Overview of the Food Robotics Expo

The Food Robotics Expo is one of the most innovative and forward-thinking trade shows in the United States, dedicated to showcasing cutting-edge technologies and solutions in the realm of food automation and robotics. Held at various major cities across the USA, this expo brings together key players in the food production, processing, packaging, and service industries, all with a keen interest in automation, efficiency, and safety through robotics.

This event serves as a comprehensive platform for professionals, industry experts, manufacturers, researchers, and buyers to explore the latest advancements in robotics applied to food handling and processing. The expo covers a wide range of technologies, from robotic arms for food processing to AI-driven inspection systems and automated packaging solutions.

venue and schedule details

The Food Robotics Expo takes place in different cities across the USA each year, often rotating among key industry hubs such as Chicago (Illinois), Las Vegas (Nevada), and Orlando (Florida). These locations are selected for their strong hospitality infrastructure, accessibility, and established ties to the food and tech industries.

For the year 2025, the upcoming editions of the expo are scheduled as follows:

• Chicago, IL – McCormick Place: August 19–21, 2025
• Las Vegas, NV – Las Vegas Convention Center: October 14–16, 2025
• Orlando, FL – Orange County Convention Center: December 2–4, 2025

The event typically runs from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day, with extended hours on the first day for the opening ceremony and networking sessions.

exhibitor and product categories

Attendees can expect to explore a wide variety of exhibits grouped under specialized categories. These include:

• Robotic Food Processing Systems
• Packaging and Palletizing Robots
• AI & Machine Learning Applications
• Hygienic Design Automation
• Automated Cleaning Systems
• Food Inspection and Safety Robots
• Drones for Agricultural Food Supply
• Smart Vending Machines
• Restaurant Service and Cooking Robots

Over 500 exhibitors are expected across the three locations, each showcasing real-time demonstrations of advanced technologies. Companies range from startups in food automation to global tech giants like ABB, Fanuc, and Mitsubishi Electric.

visitor profile and expected turnout

The Food Robotics Expo anticipates a strong turnout, with an estimated 25,000–30,000 visitors per location. The expo is tailored for:

• Food processing plant managers
• Robotics engineers
• Restaurateurs and QSR owners
• Automation consultants
• Investors and venture capitalists
• Technology suppliers
• Supply chain executives
• Educational and research institutions

This makes the expo a rich ground for B2B networking, product launches, collaborative innovation, and learning.

ticketing and admission cost

Entry to the Food Robotics Expo is typically free for pre-registered industry professionals. On-site registration may incur a nominal fee ranging from $25 to $50, depending on the location and access level (standard, VIP, or all-access with conference entry).

VIP passes grant attendees access to exclusive workshops, speaker sessions, B2B meetings, catered networking events, and post-event digital resources. Special group discounts and academic passes are also available for universities and training institutes.

benefits of attending the food robotics expo

Participating in the Food Robotics Expo offers a multitude of benefits:

• Insight into the future of food automation: Stay ahead of the curve by exploring AI, robotics, and machine learning in food production.
• Live demos of robotics in action: Witness end-to-end automation from sorting and handling to final product packaging.
• Educational workshops and speaker panels: Learn directly from industry leaders, engineers, and researchers.
• Business development opportunities: Find suppliers, buyers, and innovation partners across various sectors.
• Hands-on product interaction: Evaluate products in real-world conditions and ask in-depth technical questions to developers.
• Access to startup zone and innovation alley: Discover cutting-edge solutions from early-stage innovators.
• Certification courses and learning credits: Several sessions are eligible for CPD or CEU credits.

nearby hotels and accommodation

Each venue location offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for all budgets. Here are some hotel recommendations close to each location:

Chicago (McCormick Place)

• Hyatt Regency McCormick Place
• Marriott Marquis Chicago
• Home2 Suites by Hilton

Las Vegas (LVCC)

• Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino
• Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel
• Las Vegas Marriott

Orlando (Orange County Convention Center)

• Hyatt Regency Orlando
• Hilton Orlando
• Rosen Centre Hotel

Most of these hotels offer expo-specific rates, early check-in options, and shuttle services to and from the venue.

networking and B2B matchmaking

One of the key features of the expo is its AI-powered matchmaking tool. Attendees can register online and input their business goals, after which the system schedules meetings with relevant exhibitors and fellow visitors. This curated networking saves time and ensures productive interactions throughout the event.

Evening mixers and networking dinners are also organized, allowing informal connections among participants from varied backgrounds.

tech showcase and startup spotlight

A major draw at the Food Robotics Expo is the Tech Showcase, where new inventions and prototypes are unveiled. This includes everything from robotic sous-chefs to vision-guided pick-and-place systems.

The Startup Spotlight Pavilion features early-stage companies presenting their innovations in food robotics. Investors and VCs attend this section actively, offering funding and mentorship opportunities.

sustainability and innovation awards

The event also hosts the Food Robotics Innovation Awards, celebrating companies and individuals making strides in sustainable and efficient automation. Categories include:

• Best Robotic Innovation in Packaging
• Green Tech Award
• Most Promising Startup
• Automation for Social Good

These awards enhance the visibility of companies and promote meaningful advancements in the industry.

covid and safety protocols

The organizers follow comprehensive safety measures to ensure a secure experience for all attendees. These include:

• Contactless registration
• Sanitization stations across the venue
• Spacious booth layouts for social distancing
• Air filtration and enhanced cleaning protocols

Attendees are encouraged to stay updated via the expo’s official website for specific guidelines per city.

how to get there

Each venue is well connected by air, rail, and road:

• Chicago (ORD or MDW airports): Direct access via CTA trains and taxi
• Las Vegas (LAS airport): 10-minute drive from the Strip
• Orlando (MCO airport): 15 minutes by car or shared shuttle

Ride-sharing apps, hotel shuttles, and public transit are widely available at all locations.

final thoughts

The Food Robotics Expo stands at the intersection of technology and food, offering unmatched insight, exposure, and networking to anyone involved in the food tech ecosystem. With rich content, robust exhibitor participation, and high-value interactions, it is an unmissable event for professionals shaping the future of food through robotics.

Whether you are looking to automate a kitchen, scale up a processing facility, or invest in the next big food tech innovation, this expo is where ideas come to life.