PACK EXPO International to feature more than 2,500 exhibitors

Registration is now open for packaging and processing show PACK EXPO International, set for Nov. 3-6 in Chicago.

Registration for the show, to be held at McCormick Place, is $30 until Oct. 11, after which it increases to $130.

More than 2,500 exhibitors will occupy 1.3 million square feet of space, according to a news release from show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, with more than 45,000 attendees expected from global consumer packaged goods and life sciences companies.

“We’re thrilled to be back in Chicago, offering an event to spotlight numerous solutions for an expanding market, complete with its distinct challenges,” Jim Pittas, PMMI president and CEO, said in the release. “Every aspect showcased at our event is grounded in thorough research and listening to our members, ensuring we remain attuned to the evolving needs of our industry both now and in the future.”

Registration is available online at packexpointernational.com.

New features

Several programs are new to this year’s PACK EXPO International.

• Sustainability Central, an expansive look into packaging sustainability and what it means to brands. Expert speakers will take the  Sustainability Stage, with a focus on actionable sustainable solutions in manufacturing, materials, recovery, logistics, analytics and design.
• Emerging Brands Central is a resource for new brands scaling operations. The stage offers access to industry experts with insights on product development, packaging innovation and scaling strategies.

Returning pavilions

This year’s Logistics Pavilion will be four times larger than past events, according to the release, and include supply chain solutions including distribution, warehousing, transportation, material handling, docking and inventory management.

Other returning pavilions include:

• The Processing Zone returns with a wide variety of food and beverage processing equipment. Front-of-the-line solutions such as homogenizing, heat treating, forming/sizing and coating will be on display, along with solutions to increase efficiency, achieve total system integration and ensure safety.
• The Containers and Materials Pavilion will feature innovative containers and materials to meet sustainability goals, refresh a brand or launch new products. It also houses award-nominated packaging solutions in The Showcase of Packaging Innovations, sponsored by WestRock.
• The PACKage Printing Pavilion will feature digital printing and converting, labeling, coding and marking technologies.
• The Reusable Packaging Pavilion will showcase reusable packaging solutions to help reduce waste, cut costs, and gain supply chain efficiency.
• The Association Partner Pavilion will present organizations dedicated to advancing the packaging and processing industry.

Educational sessions

More than 150 educational sessions will offer opportunities to learn about the latest topics and trends in packaging and processing.

These include:

• Three Innovation Stages with 30-minute seminars on breakthrough technologies and techniques.
• The Processing Innovation Stage will focus on the latest food and beverage processing innovations, including food safety, high-pressure pasteurization, sustainability and sanitation.
• Industry Speaks will feature experts from the PACK EXPO International Partner Program, covering multiple industry verticals, address topics such as sustainability, remote access, supply chain solutions, augmented reality and operational efficiency.
• The Reusable Packaging Learning Center will offer solutions for improving material-handling performance, reducing operating costs  and lowering environmental impacts.

Student opportunities

PACK EXPO International also offers targeting students interested in careers in packaging and processing.

• PACK Challenge pits six high school teams in a machine-building showdown. Teams include Argo Community High School, Crete Monee High School, Elk Grove High School, Legacy Academy/Becker High School Coalition, Rich Township High School, and Waterford Union High School.
• The Future Innovators Robotics Showcase features Chicago-area high school robotics teams displaying design, engineering and troubleshooting skills.
• The Amazing Packaging Race invites students from colleges and universities across North America to collaborate to navigate the PACK EXPO International show floor, tackling a series of tasks at exhibitor booths.
• PMMI human resources professionals will host workshops in the Student Lounge on interview best practices and resume writing. On Nov. 5, PMMI will host students from schools in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin at Students PACK the EXPO, featuring a scavenger hunt, tours and a lunch-and-learn session.

Networking events

Networking events will include the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network breakfast, which will address issues facing women in the industry, and the Young Professionals Network.

Awards and recognition

PACK EXPO International will honor innovation and excellence in the industry with two award programs:

• The Technology Excellence Awards will recognize innovative technologies not yet shown at a previous PACK EXPO. Attendees can vote on-site, on an app or online for finalists in specific market segments.
• The Packaging & Processing Hall of Fame will induct four members into the 48th class. Since 1971, the Hall has recognized career packaging and processing professionals for industry contributions.