As packaging and processing operations face accelerating technological change, workforce shortages, and rising sustainability demands, PACK EXPO International 2026 (October 18-21, McCormick Place, Chicago, IL) returns at the right time for packaging and processing professionals seeking solutions to these challenges and more.

The show will be the largest in its history, featuring 1.3 million net square feet of exhibit space, more than 2,600 exhibitors, and approximately 48,000 professionals from over 40 vertical markets. The event brings together packaging and processing solutions across numerous industries. These include food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, logistics and supply chain, pet food, processing, personal care and more.

Industry research from show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, highlights why attending PACK EXPO International is more important than ever. According to PMMI’s 2026 Building an AI Advantage in Packaging Equipment white paper, the range of AI applications in packaging equipment has expanded significantly in the past two years, with solutions becoming increasingly affordable and sophisticated. As awareness and proof-of-concept implementations grow, AI is becoming accessible to a wider range of manufacturers and brand owners.

At the same time, the industry continues to face significant workforce challenges. PMMI’s 2025 Inside the Workforce Gap report identifies the shortage of skilled technical workers as one of the most significant barriers facing manufacturers today, a challenge many expect to persist or even worsen in the coming years.

“In the two years since our last show, trends like AI, robotics, and automation have taken off and become prominent in the industry,” says Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI. “We’ve also seen workforce challenges, sustainability demands, and regulatory pressures remain top concerns.”

PACK EXPO International provides an opportunity for attendees to address these challenges first-hand. The show floor will feature thousands of solutions designed to improve productivity, streamline operations, and support evolving industry needs, from automation and AI-driven technologies to sustainability innovations and workforce development tools.

“PACK EXPO International offers brands an opportunity to see thousands of solutions to these pressing industry challenges on the floor in real time, learn from leading industry experts, and utilize their time effectively to come away with tangible results,” Thompson says.

In addition to technology demonstrations, attendees will have access to more than 150 free educational sessions on five different stages located directly on the show floor, providing insight into the industry’s most important topics including the State of the Industry (packaging and processing), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), GS1 Sunrise 2027, recycling, material handling, logistics, supply chain, and more.

New for 26

To support small and medium-sized businesses, PACK EXPO International will introduce the SMB FastTrack program, highlighting exhibitors and educational sessions tailored to the needs of small to medium-sized businesses (SMB).

During the show, PMMI Media Group will host PACK EXPO Discovery Tours, curated expert-led tours designed to help busy professionals efficiently navigate the expansive show floor and discover relevant innovations.

Networking and student resources

Attendees will also benefit from numerous networking opportunities and special events such as A Night Out with PACK gives BACK, the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) Breakfast, and the Young Professionals Networking Reception sponsored by Beckhoff Automation. Gold sponsor for the PPWLN Breakfast includes Morrison Container Handling Solutions. Silver sponsors include BW Packaging, Plexpack Corp., and Septimatech Group Inc.

Students exploring careers in packaging and processing can participate in programs such as the Amazing Packaging Race, PACK Challenge, and the Future Innovators Robotics Showcase.

To help attendees maximize their time at the show, PMMI provides a variety of planning tools, including the new Visual Category search, where attendees can find packaging and processing equipment at the show by category. Also, My Show Planner is a personalized tool for organizing exhibitors, sessions, and meetings before, during, and after the show.

“We know attendees are focused on driving results,” says Thompson. “That’s why PACK EXPO International is both expansive and easy to navigate — from targeted pavilions to programs designed specifically for SMBs. The goal is to help every attendee leave with practical insights, strong connections, and a clear path forward for their business.”