PACK EXPO International 2024 opens doors to biggest show in event history

PACK EXPO International 2024, the largest and most anticipated packaging and processing event in the world this year, opened its doors yesterday at McCormick Place, Chicago. Taking place Nov. 3–6, this record-breaking event spans an impressive 1.3 million square feet and brings together 2,700 exhibitors, providing solutions for attendees from more than 40 vertical markets. As the largest PACK EXPO to date and the largest event hosted at McCormick Place this year, the show offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the latest innovations in packaging, processing, and automation.

In the face of global economic pressures, the packaging machinery industry has shown resilience and adaptability. According to the newly released State of the Industry: US Packaging Machinery report, produced by show organizer, PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, the U.S. packaging machinery market is projected to reach $11.1 billion in 2024, driven by automation and sustainability. Industry growth is expected to peak in 2027, with a continued focus on innovative solutions to meet evolving consumer and regulatory demands.

Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI, said: PACK EXPO International is the epicenter of packaging and processing innovation. Despite economic challenges, the industry’s commitment to automation, sustainability, and efficiency is stronger than ever. This year’s show is a testament to how the industry is shaping the future. Attendees will have the chance to experience cutting-edge technologies that are revolutionizing the packaging and processing sectors.

Attendees will find PACK EXPO International 2024 packed with exciting new features designed to inspire, educate, and connect industry professionals. With so many innovations and exclusive experiences, here’s why you can’t afford to miss this year’s event:

• Sustainability Central (Booth W-21020): In its Chicago debut, Sustainability Central takes an in-depth look at packaging sustainability. Attendees can engage with industry experts, explore actionable solutions, and discover how brands are adapting to sustainable practices across the supply chain.
• Technology Excellence Awards: Vote for the most innovative technologies not seen at previous PACK EXPO shows. Finalists from four key categories — Food/Beverage, General Packaging, Personal Care/Pharma, and Sustainability — will be displayed throughout the show, with winners announced on Nov. 5.
  
• Emerging Brands Central (Booth W-20049): Designed for emerging companies ready to scale, this educational hub offers free sessions with industry leaders on topics ranging from product development to packaging innovation.
• PACK Challenge (Booth W-16005): Sponsored by PepsiCo, this end-to-end machine-building competition invites students to design, build, and market a functional packaging machine. It’s a thrilling showcase of creativity and engineering for the next generation of packaging professionals.
  
• Industry-Specific Pavilions: Explore seven pavilions including the expanded Logistics Pavilion (now four times larger than 2022), the Healthcare Packaging Pavilion, the Processing Zone, the PACKage Printing Pavilion, the Containers and Materials Pavilion, the Confectionery Pavilion, and the Reusable Packaging Pavilion — each offering tailored solutions for different industry needs.

Over 150 education sessions across eight stages will deliver unparalleled insights into the hottest industry topics. From the Sustainability Central Stage to the Processing Innovation Stage, attendees can dive into breakthrough technologies, best practices, and trends shaping the future of packaging.

Pittas adds: Attending PACK EXPO International isn’t just about seeing new products — it’s about discovering new ideas and strategies to drive your business forward. With hundreds of innovations on display, interactive workshops, and expert-led sessions, there’s no better place to keep your finger on the pulse of the packaging and processing industries.

Networking is key to making the most of your PACK EXPO International experience. Attendees can take advantage of exclusive networking events like PACK gives BACK^TM (sponsored by Rockwell Automation) featuring comedian Nate Bargatze, the Young Professionals Networking Reception (sponsored by Beckhoff Automation), the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Breakfast featuring keynote speaker Lisa Sun of lifestyle brand GRAVITAS, and the First-Time Attendee Breakfast(sponsored by ProMach). These events provide attendees with invaluable opportunities to meet industry leaders, build connections, and share insights.

Navigate the show with ease using the PACK EXPO International Mobile App, sponsored by ProMach. The app offers an interactive map, exhibitor search, and personalized agendas. Sync it with your My Show Planner to keep track of must-see booths, educational sessions, and networking events.

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this year’s largest packaging and processing event. PACK EXPO International is open now through Wednesday, Nov. 6. Registration is $130 and available both on-site and online at packexpointernational.com.

This article was originally published by PMMI.