The packaging and processing industries are set for an unparalleled experience as PACK EXPO International 2024, the biggest and most diverse event in its history, takes center stage from Nov. 3–6 at McCormick Place, Chicago. With over 1.3 million square feet of exhibition space, the show, produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, will showcase innovations from nearly 2,700 exhibitors serving more than 40 industries, making it the premier destination for anyone in the packaging and processing world.

As the most comprehensive packaging and processing show of the year, PACK EXPO International 2024 will provide attendees with unprecedented access to the latest solutions and technologies. With more than 150 educational sessions and countless networking opportunities, the event is a nexus for professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and business prospects.

With the My Show Planner and the PACK EXPO International mobile app, sponsored by ProMach, Inc., attendees can effortlessly navigate the show, search for products, schedule meetings, and ensure they make the most of this massive event.

Unveiling New Show Features
PACK EXPO International 2024 will introduce several new features and pavilions, enhancing the attendee experience and emphasizing sustainability and innovation:

Sustainability Central (Booth W-21020): This destination will not only highlight advancements in eco-friendly manufacturing but also provide a forum for experts to share the latest breakthroughs in sustainable solutions helping businesses evolve for a greener future.

Emerging Brands Central (Booth W-20049): This feature targets rising brands working to expand their reach and scale operations, offering free access to 30-minute sessions with industry experts who will share insights on product development, packaging innovation, and scaling strategies.

These additions underscore PACK EXPO International’s commitment to driving the industry forward by fostering an environment of learning and innovation. “PACK EXPO International 2024 is set to redefine what an industry event can be,” says Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI. “With solutions for every industry offering focusing on innovation, sustainability and collaboration, we’re breaking records while offering an environment where professionals can discover transformative solutions and foster meaningful partnerships.”

Returning Show Features
This year’s PACK EXPO International delivers more than just scale; it offers an unmatched variety of experiences and opportunities to explore the latest trends across multiple industry sectors. From integrated processing solutions to cutting-edge printing technologies, there’s something for everyone.

The Processing Zone (Lakeside Center, Upper Level): The place to discover integrated solutions for processing to increase efficiency, achieve total system integration, and ensure safety.

The Logistics Pavilion (North Hall): Significantly expanded in response to the surge in e-commerce, this pavilion will address the entire spectrum of the supply chain, from warehousing and distribution to transportation and inventory management.

The PACKage Printing Pavilion (South Hall): Focusing on the latest digital printing technologies, this pavilion will provide insights into cost-effective customization, traceability, and on-demand packaging solutions.

The Healthcare Packaging Pavilion (West Hall): This “show within a show” provides dedicated space for innovations in pharmaceutical and medical packaging, ensuring attendees from life sciences industries find tailored solutions to their specific needs.

The Containers and Materials Pavilion (West Hall): The top show floor destination to find new materials and containers to refresh, enhance, or increase sustainability.

• The Showcase of Packaging Innovations® (Booth W-21030), sponsored by Smurfit WestRock: Award-nominated packaging solutions from around the world will be on display at this show destination located within The Containers and Materials Pavilion.

The Reusable Packaging Pavilion, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (Booth LU-6737): Showcasing sustainable packaging solutions, this pavilion is the place to explore reusable transport packaging products and services and see innovative reuse solutions.

The Confectionery Pavilion, sponsored by the National Confectioners Association (NCA) – (South Hall): Home to the latest trends and technologies relating to aeration, batch refining, shaping, cluster production, and more.

• The Candy Bar Lounge, hosted by NCA and sponsored by Syntegon Packaging Technology, LLC, offers a place for casual interaction and idea sharing. Located within the Confectionery Pavilion in South Hall at Booth S-2682.

Association Partner Pavilion (North Hall): Connects attendees to leading associations from all segments of packaging and processing to share valuable industry knowledge.

A Hub for Professional Growth and Networking
The show will offer 150 educational sessions focusing on critical and timely industry issues taking place at the following interactive stages.

Innovation Stage: Three Innovation Stages present free, 30-minute seminars on breakthrough technologies and techniques focused on a wide range of industry-specific solutions. Located in North Hall at Booths N-4560, N-4580, and N-4585.

Processing Innovation Stage: Focuses on the latest food and beverage processing breakthroughs, including food safety, high-pressure pasteurization, sustainability, and cleaning in 30-minute seminars. Located in the Processing Zone, Lakeside Building, Upper Level.

Industry Speaks: Hear experts from PACK EXPO International Partner Associations, covering multiple industry verticals, address the latest hot topics and industry trends such as sustainability, remote access, supply chain solutions, augmented reality, and operational efficiency. Located in North Hall at Booth N-4544.

Reusable Packaging Learning Center, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association: Discover how implementing a reusable packaging system can improve material-handling performance, reduce operating costs, create new economic values, and lower environmental impacts in your supply chain. Located in the Reusable Packaging Pavilion, Lakeside Building, Upper Level.

Attendees can participate in several networking opportunities to connect with peers while at the show:

Join colleagues for a fun night for a good cause on Monday, Nov. 4 (reception at 4:30 p.m., performance at 5:30 p.m.). Enjoy a great performance by comedian, Nate Bargatze, at PACK gives BACK^TM, sponsored by Rockwell Automation. Tickets are $95 each (or 10 for $855) and proceeds from the event benefit the PMMI Foundation. The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) Breakfast on Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. (West Building, Room W-375) features Lisa Sun, founder & CEO of retail brand and lifestyle company GRAVITAS. All registered attendees of PACK EXPO International are invited to attend this event sponsored by BW Packaging, Emerson Discrete Automation Group, ID Technology, Morrison Container Handling Solutions, PlexPack Corp., Schneider Electric, Septimatech Group Inc., and Syntegon Packaging Technology, LLC. Connect with peers at Flight Club Chicago at PMMI’s Young Professionals Networking Reception, sponsored by Beckhoff Automation LLC., on Monday, Nov. 4 from 7:00-10:00 p.m.

Student Opportunities
PACK EXPO International offers programs and activities aimed at exciting students about careers in packaging and processing.

Girl Scout Event: Local Chicago Girl Scout Troops will receive credit for their Sustainable Packaging Patch. Scouts will meet in the Student Lounge on Sunday, Nov. 3, at 11:00 a.m. for a hands-on project focusing on sustainability. Lunch will be provided followed by a panel and show floor tour from industry professionals.

PACK Challenge, sponsored by PepsiCo, is a real-world, end-to-end competition that brings five high school teams together to showcase collaboration, creativity, innovation, process, design, assembly, programming, debugging, marketing, and field installation. Located in West Hall Lobby at Booth W-16005.

Future Innovators Robotics Showcase, sponsored by Schneider Electric: See Chicago-area high school robotics teams showcase their design, engineering, and troubleshooting skills. Located in West Hall at Booth W-21054.

Amazing Packaging Race, sponsored by Emerson Discrete Automation Group, invites students from colleges and universities across North America to team up to navigate the PACK EXPO International show floor, tackling a series of tasks at the booths of participating exhibitors in a thrilling race taking place on Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 9:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

Student Lounge: PMMI HR professionals will host workshops on interview best practices and resume writing for students attending PACK EXPO International.

Students PACK the EXPO: On Tuesday, Nov. 5, PMMI will host students from local area schools in Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin at PACK EXPO International helping them gain an understanding of the packaging and processing industries.

Silent Auction - Foundation Fundraiser: New this year, support the PMMI Foundation and help shape the future workforce. The PACK EXPO International Silent Auction will impact students through scholarships, trade show travel assistance, and program donations. Auctions will occur Sunday through Wednesday of the show. Bidding will take place virtually and items will be displayed on level 2.5 of the Grand Concourse.

"PACK EXPO International’s student activities are a bridge that connects today's students to tomorrow's workforce, empowering them with the skills, knowledge, and experiences needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world,” says Kate Fiorianti, director, workforce development, PMMI.

Technology Excellence Awards
These awards will recognize the most innovative technologies not yet shown at a previous PACK EXPO. New this year, voting will take place prior to the show opening starting Monday, Oct. 28, and go through noon on Tuesday, Nov. 5, at PACK EXPO International 2024. There are three ways to vote — onsite, on the official show mobile app, and online. The winner of each category will be announced via a press release on Tuesday afternoon at the show.

"PMMI is thrilled to host what is not only the largest PACK EXPO International ever but also the most dynamic," says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. "This year’s show is a testament to our dedication to leading the packaging and processing community through education, innovation, and collaboration."

Join us at PACK EXPO International 2024 for four days of groundbreaking innovations, invaluable networking, and educational opportunities that can transform your business. Don’t miss out on the event of the year that’s set to shape the future of the packaging and processing industries.

For more information and to register, visit packexpointernational.com.