unPACKed with PMMI

In this episode, we chat with Laura Thompson, vice president of trade shows at PMMI, about PACK EXPO’s expansion to Atlanta. Hosted by Sean Riley, the discussion covers why the city was chosen, what attendees can expect, including hands-on demos, sustainability initiatives, and networking opportunities, and how tools like My Show Planner and PACK Match can enhance their experienc

In this episode, we welcome back Rebecca Marquez, Director of Custom Research at PMMI, to share insights from the updated Packaging Compass report. Rebecca highlights trends in packaging materials, including the resilience of plastics, growing interest in compostables, and challenges like adapting machinery for sustainable solutions. She provides valuable guidance on navigating the

In this episode, we chat with Jessica Lawshe, a seasoned expert in leveraging chatbot technology for enhanced customer experiences and business efficiency. From defining chatbots to exploring their practical applications in industries like manufacturing, trade shows, and beyond, Jessica breaks down how businesses can use these tools to improve operations, engage customers, and even

Lisa Sun, Founder and CEO, GRAVITAS, discusses how personal stories shape leadership journeys. She dives into the power of immigrant experiences, the role of self-confidence in achieving success, and her groundbreaking "superpower methodology." From identifying limiting beliefs to redefining confidence and ambition, Lisa shares actionable insights for embracing your unique strength

In this episode, AI expert Carol Reiley shares practical advice for companies adopting generative AI, covering essential steps like choosing a model, managing privacy, and preparing data. She emphasizes starting small, leveraging cloud services, and fostering collaboration between AI systems and experienced employees. Carol also highlights the impact of AI on operations, particular

In this episode, Kim Lear discusses how generational differences impact the workplace, especially with changing technology. She notes younger generations may misunderstand older ones' sacrifices, while older generations may feel resentment. Kim highlights the need for clear leadership expectations, leveraging technology for better output, fostering respect, addressing historical co

In this episode, we continue the conversation with one of our Annual Meeting speakers, Terry Iverson, founder of ChampionNow. He discusses his mission to change outdated perceptions of American manufacturing, highlighting the shift toward automation and technology-driven careers. He emphasizes that while automation may take over repetitive tasks, it creates higher-paying, skilled j

In this episode, Sean Riley sits down with Laura Thompson, Vice President of Trade Shows at PMMI, to discuss the upcoming PACK EXPO International, which is on track to be the largest show in its history. Laura reveals exciting new features for this year’s event, including a Sustainability Central exhibit and an Emerging Brands Stage. She also shares helpful tips for attendees, li

In this episode, we talk with Rebecca Marquez about the upcoming 2024 Snack Food Trends Report, which focuses on evolving machinery in the snack food industry, particularly with sustainability challenges. Rebecca highlights changes in packaging materials and trends like increased outsourcing and the rise of robotics. The report will be released in October, just ahead of PACK EXPO i

In this episode of unPACKed with PMMI, we sit down with Jorge Izquierdo to dive into one of PMMI’s flagship resources, the State of the Industry Report. Jorge shares insights on the trends shaping the packaging and processing industry, from labor shortages and automation to sustainability and sanitation. We also explore how these trends will be reflected at this year's PACK EXPO