PACK EXPO International 2026 (Chicago, 18-21 October 2026)
About this event
PACK EXPO International 2026 is the largest packaging and processing trade show in the Americas, bringing together more than 2,600 exhibitors and professionals from over 40 industry sectors. The event showcases the latest packaging machinery, processing equipment, materials, automation technologies, robotics, logistics solutions, and manufacturing innovations. It serves as a central meeting point for decision-makers seeking to improve operational efficiency, discover new technologies, and evaluate suppliers.
The exhibition takes place from October 18–21, 2026, at McCormick Place in Chicago. Exhibits span all major halls of the convention center, creating one of the largest industrial trade show environments in the world. The event attracts approximately 48,000 attendees from packaging, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, life sciences, retail, logistics, and industrial manufacturing sectors.
Why Attend
1. See technology in action
Unlike online research or catalog browsing, PACK EXPO allows visitors to watch machinery operate live, compare competing solutions side-by-side, and discuss technical requirements directly with manufacturers and engineers.
2. Access a massive supplier network
With more than 2,600 exhibitors covering every stage of the packaging and processing lifecycle, attendees can evaluate equipment, materials, components, automation systems, and emerging technologies in one location
3. Learn from industry experts
The show offers free educational sessions, innovation stages, and expert-led presentations covering trends, best practices, sustainability initiatives, automation, AI, and operational efficiency improvements.
4. Network across industries
Professionals from more than 40 vertical markets attend, creating opportunities to exchange ideas, discover cross-industry innovations, and build valuable business relationships.
5. Explore specialty pavilions
Dedicated areas focus on specific technologies, materials, logistics, food and beverage processing, containers, and other specialized sectors, making it easier to find targeted solutions.
6. Industry reputation
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Packaging professionals frequently describe the Chicago edition as the flagship PACK EXPO event and recommend it as the most comprehensive show in the series due to its scale, exhibitor count, and international reach.
About Chcago
Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States and one of North America's premier convention destinations. Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, the city combines world-class business infrastructure with renowned architecture, cultural attractions, and a vibrant culinary scene.
Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Millennium Park, Cloud Gate ("The Bean"), Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the scenic Chicago Riverwalk. The city is also famous for its architecture cruises, museums, jazz clubs, and deep-dish pizza.
For international visitors, Chicago offers excellent connectivity through O'Hare International Airport and a comprehensive public transportation system, making it easy to travel between hotels, attractions, and the convention center.
The combination of a massive international trade show, extensive networking opportunities, and one of America's most dynamic cities makes PACK EXPO International 2026 a valuable destination for packaging and processing professionals worldwide.