• Innovation Stage will offer seminars on new technologies, including AI, robotics, and sustainability.
    Innovation Stage will offer seminars on new technologies, including AI, robotics, and sustainability.
Close×

Pack Expo International 2024, taking place from 3-6 November at McCormick Place, Chicago, will offer more than 150 free educational sessions designed to help attendees navigate the evolving trends and challenges in manufacturing. These sessions will focus on the latest strategies and innovations shaping the future of packaging and processing.

Two key new features of this year’s event, Emerging Brands Central and Sustainability Central, will provide targeted insights and practical knowledge.

Emerging Brands Central, located in the West Hall (Booth W-20049), will host 30-minute sessions tailored for up-and-coming brands seeking to expand their operations. Industry experts will offer advice on topics such as packaging machinery and scaling strategies, with additional opportunities for one-on-one consultations with advisors.

Sustainability Central (Booth W-21020) will focus on sustainable packaging innovation. It will cover key themes such as design, extended producer responsibility (EPR), and circularity. Attendees will hear from experts on how to improve their sustainability initiatives and make their brands more eco-friendly. Research from PMMI Business Intelligence, leading universities, and AMERIPEN will also be showcased.

"PACK EXPO International 2024 is not just an exhibition; it's a global hub for innovation and education," said Laura Thompson, vice president of trade shows at PMMI.

The event will also feature several additional stages and pavilions:

  • Innovation Stage in the North Hall (Booths N-4560, N-4580, N-4585) will offer seminars on new technologies, including AI, robotics, and sustainability.
  • Processing Innovation Stage at Lakeside Upper Hall (Booth LU-7147) will focus on food and beverage processing, covering areas such as food safety and sustainability.
  • Industry Speaks (Booth N-4544) will feature experts from various industry verticals addressing trends in AI, automation, and design.
  • Reusable Packaging Learning Center, sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (Booth LU-6737), will provide insights on the role of reusable packaging systems in enhancing supply chain efficiency.

PACK EXPO International 2024 is set to draw over 45,000 attendees and more than 2500 exhibitors, offering a comprehensive platform for learning, networking, and innovation.

For more information and to register, click here.

Food & Drink Business

Calabria Family Wine Group has taken over Australian distribution for House of Fine Wine and The Wine Company – including products from Groupe Bollinger, Villa Maria, and Tahbilk. The company will manage all on‑premise and independent retail distribution nationally.

Entries for the 2026 Hive Awards are open, but the clock is ticking, with 2.5 weeks left to get your entries in – the closing date is 13 March. There are nine awards up for grabs, with three new categories this year – Best Food Product, Best Beverage, and Best NPD.

Suntory Oceania has announced two new three-year partnerships with The Dylan Alcott Foundation in Australia and Recreate NZ in New Zealand, investing more than $450,000 to support young adults living with disability.