TIPA: What to expect at Pack Expo International 2026

PACK EXPO International returns to Chicago from October 18 to 21, 2026, bringing the packaging and processing industry together at McCormick Place.

Held every two years, PACK EXPO International is the largest packaging and processing trade show in the Americas. The 2026 edition is expected to welcome approximately 48,000 professionals and 2,600 exhibitors, with solutions serving more than 40 industries across 1.3 million net square feet of exhibition space.

The event provides an opportunity to explore packaging materials, processing equipment, automation, printing, labeling, logistics and supply chain technologies in one location. Visitors can see machinery in operation, compare solutions and speak directly with experts about their specific packaging requirements.

PACK EXPO International is designed for professionals involved in packaging development, manufacturing, operations, procurement, sustainability, research and development, brand management and supply chain strategy. It is particularly valuable for brands and manufacturers seeking solutions that balance product protection, operational performance and sustainability goals.

PACK EXPO Chicago 2026 Agenda

The PACK EXPO International agenda combines four days of exhibitions with more than 150 educational sessions held across multiple stages on the show floor.

The exhibition will be open during the following hours:

• Sunday, October 18: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Monday, October 19: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, October 20: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, October 21: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Educational sessions will address topics including packaging materials, automation, digitalization, operational efficiency and sustainability. Thirty-minute presentations on the Innovation Stage will give visitors concise insights into new packaging and processing technologies, while Sustainability Central will provide a dedicated space for exploring environmental challenges and solutions across the packaging value chain.

With thousands of exhibitors spread across the North, South, West, and Lakeside Center buildings, planning ahead is essential. Visitors should use the official My Show Planner and PACK EXPO mobile app to identify priority exhibitors, educational sessions and meeting locations before arriving.

What TIPA Will Showcase at PACK EXPO International 2026

At PACK EXPO International 2026, TIPA will showcase its portfolio of certified compostable flexible packaging solutions. Visitors will be able to explore films, laminates, pre-made packaging and compostable zipper solutions designed for applications including snacks, baked goods, dry foods and nuts, tea and coffee, pet food and treats, fresh produce and fashion.

TIPA’s solutions are designed to provide the barrier protection, sealability, durability and machinability expected from conventional flexible plastic while offering a responsible end of life. At the booth, brands, converters and retailers can meet with TIPA’s experts to discuss home and industrially compostable solutions, different barrier levels, packaging formats and compatibility with existing production lines.

Meet TIPA at PACK EXPO International Chicago 2026

Visit TIPA at booth W-47052 to see our certified compostable packaging solutions firsthand and discuss the right materials, formats and performance requirements for your products.

Schedule a meeting with our team in advance to make the most of your time at PACK EXPO International Chicago 2026.

Impressions from PACK EXPO International 2024

At PACK EXPO International 2024, TIPA presented an expanded portfolio of certified compostable flexible packaging solutions designed to address applications traditionally served by hard-to-recycle conventional plastic.

The event also provided a platform for broader conversations about the development of the compostable packaging market in North America. TIPA’s discussions at the show addressed legislative changes, collection systems, industry education and the role of high-performance materials in enabling brands to transition to compostable packaging.

These conversations demonstrated that sustainable packaging decisions require more than replacing one material with another. Brands must consider performance, machinery compatibility, certifications, consumer communication and the waste-management systems available after use.

This article was originally published by TIPA.