Powering Progress: Your Essential Guide to Process Expo, Chicago, USA!

Chicago – the bustling heart of the Midwest, a city renowned for its architectural marvels, vibrant culture, and its pivotal role as a global center for industry and innovation. It’s here, in this iconic American metropolis, that the entire spectrum of the food and beverage processing industry converges for its most influential biennial event: Process Expo. This isn’t merely a trade exhibition; it’s a monumental gathering, a strategic forum designed to drive efficiency, enhance safety, and showcase the cutting-edge equipment, technologies, and solutions that are revolutionizing how the world’s food and beverage products are produced, packaged, and delivered. Imagine stepping onto an immense show floor, buzzing with the hum of advanced machinery, the energy of thousands of industry leaders, discerning buyers, and pioneering engineers. You’re surrounded by everything from robotic automation and smart factory solutions to sustainable processing methods and the latest in food safety protocols. This is your unparalleled opportunity to discover groundbreaking technologies, explore transformative production techniques, analyze the freshest industry trends, and forge invaluable connections that will optimize your operations, boost your output, and delight your consumers. For food and beverage processors, equipment manufacturers, packaging professionals, ingredient suppliers, and anyone committed to advancing the food and beverage industry, Process Expo is not just an option—it’s an essential biennial pilgrimage for staying ahead of the curve, finding profound inspiration, and cultivating unparalleled growth in today’s fiercely competitive and ever-evolving market.

The food and beverage processing industry is in a constant state of accelerated evolution. Consumers demand not only quality and convenience but also increased transparency in sourcing, sustainable practices, and products that cater to diverse dietary needs. From the rising importance of plant-based foods and personalized nutrition to the rapid adoption of AI, IoT, and advanced robotics in the production line, processors are transforming their operations to meet these complex demands. Process Expo stands at the forefront of these transformations, connecting the dots between supply and demand, unveiling critical market insights, and fostering the crucial relationships that drive progress. It’s where emerging technology companies gain vital exposure, established manufacturers refine their strategies for optimizing production, and innovative solutions for operational efficiency and food safety are discovered. If you’re looking to upgrade your processing lines, source new ingredients or packaging, implement state-of-the-art automation, understand evolving consumer demands, or simply immerse yourself in the passionate and forward-thinking community of food and beverage processing professionals, attending Process Expo offers an unmatched opportunity to learn, discover, and propel your business to new heights.

The Innovation Hub: Venue and Time

Process Expo consistently selects one of North America’s premier convention facilities, ensuring a truly impactful and efficient experience for all attendees.

Chicago’s Grand Stage: McCormick Place Process Expo is consistently held at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The official address for McCormick Place is 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60616. As the largest convention center in North America, McCormick Place boasts an immense amount of exhibition space (hundreds of thousands of square feet dedicated to Process Expo across multiple halls), numerous meeting rooms, and state-of-the-art facilities. Its location along Lake Michigan, just south of downtown Chicago, offers excellent accessibility from major airports (O’Hare and Midway) and is well-served by public transportation, including the Metra Electric Line and CTA buses, connecting directly to the city’s vast array of hotels, dining, and attractions. McCormick Place’s sheer scale and robust infrastructure make it the ideal venue for an event of Process Expo’s magnitude and importance to the global food and beverage processing industry.

A Biennial Dive into the Future: The Schedule Process Expo is a biennial event, meaning it takes place every two years. This strategic timing allows for significant advancements in technology, ingredients, and industry best practices to develop between shows, ensuring that each exposition delivers truly cutting-edge content and solutions. The show consistently takes place in October, providing an ideal opportunity for industry professionals to gather, assess the year’s progress, and plan for future investments.

For 2025, Process Expo is scheduled to run from Tuesday, October 28, 2025 – Thursday, October 30, 2025.

The event typically spans three intensive days, with a meticulously designed schedule to maximize education, discovery, and networking opportunities:

• Expo Hall & Education Sessions: The exhibition floor and educational programming run concurrently over these three days.
  • Educational Sessions: Process Expo is known for its robust educational program. These sessions cover a vast array of critical topics, often including:
    • Automation & Robotics: The latest in automated processing lines, robotic integration, and AI-driven solutions.
    • Food Safety & Quality Control: Advanced sanitation techniques, pathogen detection, traceability systems, and regulatory compliance.
    • Sustainability & Resource Management: Energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable packaging.
    • Ingredients & Product Development: Innovations in plant-based alternatives, functional ingredients, flavor trends, and clean label solutions.
    • Packaging Solutions: Advanced packaging materials, automated packing lines, and smart packaging.
    • Supply Chain Optimization: Logistics, warehousing, and cold chain management.
    • Workforce Development: Strategies for talent attraction, retention, and training in a rapidly evolving industry.
    • Sector Stages: For 2025, Process Expo is part of the larger “Equipment, Automation and Technology Show for Food & Beverage (EATS)” and will feature “Sector Stages” highlighting key industries like Confectionery, Bakery, and Beverage, with focused discussions, live demonstrations, and tastings.
  • Expo Hall Hours: The expansive exhibition floor is typically open during standard daytime hours, allowing ample time for attendees to explore hundreds of booths.
• Live Production Lines: A signature feature of Process Expo. These fully operational, actual production lines (e.g., for meat, bakery, or pet food) showcase machinery from multiple exhibitors working together in real-time. This provides an unparalleled opportunity to see integrated solutions in action.
• Innovation Awards: Recognizing groundbreaking products and solutions from exhibitors that drive the industry forward in areas like automation, sustainability, and overall product innovation.
• Networking Opportunities: Beyond structured events, the entire show environment is designed for active networking, with numerous informal opportunities to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential suppliers. These include receptions, lounges, and dedicated meeting areas.
• Career Fair: Often a component, providing a platform for young talent and early-career professionals to connect with companies actively seeking new hires in the food processing industry.

This comprehensive and focused schedule ensures that every attendee, from a small-batch producer to a large industrial plant manager, finds immense value in terms of cutting-edge content, groundbreaking product discovery, and crucial connections to propel their food and beverage processing business forward.

From Farm to Fork: Key Product and Service Categories

Process Expo showcases an incredibly comprehensive range of products, services, and solutions that cater to virtually every aspect of the food and beverage processing industry. The vast expo floor is strategically segmented to facilitate efficient discovery:

• Processing Equipment: The core of the show, featuring machinery for every step of food and beverage transformation.
  • Mixing, Blending & Forming: Industrial mixers, blenders, emulsifiers, extruders, formers for various food products (meat, dough, snacks, plant-based).
  • Cooking, Baking & Frying: Industrial ovens, fryers, griddles, pasteurizers, sterilizers, heat exchangers.
  • Slicing, Dicing & Portioning: Precision cutters, slicers, dicers, shredders, portioning machines for meat, poultry, produce, and more.
  • Separation & Filtration: Centrifuges, filters, membrane systems for liquids and solids.
  • Drying, Evaporation & Concentration: Dryers, evaporators, freeze-drying equipment.
  • Refrigeration & Freezing: Industrial chillers, blast freezers, spiral freezers, cold storage solutions.
  • Sanitation & Hygiene: Washdown systems, industrial cleaning equipment, sanitizing solutions for food-grade environments.
• Packaging Equipment & Materials: Essential for product protection, shelf life, and market appeal.
  • Primary Packaging: Form-fill-seal machines, bagging equipment, flow wrappers, tray sealers, depositors, bottle/can fillers.
  • Secondary & Tertiary Packaging: Cartoning machines, case packers, shrink wrappers, stretch wrappers, palletizers.
  • Labeling & Coding: Label applicators, printers for batch codes, expiry dates, and traceability.
  • Packaging Materials: Flexible films, rigid containers, pouches, bags, trays, and sustainable packaging options (biodegradable, compostable, recyclable).
• Ingredients, Flavorings & Additives: The building blocks of food and beverage products.
  • Basic Ingredients: Flours, grains, sugars, salts, oils, fats, dairy, eggs.
  • Specialty & Functional Ingredients: Plant-based proteins, natural flavors, colors, emulsifiers, stabilizers, enzymes, preservatives, fortifiers.
  • Clean Label & Organic Solutions: Ingredients for natural, organic, and allergen-free products.
  • Sweeteners, Spices & Seasonings: A wide array of flavor enhancers and custom blends.
• Automation, Controls & Software: Driving efficiency, precision, and data-driven decision-making.
  • Robotics: Robotic arms for handling, picking, packing, and processing.
  • Process Control Systems: PLCs, SCADA systems, HMI interfaces for monitoring and controlling production.
  • Sensors & Vision Systems: For quality inspection, sorting, and defect detection.
  • IoT (Internet of Things): Connected devices for real-time data collection and predictive maintenance.
  • AI & Machine Learning: For process optimization, predictive analytics, and enhanced quality control.
  • ERP & MES Systems: Enterprise Resource Planning and Manufacturing Execution Systems for integrated management.
  • Traceability Solutions: Software and hardware for tracking products from raw material to finished good.
• Support Services & General Plant Operations: Everything needed to build, maintain, and manage a modern food processing facility.
  • Facility Design & Engineering: Plant layout, construction, and engineering services.
  • Material Handling & Conveying: Conveyor systems, elevators, bulk handling equipment.
  • Water Treatment & Waste Management: Systems for process water, wastewater treatment, and solid waste disposal.
  • Environmental & Energy Solutions: Energy efficiency audits, renewable energy integration, pollution control.
  • Testing & Lab Services: Food safety testing, quality assurance, R&D labs.
  • Consulting & Training: Business strategy, regulatory compliance, food safety training, operational consulting.
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Solutions: Transportation services, warehousing, cold chain management.
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) & Safety: Gear and systems for worker safety.

This incredibly diverse and specialized range ensures that any professional looking to operate, supply, or innovate within the food and beverage processing sector can find the products, technologies, and services necessary to enhance their operations, boost profitability, and meet the dynamic demands of today’s market.

The Pulse of the Industry: Visitor and Exhibitor Count

Process Expo consistently attracts an impressive number of highly qualified professionals, solidifying its status as a leading event for the global food and beverage processing industry.

• Visitor Count: Process Expo draws a significant and highly engaged audience. For its 2023 edition, the show attracted over 15,000 attendees. While specific projections for 2025 are still being finalized, the trend indicates continued strong interest and growth, especially as it’s part of the broader EATS (Equipment, Automation and Technology Show for Food & Beverage) event. Attendees come from all segments of the food and beverage industry, including:
  • Food and beverage processors (from small and medium enterprises to large multinational corporations).
  • Plant managers, production supervisors, and operations personnel.
  • Engineers and R&D specialists.
  • Quality assurance and food safety professionals.
  • Purchasing managers and sourcing specialists.
  • Business owners and C-suite executives.
  • Distributors, wholesalers, and brokers.
  • Industry analysts and consultants. The show also attracts a notable international presence, with attendees from a wide array of countries, underscoring its global relevance in the processing sector.
• Exhibitor Count: The Expo Hall at Process Expo is substantial, filled with a diverse array of companies showcasing their innovations. For 2025, the show is expected to feature around 500 exhibitors, occupying a significant amount of exhibition space (e.g., in 2023, it featured companies from 18 countries). Exhibitors range from global leaders in food processing machinery to specialized providers of ingredients, packaging, automation solutions, and essential services. This includes both long-standing industry giants and a strong contingent of new and emerging companies bringing fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the market.

The high concentration of key decision-makers and buyers, combined with the comprehensive scale of the exhibition and its international appeal, makes Process Expo an incredibly efficient and productive environment for business development, market intelligence, and forging powerful industry connections within the dynamic world of food and beverage processing.

The Catalyst for Growth: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending Process Expo is not merely a visit; it’s a strategic investment that delivers unparalleled returns for any professional in the food and beverage processing industry.

• Direct Access to Cutting-Edge Technology: Witness fully operational, live production lines demonstrating integrated solutions in action – a unique opportunity to see how various machines work together. This hands-on experience is invaluable for identifying the right technologies to optimize your plant.
• Comprehensive Equipment Sourcing: With hundreds of exhibitors showcasing the latest in processing, packaging, and ancillary equipment, you can efficiently compare features, discuss specifications directly with engineers, and source the exact machinery you need to enhance your production capabilities.
• Unrivaled Educational Opportunities: Benefit from a robust educational program featuring expert-led sessions on critical topics. Learn about the latest advancements in automation, food safety regulations, sustainable practices, new ingredient trends, and workforce development strategies, gaining insights you can immediately apply to your operations.
• Strategic Networking & Collaboration: Connect with thousands of your peers, including decision-makers, plant managers, engineers, and R&D specialists from across various food and beverage sectors. These interactions provide invaluable opportunities to share best practices, discuss challenges, and forge partnerships that can drive innovation and growth.
• Stay Ahead of Industry Trends: Process Expo is the barometer for the future of food and beverage processing. You’ll gain firsthand insights into evolving consumer demands, emerging technologies like AI and IoT, and the latest regulatory changes that are shaping the industry landscape.
• Operational Efficiency & Cost Savings: Discover new equipment, software, and services designed to streamline your processes, improve yield, reduce waste, enhance energy efficiency, and ultimately lower your operational costs, directly impacting your bottom line.
• Food Safety & Quality Assurance Focus: Explore the newest solutions for maintaining the highest standards of food safety and quality, including advanced cleaning systems, inspection technologies, and traceability software, crucial for regulatory compliance and consumer trust.
• Targeted Industry Insights: With dedicated “Sector Stages” for 2025, you can dive deep into specific industry segments like confectionery, bakery, and beverages, gaining specialized knowledge and seeing solutions tailored to your niche.
• Business Development & Competitive Edge: By attending, you gain insights and forge connections that your competitors might miss, giving you a crucial edge in a highly competitive market, leading to new business opportunities and enhanced market position.
• Direct ROI: The value derived from new partnerships, cost-saving solutions, and strategic insights often far outweighs the cost of attendance, making it a highly profitable investment for your business.

Your Chicago Base: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Accommodation

Given Process Expo’s location at McCormick Place, Chicago offers a vast array of hotel options to suit various preferences and budgets, with many providing convenient access to the convention center.

• Hotels Connected to or Very Close to McCormick Place: These hotels offer the ultimate convenience, often allowing direct indoor access or just a very short walk to the convention center.
  • Hyatt Regency McCormick Place: Directly connected via skybridge, often a primary host hotel.
  • Marriott Marquis Chicago: Located steps from McCormick Place, another excellent choice.
  • Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown South Loop: A bit further, but still relatively close and accessible.
• Downtown Chicago (South Loop, Loop, Magnificent Mile): These areas offer a wide range of hotels across all price points, along with easy access to Chicago’s iconic attractions, dining, and entertainment. Many provide shuttle services or are well-served by public transportation (CTA ‘L’ trains or buses) to McCormick Place.
  • Hilton Chicago: Historic and centrally located.
  • Palmer House Hilton: Classic Chicago hotel.
  • Hyatt Park Chicago / Grand Hyatt Chicago: Upscale options in prime locations.
  • The Blackstone, Autograph Collection: Historic hotel near Grant Park.
  • Various Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, IHG, and independent properties.
  • Hotels in the Loop and River North areas are easily accessible via public transport or a short taxi/rideshare.
• Official Housing Partner: Process Expo (or its parent organization, FPSA) typically partners with an official housing agency. It is highly recommended to book your hotel through the official housing link provided on their website. This often guarantees discounted rates exclusively for Process Expo guests, ensures secure booking, and provides access to a wide selection of pre-negotiated hotels with convenient distances to McCormick Place, maps, and potential shuttle information. Beware of unofficial housing solicitations.

Given the importance and size of Process Expo, booking your accommodation as early as possible is crucial to secure your preferred location and rate. The official housing block fills up quickly!

The Price of Progress: Understanding the Cost to Attend

Attending Process Expo is a strategic investment that provides access to unparalleled industry insights, networking, and product discovery. Here’s a general understanding of the expected registration costs for the 2025 event, based on previous years’ pricing structures and common industry practices:

• Attendee Registration (General Admission/Expo Only):
  • This typically provides access to the exhibition hall for all show days and potentially some basic education sessions.
  • Early bird rates could range from $75 – $150 USD.
  • On-site registration will likely be higher, potentially $150 – $250+ USD.
  • Some industry associations or exhibitors might offer complimentary passes or discount codes.
• Full Conference Pass:
  • This usually includes access to all education sessions, keynotes, the expo hall for all days, and possibly specific networking events.
  • Pricing could range from $300 – $600 USD, with potential discounts for members of the Food Processing Suppliers Association (FPSA) or other affiliated industry groups.
• Exhibitor Booth Space:
  • For companies looking to exhibit, booth costs vary significantly based on size and location. A standard 10’x10′ booth could range from $3,000 – $6,000+ USD, with larger or premium spaces being considerably more expensive. Exhibitors are typically allocated a certain number of complimentary badges based on their booth size, with additional badges available for purchase.

These fees cover access to the show itself and the experiences offered. Attendees should also budget for personal travel (flights/trains), accommodation, and dining expenses in Chicago. For the unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest innovations, connect with key decision-makers, and gain critical knowledge to drive success in the dynamic food and beverage processing industry, the return on this investment is substantial and often critical for operational excellence and competitive advantage.

Optimize Your Future: Your Journey to Process Expo Success Begins Here!

Process Expo in Chicago is more than just a convention; it’s the definitive biennial forum for the global food and beverage processing industry. It’s a powerful and dynamic convergence of groundbreaking innovation, strategic insights, and essential business connections that shape the future of how the world’s food and beverages are produced. It’s where the most advanced technologies are unveiled, where new processing techniques are demonstrated live, and where vital partnerships are forged that propel the entire industry forward. Whether you’re a food manufacturer looking to enhance your production lines, a packaging professional seeking automated solutions, an ingredient supplier aiming to expand your market reach, or simply an industry professional passionate about staying at the forefront of this critical sector, attending Process Expo is an indispensable experience that will ignite your passion, broaden your market knowledge, and empower you to lead in this highly competitive and rapidly evolving field. Don’t just adapt to change; drive it, innovate relentlessly, and achieve unparalleled success!

To learn more about Process Expo, explore the full schedule, and plan your attendance for this must-attend industry event, visit: fpsa.org/process-expo