PACK EXPO cancels in-person event, going virtual
PMMI’s board of directors has made the decision to cancel its in-person PACK EXPO International and Healthcare Packaging EXPO in Chicago, which had been scheduled for Nov. 8-11.
The board determined that the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, along with local regulations, made it impossible to have a safe and productive event for attendees and exhibitors.
In place of the in-person event, the PMMI Media Group is using their digital marketing expertise and extensive industry knowledge to launch a brand new live, web-based event, PACK EXPO Connects 2020, Nov. 9-13, complete with live chats, live product demos and equipment and engaging educational opportunities.
“For over six decades, PACK EXPO has been here to serve and connect the industry, and while the pandemic makes it impossible to meet in person this year, connecting the industry is still our top priority,” said Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI, via a press release. “PMMI Media Group is putting all of the power of the PACK EXPO brand into fostering connections between consumer-packaged goods companies (CPGs) and suppliers by driving the entire industry to PACK EXPO Connects.”
PACK EXPO Connects will facilitate exhibitor and attendee interaction while continuing to provide the ability to see machinery in action through this new platform. This online experience will also offer top-of-the-line educational opportunities, including daily Jumpstart sessions on hot topics from industry thought leaders along with the Innovation Stages, a staple at previous PACK EXPO events.
The new Solution Room will feature expert-led education sessions, and PMMI Media Group editors will discuss highlights via Daily Download sessions, bringing attendees up to speed on the latest and greatest solutions on display at PACK EXPO Connects. A special Packaging and Processing Women’s Leadership Network event will feature an address from Jan Tharp, president and CEO at Bumble Bee Foods.
“Connecting the industry has never been more essential as packaging addresses the critical needs of this pandemic,” said Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI. “While nothing can replace an in-person event, PACK EXPO Connects will push the digital boundaries of virtual to provide the resources the industry needs to solve today’s unique packaging challenges.”
For more information on exhibiting or attending PACK EXPO Connects, visit packexpoconnects.com. Any additional questions or concerns can be directed to the PMMI Show Department at [email protected] or 571-612-3200.
