Anuga FoodTec and PMMI – The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, producer of the PACK EXPO trade shows, have formally extended their strategic partnership, reinforcing ties between Europe and North America at a time of accelerating change in global packaging and processing markets.
The renewed agreement underscores a shared ambition to strengthen exhibitor access to international markets by leveraging both organizations’ networks. By aligning promotional and industry outreach efforts, the partners aim to expand cross-Atlantic engagement while elevating the quality and reach of attendees across their respective events.
European manufacturers will gain more direct entry into the North American marketplace through PMMI’s established network. At the same time, Anuga FoodTec, staged in Cologne, will widen its international footprint with increased participation from companies based in the United States and Canada. Coordinated marketing initiatives are expected to create additional points of contact with prospective customers across both regions and beyond.
The collaboration will span several flagship gatherings, including Anuga FoodTec in Cologne, scheduled for February 23–26, 2027, as well as PACK EXPO International in Chicago from October 18–21, 2026, PACK EXPO Las Vegas from September 27–29, 2027, and Andina Pack, expected to return to Bogotá in November 2027. All will be supported through coordinated promotional efforts designed to drive exhibitor and visitor participation.
“PMMI looks forward to extending our strategic partnership with Koelnmesse and Anuga FoodTec, reinforcing our shared commitment to advancing the global packaging and processing industry. This collaboration not only strengthens industry engagement but also helps our members expand their reach in the global marketplace,” said Jim Pittas, President & CEO of PMMI.
“The extension of our partnership with PMMI pays off directly with regard to the performance of exhibitors and visitors. We establish engineering competence and market access between Europe and North America, accelerate technology transfer and reinforce the resiliency of supply chains. For Anuga FoodTec 2027, we bundle solutions for efficient processes, digital interfaces and sustainable packaging. That creates measurable added value in OEE, resource deployment and time to market“, added Roland Thiemann, Director of Anuga FoodTec.
The agreement also provides for a formal presence by both organizations at each of the listed exhibitions, reinforcing brand visibility and facilitating deeper industry dialogue.
Beyond event promotion, the two groups say they are committed to advancing next-generation processing and packaging technologies, with a focus on efficiency, sustainability and digitalization across the value chain. Dedicated showcase areas and conference programming are expected to serve as forums for technical exchange and partnership development.
For the broader industry, the continued alliance signals a more integrated platform for innovation originating in Europe and North America, consolidating sourcing, networking and strategic expansion opportunities within a unified transatlantic framework.
The partnership is anchored by Koelnmesse, an international organizer of trade fairs in the food and beverage processing sector. In addition to Anuga FoodTec, Koelnmesse oversees ISM Manufacturing, formerly ProSweets Cologne, and ISM Ingredients, all based in Cologne, Germany. The company also stages sector-specific events in major markets including Brazil, Colombia, India, and Italy, offering regional platforms tailored to local industry needs while maintaining a global network.
Upcoming events in the portfolio include THAIFEX – HOREC Asia in Bangkok from March 11–13, 2026; Anuga Select Brazil in São Paulo from April 7–9, 2026; and Anuga Select Japan in Tokyo from April 15–17, 2026, further extending the organization’s international reach in food technology and related sectors.
Find out more at: https://www.anugafoodtec.com/