21 October 2016 //
Pack Expo International will once again be held in Chicago, Illinois, at McCormick Place, November 6-9. Hosted by PPMI, the show is expected to bring in more than 45,000 attendees representing more than 40 vertical markets, over 130 countries and more than 2,100 exhibiting companies. It’s no wonder that it’s referred to as “The Main Event for Processing and Packaging Innovations.” The show offers a unique opportunity for the packaging industry to come together for four days under one roof, to network, discover and see new technology in action, and gain insights into a wide range of markets. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Pack Expo veteran, to get the most out of the show it’s best to be prepared. Here are a few tips to help make sure your Pack Expo is a success:
1. Identify Your Packaging Goals
Start by looking to your overall strategic goals and from there identify what you want to achieve during Pack Expo that will help you reach those goals. Are you looking reduce operational or distribution costs? Searching for a more sustainable packaging solution? Or do you have a specific project and are looking to prequalify vendors. Identifying your goals up front can help make sure your subsequent steps support your overall show objectives.
2. Scope Out Exhibitors That Can Help You Meet Your Packaging Goals
Once you have you goals in place, it’s time to identify exhibitors who can help you achieve them. ‘Map My Show’ is a useful tool for all attendees, exhibitors and buyers. Use the tool to find, research, and locate exhibitors and products that can help you achieve your goals. Identify must-see and want-to-see exhibitors and spend some time researching them and what you may want to learn.
3. Make a Plan
Prioritize and allot time for each exhibitor you want to see. Some exhibitors, including EDL Packaging, encourage attendees to schedule an appointment to ensure the right person is available to answer your questions. In addition, map out a route—the last thing you want to be doing is running from hall to hall. Lastly, build into your calendar some time to just explore the show—sometimes you will find the right solution—in the most unlikely of places.
4. Pack Your Bag
You won’t run in your dress shoes, so why do a trade show in them? Pack comfortable shoes for walking in—it’s a big show, so by the end of the day, your Fitbit could easily display more than 10,000 steps. A backpack is also a must-have for any takeaways you pick up throughout the day.
5. Keep Your Eyes Open
During the show, keep your eyes open for new opportunities and technology that may help you achieve your ultimate goals. Although many exhibitors will advertise before the show what technology and machines they will be showing, many wait to unveil new technologies right at the show.
6. Network. Network. Network.
You never know who you might meet at the show. Pack Expo hosts a variety of networking opportunities to meet people in the packaging industry from a variety of markets. Bring extra business cards to exchange information during these events and connect with them again after the show on social networks such as Twitter and LinkedIn.
EDL Packaging Engineers will once again be exhibiting at Pack Expo International, inside the South Hall at booth 2021. Make sure to add us to your plan and stop by to see what we’ve been working over the past year. Have a project that you are working on? Contact us today to set up a meeting with one of our packaging experts