17 Sep PACK EXPO 2026 Chicago: Dates, Tickets, Exhibitors, Technology, Events and More
PACK EXPO International 2026 is one of the most anticipated trade shows of the year. It brings together thousands of packaging and processing professionals from around the world. If you work in packaging, food and beverage, life sciences, or any related field, this event is one you simply cannot afford to miss.
This guide covers everything you need to know — from dates and venue to tickets, exhibitors, technology highlights, and special events. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee, read on to plan your trip effectively.
What Is PACK EXPO International?
PACK EXPO International is the largest packaging and processing trade show in the Americas. It is organized by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. The show happens only once every two years, which makes it a truly special occasion for the industry.
Because it runs on a biennial schedule, professionals from across the globe mark it as a must-attend event. Buyers plan major equipment purchases around it. Companies launch their biggest innovations here. Therefore, attendance carries real business value.
Dates and Venue
PACK EXPO International 2026 takes place from Sunday, October 18 to Wednesday, October 21, 2026. The venue is McCormick Place, Chicago’s iconic convention center, located at 2301 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL 60616.
Below is a quick overview of the daily show hours:
| Date | Day | Hours |
| October 18, 2026 | Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| October 19, 2026 | Monday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| October 20, 2026 | Tuesday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| October 21, 2026 | Wednesday | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
The show floor spans all four buildings at McCormick Place: North, South, West, and Lakeside Center. That is a lot of ground to cover, so planning your visit in advance is strongly recommended.
How to Get Your Tickets
Registration for PACK EXPO International 2026 is open now. The process is simple and can be completed online through the official website.
Here is a breakdown of the registration pricing:
| Registration Type | Price | Deadline |
| Priority Registration | $30 | Through September 25, 2026 |
| Standard Registration | $130 | After September 25, 2026 |
A single badge gives you full access to the entire event. This includes all exhibits, over 150 free educational sessions on the show floor, all pavilions, knowledge-sharing stages, and networking events. Additionally, your badge provides free rides on shuttle buses and the Metra commuter train to McCormick Place.
One important note: children under 14 are not permitted on the show floor. Also, attendee badges will not be mailed. Instead, you pick them up on-site at McCormick Place. You will receive an email confirmation to present at badge pickup.
If you need to justify the cost to your employer, the organizers provide a downloadable justification letter to help you make the case to your supervisor.
Who Attends PACK EXPO?
PACK EXPO International draws a wide and impressive audience. In 2026, the event expects over 48,000 packaging and processing professionals representing more than 40 vertical industries.
Attendees come from a range of sectors, including:
- Food and beverage manufacturing
- Pharmaceutical and life sciences
- Healthcare and medical devices
- Cosmetics and personal care
- Industrial and household products
- E-commerce and logistics
The crowd includes engineers, procurement managers, brand owners, operations leaders, and C-suite executives. This diversity makes the show a powerful place for networking, deal-making, and discovering what competitors are doing.
Exhibitors: Who Will Be There?
One of the biggest draws of PACK EXPO International is the sheer number and variety of exhibitors. The 2026 edition will feature over 2,600 exhibitors, making it the most comprehensive gathering of packaging and processing suppliers in the Western Hemisphere.
Companies on the show floor will display solutions across a wide range of categories, including:
- Packaging machinery and automation
- Processing equipment and systems
- Containers, materials, and sustainable packaging
- Robotics and conveying systems
- Labeling, coding, and marking technology
- End-of-line packaging and logistics systems
From global industry leaders to innovative startups, the exhibitor list covers every part of the supply chain. Attendees can use the official online exhibitor directory or the My Show Planner tool to search for specific companies and book appointments in advance.
Technology Highlights
Technology is at the heart of PACK EXPO International. Visitors can watch live equipment demonstrations on the 2026 show floor and see machines in action instead of just reading about them in a brochure.
Some of the most exciting technology areas to watch at this year’s show include:
Smart packaging solutions, connected manufacturing systems, predictive maintenance tools, and advanced robotics will be prominently featured across the exhibit halls. Attendees can compare solutions side by side to find the best fit for their operations.
Artificial intelligence is playing a growing role in the industry. Expect to see AI-powered quality control systems, AI-driven process optimization platforms, and intelligent automation tools that reduce downtime and improve efficiency.
Sustainable packaging is another major theme. As Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations gain traction globally, companies are under pressure to adopt greener packaging. The show will showcase innovations in recyclable materials, compostable packaging, and circular economy solutions.
Additionally, digital transformation will be a thread running through many exhibits. Industry 4.0 technologies, including real-time data analytics, cloud-connected equipment, and digital twins, will be on display throughout the event.
Show Pavilions and Key Zones
Navigating a show of this size can be overwhelming. Fortunately, PACK EXPO International organizes its exhibit space into dedicated pavilions and themed zones. These help attendees zero in on areas most relevant to their work.
Key pavilions and zones include:
| Pavilion / Zone | Focus Area |
| Healthcare Packaging Pavilion | Medical device and pharmaceutical packaging |
| Containers and Materials Pavilion | Packaging substrates and containers |
| Food and Beverage Processing Zone | Processing equipment and food safety |
| Logistics Zone | Supply chain and end-of-line solutions |
| Association Partner Pavilion | Industry organizations and resources |
| SMB FastTrack Zone | Solutions tailored for small and medium businesses |
The SMB FastTrack program is a new addition in 2026. It highlights exhibitors and educational sessions specifically designed for smaller companies that may not have dedicated teams to evaluate technology on their own.
Educational Sessions and Learning Opportunities
Learning is a major part of the PACK EXPO experience. However, unlike many trade shows where education comes at an extra cost, PACK EXPO International includes over 150 free educational sessions as part of your registration.
These sessions take place at multiple stages across the show floor. They cover topics ranging from automation and robotics to sustainability, AI applications, food safety, and workforce development.
Key learning experiences include:
Innovation Stages — Supplier-led, 30-minute presentations offer practical insights into breakthrough technologies. These sessions are ideal for professionals who want to learn quickly and act fast.
Food and Beverage Processing Innovation Stage — This dedicated stage explores advances in food safety, ultra-high-temperature processing, high-pressure processing, and AI applications in food manufacturing.
Industry Speaks — Expert panels feature PACK EXPO partner program members discussing hot-button topics. Sustainability, cybersecurity, digital transformation, and workforce development are among the topics featured.
Vision 2030 — Exclusive sessions for PMMI members and consumer packaged goods executives look ahead at what is coming next for the industry, from automation to circularity to business strategy.
Networking Events and Special Programs
PACK EXPO International is not just about exhibits and education. It is also one of the best networking events in the packaging world. The show hosts several special events designed to bring professionals together.
Here are some notable events planned for 2026:
A Night Out with PACK gives BACK — This popular evening event combines networking with charitable giving, making it both fun and meaningful.
Packaging and Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) Breakfast — This event supports and celebrates women in the packaging and processing industry. It provides a space for connection, inspiration, and professional development.
Young Professionals Networking Reception — Sponsored by Beckhoff Automation, this reception is tailored to emerging talent in the industry. It is a great opportunity for early-career professionals to connect with peers and mentors.
PACK EXPO Discovery Tours — These curated, expert-led tours help busy professionals navigate the large show floor efficiently. Tours are available for an additional fee and focus on specific areas of the show based on your interests.
Planning Tools for Attendees
With 2,600 exhibitors spread across four buildings, preparation is key. PMMI provides several helpful planning tools to make the most of your time at the show.
My Show Planner is the primary tool. It lets you log in with your registered email, build a personalized schedule, search for exhibitors by product category or keyword, browse educational sessions by day and stage, and request appointments with exhibitors.
The new Visual Category Search feature allows attendees to browse packaging and processing equipment by category in a visually intuitive way. This is especially helpful if you are exploring options outside your usual area of focus.
Sustainability Solutions Finder helps attendees locate exhibitors offering eco-friendly packaging alternatives. This is a useful feature given the growing emphasis on sustainable practices across all industries.
Getting to McCormick Place
McCormick Place is well-connected and easy to reach from most parts of Chicago. Attendees traveling by train can use the Metra commuter rail for free with their PACK EXPO badge. Free shuttle buses are also available from several hotels near the venue.
If you are driving, please be aware of a timing consideration. The Bank of America Chicago Marathon takes place on October 11, 2026, which is one week before the show opens. Road closures from the marathon may affect truck deliveries to the marshalling yard. Exhibitors and freight carriers should plan accordingly.
Several partner hotels near McCormick Place offer convenient accommodation. You can book hotels through the official show website, and many properties offer discounted rates to registered attendees.
Why Attend PACK EXPO International 2026?
There are many trade shows in the packaging world. However, none of them match the scale, scope, and impact of this event. Here is a quick summary of why it stands out:
- It only happens every two years, creating urgency and concentration of demand
- It gathers 48,000 professionals from 40+ industries in one place
- Over 2,600 exhibitors offer live demos of the latest equipment
- 150+ free educational sessions are included in your registration
- Networking events offer genuine relationship-building opportunities
- It covers every part of the packaging and processing ecosystem
Whether you are evaluating new equipment, sourcing sustainable materials, exploring automation options, or simply staying ahead of industry trends, this show delivers on all fronts.
Conclusion
PACK EXPO International 2026 will be a landmark event for the packaging and processing industry. Running from October 18 to 21 at McCormick Place in Chicago, it brings together over 48,000 professionals and more than 2,600 exhibitors under one roof. From smart automation and AI-powered packaging to sustainable materials and workforce development, the show covers every corner of the industry.
Registration is affordable, especially at the priority rate of $30 before September 25, 2026. Your badge unlocks four days of live demos, free educational sessions, networking events, and access to industry-shaping conversations. If you work in packaging, processing, or any related field, this is the event to attend in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is PACK EXPO International 2026?
PACK EXPO International 2026 runs from October 18 to 21, 2026, at McCormick Place, 2301 S. King Drive, Chicago, Illinois.
How much does it cost to register?
Priority registration costs $30 and is available through September 25, 2026. After that date, standard registration increases to $130. Both options include full access to exhibits and educational sessions.
Who organizes PACK EXPO International?
The show is organized by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.
How many exhibitors will be at the 2026 show?
More than 2,600 exhibitors are expected to participate, showcasing machinery, materials, automation, robotics, and processing solutions.
Are there free educational sessions at the show?
Yes. Over 150 educational sessions are included with your registration at no extra charge. Topics include automation, AI, sustainability, food safety, and digital transformation.
