This year’s PACK EXPO International 2024 will take place Nov. 3-6 at McCormick Place in Chicago. According to show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, the industry’s growth underscores the need for manufacturers to access innovative solutions tailored to their diverse needs. From sustainability initiatives to automation advancements and AI integration, businesses now more than ever seek a central hub to discover solutions, stay abreast of the latest topics and trends, and build impactful connections. 

Anticipation is high for this year’s event, which is poised to surpass previous benchmarks. With more than 2,500 exhibitors occupying 1.3 million net square feet, the show promises solutions catering to more than 40 vertical markets. Expectations also forecast a convergence of more than 45,000 attendees 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,” said Jim Pittas, president and CEO of PMMI, in a statement. “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.” 

The tradeshow also will spotlight sustainability with new and expanded show resources to help brands lessen energy consumption, minimize waste and reduce overall carbon footprint. 

Making its PACK EXPO International debut, Sustainability Central will explore packaging sustainability and what it means to brands. This show floor destination will include expert speakers and a look at actionable, sustainable solutions in manufacturing, materials, recovery, logistics, analytics and design. With more than 20 educational sessions at Sustainability Central, attendees can gain critical insights on various vital topics from experts at Amazon, Conagra, Clorox, Dow, Nestle, the Consumer Brands Association and other major industry players. 

Additionally, Sustainability Central will feature displays from Virginia Tech, the University of Florida, Clemson University, PMMI Business Intelligence, and AMERIPEN among others, sharing their latest planet-friendly innovations, research and best practices. 

For attendees looking to see sustainability-enhancing solutions in action, show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, is expanding resources to help the expected 45,000 attendees efficiently navigate the show’s 2,500 suppliers stretched more than 1.3 million net square feet of exhibition space. 

For advanced online planning, attendees can use the Sustainability Solutions Finder, a professionally vetted and searchable tool, to locate exhibitors with environmentally friendly products and machinery.  

On-site, attendees can look for the PACK EXPO Green icon to identify sustainable materials and machinery suppliers and educational sessions focused on sustainability. A complete list of current PACK EXPO Green exhibitors can be found in the online exhibitor directory. 

“We’ve intentionally partnered with companies, exhibitors, and vendors to integrate sustainability into every component of PACK EXPO International, including educational programming, show features, and how we do business as the largest packaging and processing event this year,” said Laura Thompson, PMMI’s vice president of Trade Shows, in a statement. 

In addition to the new and expanded education and show navigation resources, attendees can expect the return of familiar features and initiatives to support their eco-conscious efforts: 

Sustainability focused educational sessions also will take place at the Innovation Stage, Processing Innovation Stage, and Industry Speaks. 

The Reusable Packaging Pavilion will feature Reusable Packaging Association member companies demonstrating sustainable packaging solutions to help reduce waste, cut costs, and gain supply chain efficiency. Attendees can explore reusable transport packaging products and services and see innovative reuse solutions. 

Sponsored by WestRock, The Showcase of Packaging Innovations, located within the Containers and Materials Pavilion, will display award-winning packaging from around the world. 

Additionally, PMMI is working with Dow, the Official Sustainability Partner and the Official Sponsor of Show Floor Recycling at PACK EXPO International, to minimize the environmental impact of the event to divert as much waste as possible from landfills.