PACK EXPO East 2026: New show features and expanded education

Herndon, Virginia; Jan. 20, 2026 (PMMI release) — PACK EXPO East, Feb. 17–19, 2026, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, will offer several new show features and expanded educational offerings, according to PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies. Celebrating its 10th year, PACK EXPO East has grown into the East Coast’s premier packaging and processing event with 500 exhibitors showcasing solutions for more than 40 vertical markets over 125,000 net square feet of exhibit space. The show features a wide range of packaging and processing machinery, from filling and labeling to automation and robotics. Attendees can see equipment in action and learn how it can improve efficiency and reliability on the production floor.

New for 2026, PACK EXPO East introduces the Containers and Materials Pavilion, designed to help brand owners, package designers, and manufacturers explore the latest advances in paperboard, glass, metal, flexible, and resealable packaging. The pavilion highlights innovations that support brand differentiation, functionality, and sustainability, including recyclable, biodegradable, and e-commerce-ready materials.

Also debuting at the show is the Incubator Hub, presented by PMMI in partnership with Ben Franklin Technology Partners (BFTP). This show floor destination is designed to spotlight early-stage, Pennsylvania-based companies tackling real-world industry challenges, from smart automation and predictive analytics to sustainable materials and next-gen packaging design.

The Incubator Hub aims to connect attendees with emerging technologies and entrepreneurial innovation by offering a concentrated area where startups showcase solutions that could become future standards in the industry. It positions Pennsylvania as a strong innovation ecosystem and highlights how startups contribute to economic growth, job creation, and manufacturing advancement.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) will be able to easily identify SMB-friendly exhibitors and education sessions targeted to their companies through SMB FastTrack. The educational sessions will feature SMB- related topics on lean operations, cost-effective packaging solutions, startup supply chain strategies, and scalable technologies. Attendees can also easily identify exhibitors showcasing machinery by looking for the gear icon in the show directory.

With intuitive planning tools, SMB FastTrack makes it easy for SMBs to connect with the right suppliers — quickly and conveniently. This exclusive program helps exhibitors and attendees find each other faster, opening the door to new partnerships and opportunities for growth. New this year, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce will be on-site, showcasing resources and services to support business success.

“PACK EXPO East provides a convenient, high-impact way for packaging and processing professionals to discover solutions, connect with peers, and move projects forward,” says Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI. “We’re proud to be introducing exciting new features and expanding education and networking opportunities that will give attendees tools and insights to apply immediately to their operations.”

In addition to new features, PACK EXPO East 2026 will offer a robust slate of free educational programming on the show floor, including Industry Speaks and Innovation Stage sessions led by industry experts and exhibitors. Industry Speaks topics will address timely challenges and opportunities such as 2D codes, food safety sanitation, regenerative robust gasification, pharmaceuticals packaging, and capital goods financing. Innovation Stage will feature sessions covering operational efficiency, AI, automation, next-gen packaging, workforce development, food safety, and sustainability.

Attendees also can take advantage of multiple networking opportunities, including the Taste of Philly Opening Reception, Young Professionals Networking Reception, Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Reception, and the new Philly Snack Stop, offering complimentary local snacks directly on the show floor each day.

Attendees won’t want to miss the exclusive Vision 2030 session. This immersive, focused forum, tailored for leaders and decision-makers in the packaging and processing sectors, delivers actionable strategies and insights to help CPG companies and PMMI members advance their operations and business performance. It also provides a platform to connect with industry peers, explore emerging trends, and collaborate on solutions that drive innovation and growth. Separate registration is required, and spots are limited to ensure high-level targeted discussions.

PACK EXPO East’s first-quarter timing provides a strategic head start on 2026 projects, while its East Coast location makes it easy for teams to attend with minimal travel. Registration is $30 through Jan. 23, 2026, and increases to $130 thereafter. For more information and to register, visit www.packexpoeast.com