Edited by Erin Judge, managing editor, PostPress

As packaging and processing operations face accelerating technological change, workforce shortages and rising sustainability demands, PACK EXPO International 2026 (Oct. 18-21, McCormick Place, Chicago) 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 industries including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, logistics and supply chain, pet food, processing, personal care and more.

“In the two years since our last show, trends like AI, robotics and automation have taken off and become prominent in the industry,” said 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 a unique opportunity for attendees to address these challenges firsthand. 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.

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 and supply chain.

The Foil & Specialty Effects Association (FSEA) will be present in booth N-4484, where Executive Director Jeff Peterson will be available to connect with current members and share the benefits of the association with prospective members.

Additionally, the “Showcase of Packaging Innovations”exhibit, which features winning entries from worldwide packaging competitions, will include a display of all packaging-related winners from this year’s FSEA Gold Leaf Awards. The display provides outstanding exposure for both the winning companies and FSEA, reaching the thousands of attendees who visit the Showcase throughout the three-day event.

“PACK EXPO International provides an excellent opportunity for FSEA to have extended conversations with brand managers and brand marketers on the power of print embellishments for packaging,” commented Peterson. “It’s a great platform to share information on sustainability and the recyclability of fiber-based materials with metallic decoration as well as studies we have published on the impact of embellishments on shelf presence.” 

To learn more, visit www.packexpointernational.com.  
Register for free using code 94B32.