PMMI is a proud sponsor of Startup CPG and the host of Pack Expo in Las Vegas this September.

Why should startup CPGs stop reading this blog post immediately and go to packexpolasvegas.com, use a free comp code STARTUPCC and begin making plans to send someone from their staff to PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO (Sept. 27-29, 2021; Las Vegas Convention Center)?

Because every CPG that attends the only packaging and processing event in the world in 2021 began as a startup.

Every.

Single.

One.

So, while attendees like the Kraft-Heinz’s and DuPont’s of the world existed before PACK EXPO opened its doors for the first time in 1956, they too were once startups and would have relished the chance to find all the solutions to their packaging and processing challenges under one roof. Just like fellow attendees, Blue Apron, Annie’s Organic and Big Bear Coffee Roasting did in later years. CPGs around the globe annually make the pilgrimage to trade shows produced by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, because these events showcase the entire packaging and processing industry. At PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO, more than 1,500 exhibitors will showcase the latest new materials, technologies and solutions to address the packaging and processing needs of over 20,000 attendees from 40-plus vertical markets. With multiple free educational platforms and countless networking opportunities, the event will provide endless prospects for exchanging ideas and professional growth.

Additionally, PACK EXPO has the support of dozens of industry partners as part of the PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO Partner Program, including the Association for Contract Packagers and Manufacturers (CPA), Independent Bakers Association (IBA), The National Confectioners Association (NCA), International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), SNAC International (formerly the Snack Food Association) and more. Many of these associations are first stops for startup CPGs attending their first PACK EXPO.

Not Convinced?

If you ignored my earlier advice to immediately stop reading and made it this far, it appears you are still not convinced even though I offered you a free ticket to the most comprehensive packaging and processing event in the world. You are thinking to yourself, “Self, why should I drive or fly to Las Vegas and attend this PACK EXPO thing?” We live in an age where everybody likes tidy lists, so allow me to provide a list of five reasons why every startup CPG needs to attend PACK EXPO Las Vegas and Healthcare Packaging EXPO this year more than ever.

Top Five Reasons Why PACK EXPO is a Must-Attend Event

1. Keep up with technology, live and in-person. The past year has reaffirmed our knowledge that the best way to keep up with new technology and see breakthroughs that can push your business forward is by experiencing it live, up close and in person. PMMI and PMMI Media Group have conducted multiple surveys during this time and the research clearly indicates that while virtual events are suitable in a pinch and helped facilitate business during the pandemic, to keep up with the changes in the last year, customers need to experience the latest innovations in person.

In addition to exploring packaging or processing solutions for ideas CPGs have in hand, many attendees encounter technology they didn’t realize existed—opening exciting new possibilities.

2. Gain valuable perspective made possible only through networking. With so many industries at one show, attendees discover unexpected crossover solutions, get a sense for trends across markets, find out what competitors are doing and where their particular brand can stand out. Serendipitous connections spark unexpected ideas made only through live events and PACK EXPO offers the best opportunity to collaborate with peers and industry leaders effectively.

3. Make better capital investment decisions. Being surrounded by technology in action, seeing materials and containers in person, having meaningful conversations face-to-face with suppliers and engineers and getting answers on the spot provides newcomers with the best path forward for managing a company’s bottom line. The variety of equipment and number of solution suppliers provides a detailed lay of the land, giving startups a practical sense of what is out there and what is possible. It enables and promotes bigger, outside-the-box thinking.

4. Get more done in three days than a year’s worth of research. With so many solutions on display and access to industry experts all in one place, attendees can get answers fast and accomplish more than anywhere else. After three days, startups are sure to find what ways to improve production, enhance brand identity, expand e-commerce, achieve sustainability…the list is endless.

5. Be ready for the future and prepared to adapt to changing market conditions. Make discoveries to keep in your back pocket for later, ideas that will come in handy when new challenges arise. You’ll gain a perspective that helps you prioritize and plan for what your next capital investment might be and what investments you can or should be working toward.

Still not convinced? Head over to packexpolasvegas.com and see the litany of solutions PACK EXPO and Healthcare Packaging EXPO can ultimately provide for any startup CPG for free.