PACK EXPO International

Registration Support

Registration Inquiries

Daniel Smith

Exhibit Sales Manager

Patrick Bradley

National Accounts Manager

Gatwiri Muthara

Senior Manager of Public Relations

What's on

Programme

Innovation Stage

Vision 2030

Event days

07:30–13:30

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Nicole Malachowski

Keynote Speaker, Colonel, USAF (Ret.) @ U.S. Air Force (Ret.)

Keynote address at the Packaging and Processing Women's Leadership Network Breakfast

David McKelvey

Head of Product, Blow Moulding Technologies @ Blow Moulding Technologies (BMT)

Predictive Models for Smarter Results: One Digital Workflow for Blow Molding

Prabu Gokulanandam

MODSIM Industry Process Consultant Director, North America @ Dassault Systèmes

Predictive Models for Smarter Results: One Digital Workflow for Blow Molding

Dan Felton

President & CEO @ Flexible Packaging Association (FPA)

Presentation during the show

Sunday, Oct 18, 2026

11:30 – 13:30

Securing the Line: Managing Cybersecurity in Packaging and Processing Operations

Vision 2030

Monday, Oct 19, 2026

07:30 – 09:30

From Specs to Success: Aligning OEMs and CPGs

Vision 2030

11:00 – 11:30

Predictive Models for Smarter Results: One Digital Workflow for Blow Molding

Innovation Stage

Innovation StageNorth Hall

Tuesday, Oct 20, 2026

11:30 – 13:30

From Stop to Strategy: Turning Downtime Data into Operational Improvement

Vision 2030

Wednesday, Oct 21, 2026

12:30 – 13:00

Flexible Packaging That WOWs Consumers: Material That Excites, Surprises, and Delights

Innovation Stage

Topic tracks

Innovation StageFood & Beverage Processing Innovation StageSustainability CentralIndustry SpeaksReusable Packaging Learning CenterVision 2030

Awards

CPG NexGen Awards

Annual

The 1st annual CPG NexGen Awards honors 10 exceptional young professionals from consumer packaged goods (CPG)/end-user companies who are making an impact in packaging and processing. Honorees receive a fully hosted VIP experience at PACK EXPO International, including complimentary registration, roundtrip airfare, 3-night hotel stay, and recognition throughout the show

Emerging Leader

Technology Excellence Awards

Annual

Spotlights breakthrough innovations shaping the future of packaging and processing. Open exclusively to exhibitors at PACK EXPO International 2026. Three finalists are selected in each category (Food/Beverage, General Packaging & Processing, Sustainability) and featured in a promotional campaign

Food/Beverage BreakthroughGeneral Packaging & ProcessingSustainability

Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards

Annual

Presented by the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) at PACK EXPO International. Recognizes leadership, measurable impact, and innovation in reusable packaging. Categories include Design Innovation Award and Product Technology Award, exclusive to RPA member companies

Design InnovationProduct Technology

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 48,000 visitors · 2,600 exhibitors

Pre-show organiser figures. PACK EXPO International states 2,600 exhibitors on the event site, while organiser releases describe more than 2,600 exhibitors, about 48,000 attendees and 1.3 million net sq ft. The floor area converts to approximately 120,774 sq m. Final post-show figures are not yet available.

Forecast — not final

Visitors

48,000

Exhibitors

2,700

Floor area (sqm)

122,632

Growth over time

Edition recap

PACK EXPO International 2024 ran Nov. 3-6 at McCormick Place in Chicago and closed with 48,000 attendees plus 29,500 exhibitor personnel, for 77,500 total attendance. A record 2,700 exhibitors occupied 1.32 million net square feet.

Compared with 2022, international attendance rose 19%, exhibit space increased 10%, and exhibitor count increased 24%. The show featured seven pavilions, debuted Sustainability Central and Emerging Brands Central, and drew nearly 3,000 people to PACK gives BACK.

Attendee and exhibitor feedback highlighted practical solution discovery, face-to-face customer conversations, qualified leads, networking, and ideas for automation, sustainability, and operational improvement.

New this edition

1
SMB FastTrack
New for 2026, this program highlights exhibitors and educational sessions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses.
Source
2
PACK EXPO Discovery Tours
New expert-led show-floor tours help attendees navigate the large exhibition efficiently, compare technologies, see live demonstrations and identify relevant suppliers.
Source
3
Visual Category Search
A new planning tool lets attendees find packaging and processing equipment at the show by category.
Source
4
CPG NexGen Awards
Launched in 2026, the awards recognize 10 professionals age 35 and under from CPG or end-user companies, with selected honorees receiving a hosted PACK EXPO International 2026 experience.
Source
5
Next-Gen Reuse Corridor
New for 2026 within the Reusable Packaging Pavilion, this dedicated section focuses on scalable primary-packaging reuse and refill systems already operating in real-world settings.
Source

Testimonials

I love coming to PACK EXPO International to network and find new packaging materials
Rachel Hark · Packaging Engineer · Catalent Pharma Solutions · 2024

We're connecting with high-quality leads
Conrad Lilleness · CEO · Conduit · 2024

Next edition outlook

2026-10-18 – 2026-10-21

high

PACK EXPO International 2026 is on track to be the largest in history, with 1.3 million net square feet of exhibit space, over 2,600 exhibitors, and approximately 48,000 professionals expected. The show continues to evolve from a packaging-focused event into a comprehensive destination for both packaging and processing professionals. New features for 2026 include the SMB FastTrack program, PACK EXPO Discovery Tours, and the first-ever Next-Gen Reuse Corridor. Industry trends such as AI, robotics, automation, and sustainability are expected to remain dominant

Continued growth in processing-focused exhibitors and attendees, reflecting the show's expansion beyond packaging Greater integration of AI-driven solutions and predictive maintenance technologies across all exhibit categories Increased emphasis on sustainability and circularity, with more exhibitors showcasing recyclable, compostable, and reusable solutions Expansion of workforce development initiatives to address ongoing labor shortages Growing participation from small and medium-sized businesses, supported by the SMB FastTrack program

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

PACK EXPO International 2024 was the largest packaging and processing show in history, setting new records for attendance, exhibitors, and exhibit space. The event drew 77,500 total participants (48,000 attendees and 29,500 exhibitor personnel) to McCormick Place in Chicago, with international attendance increasing 19% over 2022 The show featured 2,700 exhibitors occupying 1.32 million net square feet, making it the biggest event at McCormick Place that year. PMMI President and CEO Jim Pittas noted that the show 'has not only grown in scale but also in substance, attracting attendees and exhibitors from every corner of the industry.'- 11 The 2024 edition demonstrated the industry's resilience and commitment to innovation, with a 10% increase in exhibit space and 24% increase in exhibitors compared to 2022 Sustainability initiatives were a major highlight, with a collaborative effort between Dow, PMMI, McCormick Place, and Independent Recycling Services diverting 284.88 tons of waste from landfills—achieving a 51% diversion rate—while conserving nearly 2 million gallons of water and over 1 million kWh of electricity

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

The 2024 edition attracted a high-quality, decision-making audience. Two out of every three attendees make or influence purchasing decisions. The show drew professionals from over 40 vertical markets, including food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and consumer goods. Attendees included engineers, plant managers, R&D professionals, and C-level executives from major companies such as Catalent Pharma Solutions, Hallmark, Colgate-Palmolive, and Plexus. International attendance increased 19% over 2022, reflecting the show's global reach. First-time attendees and emerging brands gave the event high marks, with one noting it was 'a really great show' with 'so much innovation all under one roof.'- 11 The show also featured robust networking events, including the Young Professionals Networking Reception, PACK gives BACK concert (attended by nearly 3,000 people), and the Packaging & Processing Women's Leadership Network breakfast

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors reported strong sales leads and valuable face-to-face interactions with customers. Jonathan Titterton, CEO of Coesia North America, stated: 'PACK EXPO International is a very important packaging show for our business in the U.S. market and the automation industry. We appreciate the opportunity to discuss with our customers face-to-face how customized solutions are helping them with greater flexibility, efficiency, and productivity.'- 21 The show's scale and quality drew exhibitors from across the industry, with a 24% increase in exhibitor numbers over 2022 PMMI Vice President of Trade Shows Laura Thompson noted: 'It's not just the size of our show which draws people in – it's the quality.'- 11 The presence of live machinery demonstrations and side-by-side technology comparisons enabled exhibitors to showcase their innovations effectively and generate qualified leads

Intelligence

Exhibitors

2,666

Exhibitors

Top exhibitor countries

Top 10 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.

United States
1,901
China
153
Canada
127
Italy
85
India
71
Germany
38
South Korea
30
Taiwan
20
United Kingdom
19
Spain
18

~71% of listed exhibitors are from United States.

Category breakdown

2,666Exhibitors

1~823

estimate

2~705

estimate

3~198

estimate

National pavilions

United States

~1,901 stands

estimate

China

~153 stands

estimate

Canada

~127 stands

estimate

Italy

~85 stands

estimate

India

~71 stands

estimate

Germany

~38 stands

estimate

South Korea

~30 stands

estimate

Taiwan

~20 stands

estimate

United Kingdom

~19 stands

estimate

Spain

~18 stands

estimate

Brazil

~18 stands

estimate

Mexico

~16 stands

estimate

France

~15 stands

estimate

Netherlands

~15 stands

estimate

Switzerland

~14 stands

estimate

Official pavilions

Containers and Materials Pavilion

Officially Confirmed

Hall West Building · Coord. PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

Confectionery Pavilion

Officially Confirmed

Hall South Building · Coord. National Confectioners Association

PACKage Printing Pavilion

Officially Confirmed

Hall West Building · Coord. PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

Healthcare Packaging Pavilion

Officially Confirmed

Hall West Building · Coord. PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

Logistics Pavilion

Officially Confirmed

Hall North Building · Coord. PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

Reusable Packaging Pavilion

Officially Confirmed

Hall Lakeside Center, Upper Level · Coord. Reusable Packaging Association (RPA)

Food & Beverage Processing Zone

Officially Confirmed

Hall Lakeside Center Upper Level · Coord. PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

Buyer targets

High priority

Buyers sourcing

Packaging & Processing Suppliers (profile Pending)

Buyers sourcing

General Packaging & Processing Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Other Packaging & Processing Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Flexible Packaging, Film & Pouch Machinery Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Weighing, Batching & Dosing Equipment Suppliers

Medium priority

Buyers sourcing

Conveying, Feeding & Material Handling Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Packaging Machinery & Integrated Line Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Cartoning, Case Packing & End-of-Line Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Labeling, Coding & Product Identification Suppliers

Buyers sourcing

Sustainability, Recycling & Waste Reduction Suppliers

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

North America (Global)

Why it matters

PACK EXPO International 2026 arrives at a pivotal moment for the packaging and processing industry. The sector faces accelerating technological change, workforce shortages, and rising sustainability demands. In the two years since the last show, trends like AI, robotics, and automation have taken off and become prominent-. The show provides a unique opportunity for attendees to address these challenges firsthand, with thousands of solutions designed to improve productivity, streamline operations, and support evolving industry needs. Processing in particular has grown at PACK EXPO International, as what was once North America's premier packaging trade show has truly become the one-stop event for both packaging and processing professionals. Two out of every three attendees make or influence purchasing decisions, and 74 of the top 100 food and beverage companies and 21 of the top 25 pharmaceutical companies send buying teams. The show also serves as a vital networking hub and a launchpad for new technologies, with new features including the SMB FastTrack program and PACK EXPO Discovery Tours designed to help attendees navigate the massive show floor and find relevant solutions efficiently

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

AI, Robotics, and Automation Move from Experimentation to Industrial Reality

Artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation have evolved from experimental concepts to everyday operational tools. AI is being used to share knowledge, predict maintenance needs, meet regulations, and make data easier to understand. Robotics and automation are expanding quickly across packaging lines, helping reduce labor dependence and improve throughput in case packing, palletizing, and pick-and-place applications. According to PMMI's Laura Thompson, 'In the two years since our last show, trends like AI, robotics, and automation have taken off and become prominent in the industry'

Sustainability Reaches a New Level of Maturity

Sustainable packaging remains a major focus, with increased demand for recyclable, compostable, and lightweight solutions. At interpack 2026, sustainability reached a new level of maturity, with material innovations, mono-material solutions and fiber-based alternatives meeting practical requirements at scale. Regulatory frameworks such as Europe's PPWR are becoming more tangible, making sustainability more binding and measurable. Manufacturers are prioritizing packaging designs that support circular economy goals while maintaining shelf appeal and product protection

Flexible and Modular Packaging Equipment on the Rise

Flexible packaging formats such as pouches, flow wraps, and stick packs continue to gain market share due to their efficiency, convenience, and reduced material usage. Manufacturers are seeking modular and quick-change packaging systems that enable faster changeovers, shorter production runs, and greater SKU variability. Equipment flexibility is becoming essential for meeting market demand as production runs become shorter and more varied

Smart Packaging, Traceability, and Digitalization

Connected packaging solutions, including QR codes and digital labeling, are helping improve traceability, compliance, and consumer engagement while supporting transparency initiatives. Digitalization and Industry 4.0 integration are becoming standard, with connected processing equipment, data analytics, and real-time monitoring tools improving visibility into performance, efficiency, and quality control. Predictive maintenance technologies are helping facilities reduce unplanned downtime by identifying issues before failures occur

Regulatory Pressure Driving Materials Innovation

Regulatory requirements are pushing packaging producers toward fiber-based materials, mono-material structures and lightweight packaging solutions. According to interpack show director Thomas Dohse, three major themes are consistently emerging: integration of AI and automation, the impact of regulatory change—particularly Europe's PPWR—and accelerating development of alternative packaging materials. Materials innovation is highly visible, with more than 1,000 exhibitors at interpack 2026 focused on packaging materials

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

Matrix Showcasing Integrated Packaging Line at PACK EXPO 2026

PACK EXPO International 2026 Brings Packaging and Processing Innovation to Life

Yangi to Showcase Cellera Dry-Forming Platform at PACK EXPO International 2026

PACK EXPO International Grows to Record 1.3M Sq Ft

AI, Automation, and Sustainability Lead Packaging and Processing Trends

Global Packaging and Processing Trade Show Circuit (2026–2027)

October 2026 – September 2027

PACK EXPO International 2026 is the flagship North American event in a global circuit of packaging and processing trade shows. The biennial event alternates with PACK EXPO Las Vegas (2027) and is complemented by regional PACK EXPO shows (East, Southeast) and EXPO PACK shows in Mexico. Globally, interpack in Düsseldorf (triennial, held May 2026) is the largest worldwide, while regional events like ProPak in Asia, Empack in Europe, and FachPack in Germany serve specific markets. This circuit offers buyers and exhibitors year-round opportunities to connect, compare solutions, and stay current with industry trends across multiple regions and formats

7–13 May 2026

interpack 2026

Düsseldorf, Germany

Held triennially. Drew 2,804 exhibitors from 65 countries and trade visitors from 161 nations-. Spans ~300,000 sqm net exhibition space. More than 70% of exhibitors and visitors come from outside Germany. Official Hot Topics: Smart Manufacturing, Innovative Materials and Future Skills

10–13 Jun 2026

ProPak Asia 2026

Bangkok, Thailand

Held at IMPACT Challenger Hall, Bangkok-. Asia's leading international trade exhibition for processing and packaging technologies

18–21 Oct 2026

PACK EXPO International 2026

Chicago, USA

Held biennially in even years. Record 1.3 million net sq ft, 2,600+ exhibitors, 48,000 attendees. Features AI, robotics, automation, sustainability trends. New SMB FastTrack program and PACK EXPO Discovery Tours

16–18 Nov 2026

interpack China 2026

Shanghai, China

Scheduled for November 16–18, 2026, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC). Spanning 70,000+ sqm

12–14 Apr 2027

PACK EXPO Southeast 2027

Atlanta, USA

Biennial event with a regional focus on packaging and processing companies in the Southeast United States. Contains everything expected from PACK EXPO but with a regional scale

8–10 Jun 2027

EXPO PACK Guadalajara 2027

Guadalajara, Mexico

Represents Western Mexico, one of the country's key manufacturing hubs, showcasing the latest solutions in processing and packaging

21–23 Sep 2027

FachPack 2027

Nuremberg, Germany

European trade fair for packaging, technology, and processing-. Key event for the European packaging community

27–29 Sep 2027

PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2027

Las Vegas, USA

Held biennially in odd years at Las Vegas Convention Center. Features full-scale machinery, free educational sessions, and the 2027 debut of the Digital Transformation Pavilion. Targeted pavilions for Logistics, Containers & Materials, Confectionery, Reusable Packaging, and PACKage Printing

Spring 2026 (Global Flagship)

Interpack 2026

World's largest packaging and processing show; sets the tone for the year's trends in AI, automation, sustainability, and materials innovation

Fall 2026 (North American Flagship)

PACK EXPO International 2026

North America's largest and most comprehensive packaging and processing event; record size and new features like SMB FastTrack

Spring 2027 (Regional & Latin American)

PACK EXPO Southeast 2027EXPO PACK Guadalajara 2027

Regional and Latin American shows offering targeted access to specific markets and buyer bases

Fall 2027 (North American & European)

PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2027FachPack 2027

North America's largest show of 2027 alternates with the European FachPack, providing year-end innovation and networking opportunities

Event dates and descriptions compiled from PMMI official trade show pages, interpack official website, and industry trade publications. All dates are confirmed by official organizers unless noted otherwise

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · USD

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

ORD

O'Hare International Airport

Fly into O'Hare International Airport (ORD) or Midway (MDW) CTA Blue Line to Clark/Lake, transfer to Green Line to Cermak-McCormick Place ($5, ~75 min)-. Taxi/rideshare ~$40–$60-. Shared-ride taxi flat fare: $30 per person to McCormick Place

18 miles

to venue

40–60 minutes (traffic-dependent)

by car

MDW

Chicago Midway International Airport

CTA Orange Line to Roosevelt, transfer to Green Line or #3 bus to Cermak-McCormick Place (~$3–$5, ~60 min). Taxi/rideshare ~$25–$40. Shared-ride taxi flat fare: $22 per person to McCormick Place

~9 miles

to venue

20–40 minutes (traffic-dependent)

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Budget / Economy

Near McCormick Place / South Loop

USD 120–180 / night

Includes select Hilton, Marriott, and IHG properties within 1–2 miles of the convention center. Rates are estimates based on typical October convention pricing and may fluctuate. Free shuttle service may not be available for all budget options; verify when booking

Mid-Range / Standard

Near McCormick Place / South Loop / Downtown

USD 200–300 / night

Includes Hampton Inn Chicago McCormick Place, Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place, and similar 3-star properties. Many offer complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi. Rates are estimates and subject to change; official PACK EXPO rates may be lower

Premium / Upscale

McCormick Place campus / Downtown Chicago

USD 320–500 / night

Includes Hyatt Regency McCormick Place (connected to the convention center) and 4-star downtown hotels. Offer full-service amenities, on-site dining, and premium views. Rates are typical for convention periods and may vary

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Complimentary Shuttle Bus

Estimated costFree

Best forOfficial PACK EXPO International hotels to McCormick Place

Complimentary shuttle service runs from official hotels to McCormick Place during morning hours and returns to hotels in the afternoon. A detailed route map and schedule are available online

Metra Commuter Rail (Electric Line)

Estimated costFree for attendees

Best forMillennium Park Station (downtown) to McCormick Place Station

The Metra Electric District line provides a direct 7-minute route from downtown Chicago’s Millennium Station to McCormick Place. The Metra station is located on Level 2.5 of the Grand Concourse in McCormick Place South

CTA 'L' Train (Green Line)

Estimated cost$2.50 (single ride)

Best forCermak-McCormick Place Station to McCormick Place West

The Cermak-McCormick Place Green Line station is a 7-minute walk from McCormick Place West. The station is accessible and offers connections to multiple CTA bus routes

CTA Bus

Estimated cost$2.50 (single ride)

Best forMultiple routes serving McCormick Place (e.g., #3 King Drive, #21 Cermak)

Convenient CTA buses travel throughout the city, with more than 100 different routes. Routes #1, #3, #4, and #21 all serve McCormick Place

Rideshare (Uber / Lyft) & Taxi

Estimated costVaries; $25–$60 from airports, $15–$25 from downtown

Best forCitywide to McCormick Place

Uber and Lyft are widely available with designated pick-up/drop-off locations at McCormick Place. Taxis are also readily available. An additional $5 surcharge applies to trips to/from McCormick Place

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa required

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
B-1 (Business Visitor)	Citizens of countries not participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) who are traveling to the U.S. for business purposes, such as attending PACK EXPO International 2026, consulting with business associates, or negotiating contracts	$185.00	Varies by embassy or consulate; apply well in advance of travel. The visa application process includes completing the DS-160 form, paying the fee, and scheduling an interview
ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)	Citizens of the 42 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries traveling to the U.S. for business or tourism for stays of 90 days or less	$40.00	Usually minutes to 72 hours; apply at least 72 hours before travel

Citizens of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries do not require a B-1 visa for business travel of up to 90 days. The VWP currently includes 42 countries. Travelers from VWP countries must obtain an approved ESTA prior to travel. For the most current list of VWP countries and ESTA requirements, refer to the official U.S. government websites

The United States accepts ATA Carnets for the temporary importation of commercial samples and professional equipment. While the U.S. is not a signatory to the 'Exhibitions and Fairs' convention, it is common practice for goods intended for trade shows to be imported under a carnet, classified as 'Commercial Samples' or 'Professional Equipment'. Exhibitors should consult with their customs broker or freight forwarder to ensure their goods are properly classified. Goods that are consumed or given away at the show are not eligible for ATA Carnet entry

Official visa page

Weather

Chicago in mid-October has mild-to-cool autumn weather. Average highs range from 56°F to 68°F (13°C–20°C)-, with average lows around 48°F (9°C)-. Rain is possible; pack layers and a light jacket or umbrella

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

McCormick Place is accessible via CTA Green Line (Cermak-McCormick Place station)-, CTA Bus #3 (King Drive)-, Metra commuter rail (Millennium Park Station to McCormick Place – free for attendees), and complimentary shuttle buses from official hotels. Amtrak service also available

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Business Culture & Networking

Chicago business culture is professional but friendly. Punctuality is valued. Networking is central to the show; attendees often schedule meetings in advance using My Show Planner. The show is strictly trade-only; solicitation by non-exhibitors ('suitcasing') is prohibited

Local Customs & Dining

Chicago is known for deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. Tipping is customary: 15–20% at restaurants, $1–2 per drink at bars, and $2–5 for hotel staff. Business meals are common; expect lively conversation about sports (especially the Cubs, White Sox, Bears, and Bulls) and local politics

Exploring Chicago

With world-class dining, lakefront views, museums and vibrant neighborhoods, Chicago offers something for everyone. The city is a cultural powerhouse with world-class architecture, museums and performing arts. Don't be surprised if locals urge you to try Jeppson's Malört – a bitter liqueur considered a rite of passage for first-time visitors

Safety & Practical Tips

Chicago is generally safe for business travelers, but exercise normal urban precautions: keep valuables secure, stay in well-lit areas at night, and use licensed taxis or rideshares. The South Loop area around McCormick Place is well-trafficked during events

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Chicago O'Hare International (ORD) or Chicago Midway International (MDW)

Book flights early for best rates. Special PACK EXPO travel discounts, including airfare discount codes, will be posted as soon as they are available. Both ORD and MDW offer non-stop and connecting flights from most major global hubs

Book flights

Visa

Entry to the United States for PACK EXPO International 2026 requires either a B-1 Business Visa or, for citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries, an approved ESTA. The B-1 visa is obtained through a U.S. embassy or consulate and requires a formal application and interview. ESTA is an online authorization obtained through the CBP website

Processing: B-1 visa processing times vary by embassy; ESTA is typically approved within minutes to 72 hours

All travelers are advised to check the specific requirements for their nationality well in advance of travel. A visa invitation letter for PACK EXPO International can be requested to support a B-1 visa application

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Areas to stay

McCormick Place / South Loop (closest to venue) · Downtown Chicago / The Loop (easy access via public transit and shuttles) · Near O'Hare or Midway Airports (convenient for early flights, but longer commute)

Budget / Economy

$120–$180 per night

Book

Mid-Range / Standard

$200–$300 per night

Book

Premium / Upscale

$320–$500+ per night

Book

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: From O'Hare (ORD): CTA Blue Line to Clark/Lake, transfer to Green Line to Cermak-McCormick Place (~$5, ~75 min). Taxi/rideshare ~$40–$60. From Midway (MDW): CTA Orange Line to Roosevelt, transfer to Green Line or #3 bus (~$3–$5, ~60 min). Taxi/rideshare ~$25–$40. Shared-ride taxi flat rates available: $30 (ORD) or $22 (MDW) per person to McCormick Place

Hotel → venue: Complimentary shuttle buses run from official PACK EXPO hotels to McCormick Place during morning hours and return in the afternoon. Public transit options include CTA Bus #3 (King Drive) and Green Line (Cermak-McCormick Place station)

Ride-hail: Uber, Lyft, and taxis are widely available. Estimated fares: from downtown to McCormick Place ~$15–$25; from airports ~$25–$60. Rideshare drop-off points are located at each building entrance

Public transit: CTA Green Line (Cermak-McCormick Place station) and CTA Bus #3 (King Drive) serve McCormick Place. Metra commuter rail from Millennium Park Station to McCormick Place is free for attendees

Parking: On-site parking at McCormick Place: Lot A (2301 S. Prairie Ave) – $27 for 0–16 hours, $40 for 16–24 hours; Lot B (3050 S. Moe Dr) – $18 flat rate; Lot C (Lakeside Center underground) – same as Lot A. ADA spaces available

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: October

Temperature: Highs 13–20°C (56–68°F), lows ~9°C (48°F)

Seasonality: Rainfall possible; average precipitation ~88mm over ~7 days. Autumn foliage may be visible; lakefront breezes can make it feel cooler

Packing: Pack layers: light sweaters, a medium-weight jacket or trench coat, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. Business attire is appropriate for the show floor and meetings; casual wear is fine for evenings. A scarf or hat may be useful for cooler mornings and evenings

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

8:00 amArrive at McCormick Place, pick up badge, grab coffee
9:00 amExhibit floor opens – visit priority exhibitors using My Show Planner
12:00 pmLunch break – explore on-site food options or nearby restaurants
1:00 pmAttend a free educational session on the show floor
2:30 pmContinue exploring pavilions and live machinery demos
5:00 pmExhibit floor closes – network at a hosted reception or explore Chicago nightlife

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Monday or Tuesday

Full exhibit floor and all education stages are operational. Sunday and Wednesday have shorter hours; Wednesday closes at 3:00 pm

T-90 (July 2026)

Book accommodations early — Book through official housing partner Expovision for discounted rates and free shuttle service

T-60 (August 2026)

T-30 (September 2026)

Build My Show Planner itinerary — Search exhibitors, products, and sessions; map your route before arrival

T-14 (October 2026)

Confirm travel and transport logistics — Review shuttle schedules, Metra train options, and parking details

T-7 (October 2026)

Download the mobile app and bring charger — Access your My Show Planner itinerary on-site; free Wi-Fi is available

T-1 (October 17, 2026)

Check in to hotel; review show floor map — Familiarize yourself with McCormick Place buildings (North, South, West, Lakeside Center)

Day 1 (October 18, 2026)

Pick up badge and attend priority sessions — Badge gives all-access pass to exhibits and 150+ free educational sessions

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day

8:00 am

Arrive at McCormick Place, pick up badge, grab coffee

Registration area

9:00 am

Exhibit floor opens – visit priority exhibitors using My Show Planner

North, South, West, and Lakeside Center halls

12:00 pm

Lunch break – explore on-site food options or nearby restaurants

On-site dining or off-site

1:00 pm

Attend a free educational session on the show floor

Education stages (various locations)

2:30 pm

Continue exploring pavilions and live machinery demos

Exhibit halls

5:00 pm

Exhibit floor closes – network at a hosted reception or explore Chicago nightlife

On-site or off-site

Side trips

Museum Campus

Museum

~2 miles / 10-minute drive

Home to the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium—world-class cultural institutions

Grant Park & Millennium Park

Park

~3 miles / 15-minute drive

Chicago's front yard featuring the iconic Cloud Gate ('The Bean'), Buckingham Fountain, and walking trails

Navy Pier

Entertainment

~4 miles / 20-minute drive

Lakefront pier with dining, shopping, rides, and fireworks. Great for evening relaxation

Chinatown

Neighborhood

~1.5 miles / 5-minute drive

Authentic Asian cuisine, unique shops, and cultural experiences just south of McCormick Place

Networking spots

Young Professionals Networking Reception

Reception

October 18, 7:30–9:30 pm at the Game Room, Chicago Athletic Association. Mix with fellow young professionals

PACK gives BACK®

Concert

Monday, October 19. Complimentary concert and networking event

Packaging & Processing Women's Leadership Network Breakfast

Breakfast

Keynote speaker: Colonel Nicole Malachowski, USAF (Ret.)

International Business Center

Lounge

North Building, Room N-427. Open daily; multilingual staff, refreshments, meeting space

Industry Meets @ PACK EXPO

Reception

Industry-specific networking events

Confectionery Industry Reception

Reception

Networking for confectionery professionals

Budget

Costs & budget

Booth space pricing is not publicly listed. Exhibitors must contact PMMI sales directly for quotes. Booth space pricing is not associated with hotel accommodations