PROCESS EXPO, Chicago, USA: The New Frontier of Food & Beverage Technology – Welcome to EATS!

In the intricate world of food and beverage production, efficiency, safety, innovation, and sustainability are paramount. From farm to fork, every step of the processing journey demands cutting-edge technology and intelligent solutions. For professionals deeply immersed in this vital industry, the premier event to discover these advancements has undergone an exciting transformation. PROCESS EXPO, long recognized as a cornerstone event, has evolved into EATS – The Equipment Automation Technology Show for Food & Beverage, in Chicago, USA. This evolution signifies a renewed focus on end-to-end solutions, interactive experiences, and an even deeper dive into the technologies shaping the future of food and beverage production.

EATS, inheriting the legacy of PROCESS EXPO, is the ultimate gathering for the global food and beverage processing industry in North America. It’s where the world’s most successful food and beverage processors, packaging professionals, equipment manufacturers, and thought leaders converge. Here, you don’t just see machinery; you witness live production lines, engage with automation experts, explore groundbreaking research, and gain practical insights that can revolutionize your operations. If you’re a plant manager, an R&D specialist, an engineer, a food safety professional, or a business leader in any food or beverage sector – from baked goods and dairy to meat, pet food, and prepared meals – EATS is an indispensable destination for staying competitive, optimizing processes, and navigating the industry’s dynamic landscape.

The Midwest’s Manufacturing Heart: The Venue and Its Time

Chicago, Illinois, the vibrant hub of the Midwest, with its robust manufacturing heritage and unparalleled logistical advantages, provides the ideal location for EATS. The event consistently takes place at McCormick Place, one of the largest and most renowned convention centers in North America. Specifically, EATS (formerly PROCESS EXPO) typically occupies the South Hall of McCormick Place, located at 2301 S King Dr., Chicago, IL 60616, USA.

McCormick Place is a world-class facility, boasting millions of square feet of exhibit space, modern infrastructure, and excellent accessibility. Its expansive halls are perfectly suited to host the hundreds of exhibitors, heavy processing machinery, and the unique live production lines that are a signature feature of this event. The location offers great convenience for attendees, with easy access to downtown Chicago’s myriad attractions, dining options, and a wide selection of hotels. McCormick Place is also well-served by public transportation (the “L” train’s Green Line stops right at the complex) and is easily reachable from both O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). This central and accessible venue ensures a smooth and productive experience for all participants.

EATS (formerly PROCESS EXPO) is a biennial event, strategically held every two years to align with the rapid pace of technological advancements in the food and beverage processing sector. The next highly anticipated edition, EATS 2025, is scheduled to take place from October 28-30, 2025. The show runs for three intensive days, providing ample time to explore the vast exhibition, engage with experts, and participate in the robust educational programming. Exhibit hall hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the first two days, and an earlier close on the final day. This biennial schedule ensures that each show presents genuinely new innovations and a significant leap forward in processing technology, making every visit a discovery.

The Recipe for Innovation: Product and Solution Categories

The exhibition halls at EATS are a comprehensive showcase of the entire food and beverage processing ecosystem, demonstrating solutions across the full production chain. Visitors can delve into a wide array of products, technologies, and services, often organized by specific industry sectors or equipment types:

• Food & Beverage Processing Equipment:
  • Mechanical Processing: Cutting, slicing, dicing, forming, mixing, blending, grinding, emulsifying, extruding, separating, filtering, centrifuging, kneading.
  • Thermal Processing: Ovens, fryers, dryers, smokers, freezers, chillers, pasteurizers, sterilizers, heat exchangers.
  • Chemical Processing: Fermentation, distillation, filtration, purification systems.
  • Aseptic Processing & Filling: Technologies for sterile production environments.
• Automation & Robotics:
  • Robotics for material handling, picking, packing, and palletizing.
  • Automated control systems, PLCs, HMIs, sensors, vision systems.
  • IoT (Internet of Things) solutions for smart factories, data analytics, and predictive maintenance.
  • Line integration and optimization software.
• Packaging Equipment & Solutions:
  • Integrated packaging lines for processed foods.
  • Filling, sealing, capping, labeling, coding, and marking equipment.
  • Case packing, palletizing, and stretch wrapping solutions.
  • Packaging materials specifically for food safety and shelf life.
• Food Safety & Quality Control:
  • Inspection systems (X-ray, metal detection, vision systems, checkweighers).
  • Sanitation and cleaning equipment (CIP/SIP systems, washers, sanitizers).
  • Laboratory testing equipment, rapid testing solutions.
  • Food safety management systems and compliance software.
• Ingredients & Formulations:
  • Food and beverage ingredients.
  • Flavorings, functional ingredients, additives.
  • Solutions for alternative proteins, plant-based products.
• Material Handling & Logistics:
  • Conveying systems (belt, roller, pneumatic, vibratory).
  • Material storage and retrieval systems.
  • Warehousing and distribution solutions.
• Environmental & Facility Management:
  • Water treatment and wastewater management systems.
  • Energy efficiency solutions.
  • Ventilation and air quality systems.
  • Waste reduction and recycling technologies.
• Industry Services:
  • Consulting, engineering, and design services.
  • Maintenance, parts, and aftermarket support.
  • Food safety certification and auditing.
  • Financial services, legal, and regulatory compliance.

EATS will focus on eight key sectors: bakery, beverage, cannabis, dairy, pet food, prepared food, proteins, and sweets, ensuring that professionals from these vital segments find tailored solutions and expertise. The emphasis on “end-to-end manufacturing process only dedicated to food and beverage” makes it uniquely valuable.

The Industry’s Pulse: Visitor Count and Demographics

EATS (formerly PROCESS EXPO) consistently attracts a substantial and highly influential audience, affirming its status as the premier event for food and beverage processing in North America. The 2023 edition (as PROCESS EXPO) attracted over 15,000 attendees and featured more than 400 exhibitors, showcasing a vast array of equipment and solutions across McCormick Place’s South Hall. Projections for EATS 2025 anticipate even higher engagement and attendance, solidifying its growth.

The attendee profile at EATS is highly targeted and relevant, primarily comprising decision-makers and technical experts from food and beverage processing companies of all sizes:

• Production & Operations Management: Plant Managers, Production Directors, Operations VPs, seeking to improve efficiency, throughput, and product quality.
• Engineering & R&D: Process Engineers, Packaging Engineers, Scientists, and R&D Managers looking for innovative technologies, custom solutions, and new product development support.
• Quality Assurance & Food Safety: QA Managers, Food Safety Specialists, and Compliance Officers seeking robust inspection, sanitation, and traceability solutions.
• Company Owners & Executives: CEOs, Presidents, and VPs making strategic investment decisions and seeking market insights.
• Purchasing & Procurement: Sourcing new equipment, ingredients, and services.
• Maintenance & Technical Staff: Looking for parts, service, and training for advanced machinery.
• Sales & Marketing: Understanding the latest industry trends and competitive landscape.

A significant majority of attendees (often over 80%) hold purchasing power or influence decisions, making EATS an incredibly high-value environment for exhibitors and a critical sourcing event for buyers. The show draws attendees not just from across the US, but also from Canada, Mexico, and other international markets, reflecting its global appeal.

Harvest the Benefits: Perks of Attending EATS

Attending EATS (formerly PROCESS EXPO) offers an unparalleled array of benefits and strategic advantages for any professional in the food and beverage processing industry:

• See Live Production Lines: A signature feature of this show is the live working production lines. Witness actual food products being processed and packaged in real-time, from start to finish. This hands-on experience demonstrates integrated solutions and provides invaluable insights into line performance and optimization.
• Comprehensive Sourcing & Solutions: Explore a vast array of equipment, ingredients, and services from hundreds of leading suppliers. Efficiently compare technologies, evaluate different solutions, and find new partners for every stage of your production process, all under one roof.
• Targeted Education & Expertise: Benefit from a robust educational program at “Food for Thought” sessions and other learning theaters on the show floor. These complimentary sessions, led by industry experts and academia, cover critical topics like automation, food safety, sustainability, supply chain resilience, and emerging trends, providing actionable insights.
• High-Value Networking: Connect with thousands of industry peers, established suppliers, and potential collaborators from across the food and beverage processing sector. The show provides ample opportunities for meaningful conversations, sharing best practices, and building strategic relationships.
• Address Specific Challenges: Bring your unique production bottlenecks, food safety concerns, or efficiency goals to the show. Engage directly with technical specialists and engineers from exhibiting companies who can offer tailored advice and demonstrate how their solutions can provide answers.
• Stay Ahead of the Curve: Gain direct insights into the latest technological advancements, including AI in processing, advanced robotics, sustainable processing methods, enhanced traceability, and solutions for alternative proteins. Understand how these innovations are shaping the future of the industry.
• Discover Custom Solutions: Many exhibitors are capable of designing and fabricating custom equipment to meet specific operational needs, making the show an ideal place to discuss bespoke solutions.
• Workforce Development: Explore automation technologies that can help address labor shortages and learn about training programs and operational efficiencies that empower your workforce.
• Industry Awards: Witness the recognition of groundbreaking innovations through industry awards, providing inspiration and highlighting leading-edge solutions.

Your Chicago Home: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Stay

Chicago offers an extensive selection of hotels, with many conveniently located near McCormick Place, catering to every budget and preference. Staying close to the venue maximizes convenience and allows attendees to fully immerse themselves in the show and explore the vibrant city.

Some highly recommended and popular hotel options near McCormick Place in Chicago include:

• Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago: Directly connected to the convention center, offering unparalleled convenience and direct access to the show floor.
• Marriott Marquis Chicago: Located steps away from McCormick Place, offering modern amenities and easy access.
• Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown South Loop: A great option for comfort and convenience, with good access to McCormick Place via a short taxi or public transit ride.
• Hilton Chicago: A landmark hotel in downtown, offering classic elegance and convenient access to McCormick Place.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown South Loop: Ideal for extended stays, offering suites with kitchens, a short distance from the convention center.
• Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop/Theatre District: While a bit further downtown, offers a vibrant experience and is accessible via public transit to McCormick Place.
• Loews Chicago Hotel: A luxurious option in downtown, providing upscale amenities and a slightly longer but manageable commute.

Given Chicago’s status as a major convention city, and the significance of EATS, it is strongly advised to book your hotel accommodations well in advance. Utilizing official event housing blocks, if provided by the organizers (FPSA and Messe Frankfurt), often secures discounted rates and ensures you’re part of the designated attendee network.

The Investment in Excellence: Understanding the Cost to Attend

The cost to attend EATS (formerly PROCESS EXPO) is structured to provide flexible access, with various pass options available. While specific pricing for EATS 2025 will be officially released closer to the event (registration typically opens several months prior, usually in early 2025), based on previous editions, you can anticipate the following general structure:

• Exhibit Hall Pass: This pass grants access to the entire exhibition floor for all three days, allowing you to explore exhibitor booths and witness live demonstrations, including the signature production lines. This pass is often offered at a very affordable rate, or even free if you register online by an early bird deadline. If you register after the deadline or on-site, there is usually a nominal fee, typically around $95 – $150 USD.
• Educational Sessions: A significant perk of EATS is that the extensive educational sessions offered on the show floor (like the “Food for Thought” program) are generally included with your exhibit hall registration, providing immense value without additional cost.
• Special Events: There may be separate fees for specific networking receptions, leadership breakfasts, or specialized workshops.
• Student Discounts: EATS often offers free or heavily discounted registration for students, encouraging the next generation of food and beverage processing professionals.

The investment in attending EATS is widely considered a wise one, offering an exceptional return in terms of solutions discovered, knowledge gained, and connections made within the critical food and beverage processing industry.

Process Your Future: Don’t Miss EATS!

EATS – The Equipment Automation Technology Show for Food & Beverage in Chicago is the essential biennial gathering for anyone serious about the future of food and beverage production. It’s where innovative ideas are transformed into tangible solutions, and where the brightest minds in processing and manufacturing converge to shape the way we feed the world. If you’re ready to embrace the latest technologies, optimize your processes for efficiency, safety, and sustainability, and connect with the visionaries driving progress, securing your place at EATS is an indispensable step. Don’t just keep pace with the industry’s evolution – lead the way and process your path to success!

To learn more and secure your attendance at the next EATS event, visit: https://theeatsshow.us.messefrankfurt.com/us/en.html