Dates

    15–17 Nov 2026

    City / country

    Chicago, United States

    Venue

    Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

    Time

    10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

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    Event overview

    Overview

    PLMA’s 2026 Private Label Trade Show, themed 'Store Brands Marketplace,' brings the entire industry together under one roof, offering unmatched business opportunities.

    The event runs from November 15 to 17 at the Donald E.

    Stephens Convention Center in Chicago.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Dates and Venue: PLMA's 2026 Private Label Trade Show runs November 15-17 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago.
    2. 2Scale and Focus: This premier event focuses on store brands, attracting thousands of industry professionals and exhibitors.
    3. 3Organiser: Hosted by the Private Label Manufacturers Association, details available at plma.com.
    4. 4Buyer Authority: Key decision-makers from retail and wholesale sectors will attend to explore new products and partnerships.
    5. 5Entry: Registration is required; visit the official site for details.

    Why visit

    Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends in store brands, network with industry leaders, and discover new products that can enhance their offerings. Dates and Venue: PLMA's 2026 Private Label Trade Show runs November 15-17 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago. Buyer Authority: Key decision-makers from retail and wholesale sectors will attend to explore new products and partnerships.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products to a targeted audience of retailers and wholesalers, increasing visibility and potential sales. Scale and Focus: This premier event focuses on store brands, attracting thousands of industry professionals and exhibitors. Buyer Authority: Key decision-makers from retail and wholesale sectors will attend to explore new products and partnerships. The event is crucial for the private label industry, showcasing.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Retail buyers seeking innovative store brand products
    Wholesalers looking to expand their private label offerings
    Manufacturers interested in networking with retailers
    Marketing professionals focused on store brand strategies
    Supply chain experts looking for new partnerships
    Industry analysts tracking market trends

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Private label manufacturers showcasing their latest products
    Retail chains looking for new store brand suppliers
    Wholesalers interested in expanding their product lines
    Marketing agencies specializing in private label branding
    Logistics companies supporting supply chain solutions
    Consultants advising on private label strategies

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Food and beverages for private label programs
    Health and beauty products under store brands
    Household goods and cleaning products
    Pet care items in private label offerings
    Snacks and confectionery for retail
    Organic and natural products for health-conscious consumers

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Open in Google Maps

    Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

    Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Parking: Parking availability should be confirmed on the venue's official site.

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    November 15 – 17:10:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

    • General Admission

      Registration is required.

    Register

    Ticket info

    Ticket notes

    Visit the official site for registration details.

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Private Label Manufacturers Association

    EmailCallWebsite

    PLMA International Council

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Last edition

    —

    Completed

    Exhibitors: 2,000

    Next edition

    Not announced yet

    New this edition

    • 1

      PLMA Show Navigator

      PLMA is providing its exclusive Show Navigator tool to all current registrants, including retailers, exhibitors and visitors, to explore exhibitors and plan the sold-out show floor in advance.

      Source

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    PLMA’s 2026 Private Label Trade Show, themed 'Store Brands Marketplace,' brings the entire industry together under one roof, offering unmatched business opportunities. The event runs from November 15 to 17 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Chicago. The event is crucial for the private label industry, showcasing innovations and trends that shape retail strategies and consumer preferences. Join us for PLMA's 2026 Private Label Trade Show from November 15 to.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    Visitors typically include Retail buyers seeking innovative store brand products, Wholesalers looking to expand their private label offerings, Manufacturers interested in networking with retailers, Marketing professionals focused on store brand strategies. Dates and Venue: PLMA's 2026 Private Label Trade Show runs November 15-17 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Chicago. Scale and Focus: This premier event focuses on store brands, attracting thousands of industry professionals and exhibitors.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their products to a targeted audience of retailers and wholesalers, increasing visibility and potential sales. Scale and Focus: This premier event focuses on store brands, attracting thousands of industry professionals and exhibitors. Buyer Authority: Key decision-makers from retail and wholesale sectors will attend to explore new products and partnerships. The event is crucial for the private label industry, showcasing. Exhibitor categories include Private label.

    Intelligence

    Market context

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

    Chicago, Illinois, United States

    Why it matters

    Attending PLMA 2026 on 2026-11-15 to 2026-11-17 in Chicago lets buyers and specifiers benchmark suppliers, see live demonstrations, and compress months of vendor meetings into one focused trade visit — worthwhile when your category roadmap aligns with the official exhibitor profile.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Store brand expansion and premiumisation

    Private label is moving beyond value pricing into premium, authentic and speciality ranges across US and Canadian grocery.

    02

    Retailer and supplier co-development

    Retailers increasingly co-develop exclusive products with manufacturers instead of buying off-the-shelf specifications.

    03

    Private label scale and growth

    Store brand share keeps expanding, with PLMA's Chicago show reporting increases of 37 percent in exhibiting companies and 31 percent in retail and wholesale visitors since 2022.

    04

    Packaging, sustainability and clean label

    Sustainability, clearer labelling and ingredient transparency are now standard expectations in private label procurement.

    05

    Digital show planning and buyer journeys

    Registered visitors increasingly plan the show digitally before travelling, selecting exhibitors and meetings in advance.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

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

    ORD

    Chicago O'Hare International Airport

    Closest major hub to Rosemont; CTA Blue Line connects O'Hare with Rosemont Transit Center and onward bus services.

    about 5 mi / 8 km (estimate)

    to venue

    about 10-15 min by car or rideshare (estimate)

    by car

    MDW

    Chicago Midway International Airport

    Secondary Chicago gateway; allow extra road time when arriving on peak show days.

    about 20 mi / 32 km (estimate)

    to venue

    about 30-45 min by car or rideshare (estimate, longer in peak traffic)

    by car

    Hotel tiers

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

    Budget
    Rosemont / Des Plaines along River Road and Mannheim Road

    USD 85–125 / night

    Limited-service and airport-adjacent properties roughly 5-15 min from the convention center; downtown Chicago options cost more but offer evening dining variety — confirm before travel.

    Mid-range
    Rosemont entertainment district, walkable to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

    USD 140–200 / night

    Includes the Embassy Suites and Hilton on River Road within a few minutes' walk; rates spike during large trade shows — confirm before travel.

    Premium
    On-site / connected hotels and downtown Chicago 4-5 star properties

    USD 210–320 / night

    Skybridge-connected and full-service options closest to the halls; downtown premium properties add a 30-45 min commute — confirm before travel.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Pace shuttle bus

    Estimated costFree of charge (no-cost route operated under an agreement with the Village and Pace)
    Best forRosemont Transit Center — Parkway Bank Park — Fashion Outlets of Chicago — Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

    Service hours Monday to Thursday 7:30am-12am and Friday to Saturday from 8:30am; confirm before travel.

    CTA Blue Line / Metra train

    Estimated costUSD 2.50-6.00 per ride with Ventra ticket or day pass
    Best forDowntown Chicago to Rosemont Transit Center, then shuttle, taxi or rideshare to the convention center

    Train journey from downtown Chicago averages around 47 minutes; confirm before travel.

    Taxi / rideshare

    Estimated costUSD 25-50, higher with surge pricing
    Best forChicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

    Short 5-mile hop from O'Hare; both airports have signposted rideshare pickup areas — confirm before travel.

    Taxi / rideshare

    Estimated costUSD 35-75
    Best forChicago Midway International Airport (MDW) to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

    About 30-45 min by car, longer in peak traffic; allow extra road time on peak show days — confirm before travel.

    Car / on-site parking

    Estimated costUSD 20 per 24 hours, no in-and-out privileges
    Best for5555 N. River Road, Rosemont, IL 60018 (attendee arrival)

    Confirm the event hall and use the correct on-site garage or the Hyatt skybridge connection; rates subject to change — confirm before travel.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: check with organiser
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    B-1 business visitor visaNationals of countries not covered by the US Visa Waiver Program attending business meetings, conventions or contract negotiations in the United States.$185.00Apply well ahead: consulate interview scheduling and processing commonly take several weeks to several months.
    B-2 visitor visaTravellers visiting the United States for tourism or medical treatment who do not qualify for the Visa Waiver Program.$185.00Several weeks to several months depending on consulate interview availability.
    ESTA under the Visa Waiver ProgramCitizens of Visa Waiver Program countries travelling for business or tourism for stays of 90 days or less.$21.00Usually approved within minutes to 72 hours; apply at least 72 hours before travel.

    Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries can enter the United States for business without a visa for stays of up to 90 days using an approved ESTA. Check the US Department of State and Customs and Border Protection pages for the current country list and any exemptions.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    Chicago in November is cold and changeable: average highs near 8 C (46 F) and lows near 3 C (37 F), with roughly 73 mm of rain spread over about 9 wet days. Lake-effect winds off Lake Michigan push the feels-like temperature lower, so pack layers and a wind-resistant coat for the 15-17 November 2026 show at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    US carriers provide strong LTE/5G coverage in Rosemont and downtown Chicago. Business travellers typically choose a travel eSIM, a prepaid local SIM, pocket WiFi or roaming from their home operator; hotel and convention-centre Wi-Fi covers basic email, messaging and meeting apps.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

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

    Business dress

    Business casual is typical; scientific meetings may be less formal than consumer fairs.

    Arrival

    Arrive early on day one for registration and badge pickup.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

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

    Flights

    Destination: ORD

    Book flights to ORD when possible for the shortest transfer to the venue; compare MDW only if fares are materially lower.

    Visa

    Most foreign visitors need a US visitor visa: a B-1 for business meetings, conventions and contract negotiations, or a combined B-1/B-2. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries may instead travel visa-free for up to 90 days with an approved ESTA. Plan for an in-person consular interview where required.

    Estimated cost: Approximately USD 185 government visa application (MRV) fee for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa; ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program costs approximately USD 21.

    Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.

    There is no visa on arrival. Apply before booking non-refundable travel, carry a PLMA registration or invitation confirmation for the consular interview, and allow extra time for appointment backlogs in peak season.

    Official

    Transport

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

    Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): about 10-15 min by car or rideshare (estimate); Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW): about 30-45 min by car or rideshare (estimate, longer in peak traffic). Allow road or rail time to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.

    Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Donald E. Stephens Convention Center: Rosemont / Des Plaines along River Road and Mannheim Road: Rosemont / Des Plaines along River Road and Mannheim Road; Rosemont entertainment district, walkable to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center: Rosemont entertainment district, walkable to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center; On-site / connected hotels and downtown Chicago 4-5 star properties: On-site / connected hotels and downtown Chicago 4-5 star properties.

    Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Chicago; confirm local availability before travel.

    Public transit: Check local bus/metro options for routes to Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

    Parking: On-site parking is available at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: November 2026

    Temperature: November 2026 in Chicago: average high about 8 C (46 F) and average low about 3 C (37 F). Early November highs can reach roughly 13 C (56 F) before falling to about 6 C (43 F) late in the month.

    Seasonality: Late-autumn seasonality in Chicago: about 9 rainy days and roughly 73 mm of precipitation in November, plus lake-effect wind chill and a chance of the first snow late in the month.

    Packing: Pack thermal layers, a wind-resistant coat, gloves and closed shoes for a cold, windy Chicago November; bring a compact umbrella for wet days and comfortable footwear for long hours on the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center show floor.

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    14

    Confirm visa route (B-1/B-2 or ESTA) and start the US application — Check travel.state.gov for business visitor visa requirements or Visa Waiver Program eligibility, and book the earliest consulate appointment if an interview is required.

    12

    Book flights into Chicago O'Hare (ORD) or Chicago Midway (MDW) — Compare fares for arrival 14 November and departure 18 November 2026; ORD is about 5 mi from the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

    10

    Reserve a hotel in the Rosemont / O'Hare corridor — Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago O'Hare Rosemont (310 ft) and Hilton Rosemont/Chicago O'Hare (440 ft) are walkable to the venue; check in 15 November and check out 17 November 2026.

    9

    Submit the PLMA visitor registration request — PLMA reviews each request and sends an official registration link once registration opens and credentials are approved; register early to avoid queues.

    7

    Confirm badge collection and arrival timing — Check registration desk opening hours on the official PLMA page and arrive early on day one for badge pickup at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

    6

    Download the Show Navigator and hall plan — PLMA's Show Navigator lets registered visitors explore the exhibitor list and build a show floor plan before travelling.

    5

    Pre-schedule supplier meetings and product reviews — Shortlist private label manufacturers, wholesalers and packaging suppliers across food, beverage, pet, beauty and non-food categories.

    3

    Arrange local transport and parking — Use the free Pace shuttle from Rosemont Transit Center, budget about USD 20 per 24 hours for on-site public parking, or plan CTA Blue Line and Metra connections.

    2

    Pack for cold, windy Chicago weather — November averages around 8 C highs and 3 C lows with roughly 9 rainy days; bring layers, a wind-resistant coat and comfortable shoes.

    1

    Prepare meeting materials and travel documents — Carry passport, visa or ESTA confirmation, printed registration confirmation, business cards and a charged phone with a US eSIM or roaming plan.

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    PLMA member savings are approximate and vary by booth size, registration type and programme; exact stand pricing is confirmed at registration. Request the current booth and membership rate card from PLMA before committing exhibition budget.

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Hotel × 2 nights$170.00
    • Per diem × 2$150.00
    • Visa$185.00
    Estimated total$505.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    visa_fee

    visitor · B-1 business visitor visa

    USD 185 / per application

    organiser_published

    visa_fee

    visitor · B-2 visitor visa

    USD 185 / per application

    organiser_published

    visa_fee

    visitor · ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program

    USD 21 / per application

    organiser_published

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Pick the closest answer for each. Your recommendation updates live.

    QUESTION 1 OF 6

    What is your primary role?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Retail buyers, category managers and sourcing teams from supermarkets, discounters, drugstores and wholesalers who want to screen private label suppliers across food and non-food in a single trip to Chicago.

    Min. budget

    $350.00

    Timeline

    4-6 weeks for a US visa or ESTA, flights and a Rosemont hotel room.

    Risks

    Sold-out show floors draw tens of thousands of trade professionals, so register early to avoid onsite queues.

    Late-November demand around the O'Hare corridor pushes hotel rates up; book as soon as dates are confirmed.

    exhibit

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Private label manufacturers, ingredient suppliers and packaging vendors targeting US and Canadian retailers, wholesalers and discounters with store brand ranges.

    Min. budget

    $2,200.00

    Timeline

    3-4 months for stand booking, design, freight and customs clearance.

    Risks

    Stand pricing depends on booth size and PLMA membership status, so budget confirmation can be slow.

    Hall allocation and rigging slots are constrained on a record-breaking show floor with over 1,900 exhibitors.

    skip

    Assess how this option fits your objectives.

    Best for

    Companies with no US or Canadian retail channel and no private label or store brand sourcing responsibility, who can instead follow the show through PLMA's Show Navigator and published industry reporting.

    Timeline

    No travel lead time; monitor PLMA announcements and the annual private label report instead.

    Risks

    Missing face-to-face meetings on a show floor presenting over 1,900 exhibitors from 60 countries.

    Book with

    Partners

    Recommended providers

    Visa

    US Department of State

    Gallery

    Photos

    Dog show highlights at PLMA 2026
    Dog show highlights at PLMA 2026
    Official PLMA 2026 event branding
    Official PLMA 2026 event branding

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    What are the dates for PLMA 2026?
    PLMA 2026 will take place from November 15 to 17, 2026.
    Where is the event held?
    The event will be held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Chicago, Illinois.
    How can I register for the event?
    You can register for the event through the official PLMA website.
    Is there a fee to attend?
    Registration is required, and there may be fees associated with attendance.
    What types of exhibitors will be present?
    Exhibitors will include private label manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers showcasing their latest products.
    How many exhibitors take part in PLMA's Private Label Trade Show?
    PLMA's 2025 show welcomed a record of over 1,900 exhibitors from 60 countries, and the event is described as the largest of its kind for private label.
    Who visits the show?
    Visitors come from more than 120 countries and represent supermarkets, hypermarkets, discounters, drugstores, department stores, importers, exporters, manufacturers, consultants, sales agents and packaging and design experts.
    How does visitor registration work?
    You submit a visitor registration request on the PLMA website; PLMA reviews it and, once registration opens and your credentials are approved, sends an official registration link to attend.

    Glossary

    1
    Private Label
    Products branded by a retailer but manufactured by another company.
    2
    Store Brands
    Products that carry the retailer's name or a brand created exclusively for the retailer.
    3
    CPG
    Consumer Packaged Goods, products that are sold quickly at a relatively low cost.
    4
    Exhibitor
    A company that displays its products at a trade show.
    5
    Retailer
    A business that sells goods to consumers.
    6
    Wholesaler
    A company that sells goods in large quantities at lower prices, typically to retailers.
    7
    Idea Supermarket
    PLMA's special showcase presenting the latest store brand product and packaging trends from around the globe.
    8
    Salute to Excellence Awards
    PLMA's awards programme recognising innovative store brand products developed by retailers and wholesalers in the food and drink and home and health categories.
    9
    Show Navigator
    PLMA's online planning tool for registered retailers, exhibitors and visitors to explore the exhibitor list and build a show floor plan.
    10
    Gold 100
    A ranking of the largest US trade shows; PLMA's Private Label Trade Show has consistently received this ranking.

    Also known as

    Alternate names and search phrases for this event.

    • PLMA 2026
    • PLMA Private Label Trade Show
    • PLMA Chicago 2026
    • Private Label Trade Show Chicago
    • PLMA trade show
    • private label trade show 2026
    • store brands expo Chicago
    • private label products expo
    • store brand food and beverage show
    • private label health and beauty expo

    10 more alternate names hidden

    Trust footer

    Sources

    4

    References

    1

    Publishers

    0

    Date checked

    1

    Private Label Manufacturers Association

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