When it comes to global events in the meat, poultry, and animal feed industries, the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) stands out as one of the most important trade shows in the world. Held annually in Atlanta, USA, this expo brings together thousands of professionals from every corner of the industry — from processing to packaging, from technology to sustainability.
Whether you’re running a business, building your career, or simply interested in how the food on our plates is produced, IPPE offers a platform to learn, connect, and grow.
Venue and Dates for 2025
- Location: Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Dates: January 28 – January 30, 2025
The venue is right in downtown Atlanta, close to major hotels, restaurants, and public transport. It’s modern, spacious, and known for hosting world-class events. If you’re planning to attend, it’s wise to book accommodation early, as the city gets busy during IPPE week.
Entry Cost and Registration
Attending IPPE is not free, but the pricing is fair for what you get in return.
- Early Bird Registration (before January 6, 2025): Around $75
- Standard/On-site Registration: Approximately $125
- Student Passes: Often discounted or free (check with your institution)
Registration gives you access to the expo floor, educational programs, and networking events. If you register early, you not only save money but also avoid long lines and last-minute technical issues.
Where to Stay Nearby
Since the event is right in downtown Atlanta, many hotels are within walking distance. Some popular choices for attendees include:
- Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center – Closest to the venue
- Hyatt Regency Atlanta – Known for great service and location
- Embassy Suites Centennial Olympic Park – A good mix of comfort and convenience
- Hotel Indigo Atlanta Downtown – Stylish, affordable, and centrally located
Most of these hotels offer group discounts or special IPPE rates, so check availability early.
What IPPE is All About
IPPE is actually the combination of three major expos:
- International Meat Expo
- International Poultry Expo
- International Feed Expo
Together, they cover the full spectrum of production and processing in the protein industry. From machinery and packaging to nutrition, animal health, and automation — every corner of the sector is represented. Exhibitors come from over 30 countries, and thousands of visitors gather to explore innovations, build partnerships, and attend educational sessions.
Who Should Attend?
This expo is not just for corporate leaders. It’s meant for a wide range of attendees:
- Business owners and entrepreneurs
- Food processing professionals
- Equipment manufacturers
- Feed mill operators
- Students and young professionals
- Engineers, veterinarians, and researchers
- Marketing and sales professionals in the agri-food sector
Whether you’re seasoned in the industry or new to the field, IPPE offers practical value at every level.
What You’ll See and Experience
The show floor is massive and filled with live-action booths and product demos. Here’s what you can expect:
- Over 1,300 exhibitors showcasing machinery, packaging tools, feed systems, sanitation technology, and more
- Interactive displays where you can watch live processing equipment in action
- Innovation Station that highlights cutting-edge products and sustainable solutions
- Educational kiosks and resource centers to learn about current challenges and new methods
It’s not your average walk-through expo. It’s highly dynamic and hands-on.
Educational Sessions and Learning Tracks
In addition to exhibits, IPPE is known for its robust educational programs:
- TechTalks: Bite-sized sessions covering the latest trends and breakthroughs
- Workshops: Topics range from animal welfare to food safety, processing efficiency, and more
- Pet Food Conference: A major program dedicated to innovations and trends in the pet food industry
- Feed Production Workshops: Focused on challenges in feed manufacturing and nutrition
- Student Career Program: Connects future professionals with industry employers
These programs are led by experts, and they offer real-world insights you won’t get elsewhere.
Networking and Career Growth
One of the most valuable parts of attending IPPE is the chance to connect. Whether you’re looking to hire, get hired, or partner with someone, the expo is a goldmine for professional connections.
- Special networking events for women in the industry
- Young Leaders Meetups
- Supplier and buyer meetings
- Industry receptions held after-hours
Every interaction could open a door to something new — a job, a collaboration, or even a business opportunity.
Why You Should Attend
Still wondering if it’s worth it? Here’s a list of reasons why attending IPPE is a smart move:
- Stay ahead of trends in food production and animal feed
- Compare products and technologies side-by-side
- Discover innovations that can improve efficiency and sustainability
- Gain knowledge that helps your business or career grow
- Meet people who share your interests and goals
- Explore new markets and potential global suppliers
- Be inspired by real stories and real solutions
This is not just an event to attend — it’s an experience to absorb.
How to Get There
- By Air: Fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), one of the busiest and best-connected airports in the world.
- By Train/Bus: MARTA, Atlanta’s public transit, offers reliable and cheap transport to downtown.
- By Car: Plenty of parking is available near the Congress Center, but early arrival is advised.
Atlanta itself is easy to navigate and filled with great food, parks, and cultural attractions. Make a trip out of it if you can.
A Few Tips Before You Go
- Wear comfortable shoes – the halls are big and you’ll be walking a lot
- Bring business cards – networking is a huge part of the event
- Download the IPPE app – it helps with maps, schedules, and alerts
- Plan your sessions ahead – educational programs fill up quickly
- Stay hydrated and carry snacks – breaks can be short and sessions long
Final Thoughts
The International Production & Processing Expo is not just a trade show — it’s a community event, a learning opportunity, and a springboard for innovation. Whether you’re attending to explore new machinery, meet experts, or simply stay updated, IPPE delivers value from start to finish.
It’s the kind of event where you walk in curious and leave inspired. And that’s why year after year, people keep coming back.
Want to register and explore more about the event?
Visit: https://www.ippexpo.org