HERNDON, VA. — On April 18, PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, officially opened registration for PACK EXPO International, a global packaging and processing tradeshow to be held November 3 to 6 at McCormick Place in Chicago. The 2024 show floor will feature new sections, education, networking, special events, awards programs, and ways for students to connect and learn about career opportunities in the industry.

As in years past, PACK EXPO International 2024 will offer connection, as well as insight into the latest trends and challenges impacting a wide range of packaging and processing markets, including sustainability, automation and AI.

This year, however, PMMI expects higher-than-average attendance, with more than 45,000 people expected to meet in Chicago. Show organizers anticipate more than 2,500 exhibitors representing more than 40 markets will span 1.3 million square feet of the show floor.

“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 chief executive officer of PMMI. “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.”

Two new pavilions have been added to the show floor this year — Sustainability Central and Emerging Brands Central. Sustainability Central will present environmentally friendly solutions ranging from manufacturing to logistics, and expert speakers will grace the Sustainability Stage with insights into these solutions. Emerging Brands Central will be a hub for early-stage companies looking to grow and scale. This new section is a product of PMMI’s recent Emerging Brands Summit, and will include a stage of its own for industry experts to share insights about product development, packaging innovation and scaling strategies, according to PMMI.

Additionally, the Logistics Pavilion has been significantly expanded since the 2022 show. This year’s Logistics Pavilion will be four-times bigger and will highlight supply chain solutions serving the e-commerce boom.

These three new-and-improved sections of the show floor join existing pavilions, including: Processing Zone, Containers and Materials Pavilion, The Showcase of Packaging Innovations® sponsored by WestRock, PACKage Printing Pavilion, Healthcare Packaging Pavilion, Reusable Packaging Pavilion, Confectionary Pavilion, Association Partner Pavilion, and Workforce Pavilion.

In addition to these new pavilions, PACK EXPO International 2024 will also feature more than 150 educational sections throughout the show floor. These will take place across several themed stages: Innovation Stages, Processing Innovation Stage, Industry Speaks, and Reusable Packaging Learning Center.

Industry professionals will also have the chance to network and participate in PACK EXPO’s Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network, sponsored by BW Packaging, Emerson, ID Technology, Morrison Container Handling Solutions, Plexpack Corp. and Septimatech, as well as the Young Professionals Network, sponsored by Beckhoff Automation LLC.

PMMI will host its annual benefit event, PACK gives BACK™, sponsored by Rockwell Automation. The event will include a comedy performance by Nate Bargatze.

Additionally, students will have several opportunities to engage with PACK EXPO International 2024 through the PACK Challenge, a machine-building competition involving students from six high school teams; the Future Innovators Robotics Showcase, highlighting robotics teams from Chicago-area high schools; The Amazing Packaging Race, a scavenger-hunt-type activity where student teams complete tasks at booths across the show floor, sponsored by Emerson; and workshops held at the Student Lounge, including interview prep and resume writing assistance. Students from Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin are also invited to participate in Students PACK the EXPO on Nov. 5, where they will gain industry knowledge through various activities and sessions.

Read more about PACK EXPO International 2024 and how to register.

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