Robotics & Industrial Vision Pavilion has also expanded.

Group exhibition director Ian Crawford said: "It is clear that although the economic situation remains tough, many companies are realising that there is still business to be had and that it is therefore important to put themselves in front of their prospective customers."

"Since last year's highly successful PPMA show we have definitely seen an upturn in the processing and packaging sectors, with many companies reporting strong order intake in the last quarter of 2009 and the beginning of 2010."

Total will also feature a series of dedicated free-to-attend seminars in both the Packaging Innovation and Interphex hubs.

Meanwhile, a design challenge will take place where designers and pack and machinery manufacturers work together to come up with new products, market applications and consumer experiences.