• Pack Expo 2017
    Pack Expo 2017
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Pack Expo Las Vegas will feature seven key industry trends on the show floor, with the grand opening now just seven weeks away.

Digital printing; sustainability; waste reduction; e-commerce; convenience; and retail-ready packaging will all be on show at the expo – as well as a dedicated robotics zone for the seventh trend, robots and cobots.

“Robots are addressing significant industry challenges by providing increased flexibility and addressing labor shortages. With the many advances in robotics, this is a perfect time to bring the Robotics Zone to Pack Expo Las Vegas and co-located Healthcare Packaging Expo,” said Laura Thompson, vice president for trade shows at PMMI, the Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies in the US.

“We are not only excited to showcase this innovation, but also to use this technology to fight hunger. We are honoured to work with many Pack Expo exhibitors and Blessings in a Backpack to make a difference in children’s lives.”

Other attractions will include a live performance from the Steve Miller Band at the Pack Gives Back event, and a Packaging & Processing Women’s Leadership Network breakfast featuring Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space.

The APPMA as an official partner of Pack Expo Las Vegas, is offering free registration for members. Register here with the promo code APPMACC.

Food & Drink Business

The Senate Economics Committee has rejected the Food Donations Bill that proposed a tax offset for companies donating excess food to food relief agencies rather than dumping it. While the bill had the potential to deliver the equivalent of 100 million meals to food relief organisations, the committee said it had “serious concerns” including the bill’s “generous” tax concessions. Food relief agencies and social welfare organisations have questioned the committee’s decision to reject the bill outright rather than make recommendations for amendments.  

The winners of the 62nd annual Australian Export Awards were announced in Canberra yesterday, featuring three winners from the food sector – including dessert manufacturer Frosty Boy Global, in the Agribusiness, Food and Beverages category.

Mondelēz International has appointed Toby Smith as President Japan, Australia and New Zealand, with the incumbent, Darren O’Brien, appointed Global Chief Corporate and Government Affairs officer.