PMMI Launches New CPG NexGen Awards to Celebrate the Future Leaders of Packaging and Processing
Industry-Wide Nominations Now Open for Rising Professionals Age 35 and Under
HERNDON, Va; May 27, 2026— PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, producer of PACK EXPO, is proud to announce the launch of the CPG NexGen Awards. This exciting new industry-wide recognition program will honor 10 exceptional professionals, age 35 and younger, who work at consumer packaged goods (CPG) or end-user companies and are helping shape the future of packaging and processing.
Produced by PACK EXPO, the CPG NexGen Awards spotlight emerging leaders making a meaningful impact through innovation, leadership, operational excellence, and problem-solving across the CPG industry.
Nominations are now officially open through July 17, 2026.
"The packaging and processing industry is being transformed by a new generation of talented professionals bringing fresh ideas, technical expertise, and leadership to the table," says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. "The CPG NexGen Awards were created to celebrate these rising stars and recognize the incredible impact they're already making across the industry."
The program is open to eligible young professionals working at CPG or end-user companies throughout the industry. Managers, supervisors, teammates, mentors, suppliers, customers, and industry partners are encouraged to nominate individuals who are driving innovation and shaping what comes next in packaging and processing.
Selected honorees will receive an exclusive hosted experience at PACK EXPO International 2026, Oct. 18-21 in Chicago, including:
• Complimentary registration to PACK EXPO International
• Round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations
• Access to exclusive networking events and industry experiences
• Recognition among industry peers and leaders
• Complimentary ticket and recognition at PACK gives BACK™ (Monday, October 19)
Beyond recognition, the program reflects PMMI's ongoing commitment to workforce development, industry engagement, and investing in the next generation of leaders who will help define the future of the packaging and processing industry.
In addition to recognizing emerging talent, the CPG NexGen Awards provide participating companies with an opportunity to showcase their commitment to innovation, leadership development, and investing in the next generation, shaping the future of packaging and processing.
"Companies across the CPG industry are focused on attracting, developing, and retaining top talent, and the CPG NexGen Awards provide an opportunity to recognize the rising professionals helping drive that future forward," Pittas says. "These awards shine a spotlight not only on emerging leaders, but also on the organizations fostering innovation, collaboration, and the next generation of industry excellence."
PACK EXPO International 2026 will bring together North America's largest showcase of packaging and processing innovation. Featuring 2,600 exhibitors across 1.3 million net square feet, the event gives 48,000 attendees from 40+ vertical markets direct access to live machinery, emerging technologies, and industry-leading solutions. Held only once every two years, PACK EXPO International is the premier destination to evaluate equipment, discover trends, and make smarter investment decisions—all in one place. Visit packexpointernational.com to learn more and register.
To learn more about the CPG NexGen Awards or to submit a nomination, visit www.packexpointernational.com/nexgen.
About PMMI
PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, represents more than 1,100 manufacturers and suppliers of equipment, components, and materials as well as providers of related equipment and services to the packaging and processing industry. We work to advance a variety of industries by connecting consumer goods companies with manufacturing solutions through the world-class PACK EXPO portfolio of trade shows, leading trade media, and a wide range of resources to empower our members. The PACK EXPO trade shows unite the world of packaging and processing to advance the industries they serve: PACK EXPO International, PACK EXPO Las Vegas, PACK EXPO East, PACK EXPO Southeast, EXPO PACK México, and EXPO PACK Guadalajara. PMMI Media Group connects manufacturers to the latest solutions, trends and innovations in packaging and processing year-round through brands including Packaging World, ProFood World, Healthcare Packaging, OEM, Contract Manufacturing and Packaging, and Mundo EXPO PACK. PMMI Business Drivers assist members in pursuing operational excellence through workforce development initiatives, deliver actionable business intelligence on economic, market, and industry trends to support members' growth strategies, and actively connect the supply chain throughout the year.
Learn more at pmmi.org and packexpo.com and pmmimediagroup.com.
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