Top Packaging Industry Trade Shows You Shouldn't Miss

Packaging industry trade shows serve as vital hubs for innovation, networking, and business development in this rapidly evolving sector. These events bring together manufacturers, suppliers, designers, and brand owners to showcase the latest technologies, materials, and solutions that are shaping the future of packaging.

Importance of Packaging Trade Shows for Industry Professionals

Trade shows offer unparalleled opportunities to witness industry innovations firsthand, connect with potential partners, and gain insights into emerging packaging trends. These events provide a platform for companies to demonstrate their capabilities, launch new products, and stay informed about competitive developments.

For packaging professionals, these exhibitions offer valuable educational sessions, workshops, and seminars that address current challenges and future opportunities in the industry. The knowledge gained can help companies adapt to changing consumer demands, regulatory requirements, and sustainability initiatives.

North American Packaging Shows Worth Attending

PACK EXPO International

Held annually in Chicago, PACK EXPO International is North America's largest packaging trade show, featuring over 2,000 exhibitors and attracting more than 50,000 attendees. The event showcases comprehensive packaging solutions across various industries, from food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and consumer goods.

The Packaging Conference

Focused on innovation in packaging materials and technologies, The Packaging Conference brings together thought leaders and decision-makers to discuss advancements in rigid packaging, flexible packaging, and sustainable solutions. This event is particularly valuable for those interested in the technical aspects of packaging development.

WestPack

As part of the Advanced Manufacturing series, WestPack in Anaheim, California, offers insights into packaging machinery, materials, and services with a special focus on the western U.S. market. The show features innovations in various packaging types and technologies.

European Packaging Exhibitions and Conferences

Interpack (Germany)

Held every three years in Düsseldorf, Interpack is one of the world's largest and most influential packaging trade shows. With over 2,800 exhibitors from more than 55 countries, it showcases comprehensive solutions for the entire packaging value chain and related process industries.

FACHPACK (Germany)

This annual European trade fair for packaging, technology, and processing attracts exhibitors and visitors primarily from German-speaking and Central European countries. FACHPACK is known for its focus on sustainable packaging solutions and innovations.

Packaging Innovations (UK)

This series of events held in Birmingham and London focuses on creative packaging design, materials, and technologies. The shows are particularly valuable for brand owners and designers looking for inspiration and solutions to enhance product appeal through innovative packaging design.

Asia-Pacific Packaging Events and Expositions

ProPak Asia (Thailand)

As Asia's premier processing and packaging event, ProPak Asia in Bangkok showcases the latest technologies from over 2,000 exhibitors across 45 countries. The show is particularly important for companies looking to expand their presence in the rapidly growing Southeast Asian markets.

Tokyo Pack (Japan)

This biennial event is Japan's largest international packaging exhibition, featuring cutting-edge packaging technologies and materials with a strong focus on sustainability, functionality, and design excellence. Tokyo Pack is renowned for showcasing packaging innovations that reflect Japanese precision and efficiency.

China International Packaging Industry Exhibition

This major packaging trade show in Shanghai features the latest equipment, materials, and services from domestic and international exhibitors. The event provides valuable insights into China's massive packaging market and manufacturing capabilities.

Specialized Packaging Trade Shows by Industry

Cannabis Packaging Exhibitions

The cannabis industry has developed specialized packaging events that address unique regulatory requirements and consumer preferences. These shows feature child-resistant packaging, compliance-focused solutions, and innovative display options. Many suppliers, such as those offering premium pre-roll packaging products for cannabis, showcase their specialized offerings at these industry-specific events.

Cosmetics and Beauty Packaging Shows

Events like Luxe Pack and MakeUp in Paris focus exclusively on packaging solutions for the beauty and cosmetics industry. These shows highlight luxury packaging designs, sustainable options, and innovative dispensing systems tailored to cosmetic products.

Food Packaging Innovations

Trade shows like Anuga FoodTec and International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) showcase packaging solutions specifically designed for food products, with emphasis on food safety, extended shelf life, and sustainable materials.

• Material innovations for food preservation
• Smart packaging technologies with freshness indicators
• Sustainable alternatives to traditional food packaging
• Equipment for efficient food packaging operations
• Solutions for ready-to-eat and convenience food packaging

Maximizing Your ROI at Packaging Industry Trade Shows

To get the most value from attending packaging trade shows, companies should develop a strategic approach that includes:

Pre-show planning is essential, including researching exhibitors, scheduling meetings with potential partners, and identifying specific technologies or solutions to investigate. Many shows offer digital platforms to help attendees plan their visit efficiently.

During the event, focus on quality interactions rather than quantity. Take time to engage deeply with innovative displays and ask detailed questions about how specific solutions might address your company's challenges. Attend educational sessions relevant to your business needs.

Post-show follow-up is critical for converting connections into business relationships. Organize collected information, prioritize leads, and develop a systematic approach to maintaining contact with promising partners or suppliers.

The packaging industry continues to evolve rapidly, with sustainability, digital technologies, and changing consumer preferences driving innovation. By strategically selecting and attending the most relevant packaging trade shows for your business needs, you can stay ahead of industry developments and position your company for success in this dynamic market.