PACK EXPO East, organized by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, concluded its latest event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia from March 18–20, boasting remarkable attendance figures and an expansive showcase of innovations in manufacturing solutions. With 7,977 attendees and a sprawling exhibition occupying 120,000 net square feet of floor space, the event solidified its position as a premier regional gathering for professionals in the packaging and processing industries.

Jim Pittas, President and CEO of PMMI, underscored the significance of PACK EXPO East's sustained growth, emphasizing its role as a pivotal event for packaging and processing professionals in the region. He reiterated the organization's commitment to delivering high-quality experiences tailored to the industry's needs across more than 40 markets.

The show floor, hosting over 500 exhibitors, provided a dynamic environment where machinery and equipment were showcased in action, catering to a diverse array of sectors including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, and personal care. Exhibitors capitalized on the opportunity to present their latest innovations and foster meaningful connections, resulting in promising business prospects and high-quality leads.

Justin LaHayne, area sales manager at First Choice Industrial, LLC, lauded the event for exceeding expectations, citing substantial booth traffic and promising opportunities for market expansion. Similarly, John Holmes, national line integration manager at DTM Packaging, A Massman Company, expressed satisfaction with the show's performance, noting fruitful traction and conversations that align with sales objectives.

Attendees seized the opportunity to explore crossover solutions for their manufacturing needs, from enhancing packaging operations to integrating sustainable practices. Sandy Carreras from La Orocovena Biscuit Inc. highlighted the helpfulness of exhibitors in improving packaging operations, while Jim Blickensdorf from Maytag Dairy Farms expressed interest in updating with end-of-line packaging solutions, finding potential suppliers at the event.

In addition to the exhibition, PACK EXPO East provided educational opportunities through the Innovation Stage and Industry Speaks sessions. Networking events such as the Taste of Philly opening reception and gatherings hosted by the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network and Young Professionals Network facilitated connections and discussions on industry issues.

Laura Thompson, Vice President of Trade Shows at PMMI, emphasized the significance of these networking opportunities in providing attendees with a comprehensive experience unique to PACK EXPO East. The Innovation Stage sessions remain accessible online until April 15, allowing participants to engage in discussions on groundbreaking technologies and innovative applications showcased during the event.

Looking ahead, PACK EXPO International 2024 (November 3-6; McCormick Place, Chicago) emerges as the next innovation epicenter, offering solutions to packaging and processing challenges across various industries. With 2,500 exhibitors and an expected attendance of over 45,000 from global consumer-packaged goods and life sciences companies, the event promises to be the most expansive and all-encompassing packaging and processing industry gathering of 2024.