Top 11 print industry trade shows and exhibitions to attend [2024]
When it comes to staying on top of cutting-edge trends, innovations, and networking opportunities, nothing quite compares to attending industry-specific trade shows and exhibitions.
A study found that 84% of exhibition attendees have the power to recommend, specify, or make final purchasing decisions.
Particularly in the print industry, these events serve as key platforms for unveiling new technologies, learning about the latest market developments, and forging crucial business ties.
So, without further ado, let's dive into the top 11 not-to-be-missed print industry trade shows and exhibitions in 2024.
Main takeaways from this article:
Drupa 2024 is the premier global printing industry event, focusing on sustainability and digitalization, featuring GelatoConnect's platform for enhanced print production efficiency.
A series of standout expos, including ISA International Sign Expo and Pack Expo International, showcase global gaming innovations, offering unique networking and technological insights.
Enhance skills through workshops led by industry experts, staying ahead with the latest standards, trends, and technologies.
Leverage these events for networking and business development, connecting with key industry figures worldwide.
Discover GelatoConnect's impact on print production at Drupa, which is an opportunity to engage with their team and explore their innovative platform.
Why attend print trade shows and conferences?
Attending print trade shows and conferences is like having a backstage pass to the printing world's latest and greatest. Here's why these events and conferences are worth attending:
Networking: Meet industry leaders, potential clients, and other print experts.
Learning opportunities: Stay up-to-date with the latest trends, advancements, and strategies shaping the print industry.
Hands-on experience: Test out the latest technologies and tools firsthand.
Visibility: Put your brand on the map and attract potential clients.
Top 11 upcoming trade shows in the printing industry
Get ready to mark your calendar! Here's a rundown on the top 11 upcoming print industry trade shows of 2024
1. drupa
drupa's pretty much the big league for the print industry, featuring the latest in printing tech, digitalization, and how to keep things green. It's where you get to see what's next in printing and grab a sneak peek at all the cool innovations shaping the industry's future.
Location(s) and dates
The event will take place from May 28 to June 7, 2024, at Messe Düsseldorf, Germany, gathering industry leaders, innovators, and professionals from around the world.
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Key topics/focuses
drupa 2024 emphasizes sustainability and digitalization within the printing industry, aiming to showcase the latest technologies, sustainable practices, and digital transformation strategies that are shaping the future of printing.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
The trade show is highly relevant for professionals in the printing industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, tech enthusiasts, and businesses looking to adopt the latest printing technologies and sustainable solutions.
Why it's worth attending
Attending drupa offers unparalleled access to global innovations in the print sector, networking opportunities with industry leaders, and insights into the latest trends and technologies that are driving the industry forward.
Experience GelatoConnect first-hand
Experience GelatoConnect first-hand at drupa in Hall 9A at booth A06. GelatoConnect stands as the future of production, aimed at revolutionizing print production efficiency and scalability. This platform has been designed to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and automate production processes seamlessly, meeting the growing demands of the printing industry.
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2. ISA International Sign Expo
The ISA International Sign Expo is a comprehensive trade show for the sign and print industry. It offers limitless opportunities for attendees to explore innovations, trends, and solutions.
Location(s) and dates
This year's expo is scheduled for April 10–12 in Orlando, FL.
Key topics/focuses
The expo is expected to cover a broad range of subjects related to the sign and print industry, focusing on the latest technologies, materials, and practices.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
The event is most relevant for professionals within the sign and print sectors, including graphic design experts, manufacturers, and marketers seeking to expand their knowledge, network, and discover new market trends and technologies.
Why it's worth attending
Attending the ISA International Sign Expo is invaluable for staying abreast of industry advancements, networking with key stakeholders, and gaining insights that can propel businesses forward in the competitive sign and print markets.
3. FORUM & INFOFLEX
FORUM & INFOFLEX 2024 is a pivotal event that combines a technical conference with a comprehensive exhibition tailored for professionals in the flexography industry. It promises to deliver an engaging mix of educational, technical, and informative content alongside a technology-focused exhibition.
Location(s) and dates
The event is scheduled for May 5-8, 2024, in Kansas City, MO.
Key topics/focuses
The event spotlights advancements in flexographic printing technology, educational insights, and industry best practices aimed at enhancing quality and efficiency in flexography.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
FORUM & INFOFLEX is particularly relevant for package printers, converters, and consumer product companies seeking to discover innovative solutions and strategies for business growth and technological advancement in flexography.
Why it's worth attending
Attending FORUM & INFOFLEX offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with industry peers, gain insight into future trends, and explore the latest technologies and solutions that can drive the flexography industry forward. It is an essential event for professionals aiming to shape their business's future.
4. Americas Print Show
Americas Print Show 2024 connects industry manufacturers, associations, influencers, and educators with printers. It introduces cutting-edge printing technologies that prioritize sustainability and efficiency.
Location(s) and dates
The show is scheduled for May 8 & 9, 2024, at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
Key topics/focuses
The event will feature the PrintSmart Summit, which will focus on Artificial Intelligence in printing and feature speakers from notable organizations like Google and IBM. It will run alongside the Girls Who Print Conference, which will focus on technology, networking, and empowerment in the printing industry.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
This trade show targets business leaders in the printing industry, including print tech enthusiasts, industry experts, and those interested in the latest advancements in AI and digital printing solutions.
Why it's worth attending
Attending the Americas Print Show is crucial for staying abreast of technological advancements in printing, networking with industry leaders, and exploring new business opportunities. It promises a deep dive into AI, offering insights into future printing technologies and strategies for business growth.
5. PrintSmart Summit
The PrintSmart Summit, part of Americas Print Show 2024, is a premier event for exploring Artificial Intelligence in printing. It brings together print tech enthusiasts, industry experts, and business leaders to discuss AI advancements and networks.
Location(s) and dates
Scheduled for May 7, 2024, the summit will be held at the Huntington Convention Center of Cleveland, Ohio, complemented by a Welcome Reception on the show floor.
Key topics/focuses
The summit focuses on the latest AI advancements in the print industry, featuring expert speakers from the AI Institute, Google, IBM, and MindFire Inc. It aims to provide transformative insights into smart printing technologies and trends.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
This event is designed for business leaders across the print industry, including those interested in integrating AI technologies into print processes and seeking to network with industry peers and experts.
Why it's worth attending
Attending the PrintSmart Summit offers comprehensive knowledge sharing from leading industry and AI experts, valuable networking opportunities, and a holistic view of AI's impact on the print industry. The event promises a day filled with learning, networking, and an exclusive sneak peek into the future of smart printing.
6. RAPID + TCT
RAPID + TCT, returning to the West Coast for the first time in nearly a decade on June 25-27, 2024, is North America's largest event dedicated to additive manufacturing and 3D printing. It features the industry's leading companies, speakers, and over 125 hours of educational content.
Location(s) and dates
The event will take place from June 25 to 27 in Los Angeles, CA, promising a sunny backdrop for exploring the latest in 3D printing technology.
Key topics/focuses
The event will showcase over 400 exhibiting companies, over 160 technical presentations, and a keynote series focused on the latest 3D printing technologies, applications, and real-world additive manufacturing solutions.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
RAPID + TCT is aimed at professionals in the additive manufacturing and 3D-printed electronics industries, including product and service providers, educators, and anyone interested in technological advancements in these fields.
Why it's worth attending
Attending RAPID + TCT offers an unparalleled opportunity to see the latest 3D technologies, network with experts, and gain insights from over 200 expert speakers and 160 conference presentations - all under one roof. It's a comprehensive platform for anyone looking to stay ahead in the additive manufacturing industry.
7. Graphics Pro Expo
GRAPHICS PRO EXPO, powered by GRAPHICS PRO magazine, combines the awards, personalization, apparel decorating, and sign and digital graphics markets into a single event. It provides a platform for professionals to meet top exhibitors, discover products, and engage in training for a tailored business experience.
Location(s) and dates
The expo will tour multiple cities in 2024, including Long Beach, CA (June 13-15), Greater Philadelphia, PA (July 10-12), Indianapolis, IN (October 3-5), and Charlotte, NC (November 7-9).
Key topics/focuses
Focusing on awards and personalization, apparel decorating, and sign and digital graphics, the expo offers a comprehensive view of the latest 3D technologies, applications, and business opportunities in the graphics industry.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
GRAPHICS PRO EXPO is ideal for professionals in the graphics industry, including those involved in personalization, apparel decorating, and sign and digital graphics, looking to expand their knowledge, network, and discover new products.
Why it's worth attending
Attending the GRAPHICS PRO EXPO provides access to unlimited training, the chance to network with industry peers, and the opportunity to explore new products and services. It's an invaluable experience for anyone looking to stay ahead in the competitive graphics market.
8. Printing United Expo
PRINTING United Expo is touted as the most dynamic and comprehensive printing event in the world. It gathers industry professionals to explore the latest printing technologies, innovations, and trends.
Location(s) and dates
The expo will take place from September 10-12, 2024, in Las Vegas, NV.
Key topics/focuses
The event will cover "All Things Imaged," highlighting advancements in automated technology and new approaches to printing, addressing current challenges such as paper supply and production talent.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
PRINTING United is ideal for industry leaders, business owners, and professionals in the printing sector looking to make informed decisions through peer input and the exploration of new technologies.
Why it's worth attending
Attending PRINTING United provides a unique opportunity to connect with peers, explore innovative technologies, and gain insights into new manufacturing methods. It's a must-visit for those planning to invest and adapt to the evolving landscape of the printing industry.
9. Labelexpo Americas
Labelexpo Americas 2024 is considered the largest dedicated label and package printing event in the Americas. It offers an expansive showcase of technology and services from industry leaders.
Location(s) and dates
Scheduled for September 10-12, 2024, the event will be held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Chicago, a venue strategically chosen for its proximity to O'Hare Airport.
Key topics/focuses
The expo focuses on the latest label and package printing technologies, including machinery and materials. It emphasizes hands-on experience with products and services and aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of current and emerging industry trends.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
It targets professionals within the label and package printing sector, including manufacturers, designers, and decision-makers seeking to update their operations with the latest technologies and solutions.
Why it's worth attending
Attending Labelexpo Americas 2024 offers an unparalleled opportunity to view live demonstrations, compare new products firsthand, and make informed decisions about machinery and materials. It's an essential event for staying ahead in the competitive label and package printing industry.
10. Impressions Expo
Impressions Expo is a premier event for the decorated apparel and imprinted products industry. It features the latest products, apparel, and equipment and offers hands-on demonstrations of new technology and techniques.
Location(s) and dates
While the Atlantic City event has already passed, upcoming expos are scheduled in Fort Worth, TX (October 24 - 26, 2024), at the Fort Worth Convention Center, and in Long Beach, CA (January 23 - 25, 2025), at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center.
Key topics/focuses
The expo centers on innovations in the decorated apparel industry, including the latest technology, sublimation techniques, and new equipment for enhancing production and design processes.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
This expo is essential for professionals in the decorated apparel and imprinted products sectors, including designers, manufacturers, and retailers looking for the latest trends and technologies.
Why it's worth attending
Attending the Impressions Expo is an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to explore new products, learn innovative techniques, and network with peers. It's an essential event for staying ahead in the competitive apparel decoration and imprinting market.
11. PACK EXPO International
PACK EXPO International is a premier packaging trade show offering unparalleled access to the latest packaging and processing technology innovations from over 2,500 exhibitors. It's a dynamic platform for exploring industry trends and advancements.
Location(s) and dates
The event is scheduled from November 3-6, 2024, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. The expo will be open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on most days, with the closing day ending at 3:00 pm.
Key topics/focuses
Focusing on the rapidly evolving packaging and processing industry, PACK EXPO International highlights include sustainability solutions, processing innovation, emerging brands, and industry-specific challenges and solutions.
Who the trade show is most relevant for
This trade show is essential for professionals in the packaging and processing sectors, including manufacturers, designers, engineers, and decision-makers looking for cutting-edge packaging solutions and networking opportunities.
Why it's worth attending
Attending PACK EXPO International provides a comprehensive view of the future of packaging and processing. It allows attendees to stay ahead of industry trends, network with peers, and find solutions to operational challenges.
How to maximize your trade show experience
Let's dive into how you can transform your trade show attendance into a fruitful journey:
Know your goals: These could be acquiring potential leads, launching a product, scouting competition, or seeking inspiration.
Research beforehand: Research the exhibitors, seminars, and partner events before the show. This will help you prioritize your time and optimize your schedule.
Networking: Use these opportunities to connect with fellow attendees, industry experts, and prospects. A great conversation can lead to potential collaborations and partnerships.
Stay updated: Monitor panel discussions, workshops, presentations, and product launches. This will ensure you are up-to-date with the latest developments in your industry.
Follow-up: After the show, follow up on leads or connections made. This might be the start of new business relationships.
Discover growth and innovation at key print trade shows
As the print industry thrives and transforms, these trade shows and exhibitions offer invaluable platforms for growth and inspiration.
Make the most of these opportunities in 2024 and beyond! And if you seek groundbreaking connections and fresh perspectives on the future of print, book a meeting with GelatoConnect at drupa 2024.
We'll be there to showcase the innovative solutions and partnerships that are shaping the industry.