Cannabis Packaging Insights From Industry Tradeshows

This year’s most influential tradeshows—Pack Expo and MJBizCon—shone a spotlight on the trends destined to shape cannabis packaging. Here’s what we learned about the latest innovations, sustainability concerns, and opportunities for differentiation from these industry-leading events. 

Pack Expo: A Celebration of Packaging Innovation

Held in Chicago from November 3–6, Pack Expo once again asserted itself as the largest and most influential packaging trade show in the U.S. With over 75,000 attendees and 25,000 exhibitors, the event brought together the brightest minds in packaging to share innovations, network, and shape the future of the industry. 

While Pack Expo catered to a diverse array of industries, several key innovations have particularly compelling applications for cannabis packaging. 

• Automation Trends: With systems designed to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, automation is streamlining packaging processes in industries all over. These innovations cater to CPG businesses, where consistent and scalable production is paramount​.
• Sustainable Materials: Eco-friendly alternatives like molded paper pulp and palm leaves were a major focus, providing solutions to reduce reliance on traditional plastics and align with growing consumer demand for sustainable products​​.

MJBizCon 2024: Quality Over Quantity

MJBizCon, held in Las Vegas from December 3–6, lived up to its reputation as the premier cannabis trade show. While this year’s event had fewer attendees than past editions, AssurPack® team had some key takeaways for the maturing Cannabis Industry.

• Meaningful Connections and Strategic Partnerships: From ideation to consumer experience, packaging is central to operational success. Having a knowledgeable packaging partner that develops customized packaging, understands complex compliance regulations and can assist with supply chain management resonated.
• Navigating Competition and Innovation: With an increasing presence of overseas competitors in the packaging space, discussions centered on differentiation, quality and value. Operators are interested in thoughtfully delivered packaging experiences that differentiate their products on dispensary shelves and garner consumer attention. 

Key Lessons and Trends 

Both Pack Expo and MJBizCon delivered valuable insights into the cannabis packaging industry’s present state—and its future trajectory. For cannabis businesses, thriving means keeping a handle on these key trends:

• Sustainability: Always important, continuing to explore innovative, sustainable materials into cannabis packaging is a necessity rather than an option.
• Compliance: Child-resistant features are non-negotiable, and creating compliant packaging that still feels approachable to consumers remains a challenge companies must solve. 
• Customization: Brands need to differentiate their packaging to build loyalty not only through label design but a thoughtfully crafted ‘unboxing experience’.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with packaging experts who deliver both innovative solutions and reliable service can give you a significant competitive edge. 

Contact us today to explore your custom packaging options and discover what sets AssurPack® apart.