Herndon, Va.; Oct. 13, 2025 – Fresh on the heels of a groundbreaking PACK EXPO Las Vegas, PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, announces that registration is now open for PACK EXPO East 2026 (Feb. 17–19, 2026; Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia). Marking its 10th year, the event returns with new features, expanded opportunities, and the same mission that has defined PACK EXPO shows for decades: advancing innovation and connection across the packaging and processing supply chain.
PACK EXPO East has become the East Coast’s go-to event for packaging and processing professionals, offering a high-value, easy to access experience. The 2026 show will bring together thousands of attendees, 500 exhibitors, and solutions for 40+ vertical markets across 125,000 net square feet, encompassing a range of industries, including food and beverage, life sciences, personal care, industrial, and household products. In a region with an immense manufacturing footprint, brands will find the location convenient and advantageous for teams to attend.
The show floor at PACK EXPO East 2024.
“PACK EXPO East 2026 is where innovation meets accessibility,” says Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI. “This show delivers a unique opportunity for professionals to see breakthrough technologies up close, build powerful partnerships, and get a jump on the year’s biggest projects — all without leaving the East Coast.”
New for 2026
PACK EXPO East debuts two new show floor destinations designed to spotlight the next generation of solutions and ideas:
- Containers and Materials Pavilion – This new pavilion came about due to demand. Sixty-five percent of CPG attendees at the last PACK EXPO East came looking for packaging materials. This pavilion brings together the latest advancements in paperboard, glass, metal, flexible, and resealable materials. Attendees can explore packaging innovations that enhance functionality, boost sustainability, and create stronger shelf appeal.
- Incubator Hub – Developed in partnership with Ben Franklin Technology Partners, this new feature showcases Pennsylvania-based startups and emerging technologies driving entrepreneurship and manufacturing growth.
- Returning favorites include the Reusable Packaging Pavilion, Association Partner Pavilion, and Workforce Development Pavilion, offering a 360-degree look at the technologies, resources, and talent defining the future of packaging and processing.
Education and Engagement
PACK EXPO East delivers powerful learning opportunities right on the show floor:
- Innovation Stage – Free, 30-minute exhibitor-led sessions offer practical insights into breakthrough technologies, applications, and real-world success stories.
- Industry Speaks – Expert panels featuring PACK EXPO East Partner Program members address hot-button topics such as sustainability, workforce, cybersecurity, and digital transformation.
- Vision 2030 – Exclusive sessions for PMMI members and CPG executives explore what’s next for packaging, from automation to circularity to business resilience.
Attendees and exhibitors interact at PACK EXPO East 2024.
Networking that Builds Business
Beyond technology, PACK EXPO East is a hub for community and collaboration:
- Taste of Philly Opening Reception (Feb. 17): Kick off the show and celebrate a decade of innovation with local favorites and networking.
- Young Professionals Network Reception (Feb. 17): Connect with the next generation of industry leaders in a relaxed, social setting.
- Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Reception (Feb. 18): Celebrate women driving progress and leadership across the industry.
Smart Tools for a Smarter Show
Attendees can plan ahead with My Show Planner, a personalized tool that maps exhibitors, schedules appointments, and allows users to build custom agendas. The updated PACK EXPO East Mobile App, launching in January, adds GPS-style navigation and real-time updates to keep attendees on track and in the know.
Why PACK EXPO East
Timed early in the year, PACK EXPO East gives companies a first-quarter advantage; a chance to see solutions, source technology, and align teams for the year ahead. With Philadelphia’s central East Coast location, it’s easy and affordable for companies to send teams to collaborate, benchmark, and make buying decisions together.
Registration is $30 through Jan. 23, 2026, increasing to $130 after that date.
For more information or to register, visit www.packexpoeast.com.
