From Concept to Consumer: The Food, Beverage, and Packaging Trade Shows Defining 2025

February 1, 2025 | By The Fres-co Team

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The evolution of the food, beverage, and packaging industries continues to accelerate, driven by technological innovation, changing consumer preferences, and an increasing focus on sustainability. As we look ahead to 2025, several premier trade shows stand out as must-attend events for professionals across these sectors, offering invaluable opportunities to stay ahead of key developments in processing, packaging, and product innovations.

01. Food Processing Expo (CLFP)

February 5-6, 2025 – Sacramento, CA | Booth #800

At the heart of America’s agricultural powerhouse, CLFP’s flagship expo continues to set the standard for food processing innovation. This year’s event promises to be particularly significant as processors navigate the complexities of automated systems integration and sustainable manufacturing practices. With thousands of food processors and allied industry members in attendance, CLFP serves as an invaluable platform for understanding the future of food processing technology.

The expo’s comprehensive educational sessions will address challenges facing the industry, from water conservation techniques to advanced processing methodologies. Industry leaders will share insights on optimizing production efficiency while maintaining the highest quality standards – essential knowledge for staying competitive in today’s market.

Ask Us About These Fres-co Features at CLFP:

  • Retort and Aseptic Pouches, including #10 Pouch
  • FSU800RTC and other Retort Pouch Equipment
  • FSU1000A, FSU800HAA and other Aseptic Pouch Equipment

02. National Coffee Association Convention (NCA)

March 6-8, 2025 – Houston, TX | Tabletop #9

The NCA Convention represents the pinnacle of coffee industry gatherings, bringing together over 700 coffee executives and professionals. This year’s focus on strategic innovation and sustainability promises to reshape how we think about coffee processing and packaging solutions. The Convention offers multiple opportunities to connect with industry decision-makers between sessions and at evening receptions.

The convention’s 12 educational sessions, including a coffee logistics panel, will delve deep into key industry challenges, from bean-to-cup traceability to innovative packaging solutions that extend shelf life while reducing environmental impact. Keynote speakers like Cheryl Hung from Dig Insights and Scott Clemons from Brown Brothers Harriman will provide valuable insights into industry trends. The “Coffee Gives Back” events benefiting the Houston community add a philanthropic dimension to this influential gathering.

Ask Us About These Fres-co Features at NCA:

  • NEXTPAK™ (NexTrex-certified iteration)
  • G16
  • G14E

03. Specialty Coffee Expo (SCA)

April 25-27, 2025 – Houston, TX | Booth #1501

Following closely on NCA’s heels and in the same city, the Specialty Coffee Expo expands the conversation to include over 10,000 coffee professionals from around the globe. This unique scheduling creates an exceptional opportunity for coffee industry professionals to engage in back-to-back major events in Houston. The expo’s combination of technical expertise and creative innovation makes it an essential destination for anyone serious about the future of specialty coffee.

The much-anticipated design awards and new product competition will showcase groundbreaking developments in coffee processing and packaging technology. These innovations often become industry standards, making this event a leading indicator of future trends.

Ask Us About These Fres-co Features at SCA:

  • NEXTPAK™ (NexTrex-certified iteration)
  • G16
  • G14E

04. Institute of Food Technologists Expo (IFT FIRST)

July 13-16, 2025 – Chicago, IL | Booth #S411

The Institute of Food Technologists’ flagship event continues to push boundaries with its focus on Food Improved by Research, Science, and Technology. With over 18,000 attendees and nearly 2,000 expo booths, IFT FIRST represents the largest gathering of food science professionals and innovators in North America.

This year’s expanded Science FIRST and Business FIRST programs will explore crucial topics such as alternative proteins, smart packaging technologies, and sustainable processing solutions. The combination of scientific rigor and practical business applications makes this event particularly valuable for companies seeking to bridge the gap between research and commercialization.

Ask Us About These Fres-co Features at IFT FIRST:

  • Fres-co Powder Bag
  • Fres-co EZHANDLE™
  • Fres-co Rollstock

05. PACK EXPO 2025

September 29 – October 1, 2025 – Las Vegas, NV | Booth #SL-13018

PACK EXPO remains the definitive event for packaging and processing innovation, serving over 40 vertical markets. This year’s expo will spotlight breakthrough technologies in sustainable packaging, smart manufacturing, and supply chain optimization. The event’s comprehensive approach to industry challenges makes it an essential destination for companies seeking integrated solutions to complex packaging challenges.

Interactive workshops and expert presentations will focus on significant industry developments, from advanced materials science to Industry 4.0 integration in packaging operations. The expo’s vast scale provides unparalleled opportunities to evaluate and compare solutions across the entire packaging and processing spectrum.

Ask Us About These Fres-co Features at PACK EXPO 2025:

  • Coffee Packaging Materials and Machines
  • Liquid Food and Beverage Packaging Materials and Machines
  • Chemical, Pet Food, and Ingredient Packaging Materials and Machines

06. SupplySide West

October 28-31, 2025 – Las Vegas, NV | Booth #3681

Closing out the year’s major trade shows, SupplySide West brings together the dietary supplement, food, beverage, and cosmetics industries for a comprehensive look at ingredient innovation and market trends. This event’s unique position at the intersection of multiple industries provides valuable insights into cross-sector innovations and emerging market opportunities.

The educational sessions will cover critical topics ranging from regulatory compliance to new ingredient technologies, while the exhibition floor will showcase the latest developments in functional ingredients and processing solutions.

Ask Us About These Fres-co Features at SupplySide West:

  • Fres-co Powder Bag
  • Fres-co EZHANDLE™
  • Fres-co Rollstock

Looking Ahead

These industry-leading events represent substantial opportunities for professionals to stay ahead of rapidly evolving market demands and technological capabilities. Each show offers unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the food and beverage industry, from sustainable packaging solutions to advanced processing technologies.

Success in today’s market requires staying informed about the latest innovations and building strong industry relationships. These trade shows provide the perfect environment for both. Mark your calendars and prepare to engage with the future of food and beverage innovation in 2025.

At Fres-co, we’re excited to showcase our flexible packaging solutions at these industry-leading events. Our innovations are designed to address the most pressing challenges faced by companies in the coffee, food, beverage, and ingredient sectors. 

Don’t miss these opportunities to connect with packaging experts and glimpse the future of flexible packaging. Follow us on LinkedIn for exclusive trade show updates, event registration promotions, and engaging discussions on industry best practices.

For more than 40 years, Fres-co System USA, Inc. has manufactured high-performance flexible packaging systems and invented dozens of innovative breakthroughs including degassing valves, modified atmosphere technologies, and reclosure systems.

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