PMMI: Expo Pack Guadalajara breaks records

Breaking records, EXPO PACK Guadalajara (June 13–15, 2023; Expo Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico), the premier exhibition for the packaging and processing industries in Mexico and Latin America, brought together nearly 16,000 packaging and processing buyers with 700 exhibitors over 15,000 square meters of sold-out exhibit space. Returning after four years as the largest show in its history, EXPO PACK Guadalajara showcased the latest innovations, technologies, and solutions in the packaging and processing sectors.

"EXPO PACK Guadalajara 2023 surpassed our expectations in terms of innovation, industry engagement, and global representation," says Celia Navarrete, EXPO PACK director. "We are proud to have provided a platform for industry professionals to discover the latest trends, forge valuable partnerships, and contribute to the sustainable future of the packaging and processing industries in this important strategic region."

The exhibition floor was full of activity, as industry leaders, experts, and decision-makers explored the diverse range of offerings across the packaging value chain. Exhibitors showcased groundbreaking packaging solutions that address sustainability, efficiency, and consumer convenience. From eco-friendly materials and biodegradable packaging to smart and interactive packaging technologies, attendees witnessed the future of packaging innovation. 

Many of these solutions were showcased at the standing-room-only Innovation Stage sessions. Attendees learned about the latest technologies and ground-breaking solutions from exhibitors at 15 Innovation Stage sessions. These 30-minute, free, on-floor presentations featured experts describing new technology, innovative applications, case studies, and best practices. Recorded sessions are available on-demand for registered attendees. 

In addition to the Innovation Stage, EXPO PACK Guadalajara in conjunction with Mundo PMMI offered keynote presentations featuring leading companies such as Walmart, Kraft Heinz Mexico, and Casa Herradura (Brown-Forman). Each morning, more than 200 professionals packed these informative sessions.. Additionally, the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network (PPWLN) held its first keynote address in Guadalajara, sponsored by Polypack, Inc., to discuss timely issues facing women in the industry.

“We are thrilled with the overwhelming success of the Packaging & Processing Women's Network presentation at EXPO PACK Guadalajara,” says Montserrat Cerf, export sales director at Polypack, Inc. and member of the PPWLN Executive Council. “It was an honor to participate in such a dynamic session, providing a powerful platform for women in the industry to share their experiences, insights, and expertise. It was inspiring to see the tremendous support and engagement from attendees, reinforcing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the packaging and processing sectors. We believe that fostering an inclusive environment will drive innovation and propel the industry forward. We are committed to growing the PPWLN Network in Latin America and continuing our efforts in empowering women and creating opportunities for their professional growth within the industry." 

The event welcomed exhibitors and attendees from around the world, providing a truly global platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and market expansion. The international presence reinforced the importance of EXPO PACK Guadalajara as the leading packaging and processing exhibition in Latin America. Offering international solutions for this expanding market, EXPO PACK Guadalajara featured seven international pavilions representing: Argentina, Canada, China, France, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and the United States. 

EXPO PACK Guadalajara 2023 emphasized sustainability as a core theme. As part of the EXPO PACK Verde program, exhibitors showcased eco-friendly packaging alternatives, recyclable materials, and sustainable manufacturing practices, highlighting the industry's commitment to environmental responsibility. 

The exhibition served as a meeting point for industry professionals, fostering valuable connections and business opportunities. Attendees had the chance to engage with industry leaders, explore potential collaborations, and expand their professional networks. 

One hundred twenty top industry leaders gathered at EXPO PACK Guadalajara to attend the Vision 2030 breakfast, hosted in conjunction with PMMI. This high-level meeting brought leaders together to discuss the robust growth in the investment in packaging equipment in Mexico and Latin America. The event featured a panel discussion of best practices for the procurement, start-up, and maintenance of equipment. 

Leading associations recognized the significance of EXPO PACK Guadalajara with 11 strategic partners supporting the show. AMEE, the Mexican Packaging Association, hosted its member Congress on technologies facing the challenges of circular economy and e-commerce. The group also announced the winners of its Envase Estelar Contest. AMEXICCOR, Asociación Mexicana de Industriales de Cartón Corrugado, and ANPDAPAC, Asociación Nacional de Productores y Distribuidores de Agua, also convened member events. 

“For us it is very important to link the entire value chain and boost the economy. As a major food producer in Mexico, EXPO PACK Guadalajara is the right place to be to see the innovations and technology that allow us to continue advancing our packaging and food packaging operations,” says Laura Bonilla from Unilever Mexico and president of CANAINCA, National Chamber of Canned and Food Processing Industry and with its successful conclusion, EXPO PACK Guadalajara 2023 reaffirmed its position as a premier event for the Latin America packaging and processing industries. The exhibition proved to be a catalyst for industry growth, enabling businesses to stay at the forefront of innovation and address evolving consumer demands. 

Next up in the PACK EXPO portfolio of trade shows is PACK EXPO Las Vegas (Sept. 13–15, 2023; Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas). For more information or to register for this show, go to packexpolasvegas.com. 

PACK EXPO Shows return to Mexico with EXPO PACK Mexico (June 4-7, 2024; Mexico City) followed by the return of EXPO PACK Guadalajara (June 10-12, 2025; Guadalajara, Jalisco). For more details about the complete line up of PACK EXPO trade shows, go to packexpo.com.