PLMA Chicago 2026

Dates: 16–18 November 2026
Venue: Chicago, USA
Exhibitors: 1,821 companies from 60 countries
Visitors: around 14,000 professionals

Specialisation and uniqueness: PLMA’s Annual Private Label Trade Show 2026 in Chicago is the world’s largest private label trade show, bringing together 1,821 exhibiting companies from 60 countries and around 14,000 industry professionals every November. The event specialises in bringing together international manufacturers, retailers and distributors to create direct supply chains. The uniqueness of the event is enhanced by a robust programme of content, including the Idea Supermarket® and New Product Expo zones, as well as the PLMA Salute to Excellence Awards®, which set the direction for innovation in products and packaging.

For food manufacturers, participating in this event is a strategic tool for scaling up their business in the North American market. It offers the opportunity to engage in direct negotiations with buyers from giants such as Walmart, Costco, Kroger and ALDI, ensuring stable capacity utilisation through private label contracts. This model allows for the export of large volumes of products under the brands of American retail chains, avoiding significant costs associated with marketing and promoting one’s own brand. Participating in PLMA Chicago provides a clear understanding of certification requirements and packaging standards, whilst also confirming one’s status as a reliable international partner. Collaboration with the U-Food Association within the framework of this exhibition enables Ukrainian producers to effectively integrate into the global retail sector and transform their export potential into long-term foreign currency contracts.