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Blog
Pet Trade Shows: Trends Shaping Pet Food Automation
Written by Aries Aquitania
Introduction
Pet trade shows are more than opportunities to discover new products. They provide valuable insight into how the pet food industry is changing and what manufacturers will need next. From premium nutrition and sustainable packaging to new product formats, current trends are creating fresh challenges for production and palletizing lines. In this blog, we look at the main developments visible at pet trade shows and what they mean for pet food manufacturers.
More products, more packaging formats
Pet owners increasingly expect food that supports specific health needs, such as digestion, mobility, or skin and coat health. Premium and functional products are therefore expanding, while fresh, wet, and single-serve formats are becoming more common.
For manufacturers, this often means more product variations and shorter production runs. Packaging may include bags, cartons, trays, cans and pouches, each requiring reliable handling at the end of the line.
Sustainability meets efficiency
Sustainable packaging remains a major focus at pet trade shows. Brands are exploring lighter materials, recyclable formats, and more responsible sourcing. However, changes in packaging can affect product stability during transport and pallet storage.
Flexible palletizing systems can help manufacturers adapt to different pack sizes and stacking patterns while maintaining stable pallet loads. Automation can also reduce repetitive manual work and support consistent production quality.
What manufacturers should consider
When reviewing automation plans, pet food producers should consider:
Conclusion
Pet trade shows reveal an industry that is becoming more diverse, health-focused, and sustainability-conscious. These developments create additional demands on production and end-of-line processes. Manufacturers that plan for flexibility, reliable pallet stability and future product changes will be better prepared for the next stage of pet food production. Would you like to discuss how automation could support your pet food line? Feel free to contact Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions.
Aries Aquitania
Key Account Manager – Pet Food
“The best automation solution combines production efficiency with the flexibility manufacturers need to respond to changing market demands.”