PMMI launches CPG NexGen Awards for young packaging leaders

PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, has launched the first annual CPG NexGen Awards, a new program that will recognize 10 professionals age 35 and younger working at consumer packaged goods or other end-user companies in packaging and processing. Nominations are open through July 17, 2026, and winners will receive a hosted experience at PACK EXPO International 2026 in Chicago, including travel, lodging, registration, networking access, and public recognition. PMMI says the awards are aimed at young professionals driving innovation, leadership, operational excellence, and problem-solving. (pmmi.org)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals and pet food industry teams, the program signals PMMI’s push to elevate talent on the brand and manufacturing side, not just among equipment suppliers. That matters because pet food companies are under growing pressure to modernize packaging lines, improve operational efficiency, strengthen traceability, and retain technical talent. The award criteria also point to the kinds of roles PMMI wants to spotlight, including engineers, operations leaders, packaging professionals, and technical innovators, with eligibility tied to age, tenure, and work at companies that buy or use packaging and processing systems. (pmmi.org)

What to watch: Watch for the August 28, 2026 notification date and how many pet food and animal health-adjacent CPG teams show up among the inaugural honorees. (pmmi.org)