PMMI is launching a new initiative aimed squarely at small and medium-sized manufacturers, as it prepares for PACK EXPO East 2026, scheduled for February 17–19 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
The programme, branded SMB FastTrack, is designed to simplify show planning and improve access to exhibitors, educational sessions and business resources tailored specifically to the needs of SMBs. According to PMMI, the initiative will debut at the 2026 edition of the East Coast packaging and processing exhibition.
SMB FastTrack introduces a set of planning tools and visual identifiers intended to help smaller manufacturers navigate the show floor more efficiently. Participating exhibitors will be marked with “SMB Friendly” icons in the online directory and on-site, highlighting offerings such as flexible financing, discounts or additional services aimed at smaller-scale operations. Machinery on display will also be identifiable via a dedicated gear icon in the exhibitor directory.
Education is another pillar of the initiative. PACK EXPO East 2026 will feature a dedicated SMB-focused learning track covering topics including workforce development, artificial intelligence, food safety, digital manufacturing, lean operations, cost-effective packaging solutions, startup supply chain strategies and scalable technologies. Sessions aligned with SMB priorities will be clearly marked in the online programme to enable targeted planning.
“The SMB FastTrack Program removes barriers to innovation by connecting SMBs directly with the solutions, resources, and partners they need most,” said Laura Thompson, Vice President, Trade Shows, PMMI.
Through a single landing page, participants will be able to access curated directories of SMB-friendly suppliers, recommended sessions and planning tools such as the Sustainability Solutions Finder and Visual Category Search. The My Show Planner platform will allow attendees to organise exhibitors and events, schedule meetings in advance and manage contacts before, during and after the exhibition.
For the first time, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce will also be present on-site, offering regional business resources and services aimed at supporting company growth.
“We’re putting planning power into the hands of attendees by ensuring every minute at PACK EXPO East leads to meaningful business outcomes,” Thompson added. “PACK EXPO East isn’t just about technology — it’s about relationships. The SMB FastTrack Program makes those connections easier to establish and more impactful.”
Digital tools will play a prominent role at the 2026 event. Two AI-powered features will be introduced to help visitors identify relevant solutions more quickly. AI Category Search will allow users to enter a solution or upload an image of an end product to receive recommended product categories linked to relevant exhibitors. AI Search Pilot will provide AI-generated, step-by-step packaging or processing guidance based on an end product, with links to matching exhibitor categories.
The show is expected to host approximately 500 exhibitors representing more than 40 vertical markets. As PMMI’s East Coast packaging and processing event, PACK EXPO East will highlight developments in automation, efficiency, sustainability and materials across sectors including food and beverage, life sciences, cosmetics and personal care, and industrial and household chemicals.
New features for 2026 will include a Containers and Materials Pavilion focused on recyclable, biodegradable and e-commerce packaging solutions, as well as the Incubator Hub. Presented in partnership with Ben Franklin Technology Partners, the hub will spotlight Pennsylvania-based startups and emerging technologies in packaging and processing.
Returning show floor destinations include the Reusable Packaging Pavilion and the Association Partner Pavilion, alongside the Workforce Development Pavilion, where colleges, universities and industry partners will present training opportunities, including programmes delivered through PMMI U.
Beyond the exhibition halls, PACK EXPO East will host a series of educational and networking events, including Innovation Stage and Industry Speaks presentations, the Taste of Philly Opening Reception, the Young Professionals Networking Reception, the Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network Reception and the new Philly Snack Stop networking feature. Vision 2030, described by organisers as an immersive forum for leaders and decision-makers, will also return as a separate registration event.
With its first-quarter timing, the show is positioned as a platform for companies to evaluate technologies and partnerships ahead of 2026 capital projects. Through SMB FastTrack, PMMI is signalling a more structured effort to ensure that smaller manufacturers can navigate that process with greater clarity and efficiency.
