PACK EXPO East continues to break records with its largest show to date, attracting 7,977 across 120,000 net square feet to the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia from March 18-20. Produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, the event is the premiere regional show for consumer-packaged goods and pharmaceutical companies to find the latest innovative solutions for their manufacturing needs.
"PACK EXPO East’s continued growth has solidified its place as a vital event for packaging and processing professionals in the region,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO of PMMI. “While we celebrate this growth, our focus remains on delivering the high-quality experience our shows are known for. This includes offering solutions for more than 40 markets and tailoring experiences to meet the needs of the industry."
The solutions include machinery and equipment, in-action on the show floor, used by markets such as food and beverage, pharmaceutical, industrial and agricultural chemical, personal care, and cosmetics. The more than 500 exhibitors find the show the perfect opportunity to share innovations and secure leads for future purchases.
Justin LaHayne, area sales manager, First Choice Industrial, LLC (a distributor of EDDA Packaging Machines), was pleased with his first PACK EXPO East experience.
“We had a great experience at our first exhibition in the northeastern region of the U.S. We specialize in providing packaging solutions to the wood industry and were thrilled by the quality of leads we generated,” says LaHayne. “The traffic to our booth was impressive, and we see great potential for expanding into new markets. This show was a perfect fit for us, far exceeding our expectations compared to larger events.”
Many exhibitors said the show helped them meet or exceed their sales goals.
"The show's going great. We've got fantastic traction and engaging conversations. Plus, it looks like we're on track to meet our sales goals,” says John Holmes, national line integration manager, DTM Packaging, A Massman Company. “What's exciting is that 40% of our leads are from new customers—a promising sign of our expanding reach."
“We appreciate the opportunity to maintain our visibility. Being in front of our customers and prospects is important,” says Nick Schmidt, trade show administrator, Delkor Systems. “Our experience at the event was positive, with great flow and attendance. We received numerous high-quality leads, which we're excited to follow up on.”
The show offered attendees a chance to find crossover solutions to their most challenging manufacturing needs.
“This is my first time at PACK EXPO East, and the exhibitors have been helpful,” says Sandy Carreras, advisor, La Orocovena Biscuit Inc. “We are trying to improve our packaging operations and looking across industries at pharmaceutical equipment to do that as we move a plant.”
“I came to PACK EXPO East because we are modernizing and looking to update with end-of-line packaging solutions,” says Jim Blickensdorf, business unit manager, Maytag Dairy Farms. “I've found at least one contractor and a couple of other potential suppliers. Sustainability is also important. When you consider the energy costs that go into packaging and logistics, it's important to bring those down. Anything that can enhance efficiency and agility is part of that effort.”
“I am searching for suppliers of equipment, including vertical form, fill and seal solutions, and other packaging materials for [applications] in life sciences,” says Gregory Hargrove, senior engineer, Restek. So far, I have had a great experience at this show. I have already made connections with several companies. My colleagues asked me to find new solutions while I am here, and I believe I have accomplished that. I am looking forward to the next show."
“I visited PACK EXPO East to explore eco-friendly, simple and durable packaging solutions, says El Ha Gahn, coordinator, Isle of Paradise - Treasure of the East cosmetics. I'm impressed with the ability to customize my show experience and noticed more equipment for cosmetics this year. Overall, it is a great show.”
In addition to the technology on the show floor, PACK EXPO East offered educational opportunities with the Innovation Stage and Industry Speaks. Attendees also had opportunities to connect with their peers at the Taste of Philly opening reception and the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network and Young Professionals Network receptions.
“We find that attendees enjoy opportunities to learn about the latest industry issues while connecting with their peers,” says Laura Thompson, vice president, Trade Shows, PMMI. “It gives them a well-rounded experience that they do not get at other industry events.”
The Innovation Stage sessions are accessible online for registered participants until April 15. This allows attendees who couldn't attend the event to catch up on discussions about groundbreaking technologies, inventive applications, and proven approaches.
Up next, dive into the innovation epicenter and discover answers to your packaging and processing challenges at PACK EXPO International 2024 (November 3-6; McCormick Place, Chicago). The most expansive and all-encompassing packaging and processing industry event in 2024, PACK EXPO International, will feature 2,500 exhibitors offering solutions to many of today’s biggest manufacturing needs from an intersection of industries to 40-plus vertical markets. More than 45,000 attendees from consumer-packaged goods and life sciences companies worldwide will converge, searching for innovation, connection, and insight.
