How to Make the Most of Your World Pork Expo Experience

Lori Stevermer isn’t at a loss for words often. But when it comes to explaining to “non-pork” people why the World Pork Expo is her favorite event of the year, she struggles to find the right words because it’s so unique.

“From the excitement of the tradeshow to the hospitality tents, it really is a pork family reunion,” says Stevermer, customer success manager for Alltech U.S. Pork Team. “My kids still talk about the show, getting trinkets and McDonald’s on the last day, that’s the type of impact it has. More importantly, it really reflects how we as an industry work together, support each other, solve challenges and create opportunities.”

Stevermer joins up with World Pork Expo enthusiasts Lexi Beeler, owner of LMB Consulting; Mark Hayden, director of sales for AP; and Eric Sanny, executive sales manager – US Swine for Novus to share the “show secrets” you need to make the 2026 World Pork Expo an event you won’t forget.

What advice do you have for people attending the trade show?

Beeler: Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to eat! The food at the World Pork Expo is amazing. Barbecue is hard to beat, especially when it’s prepared by some of the best caterers in the area. One day at the World Pork Expo will include lots of walking and even more eating.

Hayden: I would say it’s very important to have a plan. There is a lot to see and do, so it can be hard to fit everything in. It’s critical to identify the key people/companies that you want to meet with and plan out your day. I would also say that the best time to catch someone is early in the day to beat the crowd.