Philadelphia, PA--There are new safety policies for Expo East 2021, according to a press release from Informa Markets’ New Hope Network. Since February, the press release adds, Informa Markets has hosted numerous trade shows within the U.S. and around the world.

The new measures: Informa is implementing a mask mandate, and will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for all participants. Product sampling will be allowed at the event. Open sampling will require gloves, a sneeze guard, and hand-washing kits, as well as face masks.

The measures are based on industry feedback from a survey Informa sent out last week.

Informa reported that there are currently 1,100 exhibitors signed up for the event, many of whom are first-time exhibitors bringing innovative products. Expo has also partnered with (included), a membership collective for BIPOC top executives in CPG, a partnership that is guiding multiple efforts for Expo East.

Expo is also prioritizing sustainability, eliminating paper badges as well as carpet/padding/visqueen throughout the exhibit hall floor.

Some highlights of the in-person agenda:



  • The Harvest Festival, which combines the appeal of a farmers’ market with the business-building power of a trade show, will be held on Wednesday, as will the Pitch Slam Semifinals.
  • On Thursday there will be several educational sessions and events, including The State of Natural & Organic; Legal and Regulatory State of the Natural Products Industry; and the Pitch Slam Finals.
  • Friday features Keynote speaker Shawn Achor, bestselling author of The Happiness Advantage and Big Potential, with a presentation on positive psychology. Educational sessions and seminars include Optimize, Protect, and Grow Your Brand on Amazon;
  • Organic Worldwide: Before, During and After the Pandemic; and more.
  • For more, including info on concerts, yoga, and a fun run, visit www.ExpoEast.com.

And come see WholeFoods at booth 3707! We have missed you, and we’d love to touch base to hear about what topics you’d like to see covered in WholeFoods Magazine, our In The Know newsletters, and in The Natural View podcasts.

Exhibit Hall Hours

Thursday, September 23 10:00 am – 6:00 pm: Halls A-E

Friday, September 24 10:00 am – 6:00 pm: Halls A-E

Saturday, September 25 10:00 am – 4:00 pm: Halls A-E

For those who can’t make it in-person, the Natural Products Expo Virtual platform will provide access to virtual booths for every exhibitor, as well as networking and education sessions. It will be accessible to registrants starting September 1. Visitwww.npevirtual.com for information.