The manufacturing world gathered in full force at PACK Expo International 2024 in Chicago, Illinois, where industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from around the globe converged at McCormick Place for the largest PACK Expo in history.

With record-breaking attendance, this year’s event proved why PACK Expo remains a must-attend destination for manufacturing executives, Directors of Operations, Plant Managers, and beyond.

Record Numbers and Expansive Reach

This year’s PACK Expo exceeded all expectations, attracting a staggering 48,000 attendees, along with 29,500 exhibitor personnel, for a total attendance of 77,500. Reflecting the global draw of the PACK Expo, international attendance increased by 19% over the 2022 show. The event’s scale was equally impressive, with 2,700 exhibitors spanning a record-breaking 1.32 million net square feet, making PACK Expo International 2024 the largest show in its history and the largest event at McCormick Place this year.

A horizontal bar chart comparing PACK Expo attendance and exhibitor personnel numbers between 2022 and 2024, highlighting a 19% increase in international attendance.

Comparison of PACK Expo attendance numbers and exhibitor personnel from 2022 to 2024, showing significant growth in both categories.

 

“The success of PACK EXPO is a testament to our industry’s continued growth as well as PMMI’s commitment to bringing the industry together to share cutting-edge innovations,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. “No other event this year showcased so many end-to-end solutions, offering attendees everything they need to compete in a changing marketplace.”

MTS Showcases Innovation and Integrated Systems

Material Transfer & Storage (MTS) was proud to be among the exhibitors, where our team showcased an array of advanced bulk material handling solutions tailored to meet the needs of high-demand industries. At our booth, attendees had the opportunity to explore our range of offerings, including bulk bag fillers, bulk bag conditioners, and a complete integrated system featuring a bag break station, chain conveyor, and bulk bag unloader.

This year, MTS also unveiled the IntelliBreak - Smarter Bag Handling Solution, our latest innovation in bulk bag handling. Designed to streamline production and eliminate the need for manual labor in the bag handling process, IntelliBreak drew the interest of many manufacturing leaders eager to optimize their operations and enhance workplace safety.

Strengthening Our Premiere Partner Network

This year, we were thrilled to team up with our Premiere Partner Network, which includes Protech Equipment, Partners for Process, and Ambrose. Together, we provided attendees valuable opportunities to connect directly with partners offering localized expertise and support. This collaboration ensured that attendees could discuss their regional needs and explore solutions tailored to specific areas and applications, an experience that was highly valued by those seeking industry-leading support across the country.

Looking Forward to PACK Expo Las Vegas

The excitement generated at PACK Expo International 2024 has energized the MTS team for the next chapter: PACK Expo Las Vegas, set for September. We’re already gearing up to bring even more advanced bulk material handling solutions to the Las Vegas show, where we’ll be in booth N-7538 in the Processing Zone of the North Hall, dedicated to equipment and technologies that enhance processing operations. Our team is eager to continue sharing innovations and strengthening connections within the industry.

Other focused tracks include:

  • The Containers and Materials Pavilion – Showcasing advancements in materials and container solutions, including eco-friendly packaging.
  • The Robotics Zone – Highlighting advancements in robotics and automation that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and safety in packaging and processing.
  • The PACKage Printing Pavilion – Focused on digital printing innovations, flexible packaging, and other decorative and functional packaging applications.
  • Sustainability - As sustainability becomes a priority in the industry, PACK Expo Las Vegas features numerous exhibitors offering eco-friendly packaging solutions, waste reduction technologies, and energy-efficient equipment. These solutions help companies meet regulatory standards and consumer demand for sustainable practices.

Driving Innovation and Building Connections

The record-breaking PACK Expo 2024 reaffirmed its role as a vital platform for innovation, collaboration, and growth within the manufacturing sector. As the industry advances toward more efficient, sustainable solutions, PACK Expo remains instrumental in connecting key decision-makers with the technology, partnerships, and expertise required to achieve their goals. MTS is proud to contribute to this transformative industry, delivering solutions that empower our customers to drive performance and operational success. We look forward to continued engagement and growth at PACK Expo Las Vegas 2025!