The Contract Packaging Association (CPA) and Chicagoland Food & Beverage Network (CFBN) hosted a dynamic half-day forum bringing together contract packagers, co-manufacturers, brands, suppliers, and industry experts to address the pressing challenges facing the food and beverage ecosystem in 2025. 

Set against an evolving supply chain and retail landscape, two panel discussions featured leaders in risk management, law, staffing, consulting, manufacturing, and flavor innovation. The conversations explored critical topics such as financial volatility, operational efficiency, labor market shifts, regulatory risks, and the growing importance of automation — all essential to sustaining growth in today’s fast-changing industry. 

One panelist emphasized the role of people in food safety. Charles Weinberg from MSI Express states, “Success really comes down to people doing the right thing every day. It’s about creating an environment where teams feel supported and connected to the brands they make for the world.” This focus on culture underlined the importance of building strong food safety practices that combine process controls with empowered, trained employees. 

Attendees also heard how automation is becoming increasingly relevant even for smaller enterprises. TJ Widuch from McCormick FONA emphasized, “There aren’t many enterprises too small to explore automation — even companies with $15 million in sales are having these conversations and building roadmaps for the future.” The discussion acknowledged the rise of no-code automation tools, making it more accessible to businesses of varying sizes. 

Workforce challenges remain top of mind, with concerns about attracting and retaining talent in manufacturing roles. Lacy Young from General Mills states, “If we don’t bring the magic back to blue-collar careers, we risk losing our workforce. We must provide career experiences that people are proud to pursue every day.” Panelists stressed career development as a key strategy for sustaining the industry’s future. 

The surge in product recalls was another major topic. It was clarified that most recalls are not the result of intentional wrongdoing but often stem from human error or systemic gaps. “Recalls are not often caused by intentional mistakes — they’re usually the result of human error, system gaps, or supply chain issues. That’s why multiple layers of checks and a strong food safety culture are critical,” one panelist explained. 

On geographic challenges, experts agreed that Illinois and Chicago remain prime locations for food and beverage manufacturing but urged greater support from local government. Charles also noted, “Illinois and Chicago are great places to do food and beverage business, but we need elected leaders and regulators to make it easier to operate here — otherwise, companies will look elsewhere.” 

The event included interactive real-time polling that revealed key industry challenges such as cost absorption, regulatory pressures, and hesitation in investment decision-making. Questions from the audience tackled topics like cost management post-COVID, defining ultra-processed foods, and strategies for managing supplier relationships. 

The afternoon concluded with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of McCormick Flavor Solutions, where attendees experienced firsthand the innovative science and creativity shaping the future of taste. This immersive experience was followed by a networking reception, providing valuable opportunities for peer connection and industry collaboration. 

Overall, the forum provided actionable insights and strategic perspectives to help industry professionals navigate the complex landscape of food and beverage manufacturing in 2025.