PACK EXPO Las Vegas 2025 at a Glance

An experience like no other:  Sept. 29 – Oct 1, 2025

By Laura Thompson, Vice President, Trade Shows at PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

PACK EXPO Las Vegas is back and bigger than ever. With 35,000 attendees and more than 2,300 exhibitors expected, the show is set to be one of the largest gatherings for the packaging and processing industry this year. What started 30 years ago as a modest regional event has exploded into a global epicenter of innovation, where decision-makers come to solve challenges, discover game-changing technology, and shape the future of the industry.

This year’s show reflects the packaging and processing sector’s solid growth trajectory —especially in light of PMMI’s most recent State of the Industry report, which predicts packaging and processing machinery sales will rise through 2027. The Las Vegas edition answers that momentum with expanded show features, focused education, and targeted networking opportunities designed to deliver real value.

What’s New on the Show Floor

All six of PACK EXPO’s pavilions have expanded since the 2023 show, with two new guided show floor tours offering curated experiences for different types of attendees. The PACK EXPO Discovery Tours, sponsored by Domino and Formic, are ideal for first-time buyers and senior-level decision-makers looking for automation solutions, while the PACK EXPO Sustainability Tour, sponsored by Anchor Packaging, is tailored for CPG brand owners seeking eco-conscious solutions.

Targeted pavilions help attendees home in on the right solutions:

• The Processing Zone showcases innovations that optimize production.
• The Confectionery Pavilion brings baking and snack professionals closer to cutting-edge trends in sweets manufacturing.
• The Logistics Pavilion offers tools to streamline supply chains.
• The Containers and Materials Pavilion focuses on materials that enhance usability, improve convenience, and boost sustainability.
• The Reusable Packaging Pavilion addresses waste reduction and circular systems.
• The Healthcare Packaging Pavilion delivers insights into pharma and medical packaging and processing advancements.

Special Events and Networking with Purpose

PACK EXPO Las Vegas isn’t just a place to see machines run. It’s a place to make meaningful connections that move businesses forward. Key networking and special events include:

• PACK gives BACK™ will feature a private Cirque du Soleil® performance of Mystère — with proceeds supporting the PMMI Foundation. Sponsored by Rockwell Automation.
• Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) Breakfast, a space to connect, be inspired, and support women in the industry. Gold sponsors are ProMach, Inc. and Morrison Container Handling Solutions. Additional sponsors include: BW Packaging, Emerson Discrete Automation Group, Plexpack Corp., Septimatech Group Inc., SMC Corporation of America and Smurfit Westrock.
• Young Professionals Networking Reception at The Cove Bar & Arcade, perfect for early-career professionals looking to build their industry circle. Sponsored by Beckhoff Automation.
• First-Time Attendee Lounge, a guided space sponsored by ProMach, Inc., offering personal assistance and networking events for newcomers.

Education That Gets to the Point

Over 100 free sessions will be held on the show floor, delivering fast, focused learning on pressing topics. Sustainability Central, sponsored by Dow and presented by Packaging World, tackles the industry’s toughest sustainability challenges head-on with expert panels and action-based insights.

Innovation Stages offer 30-minute tech and trend overviews throughout the day. A Processing Innovation Stage focuses on product quality and efficiency, while Industry Speaks features experts from the PACK EXPO Partner Program addressing the latest hot topics and trends, and the Reusable Packaging Learning Center (sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association) presents solutions that save money, reduce waste, and future-proof operations.

What’s on Everyone’s Mind

Key trends expected to dominate the conversation this year:

• Workforce development: Finding, training, and retaining skilled workers remains a top concern.
• Automation: From full-line robotics to incremental upgrades, companies are evaluating how to automate smarter—not just more.
• AI and remote technologies: Businesses are exploring practical applications for predictive maintenance, digital twins, and operator guidance tools.
• Sustainable materials: Mono-materials, compostables, and reusable systems are drawing serious attention.
• Integration: The challenge isn’t just buying new tech — it’s making it work with legacy systems and diverse operational needs.

In short, the focus isn’t on chasing the next trend — it’s on finding tools that work now.

The Tools to Make It Work

PACK EXPO Las Vegas also arms attendees with planning tools to make the most of their time:

• My Show Planner to schedule meetings and map solutions and booth visits in advance.
• The Mobile App (available in August) for real-time updates and navigation all while linking to your My Show Planner.
• PACK Match, opening Aug. 19, offering free expert consultations to match attendees with the right exhibitors and solutions.
• Ask the Experts and Attendee Solutions Center for onsite help and guidance.

Why You Need to Be There

This year’s show is more than a trade event — it’s a pulse check on the entire packaging and processing ecosystem. If you want to see what innovation actually looks like in real life — not just in headlines — PACK EXPO Las Vegas is the place. From AI-powered tools and sustainable materials to the industry’s smartest minds under one roof, it’s all happening here.

Whether you’re solving a specific production pain point, exploring automation upgrades, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, PACK EXPO Las Vegas delivers the insight, access, and innovation to get it done.

Bottom line? If you’re serious about staying competitive, this is the show you can’t afford to miss. Register at: https://www.packexpolasvegas.com