July 27, 2021

5 Min Read
expo east hub show floor
Bryan Beasley

For the latest health and safety policy updates related to COVID-19, click here.

Are you a manufacturer, retailer, distributor or brand searching for a way to connect with other members of the natural products industry this fall? Look no further: Since 1985, Natural Products Expo East has brought to life a standards-driven approach to CPG sourcing and pushed the natural products industry to embrace organic and regenerative agriculture, engage in climate action and foster justice, equity, diversity and inclusion.

This year's in-person setting will allow you to connect face-to-face with the changemakers behind the products, meet industry experts in the classroom and have fun with a community of like-minded professionals.

How do I register for Natural Products Expo East?

You have the ability to register through the Natural Products Expo East website as one of the following: attendee, exhibitor and press/blogger.

The attendee badge encompasses retailers, distributors, health practitioners and foodservice professionals looking to explore the exhibit halls and/or attend education sessions. The exhibitor badge is for manufacturers or suppliers who will work at a booth in the exhibit hall; exhibitors also have access to education sessions. Lastly, the press/blogger badge is designated for members of the press or bloggers who want to learn more about and connect with members of the natural products marketplace.

When will Natural Products Expo East take place?

Natural Products Expo East dates for 2021 are: Sept. 22-25.

The online aspect of Natural Products Expo East will be supported on the Natural Products Expo Virtual platform and will kick off Sept. 1, 2021, when attendees will have the ability to request meetings with virtual and in-person exhibitors, view brands’ products and content within the virtual platform, as well as attend virtual tours and education sessions.

Where will Natural Products Expo East be located?

Natural Products Expo East 2021 will take place in Philadelphia instead of the usual Baltimore facility.

Philadelphia has so much to offer the natural and organic products community, including the beautiful LEED-certified Pennsylvania Convention Center, which can accommodate an expanded floorplan in 2021. And with additions including the Organic and Food Truck Parks and an exhibitor list that is growing week after week, that extra space will be put to good use. 

Hoping to do some sightseeing while you're there? No problem—contactless solutions, new protocols and a wide variety of transportation options make it convenient to get to (and get around) Philadelphia. 

Read more: Keep up with latest Natural Products Expo East coverage

Who is attending Natural Products Expo East?

Natural Products Expo East attendance is projected to be strong. A New Hope Network survey conducted in May shows that more than 80% of past Natural Products Expo East attendees are likely to attend the show in Philadelphia this year.

Natural Products Expo West buyers are planning to come as well. In a typical year there is relatively little overlap in the buyer audience between Natural Products Expo West and Natural Products Expo East (on average 40% attend both).

This year, with Natural Products Expo West going virtual, New Hope Network expects considerably more Natural Products Expo West attendees to make the trip to Philadelphia.

What will COVID-19 safety measures look like at Natural Products Expo East?

The health and safety of the Natural Products Expo community remains a top priority as we return to in-person events. We are prepared to run Natural Products Expo East 2021 in accordance with federal and local authorities’ regulations and guidance, as well as the Informa AllSecure Plan, ensuring the highest standards of safety, hygiene, cleanliness and operational effectiveness for all show participants.

Natural Products Expo East will feature hand sanitation units, contactless registration, face mask recommendations, enhanced cleaning and more. All cleaning practices have been thoroughly enhanced to ensure we are exceeding standards for disinfecting and hygiene with an increased focus on key touchpoints including high-traffic areas, handles and rails, restrooms, food and beverage areas, information desks and conference and meeting rooms. 

Electrostatic disinfection systems will also deploy on a regular basis to sanitize the show floor and Show Management Service Areas such as registration, sales, show office and information desks. 

Moving forward in partnership and compliance with the Philadelphia Health Department, New Hope Network will require open samples (prepared or cooked) to be served in individual portions and will require gloves, a face mask, hairnet, a sneeze guard or food cover and hand washing and sanitation kits. There will also be crowd density standards, in accordance with local and state authorities’ guidance, to control the density of the show floor and community gathering spaces and allow for appropriate physical distancing.  

Will I need to wear a face mask?

Face masks are not required but are welcome. Natural Products Expo East participants who are fully vaccinated are not required to wear a face mask; however, the CDC recommends the use of masks at large events and gatherings. The show organizers encourage anyone who feels more comfortable wearing a face mask during the event to do so, and plenty will be available for Natural Products Expo East participants who would like to wear one.

Per CDC and Pennsylvania Department of Health guidelines, unvaccinated individuals are strongly encouraged to wear a face covering while indoors.

Anything else I should know?

We’re introducing digital badges. Before your arrival in Philly, you will receive your digital badge via email. Onsite, entry into the building will be quick and easy, as you no longer need to plan a stop at registration.

Hotel guests may cancel a reservation up to seven days prior to their scheduled reservation arrival date to get a full refund of their deposit. Discounts are available. Be sure to reserve your room with Natural Products Expo's official hotel partner, onPeak, within the hotel block for Natural Products Expo East.

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