PACK EXPO International 2026 Highlights Packaging Automation
The Chicago show brought together around 43,000 attendees and more than 2,700 exhibitors, highlighting robotics, automation and packaging materials.
Published by Herris: 2 November 2026 · Original report: 29 October 2026
What happened
PACK EXPO International took place at McCormick Place in Chicago from 18 to 21 October 2026. A 29 October recap by MEAT+POULTRY reported around 43,000 attendees and more than 2,700 exhibitors.
The show featured robotics, artificial intelligence-assisted automation, processing equipment, packaging machinery and sustainable packaging materials. These technologies illustrated current directions in packaging and processing investment.
Why it matters
Herris editorial analysis: Automation makes the compatibility of packaging materials with production equipment an important purchasing consideration. Casing consistency, film handling and reliable sealing should be evaluated in actual production conditions.
What to watch next
Herris editorial analysis: Follow commercial applications of the equipment shown and discuss line requirements with customers. Exhibition activity alone does not establish confirmed orders or a measured increase in demand.
Original source
MEAT+POULTRY: PACK EXPO showcases processing, automation growth — Kimberlie Clyma, 29 October 2026. The original article credits its event photograph to PMMI; the separately licensed venue photograph above is used here.
