What to Expect at PACK EXPO Chicago 2026

'Tis the season for live product demos, new tech, inspiration, and strategic insight from around the global packaging industry! If you're looking to connect with packaging professionals and move your projects forward fast, PACK EXPO International is the event to attend. PACK EXPO 2026 will take place over the course of four days, starting Sunday, October 18 and ending Wednesday, October 21. Attendees and exhibitors will come together at McCormick Place in Chicago—giving you a chance to explore all the new possibilities in packaging, processing, and automation. The Fresh-Lock team will be there, too, alongside the rest of our industry peers, with a look in what's new in reclosable flexible packaging technology.

Here's everything you need to know if you're attending PACK EXPO 2026:

Why PACK EXPO International is the Must-Attend Event for Brands and Packaging Professionals

PACK EXPO International is North America's largest packaging and processing trade show, and it only happens every two years!

For brands, PACK EXPO International is a chance to step into the world of packaging and see what's new in the industry. With 2,600 exhibitors and more than 40 vertical markets represented, attendees can explore the latest packaging materials, technologies, and equipment firsthand. This is an opportunity to discover new ways to improve your product packaging, align with consumer expectations, advance sustainability goals, and prepare for extended producer responsibility (EPR) mandates. Seeing new innovations in action and comparing solutions side by side can also help brands better identify their best path forward.

PACK EXPO also brings the entire packaging community together. Packaging professionals can connect with suppliers, collaborate with peers, explore potential partnerships, and work through challenges together.

Whether you're looking to improve your packaging or learn and share new ideas, PACK EXPO 2026 should be on your calendar.

What to Expect from PACK EXPO Exhibitors

From packaging materials and components—including closures, films, labels, and other value-add solutions—to packaging equipment, PACK EXPO International is the premier destination for discovering the latest innovations across the packaging industry.

For those interested in flexible packaging machinery, we recommend visiting these leading brands at their respective booths to see their equipment and our premium closure solutions in action:

• Bartelt Packaging – Booth S-3658
• Karville Swiss – Booth N-5533
• Mamata Enterprises, Inc. – Booth S-3882
• Modern Zhoutai Service, Inc. – Booth LU-8128
• Totani America, Inc. – Booth W-32022
• PurPak Inc. – Booth S-2896

Looking for new ways to improve flexible packaging performance and functionality while getting closer to achieving your EPR goals? The Fresh-Lock team is bringing new closure innovations to PACK EXPO International.

Post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials play an important role in packaging strategies as brands navigate EPR requirements and recycled-content goals. During PACK EXPO International, the Fresh-Lock team will showcase closures made with at least 25% PCR content, including options for recyclable PE pouches, high-holding-force applications, pre-applied zipper formats, and premium slider packages.

Additionally, the Fresh-Lock team is responding to growing interest in paper-based flexible packaging with press-to-close zippers designed for emerging paper pouch structures—offering new possibilities for curbside recyclable paper formats. Our portfolio also includes the fully recyclable, reduced-scale Ultra slider, designed to enhance package functionality and performance, and Child-Guard® Edge, a child-resistant slider for high-unit-count applications such as for medications, vitamins, and supplements.

Designed with your current packaging operations in mind, Fresh-Lock® closures are compatible with existing packaging films and pouch-making equipment, helping streamline production and support efficient operation without major changes to your existing processes. Visit us at booth S-3907 to explore our full portfolio of closure technology.

Learn more about what we have in store for PACK EXPO 2026.

How to Get the Most Out of PACK EXPO 2026

With upwards of 48,000 packaging and processing professionals in one place—there is so much to discover at PACK EXPO International, so careful planning is essential. Make the most of your time with the My Show Planner, where you can browse exhibitors, products, and educational sessions to build a personalized itinerary.

While planning ahead is key, be sure to leave some time for discovery. One of the greatest benefits of PACK EXPO is the opportunity to be surprised by unexpected solutions and gain insights from educational sessions on the Innovation Stage, Sustainability Central, and more.

PACK EXPO is also a valuable opportunity for students to gain deeper insight into the packaging world. The Fresh-Lock team is proud to support the next generation of packaging professionals through our work with universities. Learn more about our commitment to the next generation on our Student Support Page.

With so much to see and do, an event of this size can be daunting to prepare for. As seasoned experts, here are a few pro tips for making the most out of the experience:

PACK EXPO Tip #1: Schedule Meetings in Advance

With thousands of attendees and a packed show floor, you don't want to spend valuable time waiting to connect with an exhibitor—especially if you have a full schedule. Identify the exhibitors you most want to meet with and reach out before the show to schedule a meeting. Many exhibitors are happy to coordinate meetings in advance, so feel free to connect with them through LinkedIn or email to check availability and get a meeting on the calendar.

PACK EXPO Tip #2: Bring a Portable Charger

PACK EXPO days are busy and full of opportunity—and your phone is likely your go-to tool for navigating it all. Whether you're checking your schedule, looking up an exhibitor, connecting with colleagues, or ordering an Uber at the end of the day, you don't want to discover a dead battery. Keep a charger in your bag and stay powered up from the show floor.

PACK EXPO Tip #3: Wear Comfortable Shoes

Business casual is the dress code for PACK EXPO 2026, but when you're spending long days on the show floor and racking up thousands of steps, comfortable, supportive footwear is a must. You can look polished and still prioritize comfort, and your feet will thank you by the end of the day!

PACK EXPO Tip #4: Review the Education Sessions Ahead of Time

Every moment at PACK EXPO is an opportunity to learn, with more than 150 free educational sessions happening across the show floor. Don't wait to hear about a great session after it's already over. Review the schedule ahead of time and block your calendar for the sessions that align with your goals and interests.

PACK EXPO Tip #5: Set Goals for What You Want to Learn

If you're coming to PACK EXPO 2026 with a specific challenge, project, or goal, make sure you keep it at the forefront of your show experience. Instead of walking the show floor hoping to stumble upon the right solution, set a few SMART goals to guide your time, focus your conversations, and help you identify innovations that can move your projects forward.

PACK EXPO Tip #6: Review and RSVP to Networking Events

PACK EXPO offers many opportunities to connect with fellow packaging professionals, both during the show and after hours. Some networking events fill up quickly, so review the options and RSVP early to secure your spot. But don't feel like you need to attend them all! Prioritize the events that put you in the room with the people you want to meet and then make the most of the opportunity to build meaningful connections and enjoy your time.

PACK EXPO Tip #7: Ask Exhibitors Questions

When you stop by an exhibitor's booth, they'll likely start with their pitch, but remember: the conversation is about you, too. Come prepared with questions and don't be afraid to dig deeper. Ask to see a solution in action, get hands-on with samples, or dive into the technical details—or ask them to skip the jargon and explain it in plain language. And don't forget to ask who else should be a part of the conversation. Packaging suppliers are well-connected, so even if one company can't solve your problem on its own, their team may know of another supplier that could collaborate on a solution.

PACK EXPO brings together professionals with all levels of experience and expertise, and everyone is there to learn. So, bring your laundry list of questions, challenge assumptions, and have the conversations that help you find the right solutions for your needs. That's what the show is all about.

PACK EXPO Tip #8: Explore Beyond Your Category

PACK EXPO brings together solutions from across the industry. Even if you're focused on rigid packaging, spend some time exploring flexible packaging and other adjacent categories. You could discover something you didn't know was possible or find inspiration for your next project.

PACK EXPO Tip #9: Keep Your Business Cards Handy

Great conversations can happen when you least expect them, but you may not always have time to finish them. If you need to rush off to your next meeting, don't disappear like a ghost in the night—exchange business cards and make a note to follow up so you can pick up where you left off. You never know where one good conversation might lead!

PACK EXPO Tip #10: Follow Up After PACK EXPO

Simply collecting those business cards isn't enough. After the show, prioritize reconnecting with the suppliers and solutions that could help move your projects forward.

Preparing for PACK EXPO 2026: Registration, Travel, and Lodging

If you're planning to attend PACK EXPO 2026 in Chicago, take advantage of the early-bird rate of $30, available through September 25. After this date, the registration fee increases to $130. The Fresh-Lock team is also offering a FREE registration code. Simply use code 10X66 when registering.

Once registered, you gain an all-access pass to five exhibit halls for all four days of the show, more than 150 educational sessions, networking opportunities, special events, and much more.

For those unfamiliar with the area, be sure to visit PACK EXPO's Travel & Hotel page to book your stay through the official Hotel Reservation Office of PACK EXPO. The page also provides information about complimentary shuttles to and from the hotels and the show, along with recommendations for the best dining and attractions while you're exploring the city of Chicago.

Everything You Need to Know: PACK EXPO International 2026 FAQs

Where is PACK EXPO International 2026?

McCormick Place
2301 S. King Drive
Chicago, IL 60616

When is PACK EXPO International?

• Sunday, October 18 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST
• Monday, October 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST
• Tuesday, October 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST
• Wednesday, October 21 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CST

How much does it cost to register for PACK EXPO International?

Registration for PACK EXPO 2026 costs $30 until September 25, and $130 after.

If you want to save on registration for PACK EXPO, the Fresh-Lock team is offering a free registration code: 10X66

What is there to do in Chicago?

From museums and nightlife to dining and shopping, the Choose Chicago website has information specifically catered to PACK EXPO 2026 attendees. Since PACK EXPO 2026 is occurring in late October, visitors will have plenty of seasonal celebrations to experience around the city, including haunted tours, festivals, and more.

Visit the Fresh-Lock Team at PACK EXPO in Chicago

Attendees interested in reclosable flexible packaging or in learning more about how we collaborate with brands and suppliers to develop award-winning innovations, visit us at booth S-3907.