PACK EXPO Chicago SHOW DAILY—Tuesday Oct 20

OCTOBER 20, 2026

TUESDAY

SHOW DAILY

EDUCATION P. 28 • SUSTAINABILITY P. 38 • PAVILIONS P. 40 • NEW PRODUCTS P. 49

NEWS BRIEF Ask the Experts Stations Take advantage of personalized assistance from industry experts ready to help you find answers to your toughest challenges. Located in Lakeside Upper Hall, Booth LU-6000, at the PMMI Booth in the North Hall (Booth N-4550), and in the West Hall Lobby.

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Andrew Dougherty, PMMI Vice President (center), congratulates Timothy Raymond and Susan Rettmann of KRONES (Booth S-2536) as the company celebrates 60 years.

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Starview Packaging Machinery Inc.’s (Booth N-5535) Eric Carlomusto (left) and Steven Carlomusto (right) are recognized by Andrew Dougherty, PMMI Vice President, on the company’s 35th year in business.

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Good morning and welcome to Day Three! Last night was a great reminder that PACK EXPO International is about much more than equipment and technology. At PACK gives BACK™, sponsored by Rockwell Automation (Booth S-2450), our industry came together for an evening of networking, celebration, and a fantastic performance by Third Eye Blind—all while supporting the PMMI Foundation and its commitment to developing the future packaging and processing workforce. The show recognized the inaugural CPG NexGen Award winners—10 outstanding young professionals already making an impact at consumerpackaged goods (CPG) companies through innovation, leadership, and problem-solving. Their accomplishments are an encouraging look at where our industry is headed. Supporting that next generation is a priority for PMMI. Through the PMMI Foundation, scholarships, education, student programs, and other initiatives are available that introduce young people to the

rewarding careers available throughout packaging and Jim Pittas, President & CEO, PMMI processing. That commitment is on display throughout PACK EXPO International. This morning, the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Breakfast (Room W-375AB) brings professionals together to hear from retired U.S. Air Force Col. Nicole Malachowski and connect around leadership and career advancement. On the show floor, the PACK Challenge (Booth W-26000) gives six high school teams the opportunity to put their technical, communication, and problem-solving skills to the test in a real-world machine-building competition. The PACK Challenge Awards take place this afternoon. Collaboration is another defining feature of this show. Through Industry Meets at PACK EXPO,

PACK EXPO Scholarships Awarded

Nordson Packaging and PMMI Double the Impact for Breast Cancer Research

The PMMI Foundation, the charitable arm of PACK EXPO show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (Booth N-4550), has awarded $30,000 in PACK EXPO Scholarships to six students pursuing careers in packaging and processing-related fields. The six recipients were recognized during the soldout PACK gives BACK™ event last evening, featuring Third Eye Blind at the House of Blues. Each recipient will receive a $5,000 scholarship to support their education as they prepare for careers in industries that increasingly rely on engineering, automation, packaging, and advanced manufacturing expertise. The 2026 recipients represent universities across the United States and a range of disciplines, including mechanical engineering, engineering, packaging

—Continued on page 4

As Chicago recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month with events and activities taking place throughout October, Nordson Packaging (Booth S-2130) is proud to support the cause during PACK EXPO International by donating $5,000 to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF). In a generous show of industry support, PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (Booth N-4550), has agreed to match the donation through its PACK gives BACK™ Charitable Foundation, —Continued on page 4

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Your southeast hub for packaging and processing

april 12-14, 2027 / Atlanta, GA Georgia World Congress Center Registration Now Open packexposoutheast.com

Visit Us N-6106

PACKAGING & FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Sauce/Jam Processing Line

INGREDIENT PREPARATION. MIXING & COOKING. STERILIZATION. FILLING. SEAMING. END-OF-LINE. Sauce/Jam Packaging Line

Processing

Weighing

Filling

Bagging

Wrapping

Capping

Labeling

Cartoning

Forming

Packing

Palletizing

Tube Filling

Canning & Kegging

Bottle Filling

Blow Moulding

Conveying

Inspection

Optical Sorting

X-Ray

TurnKey

foodtech.atsautomation.com

NEWS BRIEF

TUES SHOW DAILY 4

Recycle at PACK EXPO International 2026

OCTOBER 20, 2026

—We’re Glad You’re Here, Continued from page 1

Dow is the Official Sustainability Sponsor and Sponsor of Show Floor Recycling at PACK EXPO International 2026. Use the bins throughout the show to properly dispose of waste and recyclable materials.

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association partners are holding meetings and receptions throughout the week, creating even more opportunities for specialized industry communities to connect. The Association Partner Pavilion in the North Hall also brings leading organizations together in one location, giving attendees access to expertise and resources from across packaging and processing. Today is also a great day to explore sustainability across the show. Dow, the official sustainability partner and sponsor of show-floor recycling, is helping support recycling efforts throughout McCormick Place. Attendees can also use the Sustainability Solutions Finder and look for the PACK EXPO Green icon to identify suppliers and educational sessions focused on sustainability. Be sure to visit Sustainability Central (Booth W-52060), presented by Packaging World (N-4550)

and sponsored by EFP, LLC (Booth W-45060), the Reusable Packaging Pavilion and the Reusable Packaging Learning Center, both sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (Booth LU-6645), for additional ideas and solutions. Confectionery professionals can wrap up their day at the Confectionery Industry Networking Reception, sponsored by the National Confectioners Association (Booth S-2583), at 4 p.m. in the Candy Bar Lounge, sponsored by Syntegon Packaging Technology (Booth S-3514), in the South Hall. And one final reminder: Technology Excellence Awards voting closes today at noon. If you haven’t voted yet, take a few minutes to recognize the technologies you believe are advancing our industry. Enjoy Day Three and continue making the most of everything PACK EXPO International has to offer.

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—PACK EXPO Scholarships Awarded, Continued from page 1

Andrew Dougherty, PMMI Vice President (second from right), congratulates MULTIPOND America Inc. (Booth S-2882) on 80 years in business. From left: Georg Diakourakis, Wilhelm Kraemer, and Tobias Hien.

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science, and packaging engineering. “Supporting students as they develop the technical skills and expertise our industry needs is one of the most important investments we can make in its future,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. “This year’s PACK EXPO Scholarship recipients represent an impressive range of disciplines and educational paths, and we are proud to support them as they take the next steps toward careers that will help shape the future of packaging and processing.”

The 2026 PACK EXPO Scholarship Recipients: • Bryant Hales, Brigham Young University–Idaho, Mechanical Engineering • Delilah Assefa, James Madison University, Engineering • Emily Neale, Clemson University, Packaging Science • Eric Dalangin, Rutgers University–New Brunswick, Packaging Engineering PMMI Vice President Andrew Dougherty (left) presents an anniversary plaque to Kevin Welsch of SICK, Inc. (Booth N-5913) as the company celebrates 80 years.

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110 years and counting! NJM Packaging (Booth S-3852) marks the milestone with PMMI. From left: Andrew Dougherty, PMMI Vice President; Mark Anderson; PMMI President Jim Pittas; and Steve Leduc.

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• Hyrum Woolsey, Brigham Young University–Idaho, Mechanical Engineering • Roberto Montiel, University of Georgia, Mechanical Engineering

Building the Industry’s Future Workforce The PACK EXPO Scholarship program is part of the PMMI Foundation’s broader commitment to strengthening the packaging and processing workforce by supporting students pursuing education and careers relevant to the industry. Beyond providing financial assistance, PMMI Foundation initiatives help build connections between education and industry, increase awareness of career opportunities, and encourage emerging talent to bring their skills to packaging, processing, manufacturing, and related fields. Each year, the PMMI Foundation provides more than $200,000 in scholarships to students preparing to enter the packaging and processing industries. For more information about PMMI Foundation scholarships and scholarship recipients, visit PMMIFoundation.org.

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—Nordson Packaging and PMMI, Continued from page 1

Nordson places a great amount of effort into our Nordson Impact giving programs; we see it as an investment that’s improving the lives of others bringing the total contribution to $10,000. BCRF is the world’s largest private funder of breast cancer research and is dedicated to advancing the most promising science to prevent and cure breast cancer while improving patient outcomes. Through investments in innovative research programs around the globe, BCRF helps accelerate breakthroughs that bring hope to millions of patients and families impacted by the disease. The contribution reflects Nordson’s ongoing commitment to corporate citizenship through its global giving and community engagement initiatives. “Nordson places a great amount of effort into our Nordson Impact giving programs; we see it as an investment that’s improving the lives of others,” says Cindy Baumgardner, Senior Specialist, Foundation and Community Affairs. “The research that BCRF funds is transformative for so many people, families, and communities. In addition, we are always elated when partners, such as PMMI, join forces with us to make an impact.”

“PMMI is grateful for Nordson’s continued support as a PMMI member and a long-time exhibitor at PACK EXPO,” says Jim Pittas, Chairman and CEO, PMMI. “We are proud to once again support Nordson’s generosity with matching funds for the BCRF. As with all the groups Nordson and PMMI have supported over the years, this is such a worthy cause, especially during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.”

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Visit Us N-6106

PACKAGING & FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Vertical Bagging

High-Performance Pouch Filling

Combination Weighing

Takeaway Scale

Tray Forming with Glue

Pallet Handling

Spiral Conveying

TableTop Scale

Flow Wrapping

Bag Uncuffer (Vacuum)

Tube Filling

Fold & Tuck Tray Forming

Robotic Pick & Place Packing

Vertical Transfer

Optical Sorting

foodtech.atsautomation.com

NEWS BRIEF

TUES SHOW DAILY 6

OCTOBER 20, 2026

Simplifying Motion Control from Processing to Palletizing Dynamic Conveyor Corporation (Booth N-5906) celebrates 35 years in business. Joining PMMI Vice President Andrew Dougherty are, from left, Michael Rowan, Chris Koopman, Marcie Palmer, and Lexi Buntley.

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Pictured from left: Charles Tonna and Kyle Kropman of Buskro Ltd. (Booth W-37022) and Andrew Dougherty, PMMI Vice President, as the company celebrates 50 years in business.

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SEW-EURODRIVE (Booth S-3783) provides integrated drive and automation solutions for food, beverage, and packaging operations. From processing and filling to packaging, conveying, and palletizing, they help machine builders and manufacturers coordinate motion across individual machines and complete lines. Their complete package brings together gearmotors, servomotors, inverters, controllers, software, and engineering support from a single source. At its core, the MOVI-C® automation platform connects drive technology and motion control with engineering software designed to simplify machine design and startup. Pre-engineered MOVIKIT® modules support functions such as positioning and synchronized motion, while single-cable technology simplifies connections between motors and drives. Because the components are designed to work together, customers can reduce supplier interfaces and streamline wiring, configuration, and commissioning—all with one provider. The portfolio also includes stainless steel

gearmotors for hygienic areas and efficient drive systems for conveyors and material handling. Whether an OEM is designing a new packaging machine or a manufacturer is upgrading a packing line, SEW-EURODRIVE helps to select and integrate components that fit the process With SEW-EURODRIVE supporting the entire system from engineering through operation, customers gain a consistent approach to diagnostics, maintenance, and future upgrades. This unified approach enables customers to simplify integration and reduce system complexity, keeping your systems and machines running smoothly from start to finish.

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CONTENT Handle It Inc. (Booth N-5347) marks 50 years in business. Joining PMMI Vice President Andrew Dougherty are, from left, Trisha Didion, Jamie Staat, Dean Johnson, Lindsay Lyon, and Mike Kroencke.

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PACK EXPO Scavenger Hunt The PACK EXPO Scavenger Hunt transforms the show into a dynamic, interactive journey and offers the chance to win $1,000. To participate, attendees will need to download the PACK EXPO International Mobile App, sponsored by ProMach (Booth S-3630), and enter the unique codes found at each of the 10 show specialty areas located within the four buildings of McCormick Place. Once attendees complete all 10 stops, they will be entered to win $1,000. Three winners will be selected.

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Sean Riley | Senior News Director David Bacho | Creative Director

ADVERTISING sales@pmmimediagroup.com Reggie Lawrence | Director, Vice President, Sales, rlawrence@pmmimediagroup.com Lara Krieger | Senior Manager, Print Operations, lkrieger@pmmimediagroup.com Janet Fabiano | Financial Services Manager, jfabiano@pmmimediagroup.com

PMMI MEDIA GROUP David Newcorn | President Elizabeth Kachoris | Vice President, Digital Jen Krepelka | Senior Director, Digital Media Amber Miller | Director of Marketing Joan Jacinto | Director, Ad Tech and Search Angie Szerlong | Director of Industry Strategy

PMMI Media Group

500 W. Madison, Suite 1000, Chicago, IL 60661 • Web: www.pmmimediagroup.com

PMMI The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies

12930 Worldgate Dr., Suite 200, Herndon VA, 20170 • Phone: 571/612-3200 • Fax: 703/243-8556 • Web: www.pmmi.org

INTRODUCING THE NEXT GENERATION OF ADCO TOP LOAD CARTON FORMING. Designed to help meet today’s packaging challenges while supporting tomorrow’s production demands, ADCO’s newest top load carton former represents the next evolution in top load carton forming. This new carton former design combines almost 70 years of carton forming expertise with advanced engineering to deliver reliable performance, simplified operation, and the rugged dependability packaging professionals have come to expect from ADCO. See the next generation of ADCO top load carton forming in action at booth S-1730 and discover what’s next in top load carton forming.

Scan Here to Learn More Explore ADCO’s complete line of top-load carton forming, loading, and closing solutions.

TUES SHOW DAILY 8

OCTOBER 20, 2026

Fujifilm Announces Global Strategic Partnership with ePac Alliance will scale Fujifilm’s (Booth W-32054) J Press FP790 water-based digital inkjet technology across ePac’s global footprint. Fujifilm (Booth W-32054) announced a global strategic alliance with ePac Flexible Packaging on Sunday, an international leader in digitally driven flexible packaging solutions. At the heart of the new partnership sits the FUJIFILM J Press FP790, which will enable ePac to set a new benchmark for high-volume digital printing, speed, and crossmarket scalability across its global network. The relationship between the two companies underlines Fujifilm’s commitment to bringing digital flexible packaging solutions into mainstream printing. The partnership with Fujifilm, and the technology of the FUJIFILM J Press FP790, will enable ePac to continue to push the upper boundaries of its business model and deliver unmatched value across every stage of a brand’s growth. The initial J Press FP790 deployment begins in North America, with a press installation at ePac’s new state of the art facility in Phoenix, Arizona, to be followed with a planned fleet expansion across ePac’s global network in future phases. “ePac was founded on the belief that digital printing would redefine the global flexible packaging market,” said Parag Patel, President of Shared Services at ePac Flexible Packaging. “By continuing

Vice President of Fujifilm Business Innovation Corporation. “We’ve put huge emphasis on digital packaging in the latest developments to our portfolio, and our flagship J Press FP790 is engineered specifically to transform flexible packaging manufacturing. ePac’s forward-thinking model makes them the ideal global strategic partner to demonstrate its power.” The FUJIFILM J Press FP790 is purpose-built for high-volume flexible packaging, delivering an outstanding level of quality graphics, exceptional color consistency, and support for recyclable material structures. It delivers pristine 1200 x 1200

This alliance brings together two powerhouses dedicated to the digital transformation of global packaging. We’ve put huge emphasis on digital packaging in the latest developments to our portfolio, and our flagship J Press FP790 is engineered specifically to transform flexible packaging manufacturing. ePac’s forward-thinking model makes them the ideal global strategic partner to demonstrate its power. to integrate leading-edge assets into our fleet, we are significantly increasing our capacity and capability to handle larger run lengths efficiently. ePac has always been focused on helping brands grow through professional packaging, and as they scale, their needs evolve. Incorporating this technology gives brand owners of all sizes the continued agility of digital while providing a true end-to-end scaling solution for flexible packaging.” “This alliance brings together two powerhouses dedicated to the digital transformation of global packaging,” said Osamu Nakashima, Corporate

dpi resolution, covering over 90% of the Pantone® color gamut, while using eco-friendly, food-safe water-based inks. It will enable ePac to increase throughput while preserving its short-run, ondemand capabilities, which have become critical for modern brands that need to remain nimble to remain competitive in today’s market. Through this alliance, Fujifilm and ePac are well positioned to support emerging and established brands seeking shorter lead times, localized production, and scalable packaging solutions aligned with evolving market demands.

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TUES SHOW DAILY 10

OCTOBER 20, 2026

Vote Now for the 2026 Technology Excellence Awards Recognize PACK EXPO debuts by selecting winners in three categories. PACK EXPO International show producer PMMI would like to thank all exhibitors who submitted innovative and cutting-edge products for consideration for the 2026 Technology Excellence Awards. The Technology Excellence Awards recognize the best innovations in packaging and processing, being shown for the first time at a PACK EXPO event. There are two ways to vote—on the official show mobile app and online at packexpointernational.com/ vote. In-person attendees are encouraged to visit the finalists’ booths and vote via the official show mobile app or online. Voting closes Tuesday at noon, and

the winners will be announced via a press release on Tuesday afternoon. All attendees are encouraged to cast their vote for their favorite product in each category. This is a great way to have your opinion heard and to drive innovation for the future of the packaging and processing industry. Thank you to the Technology Excellence Awards reviewers who reviewed the submissions and narrowed them down to three finalists in each category: • Bob Larkin, Owner, BL.PKG LLC • David Smith, Principal, David S Smith & Associates • Robert Champion, President, InnoFlex Solutions, LLC

General Packaging & Processing OneLock™ All‑in‑One Closure

Colorcon (Booth W-23070) For decades, pharmaceutical packaging has relied on multi-component systems including bottle, desiccant, induction seal, and closure. OneLock consolidates these four essential packaging functions into one smart, ready-to-use closure. An integrated desiccant delivers reliable moisture protection for sensitive solid oral dose products. A child-resistant, senior-friendly push-and-turn design ensures safe and accessible use. A tamperevident disk provides clear, visual confirmation of first opening. Compatibility with standard SP 33/400 bottles eliminates the need for dedicated containers, enabling seamless adoption across global markets. The result is a streamlined packaging process with no desiccant insertion, no induction sealing, fewer components, and reduced chance for error. Manufacturers benefit from simplified operations, faster line efficiency, and easier scale-up, while supporting global harmonization strategies. It also reduces packaging variability across regions, helping teams standardize formats and accelerate product launches worldwide.

OneLock™ also enhances the patient experience. Intuitive usability and visible tamper evidence reinforce confidence in product integrity from production through first use. At the same time, reducing components and process steps supports a lower material and environmental footprint. Fewer materials, fewer steps, and simplified logistics contribute to a more efficient and sustainable packaging approach without compromising performance.

PMG RFID FlagTag

PMG Labels (Booth LU-6622) The PMG RFID FlagTag is innovative because it redefines antenna architecture to overcome electromagnetic interference, the primary barrier to conventional RFID tracking. Standard flat labels fail when applied directly to metal, glass, or liquid-filled containers because the underlying material disrupts signal transmission. PMG’s internal engineering team solved this by developing a unique, flag-shaped label design. Instead of laying flush against the product, the PMG RFID FlagTag extends the RFID antenna laterally away from the application point. This indirect positioning completely eliminates contact with disruptive materials, restoring reliable, flawless read performance on previously incompatible surfaces. The innovation also extends to its physical and functional design:

• High-Density Bulk Detection: The protruding antenna maintains consistent readability even when items are tightly stacked on shelves or in smart cabinets—environments where standard flat labels lose signal. • Dual-Zone Architecture: The white, adhesive-free upper zone allows for clean thermal transfer printing, while the highly transparent lower adhesive zone preserves product branding and packaging aesthetics. • Extreme Durability: Engineered to withstand extreme environments, it maintains full performance in temperatures ranging from -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to +85°C), making it ideal for cold chain logistics and industrial manufacturing. • Delivered on standard PET carriers, the PMG RFID FlagTag integrates seamlessly into existing printer and encoding infrastructure, requiring no new equipment investments while expanding RFID tracking into previously inaccessible verticals. —Continued on page 12

TUES SHOW DAILY 12

OCTOBER 20, 2026

—Continued from page 10

General Packaging & Processing Be-Fill

ZACMI - ZANICHELLI MECCANICA SPA (Booth S-3847) Most manufacturers are forced to choose between flexibility and efficiency. Running oxygen-sensitive beverages, carbonated products, and hot-fill applications often requires separate systems, extensive changeovers, or compromises in production capabilities. The Zacmi BE-FILL eliminates those tradeoffs. Rather than relying on a single valve design, the BE-FILL uses three purpose-built valve families optimized for different beverage categories. This allows manufacturers to support a broader range of beverages from a single platform while maintaining

product quality and operational performance. The dual-channel flushing valve helps minimize dissolved oxygen and reduce CO2 consumption. The internal recirculation valve enables both hot-fill and carbonated production on the same platform,

helping manufacturers avoid the cost and complexity associated with separate filling lines. The platform also addresses downtime caused by compressed air interruptions. A mechanical emergency cam allows production to continue during these events, helping protect productivity. The bowless design eliminates the product bowl found on traditional fillers, directly minimizing the volume of product lost during recipe changes without relying on additional process steps or operator intervention. When paired with the Zacmi seamer, the BEFILL becomes a fully integrated fill-and-seal solution supported by a single supplier. Unified controls, one warranty, and one service organization simplify ownership and support across the entire system.

Food/Beverage CUBO with Click In Sealing Lid

DX-Series Digital Printing

Hinterkopf GmbH (Booth W-38056) The DX Series addresses a core limitation in the industrial decoration of cylindrical packaging: The economic constraints of producing highly customized containers in environments with increasing SKU variation, regional differentiation, and short-run demand. The system enables 360-degree digital printing at up to 1,500 dpi on cylindrical containers made of aluminum, steel, and plastic. It covers diameters from 9 to 165 mm and container lengths from 60 to 240 mm. A key technical differentiator is its formatindependent production approach. The system operates without format-specific tooling. All printheads run simultaneously regardless of container geometry, and automatic format adaptation supports

Greiner Packaging Corporation (Booth W-46052) The innovation of the combined CUBO and Click In sealing lid solution lies in its system-level approach, rethinking both packaging geometry and closure design to deliver tangible improvements across the value chain. CUBO introduces a fundamental shift from round to square cup design. While round cups are the established industry standard, they inherently create unused space when stacked or transported. CUBO eliminates this inefficiency by enabling tighter packing, allowing up to 35% more cups per pallet compared to a standard round cup of the same size and volume. This demonstrates that innovation in food packaging can be achieved not by adding complexity, but by optimizing geometry to improve system performance.

The Click In sealing lid complements this concept by simplifying conventional closure systems. Traditional packaging relies on three components—container, sealing foil, and lid—whereas Click In reduces this to just two. This redesign streamlines production, reduces handling steps, and minimizes potential sources of error. At the same time, the lid introduces a distinctive engagement mechanism: it sits inside the rim and provides a tactile and audible “click” when securely closed, ensuring reliable sealing and enabling repeated use without compromising performance. Instead of optimizing individual components, CUBO and Click In sealing lid create a unified system that integrates logistics efficiency, operational simplicity, and consumer functionality. This holistic approach sets a new benchmark for food packaging design, demonstrating how coordinated innovations can deliver measurable benefits across production, distribution, retail, and consumption.

rapid changeovers between different container sizes and designs. This architecture removes tooling-related setup steps and reduces downtime between production jobs. It enables economically viable short-run and variable-data production within an industrial packaging environment. The DX Series is designed for applications requiring high variability rather than maximum volume efficiency. These include personalized packaging, limited editions, regional campaigns, product launches, and test market executions. It enables can makers, tube producers, fillers, and brand owners to execute frequent design changes and market-specific packaging strategies within existing production workflows. The system supports a shift toward demand-driven packaging production, where output is defined by

market requirements rather than tooling constraints or long-run economics. In addition, the fully digital workflow changes operational requirements from process-specific printing expertise toward digital skills, data management, and workflow control, supporting the next generation of manufacturing talent. —Continued on page 14

TUES SHOW DAILY 14

OCTOBER 20, 2026

—Continued from page 12

Food/Beverage TAKELAC™ WPB 341: Advanced Water-Based Barrier Coating Technology

Mitsui Chemicals America (Booth W-15107) TAKELAC™ WPB 341 is innovative because it transforms barrier packaging from a conventional multilayer approach into a flexible platform technology that enables new food and beverage packaging designs focused on safety, freshness, consumer experience, and sustainability. Traditional high-barrier packaging often requires multiple incompatible materials to achieve oxygen and moisture protection. While effective, these structures can limit recycling options and restrict the development of simpler packaging formats. TAKELAC™ WPB 341 introduces a water-based polyurethane barrier coating that enables high-performance packaging with design flexibility. A key innovation is its ability to support transparent retort packaging. By enabling clear high-barrier structures, TAKELAC™ WPB 341 allows consumers to visually inspect the product while maintaining the protection required for ready-to-eat meals, sauces, and other shelf-stable foods. The technology also supports the transition toward recyclable mono-material packaging by enabling PEbased barrier laminates designed to replace more complex structures. This helps brands develop packaging that protects food quality while addressing evolving sustainability requirements. Beyond plastic packaging, TAKELAC™ WPB 341 expands possibilities for paper-based food and beverage packaging by providing barrier functionality needed to improve resistance to moisture and oxygen exposure, supporting longer shelf life and new sustainable formats. By combining advanced polymer chemistry, packaging innovation, and sustainability benefits, TAKELAC™ WPB 341 provides a new generation of barrier technology that improves product protection, enhances consumer experience, reduces waste, and enables the future of food and beverage packaging.

Sustainability DecoFusion™ 100% PCR Tube

Amcor Rigid Packaging Solutions (Booth S-3500) DecoFusion™ tube technology offers a new approach to packaging design, helping brands achieve premium aesthetics while advancing sustainability goals. By fusing a decorated film layer directly onto an extruded polyethylene tube, the decorative layer becomes part of the tube structure during manufacturing—enabling highend graphics, material reduction and streamlined production without added layers or secondary processes. The impact is clear and measurable. With potential to reduce sidewall thickness by more than 30%, DecoFusion™ achieves up to 27% weight savings compared to standard tubes. In a typical 6” polyethylene tube, this could equate to a 4.4-gram reduction per unit. At scale—20 million units—this translates to an annual reduction of up to 167 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, demonstrating meaningful lifecycle impact through lower material usage and transportation emissions. DecoFusion™ also supports circularity by enabling up to 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content while maintaining a premium appearance. The fused decorative layer helps conceal visual variation associated with recycled materials, allowing brands to increase PCR usage without compromising shelf appeal. When paired with an HDPE closure, DecoFusion™ creates an all-polyethylene package that improves compatibility with existing recycling streams, reduces contamination and supports higher-quality recycled outputs. The technology preserves the tactile feel, durability and resilience expected from extruded polyethylene tubes while enabling advanced decoration, including high-end flexography, foiling and specialty finishes. DecoFusion™ gives brands one solution to reduce material, increase circularity and maintain premium design—delivering environmental impact at scale without sacrificing performance, efficiency or visual quality. —Continued on page 16

TUES SHOW DAILY 16

OCTOBER 20, 2026

—Continued from page 14

Sustainability ECO LITE Drums

CurTec USA, LLC (Booth W-25056) The innovation behind ECO LITE drums lies in solving a long-standing engineering challenge: how to significantly reduce the environmental impact of industrial packaging without compromising the mechanical performance required for pharmaceutical and specialty chemical applications. Instead of simply reducing wall thickness, CurTec completely redesigned the drum architecture using Design for Sustainability principles. Two major technical breakthroughs made this possible. The first was replacing the conventional EPDM gasket with a newly developed integrated HDPE gasket produced during the injection molding process. Using in-house finite element analysis (FEA) and extensive prototyping, CurTec developed a sealing geometry that maintains acceptable closing forces, sealing performance and moisture protection while enabling a 100% mono-material construction. The second breakthrough was achieving a 25% weight reduction while maintaining UN-certified stacking and drop-test performance. This was accomplished through FEA-driven geometry optimization and the introduction of PWDS blow-molding technology, enabling a much more uniform wall thickness distribution and eliminating unnecessary material without reducing strength. Together, these innovations created a new platform for sustainable industrial packaging. ECO LITE drums combine 30% biobased material, 25% weight reduction and improved pallet efficiency, leading to a 30% lower CO₂ footprint, while maintaining the performance, reliability and regulatory compliance required in pharmaceutical supply chains. The integrated gasket design also provides a technology platform for future CurTec product developments.

Intelligent Sustainable Fish Transport System with PetriTag®

Embalagem do Futuro® (Booth LL-9304) This solution is innovative because it integrates sustainability, intelligent monitoring, and biological sensing into a single packaging system, something not currently achieved in conventional cold chain logistics. First, it replaces single-use packaging with a reusable isothermal EPP box made partially from recycled fishing industry waste, transforming by-products into highvalue insulation while significantly reducing environmental impact. Second, it introduces PetriTag®, a breakthrough in smart packaging: a paper-based, biodegradable label that detects bacterial contamination in real time through visible color changes. Unlike traditional expiration dates or digital sensors, it provides direct biological insight, enabling detection of spoilage up to two days in advance and allowing better decision-making on product usability. Third, the system combines this biological layer with IoT-enabled traceability, capturing temperature, geolocation, and logistics data. This creates a multi-dimensional monitoring approach where physical, digital, and biological parameters are tracked simultaneously. The innovation lies not only in each component but in their seamless integration into a circular, scalable system. By merging reusable materials, waste valorization, realtime sensing, and digital traceability, it enables a smarter, safer, and more sustainable seafood supply chain.

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TUES SHOW DAILY 20

OCTOBER 20, 2026

Syntegon “re:imagines Factory of the Future” with North America customers at PACK EXPO

At Syntegon’s food booth (S-3514), find the North American debut of the neXt automation platform and SVX vertical packaging system, while its pharma booth (W-26038) features automated technologies and solutions for regulated manufacturing, and lifecycle services designed to improve uptime and flexibility. And be sure to stop by the Candy Bar Lounge (S-2583). At PACK EXPO International 2026, Syntegon joins its customers in “re:imagining” the Factory of the Future by providing answers to their most pressing challenges. With highly innovative solutions, the company will demonstrate how operations in the food, pharma and biotech sectors can be elevated to the next level of efficiency, flexibility and sustainability at the Syntegon food Booth S-3514 and the Syntegon pharma Booth W-26038.

Challenges as a Driver for Innovation and Growth

Syntegon’s neXt

The U.S. industry faces unique challenges. Rising cost pressure, growing demand for flexibility, labor shortages, and increasingly complex regulatory requirements are reshaping production environments across all sectors. To stay competitive, manufacturers need to plan for their factory of the future. Syntegon addresses these needs with innovations developed in close collaboration with its customers. The vision: a factory that can regulate itself, adapt to changing requirements, and support human decision-making through an AI-enabled control center. At PACK EXPO International 2026, Syntegon will showcase the building blocks that help customers bring this vision to life—with operations that are more seamless, smart, and touchless, and ultimately more efficient. “At PACK EXPO International, we demonstrate how our COCREATE and COSUCCEED concept helps customers in the U.S. market address their most pressing production challenges. Game-changing innovations, jointly developed with pioneering customers, deliver greater business impact in an environment defined by cost pressure, labor shortages, rising flexibility needs, and increasing regulatory complexity. Our innovation highlights, neXt and SVX, raise the bar in the food sector. Moreover, we support our pharmaceutical customers in mastering ever-stricter regulatory demands with automated technologies and seamless line solutions. Syntegon’s promise as a strategic lifecycle partner combines innovation leadership with best-in-class lifecycle services as the ultimate enabler for our customers’ growth,” says Torsten Türling, CEO of Syntegon.

neXt: The Factory of the Future is Seamless, Smart, and Touchless

The food industry is evolving quickly: Consumer and retailer demands are changing overnight, requiring utmost flexibility—especially in a fast-moving market like the US. Labor is scarce and increasingly expensive, and regulatory as well as market expectations are driving the shift toward more automation and flexibility. The neXt system solution from Syntegon will celebrate its North America premiere at PACK EXPO. neXt takes on the challenges by providing seamless operation, smart performance, and touchless automation. neXt allows operators to focus on the highest value-adding activities. Seamless operation increases efficiency and minimizes downtime. Real-time, smart data drives fact-based action and optimized OEE. Touchless automation and an intuitive UX result in faster changeovers, less training, and higher flexibility across product portfolios. Designed with future, evolving demands in mind, neXt enables a competitive edge for food manufacturers in a highly dynamic market.

SVX: High Speed, Fast Changeovers Syntegon’s SVX vertical packaging platform

The highly innovative SVX vertical packaging platform is second to none in addressing today’s and tomorrow’s customer challenges. Its immense speed of 300 bags per minute enables the lowest cost per bag—a decisive factor in a market

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Syntegon’s SynTiso shaped by cost pressure and high-volume production. Changeovers across various bag styles are simple and fast, allowing for maximum uptime and flexibility. SVX’s compact footprint dramatically increases productivity per square meter, providing a boost to business growth. At PACK EXPO, Syntegon will display the new SVX to produce corner seal bag styles and a completely new line solution to package frozen food.

Annex 1: Mastering Compliance with Seamless Line Solutions

Pharma and biotech are booming sectors, with the US remaining one of the world’s most important markets for biopharmaceutical innovation and production. As demand for highly potent liquid pharmaceuticals continues to rise, regulations such as EU GMP Annex 1 are becoming increasingly strict. Syntegon supports customers in mastering regulatory compliance, for example with the new settle plate changer SPC 4000. It fully automates active and passive viable monitoring, resulting in less manual intervention, higher process safety, and increased machine availability. The SPC 4000 can be integrated into both new and existing equipment such as Syntegon’s seamless vial line solutions, which visitors can also discover at PACK EXPO International.

“re:imagining Your Factory of the Future” with Syntegon’s Lifecycle Services

Syntegon is the strategic lifecycle partner of its customers. The company’s deep application expertise supports customers from the first ideation of their Factory of the Future—from concept development to implementation in complex production environments such as those found across the US market. Engineering solutions tailored to customers’ specific business needs create the best return on investment. Excellent project execution from the start to an up-and-running factory enables faster time to market. Qualified field and on-site service engineers secure reliable performance and high uptime. Constant line upgrades based on AI-powered data analytics make any investment future-proof. Syntegon’s lifecycle services turn the equipment of any Factory of the Future into a highly valuable and reliable business asset.

Syntegon sponsors the Candy Bar Lounge

Beyond its technology showcase, Syntegon is the exclusive sponsor of the Candy Bar Lounge in the Confectionery Pavilion (South Hall). The lounge serves as a central meeting place for visitors to connect with Syntegon experts and discuss the latest innovations in confectionery, snack, and bakery packaging. Throughout the show, visitors can also explore Syntegon content displayed in the lounge and obtain additional product information.

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TUES SHOW DAILY 22

OCTOBER 20, 2026

Let’s Talk About Sustainable Packaging Your Hub for Practical, Actionable Sustainability Education

Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s mission-critical. At Sustainability Central (Booth W-52060), you’ll find free, expert-led education that empowers you to meet evolving regulatory, environmental, and consumer demands head-on. Across four days of programming, discover the latest in: • Design for Recyclability is Required by Law. Are You Ready? • Advancing the Circular Economy: How Collaboration Delivers Value • Protect the Product, Reduce the Footprint • 2026: The Year EPR Stopped Being Optional • Building Regulatory Confidence: Food-Grade PCR for Flexibles Each session is designed to help brands and suppliers alike align sustainability goals with business outcomes, efficiency improvements, and customer expectations. Whether you’re leading your company’s sustainability strategy or looking for new ideas to get started, this is your destination to engage, learn, and take action.

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Free education. Real impact. A more sustainable future starts here. LOCATION West Building | Booth W-52060

DATES Sunday–Wednesday October 18 - 21

Explore the full schedule and learn more at pwgo.to/9271

TUES SHOW DAILY 24

OCTOBER 20, 2026

The Future of Manufacturing Takes the Stage at PACK EXPO International 2026 Hands-on competitions, robotics demonstrations, career connections, and show-floor experiences introduce students to the possibilities of packaging and processing careers.

The next generation of packaging and processing professionals aren’t just watching from the sidelines at PACK EXPO International 2026—they’re building machines, demonstrating robots, racing across the show floor, meeting potential employers, and exploring careers in one of manufacturing’s most dynamic industries. PACK EXPO International brings students face-toface with the technologies, companies, and professionals shaping the future of packaging and processing. Through hands-on competitions, demonstrations, tours, career development opportunities, and networking, students experience the industry in action while building connections for their own futures. Educational opportunities for students include:

• PACK Challenge: Six high school teams face off in a machine-building showdown. These teams earned their spot in the qualifiers with inventive designs and are now ready to compete in tasks such as a Factory Acceptance Test, sales and marketing, and operator training. Teams may win up to $20,000. Teams include: ◉ Alexandria Area High School ◉ Legacy Christian Academy and Becker High School Coalition ◉ Rich Township High School ◉ Sartell High School ◉ South Shore Technical High School ◉ Waterford Union High School

• Future Innovators Robotics Showcase, sponsored by Schneider Electric: See high school robotics teams showcase their design, engineering, and troubleshooting skills with live demonstrations. Participating teams include: ◉ Armada Robotics (FRC 2508) ◉ Charger Robotics (FRC 5348) ◉ First Starforce (FRC 11173) ◉ Gear Wizards (FTC 16917) ◉ Golden Ratio Robotics (FTC 12882) ◉ Monty Pythons (FRC 2151) ◉ Random Engineers (FTC 23802) ◉ Sartell Robotics (FRC 6045) ◉ Sensory Overload (FTC 25956) ◉ That ONE Team - Our Next Engineers (FRC 4967)

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• Students PACK the EXPO: Students from local Chicago-area schools will take to the show floor to experience PACK EXPO International through a virtual scavenger hunt, student tours, and a lunch-and-learn session.

—Continued on page 26

• Amazing Packaging Race, sponsored by SICK, Inc. (Booth N-5913): In this fun and educational event, teams from colleges and universities across North America race around the show floor to complete a series of tasks at participating exhibitor booths in a thrilling race. Participating exhibitors include: ◉ All-Fill Inc. (Booth S-1706) ◉ B&R Industrial Automation (Booth S-2451) ◉ Beckhoff Automation (Booth S-3682) ◉B W Packaging (Booth S-2100) ◉ Carleton Helical Technologies (Booth N-5213) ◉C MCO Conveyance Solutions (Booth N-5321) ◉C old Pressure Council (CPC) (Booth N-4565) ◉ Delta Modtech (Booth W-27006) ◉ Duravant (Booth S-3714) ◉E conocorp Inc. (Booth S-1502) ◉ Fallas Automation Inc. (Booth S-2158) ◉ FOX IV Technologies, Inc. (Booth N-4936) ◉F resh-Lock By Presto Products (Booth S-3907) ◉ HARPAK-ULMA Packaging, LLC (Booth S-2939, W-20098) ◉ HEISLER Industries, Inc. (Booth S-3866) ◉ Hoosier Feeder (Booth N-5143) ◉ I nstitute of Packaging Professionals, IoPP (Booth N-4560) ◉ LinMot USA (Booth S-1507) ◉M orrison Container Handling Solutions (Booth N-4906) ◉ OMAC (Booth N-4562) ◉ PAC Machinery (Booth S-2147) ◉ Pacteon Group (Booth S-3314) ◉P epperl+Fuchs (Booth LU-8147) ◉ Rinco Ultrasonics USA, Inc. (Booth S-1403) ◉ Shurtape Technologies (Booth N-6030) ◉S ICK (Booth N-5913) ◉ Siemens Digital Industries (Booth S-4266) ◉ Starview Packaging Machinery (Booth N-5535) ◉T riangle Package Machinery Company (Booth S-1714)

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TUES SHOW DAILY 26

OCTOBER 20, 2026 Scan the QR code for more details on student opportunities at the show.

—Continued from page 25

• The Workforce Development Pavilion (West Hall) serves as the ultimate resource hub for strengthening the existing workforce and nurturing the future workforce. Attendees can explore PMMI U’s array of offerings, including sought-after training workshops. Colleges and universities will showcase their mechatronics, packaging, and processing programs, while companies will have the opportunity to engage with students interested in pursuing careers in the industry. Participating schools include: ◉ Brigham Young University - Idaho ◉ Cal Poly Packaging ◉ Clemson University Packaging Science ◉ Fresno State University ◉ Hennepin Tech College ◉ Illinois Tech – Food Science and Nutrition Department ◉ Indiana State University ◉ Michigan State University School of Packaging ◉ North Carolina State University ◉ Northwood Technical College ◉ Purdue University Northwest ◉ Rochester Institute of Technology ◉ Rutgers Packaging Engineering Program ◉ San Jose State University ◉ Toronto Metropolitan University ◉ Tuskegee University ◉ University of Florida ◉ University of Wisconsin – Stout ◉ Virginia Tech Additional networking opportunities for students include: •S tudent Tours: PMMI staff will conduct tours of the show floor on Monday at 3:30 p.m. Tours start at the PMMI U and PMMI Foundation Booth. • Student Lounge: Open for students to meet with HR professionals to discuss career opportunities, receive resume-writing tips, and attend interview workshops. Interview Workshops will be conducted on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. and on Tuesday and Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. • Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) Breakfast: Students attending PACK EXPO International are invited to attend the PPWLN Breakfast on Tuesday, Oct. 20. • Tour with PPWLN Executive Council: Following the PPWLN Breakfast, members of the PPWLN Executive Council will provide a guided tour for the students. “PACK EXPO International is a place where students can connect with future employers and glimpse the real-world machinery, challenges, and solutions they may encounter in a career,” says Kate Torrence, director, workforce development, PMMI. “By bringing these opportunities to students, we are investing in the future of our industries and preparing a skilled next-generation workforce.”

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OCTOBER 20, 2026

Show Floor Education Offers Insight from Industry Insiders Scan the QR Codes below or visit the show app sponsored by ProMach (Booth S-3630) for descriptions, times, and locations.

Cutting-Edge Ideas in the Spotlight At the Innovation Stage (Booths N-4570, N-4580 and N-4585), leading suppliers and technical experts deliver fast-moving, 30-minute sessions that highlight important breakthroughs in packaging machinery, materials, automation, digital tools, and more. It’s your chance to learn what’s coming, how it works, and how other companies are putting these ideas into practice. Innovation Stage session topics include: • Key Trends in Inventory Management: Insights from 2026 Supply Chain Planning • The ROI Is Already There: How to Pay for End-of-Line Automation with Operational Gains • Beyond the Visible: Orchestrating the Digital Pulse of Packaging Manufacturing

• Empowering Every Engineer: AI-Driven Programming • The Future of Maintenance: What High-Performing Packaging Plants Are Doing • Building the Future of Industrial Operations, Today • Demystifying Sunrise 2027 • Award-Winning Sustainable Redesign

Strategies and Solutions for a More Sustainable Packaging Future At Sustainability Central (Booth W-52060), presented by Packaging World (N-4550) and sponsored by EFP, LLC (Booth W-45060), thought leaders and innovators share strategies to help you improve recyclability, advance circularity, reduce environmental impact, and stay ahead of customer and regulatory demands. Explore breakthrough ideas and practical solutions for achieving your company’s sustainability goals. Sustainability Central session topics include: • Design for Recyclability is Required by Law. Are You Ready? • Advancing the Circular Economy: How Collaboration Delivers Value • Protect the Product, Reduce the Footprint • 2026: The Year EPR Stopped Being Optional • Building Regulatory Confidence: Food-Grade PCR for Flexibles

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Actionable Insights for Food and Beverage Manufacturers Food and beverage processing professionals can learn about new processing technologies, smarter line design, material handling improvements, and strategies for maximizing production efficiency at the Food and Beverage Processing Innovation Stage (Booth LU7764). Walk away with ideas you can apply immediately to streamline production, improve food safety, reduce waste, and integrate new tech. Food & Beverage Processing Innovation Stage session topics include: • Why Great Robotic Automation Begins with Great Vision • Resetting Performance in Packaging: Competing in a Lower-Growth, Higher-Volatility World • Implementing a Drainage Evaluation Program for Pathogen Control and Operational Excellence • Data Without the Downtime: The Value of Non-Invasive Sensors • Integrating AI into Your Plant Operations • Designing Packaging Lines for Change: Robotics That Adapt as Fast as Food and Beverage Markets • Clean Label Meets Food Safety with High Pressure Processing (HPP)

Thought Leadership for Packaging & Processing Decision-Makers Attendees of the Industry Speaks (Booth N-4544) stage will hear from experts representing every corner of the packaging and processing industry as they share insights to help you anticipate change and make better decisions. These 30-minute sessions examine timely topics such as equipment specifications, supply-chain resilience, sustainability mandates, and futureready manufacturing strategies. Gain compelling insights on market dynamics, regulatory shifts, emerging technologies, and evolving supply-chain demands. Industry Speaks session topics include: • Where Industry Meets Innovation: Sustainable Packaging in Practice • Label Ready: Navigating Ever-Evolving Food Label Regulations • The EPR Evolution & How IoPP EPR AI Is Helping Brands & Packaging Vendors Win • From Ambition to Action: Making Packaging Sustainability Progress Real • Top Packaging Policies Impacting Your Business • Amazon Transparency and GS1: Democratizing Unit-level Serialization for Every Brand and Printer

—Continued on page 30

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OCTOBER 20, 2026

—Continued from page 29

Practical Guidance for Building a Reusable Packaging Program Be sure to visit the Reusable Packaging Learning Center (Booth LU-6645), a two-day education program featuring live presentations and panel discussions on reusable packaging. The Learning Center provides a stage for experts to introduce and demo new products, present research and case studies, and share insights on the most pressing topics facing the industry today, from navigating compliance and scaling reuse infrastructure to measuring ROI and overcoming adoption barriers. Reusable Packaging Learning Center topics include: • State of the Industry 2026 • RPA Panel: Technology, AI & Leveraging Data • RPA Panel: Public Policy • Upstream Next-Gen Reuse Corridor • RPA Panel: Technology-Enabled ROI Use Cases • RPA Panel: Retail Automation • 15th Annual Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards

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TUES SHOW DAILY 32

OCTOBER 20, 2026

Jiffy Mix Modernizes Packaging with Flexible, Compact Cells

Chelsea Milling Co. found a way to replace 18 filling lines with brand new equipment with no interruption in meeting consumer demand and without laying off any of its valued employees. Chelsea, Mich.-based Chelsea Milling Co., a fifthgeneration family-owned business since 1901, is best known for its iconic JIFFY brand of prepared baking mixes. The firm recently completed a massive modernization of its packaging operations that focused on replacing the many “double packaging” machines that were responsible for forming the primary packaging. These operated by wrapping a paper liner around a mandrel, forming a paperboard blank around the liner, and then sending a lined carton to the filling machinery. Since the 1950s, 18 of these machines had served the firm well. But about four or five years ago it was clear that some serious modernization was due. Getting it right was going to be tricky, says Justin Hubbard, senior project engineer at Chelsea Milling Co. “September to December, our busiest time of the year, is when our lines run flat out 24 hours five days a week,” says Hubbard. “Because we’re the only factory in the world that makes Jiffy Mix, we had to come up with a plan to essentially duplicate the 18 lines of production without interrupting overall throughput.” Also complicating the modernization plan was the fact that the firm had never in more than a century laid off a single employee. Management was determined to keep that record clean. So the whole plan had to revolve around attrition as older employees were approaching retirement age. And then, to further complicate things, just as the first new line was about to be installed, Covid struck. Who could forget the impact that had on machine delivery schedules around the world? Nevertheless, the team at Chelsea Milling Co. persevered, and by 2021 it had installed what it refers to as a pilot line. Anchored by auger fillers from

Corrugated case blanks are picked from a magazine feed and placed in a station so that 24 collated cartons can be pushed into the wraparound case. Four of the five new packaging cells are dedicated to the 8.5-oz carton while one cell can do either 40-oz or 8.5-oz cartons (inset).

Five packaging cells

The pilot line idea proved to be a good one. Based on the learnings it provided, the firm proceeded to install what it calls packaging cells. There are five of these. Each is anchored by three Triangle baggers, and each bagger sits beneath its own Spee-Dee auger filler. In each cell, three parallel conveyors take

Because we’re the only factory in the world that makes Jiffy Mix, we had to come up with a plan to essentially duplicate the 18 lines of production without interrupting overall throughput. Spee-Dee (Booth S-1647) over vertical form/fill/ seal systems from Triangle Package Machinery Co. (Booth S-1714), the pilot line was a highly useful way to get a foot in the door of the future. “It was a way to get some kinks worked out from an engineering standpoint and to also begin the training and familiarity that our operators and mechanics needed to have,” says Hubbard.

freshly pouched product through three Spee-Dee checkweighers. All three parallel conveyors then drop pouches into a bucketed conveyor running at a right angle. This conveyor feeds a single R.A Jones (Booth S-2501) cartoner that feeds a single Massman Automation (Booth S-1730) case packer. So altogether the five cells comprise 15 auger fillers, 15 baggers, 15 checkweighers, five cartoners, five

case packers, and five Ryson (Booth S-3920) spiral conveyors that take cases to an overhead conveyor leading to remote palletizing. Two of the five cells also include a shrink bundler from EDL (Booth S-1730), also a Massman company. This bundled format appeals to consumers who want to purchase cartons in groups of six right off the shelf. It is one of these cells, Cell 2, that we’ll look at here in detail. It’s dedicated to the 81⁄2-oz format. The powdered product is delivered from the floor level up to three overhead surge hoppers by way of a Chain-vey Tube Drag Conveyor from Modern Process Equipment (Booth LU-7314). The surge hoppers hold up to 400 lb of product, and each one feeds the 16-gal hopper of one auger filler. Like most auger fillers, the ones at Chelsea Milling Co. use a servo-driven motor to rotate an auger screw that measures and dispenses a specific volume of product from the hopper. The process is electronically controlled for accuracy, with the motor accelerating to a selected speed, rotating a precise number of times, and then decelerating for a repeatable fill each cycle. —Continued on page 34

BUILT TO KEEP UP. HIGH TEK M16 MULTI-HEAD WEIGHER PERFORMANCE — OUTPUT When production demands more, the M16 is ready. Engineered for fast, accurate weighing and dependable performance, it helps manufacturers maximize throughput while maintaining consistency package after package.

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OCTOBER 20, 2026

—Continued from page 32

Chelsea Milling Co. opted for split hoppers, which are machined from stainless steel and then hinged. This makes it easy to swing open the hopper for easier access during cleaning. This feature, says Hubbard, was a key attraction as he and his colleagues evaluated auger filling systems. “You just turn five knobs and the whole hopper swings wide open,” he adds. Beneath each auger filler is a Triangle vertical form/fill/seal machine that encloses the powdered product in roll-fed flexible film. “We did a project with Triangle some time ago for a five-pound format, so being familiar with them and the fact that they have a good relationship with Spee-Dee made them an attractive option. We also saw some advantages from a controls standpoint since both the baggers and the auger fillers feature controls from Rockwell (Booth S-2450). That made it easy to integrate everything together from an electrical panel and controls standpoint.”

Flexible film considerations

The firm also paid close attention to the composition of the flexible film feeding into the Triangle baggers. “As the new machinery was coming in, we specifically formulated a pouch material with our vendor that would give consumers an easy-peel opening,” says Hubbard. “It involved considerable testing and research.” The resulting material is supplied by Eagle Flexible Packaging (Booth S-4064), which describes it as a peelable HDPE co-extrusion. Bags drop from the three Triangle machines onto three parallel incline belt conveyors, each of which leads to a Spee-Dee checkweigher. Each checkweigher constantly sends feedback through the bagger and to the filler so that the filler can modify its fill amounts automatically if need be. Once past the checkweigher, the bags pass under a conditioning roller that flattens them slightly and then transition onto the infeed belt of the Jones cartoner. Jones calls it a smart belt because it gaps the bags in such a way that they are spaced perfectly when they arrive a short while later at the rotary vane transfer that drops them into the cartoner’s infeed buckets. These buckets run perpendicular to the three conveyors feeding them and lead to a station where each pouch is pushed from its bucket and into a carton that has been picked and erected by the Jones Orbi-Track carton feed. Carton tops are tucked and closed with an assist from a Nordson (Booth S-2130)

Orbi-track carton feeder puts erected cartons into position so that bags of product can be pushed into cartons (above). At the heart of the modernization was the installation of a total of 15 paired auger fillers/vertical baggers like the pair shown here (right).

35

Cartons exit pass through a metal detector before making a turn leading to the case packer. Finished cases or trays then travel by way of a spiral conveyor that takes them to an overhead conveyor leading to the warehouse. adhesive dispensing unit and then bags are pushed into cartons through the bottoms. After the flaps are tucked and the cartons closed, the cartons pass a Domino (Booth S-2843) laser coder for date coding. Finished cartons are conveyed to a “waterfall” guide rail that causes them to drop from the cartoner discharge conveyor onto a separate takeaway conveyor. In the process they’re turned 90 deg so that now each carton stands upright on its bottom.

Accumulation conveyor

Next is a Nercon (Booth S-2138) 15-lane accumulation conveyor where cartons can accumulate for about four minutes should any of the downstream equipment go down momentarily. On the other side of this accumulation section is a diverter that sends cartons down one of two paths. If shrink bundling into six-carton bundles is called for, cartons are conveyed through a Fortress (Booth S-1752) metal detector and then into a shrink bundler from EDL; bundles then proceed to the case packer. When shrink bundling is not called for, cartons are diverted to a separate Fortress metal detector and conveyed directly to the Massman case packer. Both wraparound cases and open-top trays are produced on the case packer. Both cases and trays hold 24 cartons when cartons bypass shrink bundling. When cartons are bundled, cases and trays get four six-carton bundles. Changeovers on the case packer are streamlined by the use of electronic position indicators from SIKO (Booth S-1666). As for speed, four of the cells are all capable of running the 8.5-oz carton at 80/ min. Cell 5 is designed to run either 8.5-oz or 40-oz formats, and this required a Jones cartoner whose buckets are on a 9-in. rather than a 6-in. center line. So speeds are slightly lower on Cell 5. Before exiting the case packer, each case runs past four Domino print heads, two on each side. “It’s a single ink-jet system with four print heads, so on both sides of the case or tray we do the best-by date plus product information and bar code for our case sortation system out in the warehouse,” notes Hubbard. A Ryson spiral conveyor now takes cases to an overhead conveyor that brings them to the warehouse. It, too, has been transformed by the addition of new Alvey palletizing equipment from Honeywell Intelligrated (Booth N-5909) and stretch wrapping equipment from Lantech (Booth N-5506) . The modernization project took about five years to complete, with the final Cell swinging into operation in August of 2024. Hubbard and colleagues are greatly pleased not only by the increase in efficiency but also by how compact the new packaging lines are. “Essentially the 15 weighing/bagging lines now produce as much volume as the 18 lines we replaced while occupying about half the space.”

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TUES SHOW DAILY 36

OCTOBER 20, 2026

PMMI Honors 10 NextGeneration CPG Innovators

Inaugural CPG NexGen Award winners are delivering measurable advances in automation, productivity, sustainability and packaging to transform how CPG products are made. From deploying automation that dramatically increases production capacity to developing sustainable packaging systems and AI-powered tools that deliver significant cost savings, a new generation of consumer-packaged goods (CPG) professionals are changing how products are made and packaged. Show producer PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (Booth N-4550), is recognizing 10 of these rising innovators as the inaugural winners of its CPG NexGen Awards at PACK EXPO International.

“CPG manufacturers are navigating enormous change; from automation and workforce pressures to sustainability, digitalization, and evolving consumer expectations,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. “These 10 professionals aren’t simply preparing for that future; they’re helping create it through solutions that are delivering measurable results today.” The CPG NexGen Awards recognize emerging leaders at CPG and end-user companies for leadership, innovation, and technical expertise.

37 The 2026 CPG NexGen Award winners are:

•C harlotte Ashcraft

Senior manager, packaging & graphics development, Just Born Quality Confections — Led a packaging redesign that helped drive a multi-million-dollar investment in new technology.

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•H ayden Bivens

Packaging engineer, PepsiCo — Is modernizing a weight-verification system across 1,400+ machines and 34 facilities, with an estimated $800,000 in annual productivity savings.

•M att J. Fitzpatrick

Packaging engineering manager, Saint-Gobain — Advanced digital packaging systems supporting sustainability, carbon tracking, and regulatory reporting.

•A llie Helton

Director of operations, Wyandot Snacks — Led automation that tripled weekly production capacity to more than 1 million pounds while achieving 98% uptime.

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•R aianna O’Toole

Global packaging innovation lead, Kenvue — Advances sustainable refill systems and innovative packaging across multiple consumer categories.

•C had Sienknecht

Production manager, Trisco Foods LLC — Increased production output 75% while reducing labor requirements 50% and material costs 44%.

•H annah Swilling

Engineer III, Tyson Foods — Has managed multi-million-dollar capital projects, including a processing project completed in approximately 100 days.

• Scott Turner

Senior engineer, packaging, Edwards Lifesciences — Delivered packaging innovations generating approximately $1 million in savings while reducing material use and package size.

• Supradeep Vankayala

Lead design engineer, R&D, Becton Dickinson — Developed a PFAS-free, recyclable, and sterilizable packaging solution and helped prevent the rejection of approximately 2 million products.

• Ann-Marie Willis

Senior engineer, NPD operations, Mary Kay Global — Created an AI-powered NPD tool that contributed to more than $1.4 million in documented cost avoidance.

As part of their recognition, the winners each received a fully hosted VIP experience at PACK EXPO International 2026. The experience includes show registration, round-trip airfare, hotel accommodations, networking and professional development opportunities, and a private show-floor tour with fellow winners. “PACK EXPO International is all about bringing together the people, ideas and technologies that are moving our industry forward, so it’s an exciting place to celebrate the inaugural CPG NexGen Award winners,” says Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI. “These rising professionals are already delivering impressive results within their organizations, and we’re thrilled to recognize their accomplishments while giving them the opportunity to experience the innovation, connections, and possibilities PACK EXPO International has to offer.”

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WORLDWIDE LEADERS IN STATIC CONTROL | WWW.SIMCO-ION.COM/INDUSTRIAL

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PACK EXPO International 2026 Connects Manufacturers with Practical Sustainability Solutions New PMMI research finds more than 82% of end users are actively pursuing sustainability as the show brings together technologies, education, and expertise to support measurable progress. With sustainability now shaping equipment specifications, material selection, and operational decisions across packaging and processing, PACK EXPO International 2026 will give manufacturers a one-stop destination to compare sustainable packaging technologies, learn from experts, and find solutions that support measurable environmental and business goals. The need is clear: more than 82% of end users say they are actively engaged in sustainability adoption, according to 2026 The Ripple Effect: CPG Sustainability and the New OEM Spec Sheet, a new report from PACK EXPO International show producer PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (Booth N-4550). “Manufacturers have moved beyond asking whether sustainability matters; they are now determining which investments can deliver measurable environmental and operational results,” says Jim Pittas,

president and CEO of PMMI. “That’s why PACK EXPO International 2026 gives them one place to compare technologies in operation, learn from experts, and identify practical solutions for their businesses.” PACK EXPO International 2026 features 2,700-plus exhibitors and tens of thousands attendees from 40+ vertical markets. As the largest and most influential packaging and processing trade show in North America, the event gives attendees unmatched access to machinery, materials, automation, and sustainability-focused solutions in action. Key sustainability-focused destinations and tools at PACK EXPO International 2026 include: Innovation Stages (Booths N-4570, N-4580 and N-4585) — Three stages will feature fastpaced, 30-minute sessions fromled by top suppliers and technical experts, offering practical insights into the latest advances in packaging machinery, materials,

39 automation, digital tools, and real-world applications. Sustainability-focused sessions include: • Sustainable Load Stability: Reducing Plastic Without Sacrificing Performance • Packaging Sustainability Myth Busters: Beliefs that Brands Still Get Wrong • Navigating EPR: Source Reduction Strategies and the Levers Brand Owners Can Pull in Flexible Packaging • Flexible Packaging That WOWs Consumers: Material That Excites, Surprises, and Delights Sustainability Central (Booth W-52060) — Presented by Packaging World (N-4550) and sponsored by EFP, LLC (Booth W-45060), this dedicated education hub will feature expertled presentations, case studies, and trends shaping sustainable packaging. Attendees will learn how material choices, system design, and operational changes can reduce environmental impact while supporting business goals. Thought leaders and innovators will share strategies to help attendees improve recyclability, advance circularity, reduce environmental impact, and stay ahead of customer and regulatory demands. Sessions include: • Design for Recyclability is Required by Law. Are You Ready? • Advancing the Circular Economy: How Collaboration Delivers Value • Protect the Product, Reduce the Footprint • 2026: The Year EPR Stopped Being Optional Reusable Packaging Learning Center (Booth LU-6645), sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association — This educational stage gives attendees a practical look at how reusable packaging systems are being implemented across supply chains. Session topics include the State of the Industry 2026, technology AI & leveraging Data, public policy and retail automation. Reusable Packaging Pavilion (Upper Lakeside Center), sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association — Here, show attendees can explore reusable packaging systems from members of RPA and uncover solutions designed to reduce waste, improve durability, streamline logistics, and deliver measurable supply chain cost savings. Sustainability Solutions Finder — This online tool helps attendees locate vetted PACK EXPO Green Exhibitors that offer eco-friendly materials, components, machinery, and services. Attendees can search by sustainability attribute, package type, or solution category. Showcase of Packaging Innovations® (Booth W-42004), sponsored by Smurfit Westrock (Booth S-2820) — This special show-floor display features awardwinning packaging designs from around the world, including formats that push the boundaries of sustainability, recyclability, and material efficiency. In addition, Dow is the official sustainability partner and sponsor of show-floor recycling. Dual-stream recycling and trash bins will be placed throughout every exhibit hall. “Achieving sustainability goals requires more than a single material or technology; it takes a systems-level approach,” Pittas says. “PACK EXPO International gives manufacturers the opportunity to see how packaging design, equipment, reusable systems, and operational improvements can work together to reduce environmental impact while strengthening performance and long-term competitiveness.” No other event delivers hands-on experience on this scale—with more technology, machines in motion, suppliers on-site, and access to expertise than anywhere else. PACK EXPO International is the industry’s most efficient platform to evaluate equipment, identify emerging trends, and make informed investment decisions—all in one place.

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Targeted Innovation One Pavilion at a Time These dedicated spaces make it easy to navigate the show floor, zero in on targeted solutions and compare options side by side.

PACK EXPO International is a complete showcase of cutting-edge technology and solutions, but finding exactly what you need is simple in distinct pavilions. These “shows within a show” feature solutions that address many industry challenges, making it easy to navigate the show floor, zero in on targeted solutions, and compare your options side by side. All of the pavilions have expanded, reflecting the tremendous market growth in packaging and processing.

The Food and Beverage Processing Zone (Upper Lakeside Center): Step into the heart of front-end production—a pavilion so big, it’s like a show within the show. Discover the latest in mixing, batching, forming, hygienic design, inspection, thermal processing, and plant engineering solutions. See processing equipment in action and compare technologies shaping the next generation of food and beverage manufacturing. Take in a session at the Food and Beverage Processing Innovation Stage to stay ahead of the trends affecting your industry.

The Healthcare Packaging Pavilion (West Hall): Envision a pavilion so large it’s practically a life sciences packaging show within PACK EXPO International. For companies that are manufacturing pharmaceuticals, biologics, nutraceuticals, and medical devices, the Healthcare Packaging Pavilion delivers solutions that support your compliance with strict global regulatory standards.

The Containers and Materials Pavilion (West Hall): From paperboard to films and foils, right-sized containers and all kinds of consumables, this pavilion houses solutions to increase sustainability, enhance usability, and improve convenience. The Containers and Materials Pavilion is also home to The Showcase of Packaging Innovations (Booth W-42004),

sponsored by Smurfit Westrock (Booth S-2820). Get inspired by standout designs from around the globe— each one a benchmark in creativity, sustainability, and shelf appeal. See what’s setting new standards and leave with big ideas for your brand.

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The Logistics Pavilion (North Hall): Whether you’re focused on optimizing fulfillment, distribution, or e-commerce operations, the Logistics Pavilion is your go-to destination. Explore end-to-end supply chain solutions that keep your products moving safely and efficiently through the supply chain. From robotics to storage systems to last-mile automation, this pavilion offers a clear look at how logistics innovation can reduce costs, speed up operations, and improve agility.

The Reusable Packaging Pavilion (Upper Lakeside Center): Sponsored by the Reusable Packaging Association (Booth LU-6645), this area brings together more than 75 suppliers, service providers, and industry experts showcasing the latest reusable packaging products, technologies, equipment, and services for supply chains across industries. • New for 2026 is the Next-Gen REUSE Corridor. See how scalable reuse systems for primary packaging are already working in the real world—and learn how they can support source-reduction goals and compliance with emerging packaging regulations. Explore the future of consumer reuse and refill in this dedicated pavilion section organized and sponsored by Upstream. Meet reuse-as-a-service providers, logistics innovators, smart packaging companies, and end-to-end solution providers serving brands, venues, foodservice operations, and more.

The PACKage Printing Pavilion (West Hall): Explore the technologies reshaping package printing—including digital printers, variable-data systems, coding, marking, labeling, and converting. Whether your goal is to speed up printing, improve accuracy or enable personalization, this pavilion will show you what modern printing efficiency looks like.

The Confectionery Pavilion (South Hall): Sponsored by the National Confectioners Association (NCA) (Booth S-2583), this pavilion delves into trends in candy, baking, and snack production. It is also home to the Candy Bar Lounge (Booth S-2583).

• Hosted by NCA and sponsored by Syntegon Packaging Technology (Booth S-3514), the Candy Bar Lounge offers a place for casual interaction and idea sharing where PACK EXPO International attendees can network with peers, gain specialized insights, and rest their feet. • The Confectionery Industry Networking Reception will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 4:00 p.m. in the Candy Bar Lounge. —Continued on page 42

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—Continued from page 41

The Association Partner Pavilion (North Hall): PACK EXPO International partner associations enhance the event and enrich the attendee’s experience with their resources, expertise, and connections. The Association Partner Pavilion

serves as a vibrant hub for industry collaboration, connecting attendees with the foremost organizations across the packaging and processing spectrum. Participating associations include: • 3-A Sanitary Standards, Inc. • ABRE - Brazilian Packaging Association • AIM, Inc. • American Society of Baking • Americas Printing Association Network • APPMA | Australian Packaging & Processing Machinery Association • Association for Roll-to-Roll Converters

• Automate UK • Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network (CFBN) • Cold Pressure Council • Composite Can and Tube Institute (CCTI) • CPA, The Association for Contract Packagers & Manufacturers • Fispal Tecnologia • Flexible Packaging Association (FPA) • Foil & Specialty Effects Association • Glass Packaging Institute • In-Mold Decorating Association • Institute of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) • International Society of Beverage Technologists (ISBT) • Koelnmesse Inc. • National Association of Container Distributors • NSF • OMAC - The Organization for Machine Automation and Control • OPC Foundation • Plastics Industry Association • Recycled Materials Association • UCIMA - Italian Packaging Machinery Manufacturers Association • World Packaging Organisation (WPO)

The Workforce Development Pavilion (West Hall): Connect with representatives from PMMI Education Partners and meet the next generation of skilled professionals ready to contribute to packaging and processing operations. Students can also visit the PMMI U booth to explore industry-focused training, certifications, and workshops designed to prepare them for a successful career in this evolving field. Colleges and universities will showcase their mechatronics and packaging and processing programs, while companies will have the opportunity to engage with students interested in pursuing careers in the industry. Participating schools include: • Brigham Young University – Idaho • Cal Poly Packaging • Clemson University Packaging Science • Fresno State University • Hennepin Technical College • Illinois Tech – Food, Science and Nutrition Dept. • Indiana State University • Michigan State University School of Packaging • North Carolina State University • Northwood Technical College • Purdue University Northwest • Rochester Institute of Technology • Rutgers Packaging Engineering Program • San Jose State University • Toronto Metropolitan University • Tuskegee University • University of Florida • University of Wisconsin – Stout • Virginia Tech

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Compact Spiral. Maximize Floor Space. Elevate Efficiency.

OCTOBER 20, 2026

The Industry Comes Together at PACK EXPO International Tens of thousands of industry professionals will build relationships, exchange ideas, and connect with the people shaping the industry’s future. Produced by PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies (Booth N-4550), PACK EXPO International is the largest packaging and processing show in North America. Beyond the technologies and solutions on the show floor, a full lineup of special events brings the industry together for networking, thought leadership, and meaningful conversations. PACK gives BACK™, sponsored by Rockwell Automation (Booth S-2450), returns to Chicago on Monday, Oct. 19 at The House of Blues, featuring an exclusive performance by Third Eye Blind. Proceeds benefit the PMMI Foundation. Tickets for PACK gives BACK™ are Sold Out!

Compact Spiral Elevators provide efficient vertical product transport while maximizing valuable production floor space. Their unique spiral design delivers the same reliable performance with a footprint up to 40% smaller than conventional systems. • Small footprint, using less space • Gentle product handling • Compact design • Continuous product flow avoiding stop losses SEE YOU AT:

BOOTH S-2501

Visit FlexLink to discover more!

The Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network will host its annual networking breakfast, with special guest speaker, retired U.S. Air Force colonel, combat veteran, and the first woman pilot to fly with the Thunderbirds, Nicole Malachowski, on Tuesday, Oct. 20. She will discuss leadership and professional growth in traditionally male-dominated industries, share her inspiring story and practical tips, and motivate attendees to stand out in their careers. Gold Sponsors: Morrison Container Handling Solutions (Booth N-4906) and ProMach (Booth S-3630), and their PowHER Women’s Resource Group; Silver Sponsors: BW Packaging (Booth S-2100), Dassault Systèmes (Booth N-5972), Duravant (Booth S-3714), Plexpack Corp. (Booth S-2004), Ryson International Inc. (Booth S-3920), and Septimatech Group Inc. (Booth N-5945); and Benefactor Sponsor: Schneider Electric. Sign up for this free event in the app or scan the QR code. The Young Professionals Network will host an evening networking reception, sponsored by Beckhoff Automation LLC (Booth S-3682), on Sunday, Oct. 18. at the Chicago Athletic Association’s Game Room. Designed for rising leaders in packaging and processing, this reception creates a space to build networks, exchange ideas, and form relationships with peers. The Young Professionals Networking Reception is Sold Out! Confectionery professionals can connect throughout the day at the Candy Bar Lounge (Booth S-2583), a dedicated networking destination in the Confectionery Pavilion (South Hall), hosted by the National Confectioners Association and sponsored by Syntegon Packaging Technology (Booth S-3514). Attendees are also invited to a special Confectionery Industry Happy Hour Reception on Tuesday, Oct, 20 from 4-5:30 p.m, offering an informal opportunity to meet industry peers, exchange ideas, and make new connections. No RSVP is required.

45 Vision 2030, designed for industry leaders and decision-makers, the forum creates a unique opportunity for CPGs and PMMI members to exchange perspectives, share expertise, and collaborate on strategies that can advance operations and business performance. This year’s discussions will focus on: • From Specs to Success: Aligning OEMs and CPGs • From Stop to Strategy: Turning Downtime Data into Operational Improvement • Securing the Line: Managing Cybersecurity in Packaging and Processing Operations Vision 2030 is complimentary, but advanced registration is required and participation is limited to support focused, meaningful discussion. Scan the QR code to register for Vision 2030. PACK EXPO International also serves as a gathering place for the broader packaging and processing community, with partner associations hosting meetings and receptions that connect specialized industry groups under one roof through the Industry Meets at PACK EXPO program. “PACK EXPO International is where the packaging and processing community comes together, not only to discover what’s next on the show floor, but to build the relationships that move our industry forward,” says Laura Thompson, vice president, trade shows, PMMI. “With tens of thousands of professionals expected in Chicago, the conversations that happen at these events can be every bit as valuable as what attendees discover on the show floor.”

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Accelerate Your Growth with the New SMB FastTrack To support small and medium-sized businesses, the program highlights exhibitors and educational sessions tailored to their needs.

Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) now have a powerful new way to connect, learn, and grow. At PACK EXPO International 2026, SMB FastTrack connects you with suppliers offering special financing, discounts, and services that make it easier to adopt the latest packaging and processing technologies. Exhibitors will display SMB Friendly icons on their online exhibitor listing and as a physical sign in their booth onsite. The show floor education will feature an SMB track. Sessions will cover topics like AI, automation, digital manufacturing, food safety, robotics, supply chain, sustainability, tariffs, and workforce. These SMB-friendly educational sessions will be available throughout the show, designed to help small businesses navigate growth, funding, and operational excellence in the packaging and processing industries. Scan the QR Code to find educational sessions that are SMB Friendly.

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Maximize Your First-Time Experience

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PACK EXPO International newcomers benefit from the First-Time Attendee Lounge (Room S-102), sponsored by ProMach (Booth S-3630), a dedicated space offering guidance and networking. The First-Time Attendee Lounge is a hub for starting the day right and maximizing the PACK EXPO experience. Holders of a First-Time Attendee badge can access this exclusive lounge and receive: • Personalized guidance: Knowledgeable show staff are on hand to help locate exhibitors, recommend sessions, and create a plan to tackle the show floor. • Search the Show kiosks: Quickly find the solutions and suppliers that align with your goals. • Comfortable seating and refreshments: Enjoy free coffee, tea, and charging stations to recharge yourself and your devices. • Special Session:

How to Navigate the Show Like a Pro (Sunday - Tuesday, 8:30 to 9:00 a.m.) Kickstart the day with helpful insider tips and strategies to help navigate the exhibit halls and make the most of the show experience. Plus, plenty of Q&A opportunities with show staff. Speaker: Sean Riley, Senior News Director, PMMI Media Group

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PRODUCTS

Industrial Cameras

Modular Packaging System

Balluff Inc. highlights its compact BVS CA-GW 25GigE industrial camera series featuring fanless, energy-efficient designs with fast, high-resolution image capture for demanding automation and inspection applications such as integration in demanding space-constrained systems for logistics, machinery, pharmaceutical, semiconductor, packaging, and equipment manufacturing.

Circle Packaging Machinery showcases the H12MS modular packaging system featuring servo controls, heated sealing, inline date coding, field-expandable stations, and offers flexible single and multi-lane configurations. Pressure-regulated heated sealing stations provide consistent, high-quality package production. Machine features the latest Allen-Bradley ArmorKinetix servo motors and PLC control system.

Balluff Inc. Booth N-4909 www.balluff.com

Circle Packaging Machinery Booth S-1700 www.circlepackaging.com

Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Packaging

Food-safe Retractable Hose Reel

AI Vision Development Platform

CEJN launches SafetyReel G2, a food-safe retractable hose reel designed to help industrial facilities improve hose management, safety, and productivity. Built for demanding compressed air and fluid applications, it features hose lengths up to 98 ft (30 m), smooth controlled retraction, and a fully enclosed design that helps protect hoses from dirt, debris, abrasion, and premature wear.

Cognex Corp. demonstrates the OneVision™, a collaborative AI vision development environment platform designed to simplify and scale AI-powered inspection across manufacturing operations. It addresses a persistent challenge in industrial AI—deploying advanced vision applications at enterprise scale without adding complexity or slowing production.

CEJN Booth LU-7557 www.cejn.com

Cognex Corp. Booth N-5443 www.cognex.com

Constantia Flexibles showcases high-barrier blister packaging, child-resistant features, Section 232free sourcing options solutions, featuring REGULA CIRC, a PVC-free cold-forming blister structure for pharmaceutical applications that require high-barrier protection. Constantia Flexibles Booth W-25050 www.cflex.com

Advanced Beverage and Can Cartoner AFA Systems introduces a servo-controlled beverage cartoner that provides precise can handling and integrated product recirculation with the flexibility to package multiple can sizes, variety packs, paperboard cartons, and corrugated trays on a single platform. AFA Systems Booth S-1966 www.afasystemsinc.com

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PRODUCTS

Bio-based Barrier Coatings for Paper Packaging Applications Michelman debuts Nuvita Life 4002 and Nuvita Life 4605 plastic-free barrier coatings designed to provide heat sealing, oil and grease resistance, and moisture protection for recyclable and compostable fiber-based food packaging applications. Michelman Booth W-38022 www.michelman.com

Modular Plastic Belt Conveyors

Packaging Automation Solutions

Multi-Conveyor exhibits a series of stainless-steel constructed modular plastic belt conveyors designed to transport various size full cases from two existing conveyor accumulation systems, and seamlessly merge them to a single flow. Conveyors feature MultiConveyor’s programming, control panel, VFDs, PLC, remote HMI, and related sensors and line devices.

Rychiger showcases its integrated packaging automation solutions, featuring the NCP-25 case packer that combines case erecting, robotic loading, and case sealing in a compact system. The 3-in-1 system combines case erecting, robotic product loading, and case sealing in a single machine.

Multi-Conveyor Booth S-3400 www.multi-conveyor.com

Rychiger Booth S-3674 www.rychiger.com

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Potato Chips Packaging System WeighPack Systems integrates its PrimoLinear V5 net weigher, VersaPak tabletop vf/f/s bagger, and conveying equipment to automate weighing and bagging in a compact footprint. WeighPack Systems Booth N-6106 www.weighpack.com

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PRODUCTS

Polybag-in-Box Decuffer and Heat Seal Bag Closer OK International Corp. showcases the Supercloser SC700 Polybag-in-Box Decuffer & Heat Seal Bag Closer that automatically decuffs, stretches, evacuates air, and heat-seals filled polybags within cases at a single station, reducing floor space while improving bag-closing efficiency and product protection. OK International Corp. Booth N-4904 www.okcorp.com

Conveyance And Drive Solutions Bosch Rexroth exhibits conventional and highspeed smart conveyors along with innovative drives. Featured will be VarioFlow plus and VarioFlow belt conveyors as well as the ctrlX FLOWH high-speed smart conveyance solution. Bosch Rexroth Booth S-1654 www.boschrexroth-us.com

Hot Melt Applicator

Vacuum Ejector Pump

Nordson introduces the Blue Series II hotmelt applicator featuring smarter design, improved serviceability, and enhanced reliability, helping packaging lines stay productive with less effort. One tool handles service tasks such as module replacement, solenoid valve change, filter change, cordset replacement, and bar clamp position adjustment.

Piab showcases a configurable piEVO vacuum ejector pump designed specifically for pneumatic vacuum conveying systems used in demanding powder and granule applications. Piab Inc. Booth N-6221 www.piab.com

Nordson Corp. Booth S-2130 www.nordson.com/en

High-performance Screening Solutions

High-speed Pouching Technology

Compass Wire Cloth demonstrates screening products for the packaging industry, featuring its 48 in. round vibratory separator and pretensioned screen technologies designed for accurate separation of both dry and wet materials in demanding industrial environments.

HMC Products, a ProMach product brand, showcases the IMF7-15 hf/f/s Pouchmaster pouching machine designed to deliver speeds up to 150 pouches/min for free-flowing products while helping manufacturers improve throughput, package integrity, and filling performance. Applications include food, snacks, home care, nutraceutical, and more.

Compass Wire Cloth Booth LU-7428 www.compasswire.com

HMC Products, a ProMach product brand Booth S-3548 www.hmcproducts.org

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HIGHLIGHTS

Modular Tray Forming Across Pharma, Cosmetics, and Food The MG America GTF60 (Booth W-26056) (and its soon-to-arrive smaller-footprint successor, the GTF60 Flexi) is a balcony-style, modular, intermittentmotion tray former and loader suitable for the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food industries. The box size range is wide, up to a maximum of 300 mm x 200 mm x 150 mm, including the lid. The balcony design provides full access from all sides to optimize machine operation, and the chainless system minimizes cleaning time and maintenance needs. All phases of box forming, product infeed, filling, and box closing are carefully controlled. Box forming: The box or tray is automatically formed through a servo-driven mechanical system and glued from flat blanks of pressboard or linerboard. Glue is applied by a hot melt system. Product infeed: Various flexible auto-feeding systems are available for both inline and 90-degree feeding using conveyor belts, buckets, or stackers. Box closing: Boxes are closed by mobile folders, which fold the side flaps and tuck in the last flap. If required, the box can be glued on up to three sides. Optional units: The GTF60 can be fitted with several optional units, including leaflet inserters, box content control, marking and labeling, barcode readers, and a rejection station.

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Nilfisk Showcases Contamination Control Equipment Nilfisk is showcasing its contamination-control and industrial-cleaning equipment at PACK EXPO International 2026. Visitors to Booth N-5446 will learn how industrial vacuum systems, dust collection technologies, material transfer solutions, and floor care equipment help manufacturers improve product quality, worker safety, compliance, and operational efficiency. From ingredient receiving and processing to packaging, warehousing, and distribution, Nilfisk solutions help manufacturers control dust, recover product, reduce waste, and maintain cleaner production environments. “Manufacturers face increasing pressure to maintain hygiene standards, protect product integrity, and keep production moving,” said Davide Gagliardo, Senior Business Development Manager, IVS, Nilfisk. “The challenge is no longer simply cleaning up dust and debris. Companies are looking for ways to control contamination throughout the production process. At PACK EXPO, we’ll show how an integrated approach to dust collection, industrial cleaning, and material transfer can help create cleaner, safer, and more productive operations.”

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Discover the Full Scope of LAPP’s Industrial Connectivity Solutions Come see how far a LAPP connection can take your business. With a full-service connectivity portfolio spanning power, control, data, and connectors, LAPP delivers the solutions behind some of the most advanced motion control applications. From UNITRONIC and ETHERLINE to EPIC connectors, industrial network switches, VFD and servo motor solutions, cord sets, cable glands, and wire harnesses, LAPP offers far more than cable. Stop by Booth S-2370 to connect with our industry and product specialists, explore our capabilities, and collaborate on your connectivity challenges.

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“An OEM that our company has “Always been great to work come to respect and rely on to meet with and very responsive.” TEVA ever more stringent regulations and customer expectations.” “We’ve been a customer for over CATALENT 20 years and never once have we been disappointed.” “Accommodating, ADARE professional and proactive.” APOTEX “They understand the importance of keeping the “Phenomenal to work with. equipment running. Their team is prompt, Highly recommend.” professional and reliable.” MYLAN

CHEWY

“Highly recommend their entire team as well as their equipment.”

“MG America has provided excellent customer service and consistently met needs over the past six years of using their capsule-filling equipment.”

BEND BIOSCIENCE

GRANULES PHARMACEUTICALS

“Exceptional service and support.” AMNEAL PHARMACEUTICALS

Offering a range of premium equipment for capsule filling, packaging, and material handling.

Scan to see our full line.

Fairfield, New Jersey • 866-962-3090 • mgamerica.com

Booth W-26056