PRINTING United Expo is Next Week

We are ready for the show. Next week, thousands of printers will head to Las Vegas for PRINTING United Expo 2024, the largest graphic arts trade show in North America. In addition to the massive show floor featuring more than 800 exhibitors and over a million square feet of exhibition space, the Expo will be packed with educational sessions and networking events. Some of these will be focused directly on the in-plant market. For example, next Tuesday, more than 60 in-plants will meet for a free luncheon hosted by In-plant Impressions and sponsored by Ricoh to learn how they can better utilize artificial intelligence to improve their shops. There will also be an in-plant happy hour Wednesday after the show.

“PRINTING United Expo has experienced a meteoric rise in the Trade Show Top 100 (#98 to #29 in three shows) based on an all-encompassing model that includes all printing and packaging technologies,” says Mark J. Subers, president of Exhibitions & Events, PRINTING United Alliance. “In short, it is a one-roof approach that satisfies the ‘convergent’ needs of modern printers. It’s the place the industry gathers to discover their next investment strategy.”

Building on the excitement generated at drupa 2024 in Düsseldorf, Germany, the Expo will introduce many of those drupa product releases to the U.S. market. This “drupa bounce” effect promises to make Las Vegas a hotbed of product unveilings and demonstrations.

Among the highly anticipated debuts are Canon’s varioPRINT iX1700 digital printing solution and the revolutionary “digital metal” offering from Xeikon and KURZ USA, which is poised to transform the world of metallic embellishments.

Education and Professional Development

Education remains a cornerstone of PRINTING United Expo, with a robust program of keynotes, educational sessions, and invitation-only forums designed to address the industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities. The Alliance’s iLEARNING+ platform will take center stage, offering live demos of the latest courses and certifications. Of special note are the two keynote sessions on the first two days of the Expo:

Sept. 10. “Harnessing Business Investment to Drive Profitability and Competitive Advantage” will delve into trends shaping the printing industry and recommend business investments for achieving success. The session will cover key performance metrics, print providers’ concerns, competitive trends, and strategies for improving productivity.

Sept. 11. “G7+, the World’s Best Calibration System, Made Better” will introduce the next evolution of G7. R&D team leader Don Hutcheson will showcase how G7+ improves upon its predecessor while maintaining compatibility with existing workflows.

Additional educational sessions will cover a range of topics:

• Business diversification strategies
• Automation solutions
• Sustainability initiatives
• Workforce development
• Pricing strategies
• AI’s impact on the printing industry
• Advanced color management techniques, including the new G7+ standard
• Strategies for addressing current industry challenges, such as rising labor costs and maintaining profit margins

Attendees can easily navigate the schedule in the mobile app by searching for sessions specific to their market segment.

A Hub of Innovation and Insight

New for 2024, the Knowledge Center will serve as a dynamic, interactive hub where attendees can immerse themselves in the latest trends and developments. This space will feature:

• Campfire sessions led by industry leaders
• The latest samples from participating exhibitors
• White papers and industry resources
• Engagement opportunities with leading industry media outlets and association show partners

The Knowledge Center is designed to be a go-to destination for all things innovation and insight-related, offering attendees a unique opportunity to stay at the forefront of industry developments.

Networking and Community Building

PRINTING United Expo 2024 is not just about technology and education; it’s also about people. The event will bring together thousands of attendees who share common interests, goals, and challenges. This presents an opportunity for face-to-face networking, relationship building, and knowledge sharing.

“We are excited to launch our ‘AFTER DARK’ program with our new partner — JamPack,” says Subers. “There will be many networking opportunities — from our opening day happy hour to our VIP events.”

The Expo will kick off with two Official Welcome Networking Events:

• Monday, Sept. 9, 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. at Atomic Golf
• Wednesday, Sept. 11, 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. at RockHouse

AFTER DARK: Vegas After Hours

New for 2024, PRINTING United Expo is introducing the AFTER DARK program, offering attendees a chance to unwind and network in true Las Vegas style. The program includes access to four of the city’s top nightclubs:

• Monday, Sept. 9, 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.: JWEL Nightclub
• Tuesday, Sept. 10, 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.: OMNIA Nightclub
• Wednesday, Sept. 11, 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m.: XS Nightclub
• Thursday, Sept. 12, 10:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. : ZOUK Nightclub

Two package options are available for the Printing United AFTER DARK program:

1. The All Access Pass includes entry to Official Networking Events, complimentary “Guest List” access to the four nightclub events, and dedicated concierge services.
2. The VIP All Access Pass offers all the above, plus an open bar at both Official Networking Events.

These after-hours events give attendees a chance to forge deeper connections in a more relaxed setting.

Now’s the Time

As we approach PRINTING United Expo 2024, it’s clear this event is more than just a trade show — it’s a comprehensive experience designed to inspire, educate, and connect the entire printing industry. Whether you’re looking to explore new technologies, learn about emerging trends, connect with industry leaders, or find ways to diversify and grow your business, PRINTING United Expo offers a unique opportunity to do so.

As the printing industry continues to evolve and face new challenges, events like PRINTING United Expo become increasingly vital. They serve as showcases for the latest technologies and solutions, and as crucibles for innovation, collaboration, and professional growth.

Moreover, the networking opportunities are unparalleled. Connecting face-to-face with peers, industry leaders, and potential partners can lead to valuable insights, collaborations, and business opportunities that might not be possible in any other setting.

As the industry evolves rapidly, staying informed and connected is more crucial than ever. PRINTING United Expo 2024 offers the perfect platform to do just that, bringing together the entire printing community to explore, learn, and grow. Whether you’re a seasoned industry veteran or new to the world of print, this event promises to provide valuable insights, connections, and opportunities that can help drive your business forward.

For those who have yet to register, now is the time to secure your place at what promises to be a landmark event for the printing industry. Visit PrintingUnited.com for more information and to register.