PACK EXPO Las Vegas celebrates 30 years of innovation

PACK EXPO Las Vegas, one of North America’s most comprehensive packaging and processing events is celebrating a milestone: 2025 marks 30 years since the show’s debut. Today, PACK EXPO Las Vegas continues to be a global hub for industry innovation and collaboration.

Show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, has elevated PACK EXPO Las Vegas from a regional trade show to a global industry force—expanding its scale, influence, and relevance across international markets. This year, the show will span over 1 million net square feet, feature 2,300 exhibitors, and expects to attract 35,000 attendees from more than 40 vertical markets.

Since its launch in 1995, each show edition has introduced cutting-edge technologies, from the earliest automation solutions to today’s advances in AI, robotics, and sustainable packaging solutions. PACK EXPO Las Vegas has been at the forefront of innovations over the past 30 years, and continues to evolve like the industry it serves. For example:

• In 2015, the show brought a new focus on pharmaceutical and medical device manufacturing, eventually growing into today’s Healthcare Packaging Pavilion and highlighting the show’s diversification into specialized sectors.
• The growing demand for logistics solutions, driven by the surge in e-commerce and supply chain complexities, led to the introduction of the Logistics Pavilion in 2023.
• The Processing Zone, featuring front-of-the-line solutions, and the Processing Innovation Stage, were added to provide everything food and beverage manufacturers need to improve production, all in one place.
• Las Vegas has become a destination where the entire industry converges, thanks to the addition of the Industry Speaks learning stage, where thought leaders from the PACK EXPO Las Vegas Partner Program provide valuable insights and resources to their peers.
• Sustainability Central debuted in 2023 and has evolved into a must-visit show floor destination with educational sessions covering sustainability, one of the most multifaceted challenges the packaging and processing industry faces today. Expert-led sessions will help attendees navigate the complexities of this issue and what it means for their brands.

Also, in 2025, two new guided show floor tours will offer attendees curated experiences. The PACK EXPO Discovery Tours, sponsored by Formic, are ideal for first-time buyers and senior-level decision-makers looking for automation solutions to streamline and optimize various stages of packaging and processing. The PACK EXPO Sustainability Tour, sponsored by Anchor Packaging, is tailored for consumer packaged goods (CPG) brand owners seeking eco-conscious solutions.

PMMI will proudly honor the PMMI Member Companies that were part of the inaugural 1995 show and continue to exhibit today by highlighting each company with a special PMMI legacy member exhibitor placard in their booths. A complete list of these members can be found here. Their support has helped shape the legacy of innovation and excellence that defines this industry and the continued growth of PACK EXPO Las Vegas.

Beyond the exhibits, PACK EXPO Las Vegas offers more than 100 free educational sessions on the show floor and eight specialty pavilions covering healthcare, confectionery, containers and materials, processing, logistics, education and workforce development, industry association partners, and reusable packaging.

Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI, said: PACK EXPO Las Vegas has always been more than a trade show—it’s where the future of packaging and processing takes shape. For 30 years, we’ve been proud to drive innovation, foster collaboration, and spotlight the technologies shaping tomorrow’s supply chains. As we look ahead, we remain focused on the forces transforming our industry: automation, AI, sustainability, and workforce development.

Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI, said: As the industry accelerates toward smarter, more sustainable operations, PACK EXPO Las Vegas remains the one place where it all comes together—technology, insight, and community. This year’s show reflects the momentum we’re seeing across the market, with record participation and unmatched opportunities to learn, connect, and grow.

The show is also a prime opportunity to build relationships that drive business growth. From targeted events to unforgettable experiences, the show brings people together across all levels of the industry. Attendees can enjoy a private Cirque du Soleil® performance of Mystère at PACK gives BACK™, sponsored by Rockwell Automation, supporting the PMMI Foundation. Join the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Breakfast—backed by Gold Sponsors ProMach, Inc. and Morrison Container Handling Solutions, plus Plexpack, SMC, Smurfit Westrock, Emerson, BW Packaging, Septimatech, and PMMI Benefactor Sponsor Schneider Electric. This inspiring breakfast is for anyone who seeks to connect with like-minded professionals and supports the advancement of women in the industry. Future leaders in packaging and processing can connect with their peers and other industry trailblazers at the Young Professionals Networking Reception, sponsored by Beckhoff Automation, at the Cove Bar & Arcade. Newcomers also benefit from the First-Time Attendee Lounge, sponsored by ProMach, Inc., a dedicated space offering guidance and networking, ensuring everyone leaves with valuable connections. Additional networking and special events can be found here.

Attendee registration for PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025 is open at packexpolasvegas.com. Registration is $30 through Sept. 5, after which the price increases to $130.

This article was originally published by PMMI.