FESPA News - FESPA - Screen, Digital and Textile Printing Exhibitions and Associations

Planet Friendly Printing Programme

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:28:45 +0000

FESPA's long-held commitment to supporting the global print community in becoming more sustainable will continue at FESPA Digital 2012 from February 21-24, 2012 in Barcelona.

This will comprise:
• A two-day dedicated conference focussed on sustainability (room 4.1);
• Several focussed workshops on specific aspects of sustainable printing (room 4.3);
• The Planet Friendly Printing clinic – a drop-in advice centre for printers interested in improving their sustainable printing credentials (stand B15a); and
• The chance to collect your own copy of the Planet Friendly Printing Guide from the FESPA stand (B15).

Whether you are already pursuing sustainable printing techniques, or are just setting out and don't know where to start, the cadre of global sustainable printing experts which FESPA has assembled will be able to offer you invaluable advice, tips and tricks to ensure your business is leading in this key area. Access to the conference, workshops and drop-in clinic are all free-of-charge to visitors to FESPA Digital 2012.

To find out how to get ahead of your competitors and ensure you are ready to print for anyone – including the world's biggest brands – simply click on the buttons to the right.

Print Shop Live! Integrating Diverse Technologies at FESPA Digital

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:34:15 +0000

Wide format printers looking to optimise their production and integrate the latest technologies in their operations should make time for Print Shop Live! at FESPA Digital 2012 (Barcelona, 21-24 February 2012).

Making its European debut at FESPA Digital 2012, Print Shop Live! recreates a fully functional, live print shop environment, enabling visitors to see a real production workflow close up, with expert commentary from participating companies and independent experts.

The prepress workflow on show will include colour management software from GMG, together with ripping and preflighting tools from Onyx. Output will be demonstrated across multiple print devices from suppliers including Epson, HP and Mutoh, showcasing a wide array of print technologies for conventional and textile applications. As the exclusive media partner for Print Shop Live!, Ilford will demonstrate a variety of substrates in its biodegradable Biomedia range. FESPA's Global Finishing Partner Esko Graphics will contribute its Kongsberg cutting solutions to demonstrate this aspect of wide format print finishing.

Visitors can register free of charge online to take fully hosted tours of Print Shop Live!, accompanied by global inkjet expert Sophie Matthews-Paul, with regular tours also available in Spanish, hosted by industry commentator Juan Diaz Diaz. Printers may also choose to submit their own artwork in advance to be printed live during their tour.

Duncan MacOwan, FESPA's Head of Events and New Media has spearheaded the project for Barcelona and explains: "Technology is still the driver behind many of the opportunities open to wide format printers. The biggest challenge can be to assess how best to integrate new technology with what they have already to achieve the best outcome for their business. With Print Shop Live!, we'll show how straightforward it can be to seamlessly bring together the different production stages, optimising productivity and operational efficiency across multiple applications to offer the most comprehensive service to customers."

He adds, "Print Shop Live! was a huge hit with visitors when we introduced it at FESPA Americas in 2011, and our research suggests that this is exactly the type of interactive, educational content that visitors want from FESPA. The participating vendors are collaborating closely to give visitors informative insightsinto the real-world potential of digital print, and we're all excited to see this innovative attraction come together in Barcelona."

For more detail on all the individual solutions on show within Print Shop Live!, to register for tours, or to find out about submitting your own artwork, visit www.printshoplive.net

JOIN THE WRAP BATTLE TO BE CROWNED FIFTH WRAP CUP MASTERS SERIES CHAMPION AT FESPA DIGITAL 2012

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 09:24:24 +0000

FESPA has launched the fifth edition of the FESPA Wrap Cup Masters Series, the live vehicle wrapping competition running throughout FESPA Digital 2012 (Barcelona, 21-24 February). Over the course of the four-day event up to 48 vehicle wrappers will battle through several rounds to be crowned the FESPA Wrap Cup Masters European champion 2012.

The FESPA Wrap Cup Masters Series comprises eight events over three years. Launched at FESPA 2010 in Munich the Wrap Cup had pit stops at FESPA Americas, FESPA Mexico and at FESPA Digital 2011 in Hamburg. Following FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona, the Wrap Cup's Grand Finale will take place at FESPA 2013 in London, where contenders will go head to head against regional winners to be awarded the ultimate title of FESPA Global Wrap Cup Masters Champion.

Designed to encourage, recognise and promote excellence in the global vehicle wrapping community, the FESPA Wrap Cup Masters Series is a chance for wrapping professionals to be involved in a live competition and gain global recognition for their expertise. Within each competition, a collection of prestigious cars will act as a blank canvas for vinyl mastery. Contenders will be judged on quality and speed using the most advanced materials and techniques, with the goal of impressing a panel of experienced judges.

Skill will be rewarded with valuable prizes which include printers, software, wrap tools, consumables, vinyl vouchers, discounts and much more provided by the sponsors of Wrap Cup, HP, Seat, Leister ISee2, Avery, Roland, MR Clipart, Rigidisc, Rotutech, Knifeless Tech Systems and Eurosystems.

The Wrap Cup 2012 winner will also receive an all expenses paid trip to the FESPA Wrap Cup Masters Final Event at FESPA 2013 (25-29 June, London).

The panel of judges will operate a scoring system designed to place high priority on excellence and precision. Contenders will be given an assigned time to complete their work; wrappers who manage to deliver the best quality car wrap within the deadline will advance to the next round. Through progressive stages, winners will culminate in a daily final and then go on to compete in the Grand Finale on the last day of the show.

FESPA's Head of Events & New Media, Duncan MacOwan comments, "The FESPA Wrap Cup Masters Series is as much fun to watch as it is to take part in and it has proved to be a very successful event that engages both contenders and visitors - the competition is fierce! Although vehicle decoration is quite an established application in the wide format arena, the skill and creativity it demands still generates enormous interest within the print community. PSPs can sometimes underestimate how accurately this work needs to be performed to meet high quality specifications without compromising on turnaround times."

Any company or individual with some experience of vehicle wrapping can enter a representative. To sign up, please download the application form here. A registration fee of €250.00 is payable but all participants are guaranteed to take home a prize package worth at least €1500.00 even if they do not survive the first round.

If you would like to have your business associated with this event please contact Duncan MacOwan for more information on the opportunities available at: duncan.macowan@fespa.com.

FESPA CHEGA AO BRASIL COM O LANÇAMENTO DA FESPA BRASIL 2013

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:16:21 +0000

FESPA Brasil irá ocorrer junto com a ExpoPrint Digital para oferecer uma gama abrangente de produtos de impressão

A FESPA está formando uma joint venture com a empresa brasileira de eventos APS, organizadora da ExpoPrint, o maior evento de impressão digital na América Latina. A primeira iniciativa dessa joint venture será o lançamento da FESPA Brasil ao lado da ExpoPrint Digital 2013, que irá ocorrer no Expo Center Norte, em São Paulo, de 13 a 16 de março de 2013.

Ao realizar paralelamente a FESPA Brasil com a ExpoPrint Digital 2013, o evento terá agora um foco duplo. A FESPA Brasil vai oferecer aos visitantes uma mostra abrangente das mais recentes inovações em impressão de grande formato (serigrafia, digital e têxtil), impressão de vestuário e sinalização digital. Já a ExpoPrint Digital continuará a fornecer uma visão geral da impressão transacional, mala direta, impressão de dados variáveis, publicação digital e impressão digital de rótulos e embalagens.

A FESPA Brasil 2013 irá combinar uma exposição de alta qualidade consistente com eventos da FESPA em todo o mundo, com características educacionais fornecidas pela FESPA e adaptadas às necessidades específicas do mercado brasileiro. Características que incluem uma FESPA Brasil Conference, um programa de conteúdo ambiental FESPA Planet Friendly, um FESPA Hall da Fama brasileiro, um evento de decoração de veículos chamado Brazil Wrap Cup e uma mostra de aplicações refletindo o crescimento das aplicações mais interessantes para o mercado latino-americano.

A joint venture entre FESPA e APS fornece para a FESPA 50% de propriedade da FESPA Brasil. A parte dos lucros da FESPA no evento será implantada no programa de reinvestimento mundial FESPA "profit-for-a-cause", para beneficiar a comunidade global de prestadores de serviços de impressão da FESPA.

Neil Felton, diretor-gerente de exposições e eventos da FESPA, explica: "O Brasil é reconhecido como uma das economias de mais rápido desenvolvimento do mundo, e a Copa e os Jogos Olímpicos vão fornecer um enorme impulso a este mercado já vibrante para impressão de grande formato."

"Avaliamos este mercado há vários anos, nos conectando com associações comerciais locais para compreender a oportunidade e a demanda por um evento FESPA. Nós sentimos que este modelo de parceria com um empresário líder na região é o melhor, o que nos permite combinar o conhecimento de mercado e os contatos da APS com a nossa reconhecida competência global no fornecimento de experiências ricas em conteúdo sobre impressoras de grande formato para os visitantes."

A APS é a empresa organizadora da ExpoPrint, evento realizado a cada quatro anos em nome dos associados da Afeigraf. A ExpoPrint atrai mais de 35.000 visitantes. A APS também licencia a marca ExpoPrint para o evento ExpoPrint Digital, que ocorre com maior regularidade.

Neil Felton continua: "A ExpoPrint é uma marca fortemente estabelecida no Brasil, e estamos todos confiantes de que, pela realização paralela da FESPA Brasil com a ExpoPrint Digital, podemos oferecer aos visitantes regionais novas perspectivas. Sabemos que há um apetite forte no Brasil por conteúdo atraente, inspirador e educativo, o que é uma característica muito popular de nossos eventos em outras partes do mundo. "
Alexandre Keese, diretor da APS, complementa: "O mercado vai ficar surpreso com a qualidade da exposição e o conteúdo que a FESPA vai trazer ao Brasil. O visitante vai experimentar uma feira que traz, além de grandes soluções, um conhecimento que auxilia sua vida profissional junto com conferências e outras ações que estamos planejando."

A chegada da FESPA no Brasil acompanha a história de sucesso da organização há cinco anos no México, onde assumiu um evento de comunicação visual estabelecido em 2008, que posteriormente teve um crescimento de 30% sob a marca FESPA Mexico.

A joint venture entre FESPA e APS será dirigida por Neil Felton, diretor-gerente de exposições e eventos da FESPA, e Alexandre Keese, diretor da APS. As vendas brasileiras e operações do evento serão gerenciadas pela equipe brasileira da APS, especificamente por Sandra Keese, gerente de vendas da APS. Já as vendas internacionais e o marketing serão gerenciados pela equipe FESPA do Reino Unido, especificamente por Michael Ryan, gerente de exposição nas Américas, e Lorraine Harrow, gerente de marketing nas Américas, que contará com o auxílio no Brasil de Leandro Causo, coordenador de marketing da APS.

FESPA Brand Moves To Brazil With Launch Of FESPA Brasil 2013

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 11:04:33 +0000

FESPA Brasil to run beside ExpoPrint Digital to offer comprehensive print showcase

FESPA is forming a joint venture with Brazilian event company APS, the organiser of ExpoPrint, the largest digital printing event in Latin America. The joint venture company's first initiative will be to launch FESPA Brasil alongside ExpoPrint Digital 2013, which takes place in Expo Center Norte, São Paulo, from 13-16 March 2013.

By co-locating FESPA Brasil with ExpoPrint Digital 2013, the event will now have a dual focus. FESPA Brasil will offer visitors a comprehensive showcase of the latest innovations in wide format printing (screen, digital and textile), garment printing and digital signage. ExpoPrint Digital will continue to provide an overview of transactional printing, direct mail, variable data printing, digital publishing, digital label and packaging.

FESPA Brasil 2013 will combine a high-quality exhibition consistent with FESPA's events worldwide with educational features delivered by FESPA and tailored to the Brazilian market's specific requirements. These will include a FESPA Brasil Conference, a FESPA Planet Friendly programme of environmental content, a Brazilian FESPA Hall of Fame, a Brazil Wrap Cup vehicle decoration event and an applications showcase reflecting the most exciting growth applications for the Latin-American market.

The joint venture between FESPA and APS gives FESPA 50 per cent ownership of FESPA Brasil. FESPA's share of profits from the event will be deployed as part of FESPA's global 'Profit for Purpose' reinvestment programme, to benefit the global FESPA community of print service providers.

Neil Felton, Managing Director of FESPA Exhibitions and Events explains: "Brazil is recognised as one of the world's most rapidly developing economies, and the FIFA World Cup and Olympics will deliver a huge boost to this already vibrant marketplace for wide format print.

"We've been evaluating this market for several years, and liaising with local trade associations to understand the opportunity and demand for FESPA's event proposition. We feel that this partnership model with a leading show organiser in the region is the best, allowing us to combine APS's Brazilian market knowledge and contacts with our recognised global expertise in delivering content-rich visitor experiences for wide format printers."

APS is the appointed organiser of the main four-yearly ExpoPrint event on behalf of exhibitors association Afeigraf. ExpoPrint attracts over 35,000 visitors. APS also licenses the ExpoPrint brand from the association for its more regular ExpoPrint Digital event.

Neil Felton continues: "ExpoPrint is a strongly established brand in Brazil, and we are all confident that by co-locating FESPA Brasil with ExpoPrint Digital, we can offer regional visitors fresh perspectives. We know there's a strong appetite in Brazil for the compelling educational and inspirational content that is such a popular feature of our events elsewhere in the world."

Alexandre Keese, Director of APS, adds: "The market will be surprised at the quality and content of the exhibition that FESPA will bring to Brazil. The visitor will experience a show of great solutions, gaining knowledge that helps his professional life along with conferences and other actions that we are planning."

FESPA's venture in Brazil follows the organisation's four-year success story in Mexico, where it took over an established visual communications event in 2008, which has subsequently enjoyed 30% growth under the FESPA Mexico brand.

The joint venture between FESPA and APS will be directed by Neil Felton, FESPA's Managing Director of Exhibitions and Events, and APS Director Alexandre Keese. Brazilian sales and event operations will be managed by the local Brazilian APS team, specifically Sales Manager Sandra Keese. International sales and marketing will be managed by the FESPA team from the UK, specifically Americas region Exhibition Manager Michael Ryan and Americas Marketing Manager Lorraine Harrow, who will have the Brazilian assistance of APS Marketing Manager Leandro Causo.

Start Exploring Now With The FESPA Digital 2012 App!

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:01:31 +0000

FESPA has launched a brand new app for visitors to FESPA Digital 2012, providing instant access to the most up-to-date event information, trends and features at their fingertips.

Created to assist visitors to explore FESPA Digital and Fabric 2012 before, during and after the event, the app contains a comprehensive overview of event information including travel and accommodation, venue location, opening dates and times, and news about event sponsors.

Aside from general event news, app users have the advantage of receiving more detailed FESPA Digital and FESPA Fabric information. Each event section features exhaustive information including programme schedules for the Explore Conference and Textile Talk Theatre. Users can also access Wrap Cup Series timetables and keep abreast of live screen printing and garment demonstrations happening at Charlie's Corner. For visitors wanting to know more details on the educational programmes, the app comprises a full list of speakers accompanied by biographies and images. Plus, the app gives visitors an insight of what's happening in real-time at the show.

To help visitors make the most of their time at FESPA Digital, the app offers the ability to create a "My Event" diary. By creating a bespoke event programme, the visitor is provided with a personal guide of all the information on exhibition stands, features and theatre sessions they expressed an interest in visiting. "My Event" will send a private notification of all the latest information concerning their agenda and a reminder when their next planned activity is due to begin. Once users have arranged their day, the convenient interactive floor plan will help to navigate the hall. Linked to the map is an exhibitor list which also enables visitors to effortlessly search for company and product information.

The app also features a stream of FESPA's social media platforms including Twitter feeds, the FESPA Facebook and LinkedIn pages and The Wide Network. Set out using a simple dashboard, the social section is the best way to keep up with on-site trends.

The app can be downloaded across all mainstream platforms including Apple, Android and Blackberry devices. The automatic updating system means that users need only download the programme once to receive the latest information.

FESPA's Marketing Manager, Lynda Sutton comments: "As an organisation we aim to connect more effectively with the wide format community in the slickest and most engaging way. Visitors really welcomed our mobile app last year in Hamburg and we're confident that they will appreciate it once again as a valuable resource to enhance their show experience in Barcelona. With rapid adoption of smartphones across Europe, apps are becoming a functional and informative service accessible to almost everyone."

Visitors can download the app via FESPA.com/digital by opening the link on their hand-held device and clicking on the icon to download.

3D Printing via the FESPA Wrap Rally II

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 12:43:20 +0000

For the FESPA Wrap Rally II, the team will be visiting two different perspectives from the 3d printing cycle. Esteemed professor Neil Hopkinson is the first. Neil is Professor of Manufacturing and Engineering at the University of Sheffield and his research on 3d printing using the inkjet process is really making waves in the manufacturing and printing industries alike. Never before has it been possible to print 3d objects with real practicality for everyday life using inkjet.....

Read more...

See other news and information on the rally at www.fespawraprally.com

Who Will Be Hall Of Fame’s First Printer Of The Year At FESPA Digital 2012? Vote Now!

Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:29:22 +0000

FESPA's inaugural Hall of Fame, intended to be the 'who's who' of the leading lights in the print community from all over the world, has had over 300 nominations across 37 countries to date. FESPA is inviting everyone to vote for the opportunity to see their printing 'hero' featured in the Hall of Fame at FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona (21-24 February 2012).

Nominees might have pioneered a new approach or technology, or demonstrated innovation in other ways. They may simply stand out on print skill or service, for a leading stance on sustainability, or have made some other significant contribution to the industry. Based on the online votes, FESPA will narrow down a shortlist of up to ten printing innovators per country who their peers hold up as inspirational role models in the print community.

The final shortlist of nominees will be honoured at FESPA Digital in Barcelona in the form of a 20 metre Hall of Fame 'gallery of stars' located in the entrance hallway of Fira de Barcelona Exhibition centre. This is where exhibition visitors will have the opportunity to vote for the outright winner of the Printer of the Year 2012.

Every shortlisted printer will receive VIP status to attend FESPA Digital 2012, and will also benefit from privileged invitations to future FESPA VIP events such as Global Summits. The recipient of this prestigious accolade will be announced at a champagne VIP reception for the Hall of Fame printers on the FESPA stand 315a at 2pm on the last day of FESPA Digital 2012.

The country with the leading number of nominations so far is Germany with 30 printing 'heroes', followed by UK (22) and India (21).

To see the list of nominees and vote, visit www.Fespa.com/halloffame. If the list is missing someone you believe should be included, get voting now. Monday 6th February is the last day to nominate your printing idol before the shortlist process gets underway.

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton comments: "The number and calibre of nominations in our first FESPA Hall of Fame is impressive, it will be a very difficult shortlisting process! Our aim is to celebrate people, not particular jobs or campaigns, printing companies, or new technological innovations. It's rare for the individual print professionals who drive this community to be recognised for their unique and personal contribution. The Hall of Fame will be a celebration of printers who their peers hold up as inspirational role models."

Edale achieves Esko HD Flexo certification

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 18:08:59 +0000

UK narrow web flexo press manufacturer joins growing list of vendors to gain quality recognition.

Gent (Belgium), January 2012 – Esko’s (www.esko.com) successful HD Flexo certification process continues to win industry approval with narrow web flexo press manufacturer Edale as the latest company to achieve the certification. The £8m turnover Hampshire operation specializes in the design and manufacture of a number of presses including the Alpha, Beta, Gamma and FL-350 models, alongside its range of converting machinery the FDC-510, flatbed die cutting machine, the Lambda and the variable length sheet cutter the VLS-650. Edale achieved certification for its FL-350 and Gamma flexo presses as part of its continued commitment to improvement. It hopes to certify all its presses with the Alpha compact press and the Beta modular press next.

“We decided to gain HD Flexo certification because as a forward thinking business, Edale is constantly striving to improve the quality of flexo printing. Working with the Esko HD Flexo solution, we are pushing the boundaries for the highest quality printing results," states Jeremy Westcott, Edale’s Sales and Marketing Director. “The reduction in size of the smallest printable dot helps to achieve a finish far and above the traditional flexo methods. The images we can produce are much cleaner, sharper and more defined.”

Pushing the boundaries with HD Flexo certifcation
Edale recognizes the end user is always aiming to achieve increased quality and design in a competitive marketplace. With the HD Flexo certification, the company can assure this is delivered. Westcott adds: “Combining an Edale press with HD Flexo, we are really pushing the boundaries of flexo printing. The quicker make-ready time and greater run-lengths from the plates works in parallel with Edale's ethos of manufacturing presses that focus on minimum downtime and wastage, with a quicker time to market due to the simplified prepress. The richness of the image and the contrasting tones it can achieve, helps to keep flexo in the running with end results rivalling those of other technologies. When trialling machines to potential customers, the results we can show them are undoubtedly more impressive using this method.”

The rigorous certification process requires vendors and partners to consistently produce ten different print samples from five different jobs. Annual renew ensures print quality is maintained in line with market developments. Vendors also need to certify each product individually, but once the initial certification has been obtained, subsequent applications are faster and easier.

About Esko (www.esko.com)
Esko is a global supplier of integrated solutions for packaging, sign and display finishing, commercial printing and professional publishing. Esko products and services help customers raise productivity, reduce time-to-market, lower costs and expand business and improve profitability.

Portfolio
Esko is the worldwide market leader with software for artwork creation, structural design, pre-production, workflow automation, quality assurance and online collaboration. Esko solutions support and manage the packaging and print processes at brand owners, retailers, designers and packaging manufacturers.

CDI flexo computer-to-plate imagers and Kongsberg digital finishing systems complete the portfolio for the packaging, label, signage and display industries.
Enfocus, with its suite of PDF tools for graphic designers and print production professionals, is part of Esko.

Facts & numbers
Esko employs around 1200 people worldwide. Its direct sales and service organization covers Europe, the Americas and the Asia Pacific region, completed by a network of distribution partners in more than 50 countries.

Esko is headquartered in Gent, Belgium, and has R&D and manufacturing facilities in five European countries, the United States, China and India.

'Design to print to cut' with Esko at FESPA Digital 2012

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 16:02:56 +0000

Kongsberg tables and i-cut Suite demonstrate unmatched end-to-end sign and display graphics workflow efficiencies

Gent (Belgium), January 2012 - At FESPA Digital, Esko (www.esko.com) will showcase its 'design to print to cut' solutions that streamline the entire workflow, including the printing and finishing of sign and display applications. Featured at the show are the Kongsberg i-XP24 and Kongsberg i-XE10 Auto. Combined with i-cut Suite including the newly launched i-cut Automate, these end-to-end solutions deliver the most versatile equipment for the digital finishing of signs and displays. Esko will be located in Hall 3 stand H5 at the show, being held in Barcelona from 21 to 24 February.

Enjoy automatic savings with i-cut Suite Automate

i-cut Automate automates the entire production process to ultimately reduce costs. With i-cut Automate, users can quickly build dynamic workflows that automate repetitive prepress tasks, reducing operator intervention and errors. As well as time and money, it also saves materials in the production process.

i-cut Automate is the latest addition to Esko's successful i-cut Suite - an integrated solution designed to streamline the entire sign and display manufacturing workflow, from design to print to cut. i-cut Suite includes workflow automation and editing tools that specifically support die-less digital finishing. It comprises of three core modules: i-cut Preflight to check incoming PDF data; i-cut Layout to handle the layout and nesting of sheet layouts and i-cut Vision Pro to ensure die-less cutting contours perfectly match the printed images.

"Printers increasingly understand the need for an integrated and automated workflow. To handle the larger number of shorter runs and wider job mix now typical of the market, they require solutions that remove time-consuming labor from the work process and cost-efficiently enhance throughput capacity," says Armand Gougay, Esko Vice President EMEA. He points out that prepress workflow solutions are an especially important element of a successful future for sign and display companies: "With i-cut Suite, potential production issues are caught and resolved at the beginning of the workflow, resulting in a smooth manufacturing process. The ability to nest and automate the entire workflow are just some of the benefits that create efficiency gains for companies of all sizes, even small print shops."

Dedicated solutions delivering production improvements

Taking center stage at Esko's FESPA Digital stand is the Kongsberg i-XP24 with sheet feeder, the market's leading digital finishing solution specifically designed to deliver unsurpassed productivity and perfect registration. The Kongsberg i-XP24 is equipped with i-cut camera-based registration. It also has multiple quick-change cutting tools that allow manufacturers to easily handle a variety of materials.

Esko will also highlight its Kongsberg i-XE10 Auto, fully automated, die-less digital finishing solution, designed as the perfect finishing complement to any digital print operation. Specifically created with the growing demand for finishing of small-format, short-run digitally printed material in mind, it can work alongside any small-format or medium-sized digital press to deliver the industry's most efficient sign and display graphics production solution.

Robust solutions for a versatile operation

Esko's versatile digital finishing solutions are unique in the industry. They enable customers to implement the most robust, productive and responsive workflow possible. "As a key growth market in the industry, the signs and displays and also the digital packaging segment offers exciting opportunities for manufacturers," concludes Gougay. "Companies investing in solutions for the entire workflow - including design, printing and cutting - are those that will benefit most. Our stand at FESPA Digital will clearly demonstrate Esko's commitment to delivering low cost, simple entry-level functionality for PDF preflight and layout with exceptional productivity efficiencies, from the designer's workstation all the way through to the finishing table. By adding even more automation to the process with i-cut Automate, customers are positioning themselves as formidable competitors within the market space."

FESPA Partnership

Just as last year, FESPA has again chosen Esko as its exclusive Global Software & Finishing Partner. In addition, Esko has been selected as software and digital finishing partner for the Print Shop Live, a fully functional printing operation showcasing a full end-to-end workflow from design software, to RIP solutions, multiple output devices using different print technologies and finishing - all on the widest possible range of media. Esko will demonstrate the capabilities of its Kongsberg i-XE10 digital finishing solution and i-cut Suite software. The other partners are ONYX, GMG Color, Epson, Mutoh and Ilford Biomedia. Guided tours by inkjet expert Sophie Matthews-Paul will highlight the advantages of the technologies on show and how they integrate effectively.

The FESPA Hall of Fame invites you to VOTE for your all-time favourite printer.

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 16:18:33 +0000

The FESPA Hall of Fame intends to become a 'who's who' of the leading lights in the print community and who better to make this decision than the print community itself!

Explore Wider Garment Opportunities And Enter The FESPA Fabric 2012 T-Shirt Competition

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:30:45 +0000

FESPA is offering one innovative individual or business the chance to have their design showcased as the official FESPA Fabric 2012 t-shirt.

This new competition is part of FESPA Fabric, the 'show within a show' at FESPA Digital 2012 (Barcelona, 21-24 February). One lucky winner will have their design printed and available at the show, as well as winning £100 worth of Amazon.com vouchers.

As a printer, the opportunities to diversify into t-shirt design are endless, so get your creative juices flowing and upload your designs to www.fespa.com/fabric. Your winning design could be a part of FESPA history.

The only specification of the competition is that the design needs to include the distinctive images of FESPA Fabric 2012 - the FESPA Fabric 2012 logo, the FESPA Fabric camper van, and the black-and-white FESPA Fabric icon depicting a girl with angel wings.

FESPA Fabric will occupy nearly 10 per cent of the total floor space of the FESPA Digital 2012 event. The inspirational mix of educational content and review of latest apparel trends and technology developments offers garment printers and decorators new business ideas and revenue opportunities.

FESPA Fabric Marketing Manager Lynda Sutton comments: "This t-shirt competition is open to everyone as we welcome all creative ideas. FESPA's aim with FESPA Fabric is to create a learning environment to inspire garment decorators and printers, as well as apparel brand owners, to take hold of new opportunities to help grow their bottom line. At FESPA Fabric, you can map out your own route to success and visit our packed programme of live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, side shows, seminars and of course the show floor exhibits."

If you would like to get involved, please fill in the form and submit a JPEG file to: http://www.fespa.com/fabric/en/component/rsform/form/7-the-fespa-fabric-t-shirt-design-competition.html. Closing deadline is January 31st 2012.

FESPA Wrap Rally II on the Road to Barcelona for Digital 2012

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 12:05:30 +0000

A crack team of FESPA employees are preparing for FESPA Digital 2012 by embarking on the second Wrap Rally journey, this time from London to Barcelona. Commencing on 12th February 2012, Richard Kensett, Rob Older and Chris Rimer will embark on a seven day print adventure through Europe to find and film the best examples of innovative digital print technologies and applications.

Covering a distance of over 2,400 Kilometres, visiting 11 cites and 4 countries in only 7 days with a film crew in tow, the FESPA team will travel in a wrapped motorhome wrapped in a design chosen by the FESPA global community. There will be a choice of three eye-catching Wrap Rally designs which are up for public vote. For the opportunity to get involved in the Wrap Rally II, visit www.fespawraprally.com and place your vote now.

As part of Wrap Rally II, the print explorer's journey to Barcelona kicks off in the UK via Belgium, France, Switzerland and Spain where they will be tasked to challenge printers to "Explore the Wider Opportunities". Sponsored by HP (Platinum sponsor) and Hexis (Gold sponsor), the Wrap Rally II will finish up on the 21st February when the giant wrapped motorhome, emblazoned with the winning design rolls up to the doors of Fira de Barcelona Gran Via exhibition centre for FESPA Digital 2012.

Printers interested in meeting up with the FESPA Wrap Rally II team or just following their progress along the way can follow their route online through the interactive map on www.fespawraprally.com.

Richard, Rob and Chris will keep the digital community updated throughout their journey with unique examples of the wider opportunities of print along the way through real-time content including; webinars, videos, interviews, photographs, blogs and crucially across FESPA's social media platforms. Follow their updates via Facebook and Twitter (@fespa) as their print adventure to FESPA Digital progresses. And visit FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona (February 21-24, 2012) to explore the wider opportunities of print.

FESPA's Economy Survey 5 Shows Printers Looking to Diversify their Business in 2012

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 09:52:16 +0000

The latest FESPA Economy Survey has revealed that 70% of respondents are looking to diversify their business to improve business growth. The top areas in which print service providers (PSPs) plan to develop into are interiors (17.4%), label printing (16.67%) and signage (15.53%).

Over half believe that the market has not fully recovered (52.44%) but the outlook of printers remains optimistic despite the challenging environment, with three quarters of respondents believing that the market will grow in 2012, with an average expected growth of 14.5% across the year for their business.

Reflecting on 2011 end of year sales, 20.4% of respondents said they were better than expected, a fifth said they were better than 2010, and 40% reported that they have done as expected.

The Economy Survey was commissioned by FESPA and carried out by its research partner InfoTrends on behalf of its global wide format community. As part of FESPA's Profit for Purpose reinvestment programme, the main objective of the survey is to collect valuable insight into market trends and gauge business outlook for 2012 and beyond. The information was gathered from 225 respondents who are engaged in wide format printing from across the world.

Over half of those who took part in the survey were printers (52.9%); one fifth were resellers and 10.2% manufacturers. Europe dominated the survey's geographical split with over half of respondents (57.3%) located in the region, followed by North America, Asia, Africa, South America and Middle East respectively.

According to FESPA's Economy Survey 5, a third (33.3%) of respondents said that the primary reason for investing in a new wide format printer would be to accommodate different media and/or a wider range of applications with output quality and running costs being the other top criteria. A UV-curable inkjet printer was the highest area of investment (50%), followed by latex or another durable aqueous inkjet printer (31.6%).

62.7% of respondents indicated that 'green' printing, or printing using more environmentally-friendly practices has seen an increase in demand as a service, with over one fifth planning to invest in an eco-or light solvent printer. Over a third (36.9%) also cited seeing a rise in customer demand in applications requiring white ink printing, 35.6% in versioning/variable data printing and 23.1% in printing QR codes or other interactive elements.

Printers believe that there are some challenges within the area of digital signage, with 80% of respondents believing that digital displays has, is or will impact on wide format digital print applications. Of the 80%, impact on POP graphics was deemed to be greatest (23.3%), followed by billboards, backlit, and vehicle graphics respectively.

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton comments: "We know that our global wide format community look forward to the findings and emerging trends identified in the FESPA Economy Survey. It is heartening that our 5th Economic Survey results show that PSPs have optimism in their own entrepreneurialism. It is a very positive sign that over 70% of respondents plan to diversify their business to increase their bottom line. This commercial intelligence will inevitably stand PSPs in good stead over the forthcoming year."

He continued: "The findings are also encouraging for the FESPA Digital 2012 event that will enable PSPs to 'Explore the Wider Opportunities'. As our campaign collateral says, 'business is a journey' with challenges and opportunities along the way. No printer needs to feel they are at a standstill; there are proactive business decisions they can consider, for example, can they try to implement new technologies or processes, diversify into different wide format applications, experiment with new substrates and inks, develop new services or business models, increase automation, offer more complete end-to-end solutions, or even move into entirely new market segments.

With 400 exhibitors in a single giant hall, and the charismatic city of Barcelona as the backdrop, a visit to FESPA Digital 2012 is guaranteed to give wide format print service providers all the information and insight they need to plan the next stage of their own journey and build their business."

The full FESPA/InfoTrends Economy Survey 5 is available as a benefit to members of FESPA affiliated associations, visit www.fespa.com to find out about your national association.

FESPA to expand global reach of Planet Friendly Printing

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 09:41:52 +0000

FESPA – the global federation of national print associations – has recently announced that it will expand the global reach of its long-running Planet Friendly Printing initiatives.

Since 2007 FESPA has published the Planet Friendly Printing Guide which interprets and distils the myriad regulations and certification schemes pertaining to environmental best practice for printers and offers detailed advice on environmental management. The Planet Friendly Printing Guide has been updated several times each year since its first publication in 2009 – which gives an indication of how swiftly things have moved within the sphere of sustainability.

To date, the Planet Friendly Printing Guide has only been available to members of FESPA's 37 member associations. The latest version of the guide will remain exclusive to FESPA members; however, in recognition that sustainability is a pressing issue for all printers, FESPA will make an abridged version of the guide available to non-member printers around the world.

In addition to the valuable advice and guidance offered in the Planet Friendly Printing Guide, FESPA will be extending the availability of the insights and advice on pursuing sustainable printing which has been a strong feature of all FESPA's recent content-led events – such as the FESPA Global Summit 2010, the FESPA Planet Friendly Summit 2010 and the FESPA Global Summit 2011. FESPA has explored more than 40 aspects of sustainability in its research over the last five years, and delivered more than 50 presentations in four continents on the topic.

Presentations on sustainability from global experts, certified sustainable printers, suppliers to the PSP community, and its customers such as top-ten global creative agency Ogilvy and brand owners such as Unilever, Nike and others are now available to all without charge on www.fespa.com.

FESPA is making these resources available to the global print community to promote understanding of the key drivers for adopting sustainable practices, and the routes to ensure our businesses become more planet-friendly. These resources will be complimented not only by the continued offering of insight and advice on sustainability at FESPA's events, and an increased offering of advice and consultation on www.fespa.com via webinars and other online resources.

FESPA Digital 2012 will see a comprehensive Planet Friendly Printing programme on offer to PSPs – featuring:
• Presentations from global experts such as Paul Machin;
• Case studies from printers who are enjoying improved business results due to adopting sustainable practices such as Simon Pless of Erler & Pless;
• Workshops on pursuing certification under schemes such as ISO 14001 and EMAS, led by accredited assessors; and
• Consultation in the FESPA Planet Friendly Printing Clinic.
All these resources are available to printers free-of-charge at FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona from February 21-24, 2012. Look out for the dates of Planet Friendly Printing webinars on FESPA.com soon, as well as the 'ask the expert' facility.

Planet Friendly Printing is another facet of FESPA's reinvestment programme, which has already seen more than three million Euros reinvested in various initiatives to support printers over the last seven years, explains FESPA Head of Events & New Media Duncan MacOwan, who is steering the Planet Friendly Printing programme development.

"The development of fresh initiatives under the Planet Friendly Printing banner recognises the ongoing significance of sustainability to our global print community, and its reprioritisation by PSPs and their customers as we gradually emerge from global recession."

He continues: "Sustainability is far from being a topic for dark green 'eco-champions'. Sustainable print capabilities are a decisive factor for many print buyers when selecting a PSP, and as the corporate social responsibility (CSR) agenda matures, so demand for environmentally responsible print will increase. What's more, environmental best practice is often economical best practice, particularly when it comes to energy saving and prudent materials and waste management, so there are immediate commercial gains to be made from 'going green."

FESPA's Managing Director, Neil Felton comments: "Navigating the route to sustainability can be challenging as printers looking to avoid greenwash and empty claims by commercial entities seek impartial advice on how to become more planet friendly in their business activities.

"The issue of sustainability in printing has long been recognised by FESPA as pressing, as evinced by our efforts to raise awareness of the issue, encourage printers to adopt more planet friendly printing practices, and offer practical advice and expert insight to printers – wherever they are on the journey to sustainability. We believe that to be truly planet-friendly it is important to address sustainability globally. FESPA's global footprint within and beyond our 37 member associations, coupled with the profit-for-purpose basis on which FESPA is organised, means we are well placed to offer continuous independent, unbiased support to the worldwide print community as we collectively move towards a more sustainable future, and we are excited to be further extending the reach of our activities in this area."

FESPA Digital 2012 Offers A Wide Opportunity For Vendors

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 15:04:01 +0000

FESPA Digital 2012 (Barcelona, 21-24 February 2012) has attracted an impressive new line-up of sponsors for the highly anticipated event in Barcelona.

While HP retains its position as FESPA's Corporate Sponsor for FESPA Digital 2012, the digital exhibition also incorporates three brand new platinum sponsors to the show: INX Digital, Océ and SigmaJet, while d.gen continues as Digital Textile Sponsor.

Kornit Digital returns to support FESPA Fabric 2012 as Fabric Corporate Sponsor for the four day 'show within a show', which is part of the comprehensive FESPA Digital visitor experience.

Neil Felton, Managing Director Exhibitions and Events at FESPA comments: "The calibre of sponsors we secure year on year is a clear indication of the confidence these vendors place in FESPA as an important business partner, underlining the significance of the FESPA community to their businesses. Committed to supporting visitors beyond the show floor, our sponsors are valued FESPA partners who aide us to deliver compelling material for our multi-faceted and interactive events. The support we receive through these sponsorships also helps us to deliver rich content in the form of educational tools and market intelligence for the benefit of our global community."

He continues, "We are fortunate to have such a dedicated community of supporters who endorse FESPA's organisational objectives over and above our events. FESPA is a not-for-profit organisation, and connecting and supporting our global community of print service providers is at the heart of FESPA's mission."

For further information about FESPA Digital 2012, visit www.fespadigital.com.

FESPA To Recognise Print’s Real Explorers In New Hall of Fame at FESPA Digital 2012

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:47:32 +0000

FESPA is inviting nominations to a FESPA Hall of Fame, which it intends to become a 'who's who' of the leading lights in the print community.

The Hall of Fame will be inaugurated at FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona (21-24 February 2012), in the form of a gallery of stars highlighting the names of printers from all over the world who their peers hold up as inspirational role models in the print community. Nominees might have pioneered a new approach or technology, or demonstrated innovation in other ways. They may simply stand out on print skill or service, for a leading stance on sustainability, or have made some other significant contribution to the industry.

Whatever makes the printer in question stand out, the nomination process is simple. Printers, agencies, brands or suppliers wanting to nominate a peer or a colleague (or even themselves!) simply visit www.fespadigital.com and complete a nomination form. The entry information will be collated by FESPA and the nominees published online, with the opportunity for members of the community to vote for their favourite candidates. FESPA will publish a list of all nominees at the end of December 2011, with the nominations closing in January 2012.

Based on the online votes, FESPA will narrow down a shortlist of up to ten printers per country to be featured in the actual Hall of Fame at the Digital 2012 event. These shortlisted printers will each receive VIP status to attend FESPA Digital 2012, and will also benefit from privileged invitations to future FESPA VIP events such as Global Summits.

Voting will continue onsite in Barcelona for the outright leader of the Hall of Fame 2012. The winner of this prestigious accolade will be announced at a champagne VIP reception for the Hall of Fame printers on the last day of FESPA Digital 2012.

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton explains the reason for launching the Hall of Fame: "In this industry, awards are often given for particular jobs or campaigns, to printing companies, and to new technological innovations, but it's rare for the individual print professionals who drive this community to be recognised for their unique and personal contribution.

"As a relative newcomer to the world of print, I'm struck by the charismatic personalities that inhabit this sector, and the spirit of entrepreneurialism and determination which sees print service providers taking their businesses forward, sometimes against the odds. The FESPA Hall of Fame will celebrate these individuals, showcase their achievements and inspire others to follow their example."

FESPA'S Global Summit Stimulates Debate to Explore The Opportunities in Digital Print

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:40:13 +0000

Over 94% of leading printers cited event was of positive value to their business

FESPA's leadership event, the Global Summit took place on 17th and 18th November at the Dolce Sitges Hotel near Barcelona and was attended by a total of 152 delegates.

Designed to encourage printers to explore the wider opportunities, to diversify their business and ultimately to grow their bottom line, 94.5% of delegates said that the information and insights presented at the event will help them to add real value to their organisation.

Founded through FESPA's Profit for a Purpose reinvestment programme, the Global Summit is part of the organisations ongoing commitment to connect and support its global community of print service providers. The Summit embodies FESPA's three guiding tenets of sharing knowledge, education and best practice.

Over 97% of visitors to the Global Summit said that they would attend another FESPA event in the future. Visitor comments received by the FESPA team include:

"(The event) exceeded my expectations in all aspects possible – quality of speakers and content, delegates and venue. The presentations and workshops gave us key insights on what is happening in the digital printing world, identifying trends and exploring solutions and ways to develop a printing business." Cristina Claveria, TECSERVICEEUROPE AG

"I met many great new contacts within the trade who I will no doubt be doing business with in the near future. I hope to be attending the next FESPA event." David Nicolas, Managing Director, Fosco Hayes Hurdley

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton comments: "The positive feedback we have received from everyone who attended the Summit has been overwhelming. It is gratifying to hear that not only did the speaker content, presentations and interactive workshop sessions provide inspiration, over 89% of visitors also said they also benefitted from the opportunity to network.

He continues, "FESPA's main objective is to share knowledge and engage in issues affecting the wide format population. To encourage printers to explore the wider opportunities in their business is our key message, and the Summit showed how much this resonates with our global community. The Summit provided the perfect platform to showcase some of the fresh themes and content which will be tackled in a lot more detail at the forthcoming FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona."

The Barcelona event was the fourth FESPA Summit, following similar leadership events in Miami, Singapore and Istanbul over the last two years.

Explore The Wider Garment Opportunities At FESPA Fabric 2012

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 12:44:37 +0000

As part of a comprehensive FESPA Digital visitor experience, FESPA Fabric 2012 (21-24 February 2012), offers garment decorators and printers the opportunity to explore the latest trends and developments in apparel print.

This 'show within a show' specifically attracted over 2,500 visitors in Hamburg at FESPA Digital 2011, and with interest in the potential of digital direct-to-garment technologies growing so dynamically, FESPA Fabric is an important feature of the Digital show.

In 2012, with Kornit Digital confirmed as Fabric Corporate sponsor, visitors looking to update themselves on the latest production technologies and consumable advancements for garment printing, embroidery and decoration will now be able to take their inspiration as part of the main FESPA Digital show. Covering approximately 1000m2, FESPA Fabric 2012 will occupy nearly 10% of the total FESPA Digital event.

Now running across all four days of the show, FESPA Fabric will offer a mix of exhibitors and educational content aimed at invigorating garment printers and decorators with new business ideas and revenue opportunities.

The Fabric Theatre within FESPA Fabric, leading industry specialists including direct-to-garment expert Scott Fresener will share their wealth of knowledge on print and pre-press techniques, technological developments and trends for direct-to-garment digital printing, screen printing and a range of apparel sectors, bringing to life the FESPA Fabric campaign strapline 'Explore the Wider Garment Opportunities'.

Charlie Taublieb, aka Dr. Print, will also be presenting his special mix of educational and fun demonstrations in Charlie's Corner, now a popular destination for FESPA visitors. His exciting tips on screen printing and garment decoration techniques will enable any garment printing business to go the extra distance.

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton comments: "Having listened to feedback from exhibitors and visitors to FESPA Fabric in Spring 2011, we have incorporated FESPA Fabric into the main Digital event for 2012, bringing these fascinating garment applications into the centre of the show.
"With such a concentration of garment producers in southern Europe, we expect FESPA Fabric in Barcelona to be a popular event for this specialist community. And for wide format printers looking for opportunities to diversify, this zone may provide some valuable insights into the world of printed fashion garments and promotional wear."

He continues: "Our aim is to create a learning environment to inspire garment decorators and printers, as well as apparel brands, to take hold of new ideas to help grow their bottom line. We have a packed programme of live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, side shows, seminars and of course the show floor exhibits which will all go a long way to help FESPA Fabric visitors map out their own route to success".

FESPA Digital 2012 Visitor Programme offers Exploration

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Visitors to FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona will find an action-packed programme of educational activities and live features that invite printers to explore the wider opportunities, bringing to life the central message of the event campaign.

FESPA's reputation as a global conference organiser for the digital wide format community will be reinforced in Barcelona with the Explore Conference at FESPA Digital. This series of free half-day conference and workshop sessions will run within the main exhibition centre, making it easy for printers to structure their day and mix visits to exhibitors with participation in the conference sessions that appeal to them. Delivered by world experts, the conference is structured around topics such as Business Building, Technology Issues, Narrow Format Print, Sustainability, Digital Signage, Customer Insight, and Printed Electronics, and will deliver a rich mix of information and inspiration. (Note to editors: see separate release re FESPA Explore Conference).

Back in the exhibition, a series of Explore Routes will offer visitors mini-maps highlighting different technologies or consumables on display around the show, helping them to optimise their time if their interest is specific to a particular product or technology.

Visitors looking for a more hands-on technical experience will want to factor in time for Print Shop Live!, an exciting new feature within a European FESPA event. Print Shop Live! allows the visitor to experience each element of the production process first-hand in a live and interactive forum, moderated by technical consultant Sophie Matthews-Paul. Here printers can test and try their own artwork file on wide and narrow format technologies, from pre-press through to finishing, and on a range of substrates. The aim of Print Shop Live! is for visitors to build their technical know-how and seize the commercial opportunities that come from boosting productivity and extending the capabilities of their digital production equipment.

Diversification is one of the 'wider opportunities' referenced in the event campaign, and there are several areas of the show which look at new applications or formats to offer food for thought for printers considering breaking away from the tried and tested. The Narrow Format Zone invites visitors to investigate how adding smaller format digital output to their service portfolio could help them tap into new revenue streams from new and established customers, while FESPA Fabric, the 'show within a show' for garment printing and decoration will interest printers considering a move into promotional wear or other garment applications. (Note to editors: see separate release re FESPA Fabric).

Fresh opportunities also come in the form of creative and innovative print applications that optimise the capabilities of digital output and take advantage of the latest substrates and inks. A coffee break in Big Buck's Cafe at FESPA Digital 2012 will open the visitor's eyes to the full spectrum of applications now possible using digital output technology. This 'pop-up' cafe will showcase everything from signage, to promotional and point-of-sale graphics, to interior decor, to printed furniture, to soft signage, to furnishings, to fine art, to garments. The Big Buck's Cafe 'menu' will tempt the visitor to explore further, with simple explanations of the applications on display and how they were produced.

FESPA Marketing Manager Lynda Sutton comments: "Our campaign for FESPA Digital 2012 challenges printers to explore the wider opportunities, but it's not just a marketing strapline, it's the essence of the event. Of course, technology is fundamental, and visitors to the show will find several hundred exhibitors on hand to share their innovations and offer advice. But being a print entrepreneur requires a spirit of adventure, and successful PSPs tell us that there's a wealth of opportunity if you open your eyes to the products and services your customers want from you. We want to stimulate visitors to FESPA Digital to look at how to use software, printing and finishing equipment, substrates and inks to expand their horizons and develop new products and services that match customers' needs and help them to be more profitable."

More details about all the Explore themed visitor features will become available between now and the show, so printers planning to attend should pre-register at www.fespadigital.com to ensure they are kept up to date and can plan in detail to make the most of their time in Barcelona.

FESPA Secures Discounted Flights And Accommodation Rates For Digital 2012

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 11:26:30 +0000

FESPA has partnered with SpanAir (a Star Alliance member) as the official airline carrier for FESPA Digital 2012 (21-24 February 2012), offering discounts from 10% on flights to Barcelona. More than 104* million passengers have flown with the airline since 1988, from over 100 European airports. Visitors simply need to log on to www.fespadigital.com and click the travel and accommodation link to obtain their visitor discount.

Securing the best possible rates for accommodation and travel for visitors and exhibitors at FESPA exhibitions is a high priority for the organising team. Barcelona has a plethora of hotel accommodation to suit all business budgets and the FESPA website features a list of over 45 three- to five-star hotels, with rooms starting from as little as €86.00 a night. Bookings can also be made directly via the FESPA Digital 2012 website.

According to the European Cities Monitor 2011, Barcelona is the sixth top city for business, after London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Berlin. The city is also considered ideal for organising international congresses (2nd in the International Congress and Convention Association World Country and City Ranking 2010), and Barcelona has been chosen as the mobile world capital for 2012-2018. A regular on any travellers' Top Ten European City list, the exciting Catalan capital offers exceptional communication networks, a mild Mediterranean climate and countless world-class tourist attractions.

"As a not-for-profit organisation, we are fully aware of the need for businesses to get the most out of any budget", comments Neil Felton, Managing Director, "We have worked hard to secure discounted flights and room rates for the benefit of visitors and of course for the staff of the 350 exhibiting companies we're expecting at FESPA Digital 2012."

He continues, "Our theme and campaign message for FESPA Digital 2012 is clear and positive. We urge wide format printers to 'Explore the Wider Opportunities' and the event guarantees to provide all the information and insight they need to adapt their offering and seize chances to grow their business. With Barcelona as a backdrop, and with FESPA's support to make the trip affordable, FESPA Digital 2012 is a 'must' in any forward looking printer's 2012 event calendar."

Asian Print Community Lines Up On Starting Grid For FESPA Asia 2011

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:52:20 +0000

Asian Print Community Lines Up On Starting Grid For FESPA Asia 2011

The Asian screen and digital wide format printing community is lined up on the starting grid for the opening today of FESPA Asia 2011.

Occupying 3224 square metres at Singapore’s state-of-the-art Suntec exhibition centre, the event takes place over three days (26th – 28th October 2011) and offers visitors access to over 120 exhibitors representing screen and digital printing equipment, software and workflow solutions, screen and digital print consumables and accessories, inks and substrates.

The show is targeted towards print and imaging professionals from across Asia. Responding to a proactive pan-regional promotional campaign with an attention-grabbing Formula 1 racing theme, thousands of Asian print business owners, production managers and technology specifiers are expected to attend the event, along with delegates from other areas of the print supply chain, including creative agencies and brand owners.

The event will showcase a huge variety of creative screen and digital print applications, from point-of-sale graphics and vehicle wraps to interior decor and garments, to name just a few.
FESPA Asia 2011 will be opened officially at 10.00am on Wednesday 26th October by FESPA President Mr Gyorgy Kovacs, FESPA Asia Ambassador and Board Member Mr Anders Nilsson, and Mrs Pei Guifan, representing FESPA Asia partner ASGA (Asian Screen Printing and Graphic Imaging Association) and FESPA’s associate member for China, the CSGIA (China Screen Printing and Graphic Imaging Association), which is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2011.

The event provides an important meeting point for FESPA’s nine Asian associate members from Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand, who will be hosted for lunch by the FESPA Board on Wednesday 26th October. On Thursday 27th October, VIP visitors from across Asia will attend a glittering Drivers Gala Night.

In addition to the comprehensive show floor exhibits, visitors to FESPA Asia 2011 this week will benefit from free access to the FESPA Print Pit Stop Conference, which comprises more than 20 conference sessions in four content streams – Business Leadership, CSGIA, Screen and Digital. Conference delegates will be able to update themselves on global economic and technology trends impacting the print sector, while also hearing from experts who can give them pointers on new business opportunities, innovative applications and cutting edge print techniques.

Consistent with FESPA’s objective of using its global events to bring together printers from multiple regions to share knowledge and best practice, the conference speakers include experts from across the Asia-Pacific region, as well as prominent figures from Europe and the Americas. All sessions will be simultaneously translated from English into Mandarin Chinese and Thai languages, while some will be delivered in Chinese. Visitors looking to develop their garment printing skills will also want to pay a visit to Charlie’s Corner to see global garment guru Charlie Taublieb in action.
FESPA Asia 2011 has the support of corporate sponsor EFI, and platinum sponsors J-Teck3 and Mutoh. Xaar is supporting the event in its role as FESPA’s Global Technology Partner, with d.gen acting as Digital Textile Sponsor, while EskoArtwork is present as Global Software & Finishing Partner.

On the opening of FESPA Asia 2011, FESPA Asia Ambassador Anders Nilsson remarks: “It is a great honour for FESPA to be hosting its second event here in south-east Asia, and a pleasure to be among colleagues from this dynamic and forward-looking region within FESPA’s expanding global community of screen and digital printers.

“The progress of FESPA in Asia is partly attributable to the work of our Asian associate members, who have provided valuable support to the FESPA team to deliver this world-class event. They have shared their contacts, their insights, their market intelligence and their understanding of what this region’s printers needs to thrive in the future. We are confident that FESPA Asia 2011 will be another significant milestone in FESPA’s development, and that exhibitors and visitors at this event will share a motivating and mutually rewarding experience.”

Malaysian Printer Scoops Prize In FESPA ASIA Registration Draw

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 09:32:46 +0000

The winner of the FESPA Asia 2011 pre-registration prize draw is Mr Wong Toon Hawk of wide format specialist PiXiO SDN BHD in Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia (www.pixio.com.my).

Wong Toon Hawk entered the draw by pre-registering to attend FESPA Asia (Suntec, Singapore, 26-28 October 2011) via the event web site at www.fespa.com/asia. His prize is two nights' accommodation at the 5 Star Conrad Centennial Singapore, FESPA's partner hotel adjacent to the Suntec exhibition centre, which is the venue for the exhibition.

Online pre-registration for FESPA Asia 2011 is open until 25th October 2011 at www.fespaasia.com, otherwise visitors can register directly at the show.

Germany To Host FESPA Digital 2014

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 09:46:26 +0000

FESPA event to return to Munich after stops in Barcelona (2012) and London (2013)

FESPA Digital Man has started mapping his journey beyond 2013, picking Munich, Germany, as the destination for the 2014 Digital event. The dates for the 2014 event are confirmed as Tuesday 20th to Friday 23rd May.

Deutsch / Español / Français / Italiano

The Munich show will follow the forthcoming Barcelona Digital exhibition (21 to 24 February 2012) and FESPA 2013 - the flagship 'screen + digital + textile' event - which goes to London, UK in 2013 (25 to 28 June 2013).

FESPA's European community benefits from the fact that the shows move from city to city, making the events accessible and affordable for print service providers from different regions. For exhibiting companies, this pattern ensures that the visitor audience is constantly refreshed, connecting suppliers with diverse decision-makers and buyers year after year.

"We're excited about returning to Munich three years from now", comments Neil Felton, managing director of Exhibitions and Events. "It was a very successful host city for our main FESPA event in 2005 and 2010, the city has universal appeal, and the spacious and practical venue is popular with exhibitors and visitors alike."

He continues: "FESPA has always had a strong connection to Germany, with four record-breaking events in Munich, Berlin and Hamburg over the last seven years, and a loyal base of support from German printers, including hundreds of members of BVDM, our national association.

"Southern Germany in particular delivers a strong visitor audience from throughout Germany, Austria, Switzerland and other central European countries, as well as being accessible for printers from Benelux, Italy and UK, all of which are key markets for wide format. Those factors, combined with the stability and robustness of the German economy, point to this as a good choice for our next Digital show."

As with all FESPA events, surplus revenues from FESPA Digital 2014 will be reinvested in the wide format printer community through FESPA's programme of educational and knowledge-sharing projects, directly and through FESPA's national member associations.

For further information about all FESPA events, visit www.fespa.com

DEUTSCHLAND WIRD GASTGEBER DER FESPA DIGITAL 2014

Nach Zwischenspielen in Barcelona (2012) und London (2013) kehrt die FESPA-Veranstaltung nach München zurück

Der FESPA Digital Man hat damit begonnen, seine Reise über 2013 hinaus zu planen, und München als Ort für die Digital Veranstaltung 2014 gewählt. Die Ausstellung wird 2014 von Dienstag, dem 20. Mai, bis Freitag, dem 23. Mai, stattfinden.
Die Münchner Messe folgt der bevorstehenden Digital Ausstellung in Barcelona (21. bis 24. Februar 2012) und der FESPA 2013, dem Flaggschiff-Veranstaltung für „Siebdruck, Digital und Textil", die 2013 in London stattfinden wird (25. bis 28. Juni 2013).

Die europäische Gemeinschaft der FESPA profitiert von der Tatsache, dass die Messe von Stadt zu Stadt wandert, wodurch die Veranstaltungen für Druckdienstleistungsanbieter aus unterschiedlichen Regionen zugänglich und erschwinglich werden. Für die ausstellenden Unternehmen gewährleistet dieser Standortwechsel, dass das Besucherpublikum ständig erneuert wird und Lieferanten Jahr für Jahr mit neuen Entscheidungsträgern und Käufern in Kontakt kommen.

„Wir freuen uns darüber, in drei Jahren nach München zurückzukehren", berichtet Neil Felton, Geschäftsführer für Ausstellungen und Veranstaltungen. „Es war eine sehr erfolgreiche Gastgeberstadt für unsere Haupt-FESPA-Veranstaltung in 2005 und 2010. München besitzt universelle Anziehungskraft, und das weiträumige und praktische Veranstaltungszentrum ist bei Ausstellern und Besuchern gleichermaßen beliebt."

Er fährt fort: „Die FESPA hatte schon immer eine starke Verbindung zu Deutschland. In den letzten sieben Jahren haben wir vier rekordbrechende Veranstaltungen in München, Berlin und Hamburg abgehalten, und die loyale Unterstützung deutscher Drucker erhalten, darunter Hunderte von Mitgliedern des BVDM, unseres nationalen Verbands.

Insbesondere Süddeutschland bietet ein umfangreiches Besucherpublikum aus ganz Deutschland, Österreich, der Schweiz und anderen mitteleuropäischen Ländern. Außerdem ist es für Drucker aus den Beneluxländern, Italien und Großbritannien zugänglich, die alle wichtige Märkte für den Großformatdruck darstellen. Diese Faktoren zusammen mit der Stabilität und Robustheit der deutschen Wirtschaft machen München zu einer guten Wahl für unsere nächste Digital Ausstellung."

Wie bei allen Veranstaltungen der FESPA werden auch die überschüssigen Einnahmen aus der FESPA Digital 2014 wieder über das FESPA-Programm aus Weiterbildungs- und Wissensaustauschsprojekten direkt und über die nationalen Mitgliederverbände der FESPA in die Großformatdruckergemeinschaft investiert.

Weitere Informationen zu allen FESPA-Veranstaltungen finden Sie unter www.fespa.com

ALEMANIA ACOGERÁ LA EXPOSICIÓN FESPA DIGITAL 2014
La exposición de FESPA volverá a Múnich tras su paso por Barcelona (2012) y Londres (2013)

El "hombre digital" de FESPA ha comenzado a planear su viaje para el año 2013 y ha elegido Múnich (Alemania) como destino para albergar la exposición digital de 2014. Ya se conocen incluso las fechas en las que celebrará, concretamente del martes 20 al viernes 23 de mayo de 2014.

La feria de Múnich tendrá lugar tras la próxima exposición de Barcelona (del 21 al 24 de febrero de 2012) y de FESPA 2013, el evento "pantalla, digital y textil" por excelencia, que se celebrará en Londres (Reino Unido) del 25 al 28 de junio de 2013.

La comunidad europea de FESPA es la gran beneficiada de este tour continental que realiza la exposición, ya que de esta manera queda accesible y asequible para proveedores de servicios de impresión de distintas regiones. Para las empresas expositoras, este modelo organizativo garantiza una constante renovación de la audiencia visitante y permite año tras año a los proveedores entablar contactos con un amplio abanico de responsables de la toma de decisiones y consumidores.

"Nos agrada mucho la idea de volver a Múnich dentro de tres años", ha declarado Neil Felton, director gerente de exposiciones y eventos. "La ciudad acogió de forma excepcional nuestras principales exposiciones de 2005 y 2010, y cuenta con un carisma universal y un centro tan práctico como espacioso que ya es popular entre expositores y visitantes por igual".

También añade: "FESPA siempre ha mantenido fuertes lazos con Alemania. En los últimos siete años, hemos organizado en Múnich, Berlín y Hamburgo cuatro exposiciones que han batido todos los registros, y contamos con un sólido apoyo de los impresores alemanes, entre los que se incluyen los centenares de miembros de la BVDM, que es nuestra asociación en dicho país.

"La zona meridional de Alemania concentra una gran afluencia de visitantes procedentes de toda Alemania, Austria, Suiza y otros países centroeuropeos, y es una zona accesible para impresores de Benelux, Italia y Reino Unido gracias a sus excepcionales conexiones. Todos estos países son mercados clave en la industria del gran formato. Estos factores, unidos a la estabilidad y fortaleza de la economía alemana, no hacen sino convencernos de que hemos hecho una sabia elección".

Como ocurre tras todos los eventos de FESPA, el excedente de ingresos que genere FESPA Digital 2014 será reinvertido en la comunidad de impresores de gran formato por medio del programa de proyectos educativos y de intercambio de conocimientos de FESPA. Dicha reinversión se realizará de forma directa y a través de las asociaciones de miembros nacionales de FESPA.
Si desea más información acerca de los eventos de FESPA, visite www.fespa.com

LA GERMANIA OSPITERÀ FESPA DIGITAL 2014

FESPA tornerà a Monaco dopo aver fatto tappa a Barcellona (2012) e a Londra (2013)

Il Digital Man di FESPA ha iniziato a programmare il suo viaggio per dopo il 2013 scegliendo Monaco, Germania, come destinazione per l'evento Digitale del 2014. Le date confermate per l'evento del 2014 sono da martedì 20 a venerdì 23 maggio.

La fiera di Monaco seguirà la prossima manifestazione Barcelona Digital (dal 21 al 24 febbraio 2012) e FESPA 2013, il principale evento dedicato a 'serigrafia + digitale + tessile´ che si terrà a Londra, Regno Unito, nel 2013 (dal 25 al 28 giugno 2013).

La comunità europea di FESPA gode dei vantaggi derivanti dal fatto che la manifestazione cambi sede spostandosi di città in città, rendendo così i vari eventi visitabili e accessibili ai fornitori di servizi di stampa di regioni diverse. Per le società espositrici questo pattern assicura che il pubblico dei visitatori sia costantemente rinnovato, mettendo in contatto fornitori con decision-maker e compratori diversi anno dopo anno.

"Siamo entusiasti di tornare a Monaco fra tre anni", commenta Neil Felton, Amministratore Delegato per le manifestazioni ed eventi di FESPA. "Monaco è stata una città ospitante di grande successo per il nostro principale evento FESPA nel 2005 e nel 2010. La città ha un richiamo universale e la sua sede spaziosa e pratica gode di molta popolarità sia tra gli espositori che tra i visitatori."

Continua Neil Felton: "FESPA ha avuto sempre un legame molto forte con la Germania, con quattro eventi che hanno battuto tutti i record come quelli di Monaco, Berlino e Amburgo negli ultimi sette anni e ha da sempre offerto una solida base di supporto da parte degli stampatori tedeschi, comprese le centinaia di membri di BVDM, la nostra associazione nazionale.

"Il sud della Germania in particolare convoglia un vasto pubblico di visitatori provenienti da tutta la Germania, Austria, Svizzera e da altri paesi dell'Europa centrale ed è altrettanto accessibile agli stampatori provenienti dal Benelux, Italia e Regno Unito, tutti mercati di grande importanza per il grande formato. Questi fattori, insieme alla stabilità e solidità dell'economia tedesca, fanno sì che Monaco rappresenti un'ottima scelta per la nostra prossima manifestazione Digital."

Come per tutti gli eventi FESPA, le plusvalenze provenienti da FESPA Digital 2014 saranno reinvestite nella comunità degli stampatori del largo formato attraverso il programma FESPA su progetti formativi e di condivisione delle conoscenze, direttamente e tramite le società nazionali dei soci FESPA.

Per ulteriori informazioni su tutti gli eventi FESPA, visitare www.fespa.com

L'ALLEMAGNE ACCUEILLE FESPA DIGITAL 2014

Le salon FESPA revient à Munich après être passé par Barcelone (2012) et Londres(2013)

FESPA Digital Man a déjà prévu son parcours après 2013, avec Munich en Allemagne comme destination pour le salon de 2014. Les dates pour 2014 sont confirmées, l'événement aura lieu du mardi 20 mai au vendredi 23 mai.

Le salon de Munich se déroulera donc après la prochaine exposition qui doit se tenir à Barcelone (du 21 au 24 février 2012) et FESPA 2013 – l'événement phare sérigraphie + numérique + textile – qui aura lieu à Londres au Royaume-Uni en 2013 (du 25 au 28 juin 2013).

La communauté européenne de FESPA bénéficie de cette mobilité du salon qui se produit de ville en ville, rendant l'événement accessible et abordable pour les prestataires de services de différentes régions. Pour les sociétés exposantes, ceci a l'avantage d'avoir toujours un renouvellement du panel de visiteurs, mettant en relation les fournisseurs avec les différents acheteurs et preneurs de décision d'année en année.

« Nous sommes ravis de revenir à Munich dans trois ans », déclare Neil Felton, directeur général des expositions et des événements. « Notre événement principal FESPA fut un réel succès à deux reprises en 2005 et 2010, la ville présente un attrait universel, et le lieu spacieux et pratique est très populaire auprès des exposants et des visiteurs ».

Il ajoute : « FESPA a toujours eu des liens forts avec l'Allemagne qui détient le record des quatre événements les plus réussis à Munich, Berlin et Hambourg au cours de ces sept dernières années, et qui constitue une base de soutien fidèle de la part des imprimeurs allemands, y compris de centaines de membres du BVDM, notre association nationale.

« La région sud de l'Allemagne en particulier bénéficie d'un public de visiteurs étendu venant de toute l'Allemagne, de l'Autriche, de la Suisse et d'autres pays de l'Europe de l'est, et elle est également accessible aux imprimeurs du Benelux, de l'Italie et du R-U qui sont tous des marchés clés pour le grand format. Ces facteurs associés à la stabilité et la solidité de l'économie allemande en font un excellent choix pour notre prochain salon Digital ».

Comme pour chaque événement FESPA, les excédents de revenus issus de FESPA Digital 2014 seront réinvestis dans la communauté des imprimeurs du grand format à travers le programme des projets éducatifs et de partage des connaissances, directement ainsi que par le biais des associations nationales membres de FESPA.

Pour plus d'informations sur les événements FESPA, visitez notre site sur www.fespa.com..

FESPA ASIA 2011 VIP Programme Acknowledges Top Printers

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:15:07 +0000

Asia's top print service providers can still register as VIPs for FESPA Asia in Singapore later this month (26-28 October 2011, Suntec, Singapore), by visiting the FESPA Asia web site at www.fespa.com/asia/visitors/vip .

VIPs will experience a number of exclusive benefits during FESPA Asia 2011. These include an invitation to the FESPA Asia Drivers Gala Night, fast track access to the show together with a designated VIP registration desk, and access to the private VIP lounge. They will also receive discounts at some of Suntec's 1,000 shops, 300 restaurants and bars, and free admission to FESPA Asia's comprehensive conference programme.

"We want the region's most successful and influential printers to gather at this important pan-regional event, and many of them have received personalised VIP invitations from FESPA already," explains Neil Felton, FESPA's Managing Director, "but there is still time for printers to nominate themselves or their colleagues to be accorded VIP status."

Print service providers who wish to nominate themselves or their peers should visit www.fespa.com/asia/visitors/vip and complete the online registration form. FESPA will then contact the nominated individuals with up-to-date VIP news.

"Our global FESPA exhibitions are renowned for attracting the highest calibre of visitor. Senior managers, CEOs and other decision makers will attend FESPA Asia with the intention of investigating and purchasing the industry's newest and most innovative products. Knowing that FESPA Asia will host so many important entrepreneurs and managers, it is right that we offer these printers the benefits that come with VIP status," says Neil Felton. "We're happy to welcome Asia's printers to Singapore in October, and hope that our VIPs benefit from an enhanced visitor experience," he concludes.

To find out more about FESPA Asia 2011, read the latest exhibitor news and register to attend the show, or nominate a VIP, visit www.fespaasia.com.

FESPA’S European Global Summit Pushes Printers to Explore the Opportunities in Digital Print

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:40:13 +0000

Leading printers invited to FESPA Digital host city from 17-18 November

FESPA is compiling a rich programme of content for its forthcoming leadership event, the European Global Summit, taking place on the 17th and 18th November at the Dolce Sitges Hotel near Barcelona. Addressed to leading print service providers and their key suppliers, the European Global Summit is designed to provide printers with information and insights to help them diversify their businesses into new market niches. This event perfectly matches FESPA's key objectives of sharing knowledge and tackling the issues the wide format community is facing.

FESPA aims to use the Summit to stimulate debate and help printers develop innovative solutions or embark on strategic actions to drive their growth. The event will also give printers a taste of the vibrant host city for FESPA Digital 2012 (21st - 24th February). Confirmed speakers so far include respected analysts and consultants in the printing industry together with leading figures in the marketing arena; sessions will cover both technical and communication driven subjects. Conference sessions are in English, with simultaneous translation into Spanish.

Following an opening address from print innovator Christian Duyckaerts, FESPA Head of Events and New Media Duncan MacOwan will share the results of FESPA research into the evolution of print and the print buying community. Dr Neil Hopkinson, BEng (Hons) MIET CEng, Senior Lecturer at the University of Loughborough, will highlight the potential of 3D printing, while John Charnock, Director of Print Research International, will update delegates on how to deploy special printing effects to produce added value applications.

On the marketing side, Brian Robbitt, European Learning & Development Manager - Coca Cola Enterprises Ltd Director - Good to Great Ltd, will offer development tips to polish leadership skills, while Mark Cruise, Head of Print Management for BSkyB, will give delegates the benefit of his deep experience working for the most comprehensive multi-channel television service in the UK to explain what modern PSPs have to do to win business. With environmental credentials becoming increasingly crucial along the print supply chain, Nick Widdowson, Merchandising Manager for FMCG brand giant Unilever will explain the importance of sustainability in print purchasing.

Delegates can also expect insights into exciting market niches such as interior decoration and hear the views of successful print leaders and creative professionals on the role of print in the media mix. Sales, Marketing and Business Models workshops will offer inspirational ideas to expand market proposition, and interactive sessions will allow attendees to engage with speakers to delve into specific areas of interest to them.

FESPA Managing Director Exhibitions & Events, Neil Felton, comments: "FESPA is committed to stimulating the large format community with provocative debates and events. Mapping the direction of the market and highlighting future drivers is pivotal to us. Large format is still on a growth curve and plays a crucial role in the contemporary marketing mix. This Summit will celebrate that, and give us fresh themes and challenges to address through the content programme at our forthcoming Digital event in February. Our motive is to encourage printers to embrace change and opportunity."

Participation in this leadership summit is by invitation from FESPA and its sponsors. The conference programme itself is free of charge to invited guests. Printer delegates need only cover their travel to Sitges and one night's accommodation at the hotel, where FESPA has negotiated discounted accommodation.

To register interest in receiving a VIP invitation to attend the FESPA Global Summit, printers should contact Duncan MacOwan at FESPA via duncan.macowan@fespa.com, providing a brief summary of their business credentials. To keep abreast with the updated programme, please visit the website www.fespa.com/globalsummit.

Corporate Video Launched – Another FESPA First

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:41:23 +0000

The first ever FESPA Corporate Video was premiered at FESPA's General Assembly in Budapest in front of representatives from FESPA's national associations, the FESPA Board and staff.

Following a number of consultations from within the print community, it was decided that FESPA needed a vehicle to showcase not just the vast array of products, services and exhibitions but also the value that these bring to members of the FESPA community.

"The video was extremely well received and translations are currently being prepared to ensure that it is available in every language of FESPA's 36 national associations" said Chris Rimer, Corporate Commercial Manager. Chris continued "Whilst key issues are addressed such as the environment and knowledge sharing, there is one message that comes across loud and clear – that FESPA is a partnership, a team of global and local experts".

Head of Membership Services, Chris Smith added: "We have worked hard with our design agency to produce something which is truly representative of our wide portfolio of activities and the FESPA Corporate team hopes everyone in the FESPA community will now be fully aware of what FESPA does and will support our vision for FESPA to become the leading globally connected imaging community."

For more information on membership, please click here

Explore The Wider Opportunities: FESPA Digital 2012 Helps Printers Plan Their Business Journey

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 13:21:35 +0000

FESPA has launched its marketing campaign for FESPA Digital 2012, Barcelona, Spain, which takes place at the Fira de Barcelona Gran Via exhibition centre from 21 to 24 February 2012.

The campaign features the now-iconic FESPA Digital Man, this time facing a choice of interesting routes to pursue on his digital journey, under a strapline which challenges printers to "Explore the Wider Opportunities".

Marketing activity for the February 2012 event centres on the FESPA Digital website which is now live at www.fespadigital.com, with information in 4 languages. The campaign will include a comprehensive programme of advertising across leading industry publications and web sites, extensive public relations and social media activity through FESPA's Wide Network, Twitter and Facebook, targeted direct marketing to print service providers in over 80 countries, and a series of promotional events to publicise the show and engage with key visitor groups to ensure that the event reflects their needs and business concerns.

Building on the success of the last Digital event in Hamburg in May 2011, the move to Barcelona for 2012 is expected to increase the event's appeal for service providers from Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and north Africa, in addition to FESPA's well established northern and eastern European audiences.

Marketing Manager Lynda Sutton explains the thinking behind the new campaign:

"The familiar 'Digital Man' was born out of our 'Revolution' campaign for FESPA Digital 2009 in Amsterdam, which captured the dramatic digital revolution transforming our community. In Hamburg in 2011, the message progressed to 'Evolution', acknowledging a maturing market, and emphasising that the key to commercial success post-recession was for business managers to evolve and adapt their offering proactively to reflect changing market conditions."

She continues:

"Looking ahead to 2012, we see a market rich in opportunities for innovative wide format printers, and a market-leading specialist event like FESPA is by far the best environment in which to explore these. Whether by implementing new technologies or processes, increasing automation, diversifying into different wide format applications, experimenting with new substrates and inks, developing new services or business models, offering more complete end-to-end solutions, or even moving into entirely new market segments; no printer needs to remain stationary."

The campaign imagery is very positive: Digital Man - representative as he is of any print service provider who embraces the potential of digital technology - is in the driving seat, with an array of options ahead of him. He is heading towards a bright horizon, a contemporary cityscape full of potential outlets for his products and services.

FESPA Managing Director of exhibitions and events, Neil Felton concludes:

"As our campaign collateral says, 'business is a journey'. It involves stops and starts, joys and frustrations. Like any journey, preparation is everything and there should be pleasure in the planning, and excitement in anticipation of the unexpected discoveries that surprise and energise. With 400 exhibitors in a single giant hall, and the captivating city of Barcelona as the backdrop, a trip to FESPA Digital 2012 is guaranteed to give wide format print service providers all the information, insight and inspiration they need to plan the next stage of their own journey and speed their progress."

For more information about FESPA Digital, to pre-register, and to help plan your trip to Barcelona, visit www.fespa.com/digital.

Las Sólidas Ventas En La Exposición Estimulan La Reserva En El Acto De Los Expositores De FESPA México Para El Próximo Año

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 09:56:35 +0000

FESPA ha confirmado que FESPA México 2012 se realizará del 20 al 22 de septiembre de 2012 en el Centro Banamex, Ciudad de México.

FESPA México 2011 se ha anunciado como la exposición más exitosa hasta el momento, al reflejar una economía regional más segura y la evolución positiva del evento FESPA durante su trayectoria de cuatro años. Al atraer a más de 8250 visitantes, los expositores comentaron sobre la calidad de los visitantes e informaron sólidas ventas con un incremento en las operaciones comerciales en comparación con el año 2010. La proporción de personas encargadas de tomar las decisiones en FESPA México 2011 también siguió siendo impresionante: los propietarios y directivos conformaban el 51% de la asistencia de visitantes, y las personas con autoridad para tomar decisiones un 40%.

Por consiguiente, ya se ha completado el 50% del espacio físico disponible en la FESPA México 2012 del próximo año, y los expositores han vuelto a reservar su stand para el año 2012 en el acto. En general, los expositores que han reservado su lugar para 2012 también han aumentado el tamaño de su stand en un 14%.

Luego de un período económico difícil, la temática maya de FESPA México de "Un nuevo amanecer en la impresión digital" reflejó el panorama más positivo de la economía de América Latina. En julio, la CEPAL (Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Caribe) predijo que la economía de México crecería un 4% en 2011, una cifra que indica un futuro saludable para las industrias manufactureras de México. FESPA alentó a las empresas de impresión de México para que vean la recuperación de la economía como una posibilidad de obtener oportunidades futuras. Los visitantes de FESPA México implementaron esto y el 54% expresó su intención de invertir en la exposición, o dentro de los seis meses de la muestra.

"FESPA México fue genial en cuanto a las ventas", afirma el expositor Andrea Negretti, Presidente de EMEA en d.gen y Gerente comercial a nivel mundial, "y hemos vendido más máquinas que en 2010".

"FESPA México creció un 18% en 2011 en cuanto al espacio físico", afirma Michael Ryan, Gerente de exposición de FESPA México. "Pero la exposición también evoluciona de manera positiva en otras formas. La calidad de la exposición es algo que los expositores y los visitantes siempre comentan y, a partir de lo que nos dicen, cada vez es mejor. Nos han alegrado los comentarios positivos que hemos recibido, y el índice sin precedentes de reserva para el próximo año es un logro importante".

Agrega: "Nuestra campaña VIP para FESPA México 2011 fue un gran éxito: las personas VIP que asisten a la exposición aumentaron en un 25%. Pusimos mucho esfuerzo en identificar y focalizar proveedores líderes del servicio de impresión de México, y su asistencia demuestra que ahora FESPA es la exposición a la que no se puede faltar en este país".

Los puntos destacados de la FESPA México 2011 incluyeron la cuarta etapa de la competencia Wrap Cup Masters Series, patrocinada por 3M, Epson y Leister. Con una gran multitud, 24 participantes se disputaron el título mexicano, y José Antonio Ramírez de Dyes Desarrollos Empresariales obtuvo el primer lugar. El competidor que obtuvo el segundo lugar fue Jorge Cruz González de Improart en Guadalajara. El Presidente de FESPA presentó a José Antonio Ramírez después de su victoria con la copa del campeón. Además, recibió el premio de un viaje a FESPA Digital 2012, que se realizará en Barcelona, España (del 21 al 24 de febrero de 2012).

La no fue la única atracción estelar del evento; el taller de impresión serigráfica Screen Print Workshop atrajo a más de 50 participantes activos en los tres días, quienes estaban interesados en obtener una experiencia de aprendizaje práctico, instrucciones técnicas y asesoramiento específico de los especialistas en impresión Charlie Taublieb (también conocido como Dr. Print), Wetzeny Torres y otras personas. Además, los seminarios educativos de FESPA demostraron ser muy populares: las audiencias se desbordaron en varias sesiones. Los visitantes a la exposición estaban muy interesados en las tutorías diarias de Corel, cuya popularidad provocó que Corel duplicara la duración de las sesiones.

Los expositores en FESPA México 2011 no dudaron en elogiar la cuarta exposición de FESPA México y Gabriela Ochoa, Gerente de comercialización en HP, afirmó: "Estamos muy contentos con los niveles de asistencia del evento, y hemos tenido una exposición muy exitosa". Edsel Lonza, Gerente de ventas para América Latina de Xaar, comentó: "FESPA México es un evento profesional maravilloso, la calidad de los visitantes es excelente".

Luis Garrido Irueste, Gerente de ventas de AllWin México, confirmó este sentimiento general y afirmó: "Hemos vendido muchas máquinas aquí en FESPA México 2011. La calidad de los visitantes ha sido maravillosa; principalmente hemos visto propietarios de empresas que han podido tomar decisiones de compras. Este año ocupamos un stand más grande y estamos satisfechos con los resultados, y ya nos hemos inscrito para la exposición del año que viene".

Guillermo García de la Peña, Gerente de comercialización en Epson México, comentó:

"FESPA México es una de las mejores exposiciones de artes gráficas del año. En cuanto a los visitantes, la exposición atrae la combinación adecuada, no solo propietarios de empresas de impresión sino también equipos de producción para que puedan tomar una decisión conjunta sobre el equipamiento. Participamos en la FESPA México ya que es un excelente foro para demostrar las capacidades de nuestro equipamiento; este era nuestro objetivo para el año 2011 y lo logramos en un 100%".

Michael Ryan de FESPA concluye:

"FESPA México es un verdadero reflejo de la industria mexicana de la impresión. Nos hemos sentido estimulados por el crecimiento de los distribuidores nacionales y también el aumento en la cantidad de fabricantes internacionales que ellos representan. La exposición también ha revelado varias tendencias de mercado. Vimos que se vendieron muchas impresoras solventes y, en realidad, había muchos más dispositivos solventes en la exposición de aquí que en nuestros eventos europeos, y las ventas de impresoras UV de cama plana también fueron predominantes. La impresión serigráfica también demostró ser sumamente popular y parece tener un enorme potencial de crecimiento en México. Parece que hay un fuerte interés por la tecnología nueva. Al anticipar el futuro en 2012, yo plantearía la hipótesis de que los productos ambientales tendrán una gran demanda, y que las empresas investigarán las últimas soluciones para mejorar su flujo de trabajo y la gestión de procesos. FESPA está planificando algunas actividades en la región durante los siguientes 12 meses, de esa forma obtendremos una perspectiva de gran valor a la hora de ayudarnos a personalizar nuestros planes para satisfacer las necesidades de las empresas de impresión que se encuentran aquí en el mercado mexicano de la impresión".

FESPA México 2012 se realizará del 20 al 22 de septiembre, en el Centro Banamex, Ciudad de México. Para obtener más información, visite: www.fespaMéxico.com

Strong Show Sales Prompt Rapid Re-Booking From FESPA Mexico Exhibitors

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:06:02 +0000

FESPA confirms FESPA Mexico 2012 will take place on 20-22 September 2012 at Centro Banamex, Mexico City.

FESPA Mexico 2011 has been heralded the most successful yet, reflecting a more confident regional economy and the positive evolution of the FESPA event during its four year history. Attracting upwards of 8,250 visitors, exhibitors commented on the quality of the visitors and reported strong sales with an increase in business compared with 2010. The proportion of decision-makers at FESPA Mexico 2011 also remained impressive, with owners and senior managers making up 51% of the visitor turnout, and with 40% holding decision-making authority.

Consequently 50% of floor space at next year's FESPA Mexico 2012 has already been filled, with exhibitors re-booking their 2012 booths immediately. On average, exhibitors booking for 2012 have also increased the size of their booths by 14%.

Following a difficult economic period, FESPA Mexico's Mayan theme of a 'New Dawn in Digital Printing' reflected the more positive outlook of the Latin American economy. In July the ECLAC (Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean) predicted that the Mexican economy will grow by 4% in 2011, a figure which indicates a healthy future for Mexico's manufacturing industries. FESPA encouraged Mexican printers to see the recovery of the economy as a chance to embrace future opportunities. Visitors to FESPA Mexico took this on board, with 54% expressing their intention to invest at the show, or within six months of the exhibition.

"We had a great FESPA Mexico in terms of sales," says exhibitor Andrea Negretti, President d.gen EMEA & Worldwide Business Manager, "and we have sold more machinery than in 2010."

"FESPA Mexico grew by 18% in 2011 in terms of space," says Michael Ryan, Exhibition Manager, FESPA Mexico. "But the show is also evolving positively in other ways. The quality of the show is something exhibitors and visitors remark on each time, and from what we are told, it just keeps getting better. We have been struck by the positive feedback we have received, and the unprecedented rebooking rate is a significant achievement."

He adds: "Our VIP campaign for FESPA Mexico 2011 was a great success, with a 25% increase in VIPs attending the exhibition. We put a lot of effort into identifying and targeting Mexico's leading print service providers, and their attendance proves that FESPA is now the show to be at in Mexico."

Highlights of FESPA Mexico 2011 included the fourth stage of the Wrap Cup Masters Series, supported by 3M, Epson and Leister. Attracting considerable crowds, 24 participants battled it out for the Mexican title, with José Antonio Ramírez from Dyes Desarrollos Empresariales coming in first place. The second place competitor was Jorge Cruz González from Improart in Guadalajara. Following his win, José Antonio Ramírez was presented with the champion cup by FESPA President, in addition to being awarded a trip to FESPA Digital 2012, taking place in Barcelona, Spain (21-24 February 2012).

The Wrap Cup Masters Series wasn't the only star attraction of the event; the Screen Print Workshop drew more than 50 active participants across the three days who were keen to gain hands-on learning experience, technical guidance, and expert advice from print specialists Charlie Taublieb (aka Dr Print), Wetzeny Torres and others. Furthermore FESPA's educational seminars proved especially popular, with audiences overflowing in a number of sessions. Visitors to the show were particularly attracted to Corel's daily tutorials, the popularity of which resulted in Corel doubling the length of the sessions.

Exhibitors at FESPA Mexico 2011 were quick to compliment the fourth FESPA Mexico show, with Gabriela Ochoa, Marketing Manager for HP saying: "We are very happy with the attendance levels of the event, and we've had a very successful show." Edsel Lonza, Sales Manager for Latin America, Xaar commented: "FESPA Mexico is a great professional event, the quality of visitors is excellent."

Affirming the general feeling, Luis Garrido Irueste, Sales Manager, AllWin México said:

"We have sold a lot of machinery here at FESPA Mexico 2011. The quality of visitors has been great; we have predominantly seen owners of businesses who have been able to make purchasing decisions. We took a larger booth this year and we have been pleased with the results, and have already signed up for next year's show."

Guillermo García de la Peña, Marketing Manager at Epson México remarked:

"FESPA Mexico is one of the best graphic arts exhibitions of the year. In terms of visitors, it attracts the right mix, not only the print business owners but the production teams too so they can make a joint decision about equipment. We exhibit at FESPA Mexico as it is an excellent forum to demonstrate the capabilities of our equipment - this was our objective for 2011 and we met it 100%."

FESPA's Michael Ryan concludes:

"FESPA Mexico is a true reflection of the Mexican printing industry. We've been encouraged by the growth of the national distributors and also the increase in the number of international manufacturers they represent. The show has also revealed a number of market trends. We saw a lot solvent machines being sold, and in fact there were far more solvent devices on show here than in our European events and UV flatbed sales were also prevalent. Screen printing also proved extremely popular and appears to have huge growth potential in Mexico. There seems to be a strong appetite for new technology. Looking ahead to 2012 I would speculate that environmental products will be in high demand, and that companies will be investigating the latest solutions to improve their workflow and process management. FESPA is planning some activities in the region over the next 12 months so this insight will be invaluable in helping us tailor our plans to satisfy the needs of printers here in the Mexican print market."

FESPA Mexico 2012 will take places on 20-22 September, at Centro Banamex, Mexico City. For more information visit: www.fespamexico.com

Mutoh signs up as latest FESPA Asia sponsor

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 09:17:04 +0000

Wide-format printer manufacturer Mutoh has been confirmed as both an exhibitor and platinum sponsor of the upcoming FESPA Asia 2011 trade fair in Singapore. Mutoh joins J-Teck3, EFI, d.gen, EskoArtwork and Xaar on the list of supporters of the show, taking place from October 26th to 28th.

"We're thrilled that FESPA Asia has attracted such an amazing line-up of show sponsors, and that Mutoh has now been added to this list," says Neil Felton, managing director, FESPA.

"FESPA's sponsors have a very important role to play in our events; they help to shape content with their feedback, and provide us with direct insight into the needs of the print service community. With companies like Mutoh involved, we can guarantee that FESPA Asia 2011 is the most relevant, interesting and important exhibition for printers across the Asian regions."

Masashi Gomi, general manager, Mutoh Singapore, adds: "[We] feel confident that the show will be one of the most successful and influential print events in 2011. Supporting FESPA Asia is a great honour, and we are certain that it will provide the perfect platform [for] us to showcase our innovative range of products and meet new customers."

FESPA Bolsters Event Team With New Business Development Role

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:28:06 +0000

FESPA is expanding its Exhibitions and Events team with the appointment of Geraldine Chiverton (45 years old) as Business Development Manager, reporting to exhibition managers Michael Ryan and James Ford.

Geraldine brings close to a decade's experience of business-to-business events, most recently as exhibition sales director on Dubai-based GulfPrint & GulfPack, a flagship sector event in the Middle East region with a satellite programme of conferences and workshops. Prior to that she gained event experience with EMAP Communications working on the leading event for the recycling and waste management sector, giving her valuable insights into the environmental issues that also concern FESPA's global print community. Her earlier career was in publishing, where she occupied a series of sales management positions across business and consumer publications.

Geraldine's initial focus at FESPA will be on the FESPA Digital 2012 event (Barcelona, Spain, 21 to 24 February 2012) exploring areas of potential development for exhibitors and visitors. She will work with exhibitors to ensure that they access all relevant services from FESPA, while also assessing ways of developing FESPA Digital so that it continues to reflect the wider business development opportunities now available to wide-format print service providers.

Neil Felton comments: "Three months into my role as managing director, I see the creation of this specific business development role as an important step for FESPA's continued development. Our portfolio of global events has grown - and continues to grow – rapidly. We have a full international calendar of educational events such as our Global Summits and Conferences. We are operating in a dynamic and competitive market where our exhibitors and sponsors justifiably have high expectations of FESPA, and our ability to match their needs with appropriate products and services. Geraldine has the experience, market knowledge and personal qualities to build on FESPA's success to date, developing our proposition to exhibitors and visitors in ways that add value for them and that reflect the ongoing evolution of the markets in which they operate."

Sunwrap.DK Win Wrap Cup Series at FESPA Digital 2011

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 11:13:00 +0000

FESPA Digital 2011 played host to the third lap of the FESPA Wrap Cup Masters Series in Hamburg last week, where Danish printers Sun Wrap took first place. Lindahl Wrapping, also from Denmark, came second. The competitive series, which is taking place in eight stages over three years, is set to culminate in a grand World Wrap Cup Master finale at FESPA 2013 in London.

In London, SunWrap.dk will compete against Miller Decals, winners of the FESPA Americas 2011 leg, and winners of future wrap cup competitions.

A total of 28 teams arrived in Hamburg to take part in the competition which promised each competitor a 1,500€ prize package of vouchers for software, vinyl and tools. The four finalists were awarded a 6,000€ package while the first and second placed teams chose from a Mutoh Kona 1400 cutter and a Royal Sovereign Laminator.

Within each stage of the competition, a collection of prestigious cars provide a blank canvas for vinyl mastery. At FESPA Digital 2011 in Hamburg, the competitors wrapped a Smart Car to match the one driven to Hamburg by FESPA's Digital Man.

Head judge Rob Ivers, founder of the PDAA (Professional Decal Application Alliance), comments:

"This was the most competitive of the Wrap Cup Series events so far. The quality of the finished cars easily surpassed previous stages and the competitors were all world-class. Despite this, Sun Wrap's completed car was a clear winner as it represented a near perfect wrap. These guys will be serious competitors in the 2013 finale. The event is also proving to be increasingly popular for show visitors, with bigger audiences than we have seen at previous shows."

Also on the judging panel in Hamburg were Michael Meyer of F+Z and Mafred Ratajczak of Digital Designware (Germany), Paul Koch from Signbase (The Netherlands) and Ole Ravn (Denmark). Each judge used their expert knowledge to evaluate the contestants on both the speed and quality of their wraps.

Jesper Sølager, Owner of SunWrap.dk comments: "It was a really exciting competition, with many truly talented car wrappers competing, and it was a very close run race. We felt very comfortable during the competition and we had to control our nerves all the way to the final, so I was glad that in the end we managed to pull off a perfect wrap.

"The prizes we received were fantastic, but for us, the status of Wrap Cup Champion is the best reward. We are now really looking forward to the competition at FESPA 2013 in London, but I wouldn't want to be a judge there. The competition will be fierce and they will have to be very strict as everyone will fight hard for the title. No matter what, our team will give 100%."

FESPA Secures Discounted Flights and Rooms for Asia Show Visitors

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 09:51:36 +0000

FESPA has teamed up with Singapore Airlines and hotel agent HelmsBriscoe to offer visitors to FESPA Asia 2011 (26-28 October, Singapore) a series of money-saving deals on flights and accommodation.

As official airline carrier for FESPA Asia 2011, Singapore Airlines will offer visitors to FESPA Asia competitive, commission-free air fares direct via their local Singapore Airlines Office, a list of which is available at www.fespaasia.com. Singapore Airlines operates passenger services to more than 60 cities in over 30 countries around the world. Within Asia, passengers can connect to over 30 cities served by SilkAir, its regional wing. Singapore Airlines recently scooped the World’s Best Business Class Award in the 2011 World Airline Awards, and passengers in all classes enjoy features like KrisWorld, an in-flight entertainment system that extends to your laptop and in-flight phone. To take advantage of Singapore Airline’s deals, visitors can simply contact their nearest Singapore Airlines Office and quote the code SA_FESPA_0985.

Also partnering FESPA for the Asia exhibition is hotel agent HelmsBriscoe. Providing travellers with a series of discounts and special room rates during their stay, HelmsBriscoe can organise both accommodation and meeting space bookings on their behalf. To access the most exclusive hotel rates in Singapore, visit https://resweb.passkey.com/go/FESPA. Early booking is recommended to receive the best deals.

FESPA Asia Marketing Manager Lynda Sutton comments: “FESPA serves a global community, and we see it as our responsibility to make our events affordable and accessible for printers from across the regions they serve. Singapore is an amazing venue for FESPA Asia 2011 and these partnerships will help printers from southern Asia, China, Japan, south-east Asia and Australasia to enjoy the commercial and educational benefits of participating in this special pan-regional event.”

For more information on FESPA Asia 2011, and to find out about travel and accommodation in Singapore visit www.fespaasia.com.

FESPA Supported Eastern European Event Introduces Printers to the Future of their Industry

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:02:32 +0000

FESPA’s Slovakian (Sietotlacovy zvaz SR) and Czech (Sitotiskovy svaz CR) member associations will join together from 14th – 15th October 2011 in Piešťany, Slovakia, to deliver their 7th FESPA supported seminar, ‘Bill 7’. This annual seminar attracts screen and digital printers from across Eastern Europe to discover the latest industry trends and insights applicable to their business. Supported by FESPA as part of its Reinvestment Programme, Bill 7 is also open to students from the region by invitation.

Over a two day period attendees will engage with print experts through a series of presentations and workshops on topics including technologies, inks, printing methods and innovative business models.

“It is seven years since we launched the seminar, and in that time we have been happy to see printers return again and again to connect with colleagues from around Eastern Europe. Aside from the practical and commercial knowledge exchanged, the atmosphere in which it occurs is extraordinary,” says Ludovit Bartos, Secretary of Sietotlacovy Zvaz SR. “There’s a real social aspect to the seminar, and we believe this relaxed atmosphere facilitates a more efficient transfer of information than can be delivered online.”

The first day of ‘Bill 7’ steps away from the traditional seminar format, inviting delegates to review the printed artwork of local secondary art school students to see the print industry’s future talent. The work was produced as part of a competition, sponsored by Océ, in which art students were challenged to design a series of posters and submit them online to be printed digitally. The three winning designs will be presented to the delegates, along with the work of others for discussion. Running alongside this, a roundtable event will facilitate networking and product demonstrations between printers and print vendors.

The seminar line-up includes print pioneer Michel Caza who will share his experience as the first printer to use water-based UV for professional textile printing. He will be followed by Sergij Glushko from SL Graphics, Ukraine, who will discuss environmentally friendly materials for the production of POS and advertising graphics. He will also reveal his expertise in the manufacturing and application of EL and LED displays. While production tends to dominate management thinking, Martin Novotny, Senior Consultant of Grafie Cz, Czech Republic, will talk about the importance of marketing for sales success. He will describe how the implementation of simple marketing techniques can influence a company’s prospects and profitability.

Following the success of FESPA Digital 2011, FESPA’s Head of Membership Services, Chris Smith, will be on hand to provide delegates with a detailed account of Europe’s largest digital print event. For Slovak and Czech printers who were unable to attend this year’s exhibition, Chris will share exhibition highlights and industry trends made apparent from visitor and exhibitor data as well as providing an insight into whether digital signage is a threat or opportunity for printers.

“FESPA is proud to support events like Bill 7. The speaker line-up is always first-class and the programme is committed to helping business managers and students discover what is needed to drive business forward and to stand out from the competition. This year is no exception and we look forward to participating in this insightful and interesting event,” says Chris Smith.

Continuing its support for the printers of the future, the Slovakian association, with the support of FESPA and the Slovakian Government, will also engage with students with a series of practical workshops during the coming school year. Having helped to develop a screen printing department within Trencin secondary art school, they will provide screen and digital print training for students. Inks and other materials including squeegees will be provided by generous local industry sponsors. The workshops will take place between September 2011 and February 2012. At the end of this time the students will each receive copies of their prints. Outstanding work will be printed and exhibited at local exhibitions and hopefully at FESPA 2013 in London.

Delegate fees for members of FESPA national member associations are 105 EUR for the full package, or 50 EUR excluding the hotel room. For non-members the price is 125 EUR including one nights’ accommodation, and 80 EUR excluding accommodation.

Places are limited so for more details, and to register to attend Bill 7 visit www.sietotlacovyzvaz.sk

Printers Prepare For Largest Ever FESPA Mexico

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:31:56 +0000

Thousands of Latin American print service providers will be heading to FESPA Mexico 2011 (18 – 20 August 2011) in order to discover the latest industry trends, developments and innovations. The event, which is 20% bigger than in 2010, is being held at Centro Banamex in Mexico City, the region's most important business centre.

As a modern, vibrant city, Mexico D.F. is one of the most important metropolises in America, and the eighth richest in the world. It is also one of the biggest, safest and, increasingly, most important hubs for the North and Latin American print industry.

With global manufacturers including Agfa, Canon, Fujifilm, HP and Konica Minolta exhibiting alongside 150 other leading companies and regional distributors, FESPA Mexico 2011 expects to attract over 9,000 printers to the three-day show. Promising to be the most focused event for the graphic arts industry in Mexico, the show program is packed full of educational and exciting show-floor features.

The Seminar Theatre is a 'must' for printers keen to gain insight and expert knowledge from the industry's leading spokespeople. Confirmed speakers include Julie Kim from d.gen who will discuss digital textile printing, plus a session from Edsel Lonza, Xaar. In addition Ernande Ramos and Eladio Veron from EskoArtwork will present a session on workflow: how to improve profitability and reduce time to print.

Throughout the three days of FESPA Mexico, the Seminar Theatre will additionally host daily sessions from pre-press leaders, Adobe and Corel. Introducing their latest software solutions during these conferences, participants will learn a range of useful hints and tips for getting the most out of their imaging, digital media creation, editing, multimedia authoring, and web development software.

A series of lively debates are also scheduled to take place at 16:00h on each day of the Seminar Theatre, the topics being 'The "Green" issue', 'What does the future hold for the Mexican graphics industry?' and 'Print and outdoor advertising'. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early in order to guarantee a seat.

Michael Ryan, Exhibition Manager says: "We are really looking forward to what we and the industry expect to be an amazing FESPA exhibition, we have received fantastic support from exhibitors. As a venue Mexico City is ideal, with the presidential elections in 2012 the timing is perfect for printers wanting to improve production and consider new revenue streams and creative ideas for their customers.

"We are also proud to present our visitors with a comprehensive range of show features. The Seminar Theatre will be particularly interesting with an excellent range of seminars, debates and leading speakers ready to share their specialist ideas and knowledge. The program has been designed to inspire printers to be more creative in their service offerings and as a result improve profitability."

In addition to the Seminar Theatre, visitors will have the opportunity to watch and participate in the Screen Print Workshop. Run by Charlie Taublieb, a guru of garment screen printing, the workshop will offer expert insight and advice for all screen printers for producing high-end and special effect screen printed garments. Visit the FESPA Mexico 2011 website (http://www.fespamexico.com) to register and take part in these popular interactive sessions and live demonstrations.

Following qualifying heats from FESPA Americas 11 and FESPA Digital 11, the next stage of the Wrap Cup Master Series will take place at FESPA Mexico. Presenting visitors with an exciting display of car wrapping talent, the winner of the three day competition will receive an array of prizes including a trip to FESPA Digital 2012 in Barcelona.

FESPA Asia Summit: Plotting A Winning Course For The Region's Printers

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 11:50:33 +0000

Summit outcomes will define themes for FESPA Asia exhibition, 26-28 October 2011

Leading print service providers from across south-east Asia met at the two-day FESPA Asia Summit in Singapore last week.

Delivered by FESPA in partnership with ASGA, this strategic business leadership event brought together a representative group of innovative and influential players in the Asian wide-format digital, screen and textile print community.

The Summit's 70 international delegates had the opportunity to network, share knowledge and best practice with their peers, while also hearing from industry authorities from Asia, Europe and North America. Topics explored during the Summit included the impact of economic trends and opportunities, identifying and exploiting new market niches, devising cutting edge marketing strategies, applying alternative business models, and the pressing global business issue of sustainability.

For FESPA, the Summit delivered deeper insights into the regional market ahead of FESPA's forthcoming pan-regional FESPA Asia 2011 exhibition, which takes place at the Suntec Exhibition Centre in Singapore from 26 - 28 October 2011. The exhibition will occupy 5000 square metres (net), with around 200 exhibitors, and an anticipated 7,500 visits.

FESPA Asia 2011 is close to three-quarters sold at this stage, and the exceptional success of the recent FESPA Digital 2011 event in Hamburg, Germany - which delivered a visitor audience 35% larger than the same event in Spring 2009 – has provoked significant interest from suppliers with ambitions in the Asian market.

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton comments: "Our Asian community is very significant to FESPA. We embrace nine industry associations in the region, representing hundreds of printers across Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The appetite of members in these regions to gather and exchange technical and commercial knowledge is enormous. 900 Asian printers made the trip to our flagship FESPA 2010 show in Munich, and there's growing Asian interest in our dedicated FESPA Digital show too, reflecting the region's progress towards blended screen/digital production."

FESPA launched its pan-Asian event in 2008, in response to strong demand from its Asian associate members for a branded regional event offering FESPA's market-leading combination of vendor exhibits, educational features and opportunities to network and share knowledge with experts and peers.

While the October 2008 launch event was marred by the political turmoil in Bangkok that coincided with the show, enthusiasm and demand from exhibitors and visitors for a follow-up event remained high. In response, FESPA announced the move to Singapore for 2011, a destination offering an ideal combination of world-class exhibition and visitor facilities with political and economic stability.

Neil Felton adds: "Last week's Summit has given all of us an exciting taste of how FESPA can deliver vital platforms for interaction between printers within Asia and across continents. There's little doubt that Asia is currently the world's economic success story. Business performance in the region has been robust in the face of the recent global economic crisis, and future growth indicators are extremely positive."

Recent research by UFI, the global association of the exhibition industry, indicates that while the number of business events in Europe, the Middle East and Africa is static, growth in Asia Pacific is running at 15%, a further indicator of the region's enthusiasm for live events.

Felton concludes: "Consumers and entrepreneurs in Asia have a reputation for being quick to identify and embrace opportunities and adopt technological innovations, and the region's urban centres embody a vibrant and entrepreneurial culture. I'm confident that exhibitors and visitors can look forward to a dynamic and directional FESPA event here in Singapore in October."

FESPA will publish its strategic BluePrint summarising the outcomes of the FESPA Asia Summit in July 2011. For further information contact Duncan MacOwan, FESPA's Head of Events and New Media at duncan.macowan@fespa.com.

Explosive FESPA Digital 2011 Reflects Unstoppable Market Evolution

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:49:44 +0000

Record breaking visitor audience undeterred by volcanic ash cloud

The unstoppable digital evolution of the wide-format imaging marketplace was clear for all to see at last week's FESPA Digital 2011 and FESPA Fabric 2011 events, which took place side by side at the Hamburg Messe from 24-27 May and 24-26 May respectively. The combined shows attracted a record-breaking audience of over 13000 individual visitors, a 34% increase over the last FESPA Digital event, which took place in 2009 in Amsterdam.

Of the 13000 visitors, around 5300 attended the show on more than one day, resulting in a total of 18300 visits. On this basis, more than 40% of all visitors to FESPA Digital 2011 and FESPA Fabric 2011 devoted more than a day to their visit (2009: 32%). This is a strong indicator of the extensive scope of the two 2011 events, and the commitment of visiting printers to take in the full spectrum of technology innovations and educational content.

The FESPA Fabric 'event within an event' in Hall B1 specifically attracted 2500 visitors looking to update themselves on the latest technology, substrate and ink development in garment printing and decoration.

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton comments: "When the doors opened on Tuesday, the enthusiasm of the hundreds of printers massed in the Messe atrium was palpable. Visitors from overseas did suffer some significant travel disruption on Day 2, resulting from the six-hour closure of Hamburg Airport due to the ash cloud from the Grímsvötn volcano. Clearly though, this did not dampen an amazing, truly international event that has exceeded even our most optimistic expectations."

Exhibitors were universally positive about the volume, quality and international mix of visitors. German printers represented around 45% of the visitor base, followed by particularly strong attendance from the UK, Benelux, Scandinavia, Italy and France. Eastern European markets including Poland, the Czech Republic and Russia were well represented too, and significant visitor delegations from more distant growth markets such as Turkey, India, Brazil and China also contributed strongly to the global profile of the event.

The FESPA Digital Showcase and Fresener's Fabric theatres attracted hundreds of printers over the four days to hear insights across a range of pertinent topics. The daily live debates on the FESPA stand touched on some of the most pressing issues confronting today's wide format print service provider; how to evolve print services to meet the needs of a today's customers; how to improve interaction with agency and brand owner customers taking account of their changing needs; and how to leverage the potential of the Internet to grow business. Other visitor attractions included the European round of the FESPA Wrap Cup Series, and the 3rd FESPA Digital Textile Conference, which welcomed 70 delegates on Day 2 of the show.

I Visitatori Accorrono A Vedere L’Evoluzione In Atto Alla Fespa Digital 2011

Tue, 24 May 2011 15:58:15 +0000

La FESPA Digital 2011 passerà alla storia come l'edizione FESPA Digital più vivace e più veloce nelle vendite. Con un record di oltre 14.000 membri della comunità di stampa preregistrati per visitare i 18.000 m2 (netti) della fiera, la FESPA Digital 2011 sarà il più grande evento di stampa grande formato concentrato sul digitale che abbia mai avuto luogo in Europa (2009: 14.500m2). Nel 2011 la FESPA Digital ospiterà 370 espositori, un aumento dell’11,4% rispetto al 2009.

Gli stampatori di tutta Europa stanno affluendo ad Amburgo in previsione dei numerosi lanci europei da parte dei principali vendor del settore, per cogliere una serie di contenuti innovativi e per vivere l’evoluzione del settore del grande formato digitale in azione.

Con il passaggio da tre a quattro giorni di durata e con la FESPA Fabric che si svolge per la prima volta in contemporanea, la FESPA Digital 2011 trasmette un messaggio di evoluzione progressiva, che incoraggia gli stampatori a guardare avanti e ad adattarsi alle condizioni di mercato per evitare l’estinzione.

La FESPA Digital 2011 offre ai visitatori un programma fitto di appuntamenti in fiera ad Amburgo. I contenuti formativi offerti dai protagonisti principali del settore del grande formato digitale forniranno loro approfondimenti esclusivi nelle attuali tendenze di mercato, suggerimenti e metodi per adattare le loro aziende e tenere il passo con i movimenti dell’industria.

Il tessile è l’argomento chiave della terza FESPA Digital Textile Conference che si terrà il secondo giorno della FESPA Digital (25 maggio). Gli argomenti trattati da uno schieramento di oratori esperti comprendono il sempre più ampio uso dei processi digitali per le applicazioni industriali come ceramica e vetro, il supporto della sostenibilità e la personalizzazione di massa in una supply chain totalmente digitale, e le “Business Applications of Digital Textile Printing” (Applicazioni commerciali della stampa tessile digitale). Moderata dall’editor dell’autorevole pubblicazione di settore Digital Textile, la conferenza comprende anche un dibattito su come identificare e sfruttare le opportunità.

Il secondo appuntamento formativo completo della FESPA Digital è il Digital Showcase Theatre, composto da 14 seminari gratuiti. Nei primi tre giorni della FESPA Digital, a partire dalle 11.00, nel Padiglione A2, gli oratori del Digital Showcase Theatre comprendono Ronen Zioni di HP, Mark Alexander di Xaar e Steve Bennett, vicepresidente di Sign & Display Business di EskoArtwork. I seminari, che forniranno ai visitatori approfondimenti esclusivi su una varietà di argomenti di stampa, informeranno gli stampatori sui cambiamenti nella tecnologia e nelle applicazioni, e sottolineeranno le opportunità di evoluzione in risposta alle tendenze nei mercati per i loro prodotti.

Le FESPA Live Interviews, un nuovissimo appuntamento per la FESPA Digital, si terranno ogni giorno presso lo stand di FESPA (Padiglione A3, Stand B60) alle ore 13.00. Varie autorità del settore si avvicenderanno presso lo stand di FESPA per condurre discussioni sulle aree più impegnative del mercato della stampa digitale. Il primo giorno l’argomento trattato sarà ‘Who says print is dead?’ (Chi lo dice che la stampa è morta?). Il secondo giorno si parlerà di ‘What’s Your Big Idea? A conversation with our customers’ (Qual è la tua grande idea? Una conversazione con i nostri clienti). Il terzo giorno verrà introdotto l’argomento ‘i-Print: Intelligent use of the internet for print’ (i-Print: l’uso intelligente di Internet per la stampa), mentre il quarto giorno si affronterà il tema ‘History, Innovation and the Future’ (Storia, innovazione e futuro).

I tanto attesi Wrap Cup Masters creeranno una grande eccitazione in tutta la fiera. Giunta alla sua terza tappa, dopo FESPA Mexico 2010 e FESPA Americas 2011, la Wrap Cup sta diventando un appuntamento di forte richiamo alle edizioni della FESPA. Dopo cinque round nell’arco di quattro giorni durante i quali si affronteranno le migliori squadre di car wrapping (rivestimento veicoli), il vincitore verrà incoronato campione delle FESPA Digital Series e sarà invitato a partecipare alla grande finale che si svolgerà durante la FESPA 2013 a Londra.

Nigel Steffens, CEO di FESPA, commenta: “La FESPA 2011 sarà una fiera diversa dalle altre. Il nostro nuovo quarto giorno offrirà ai visitatori maggiori possibilità di mettersi in contatto con compratori seriamente interessati e i contenuti sono stati attentamente concepiti in modo da rispecchiare le tendenze che stanno dando forma allo sviluppo di questa comunità. Alla fiera sono presenti numerosi espositori leader mondiali pronti a mostrare i più significativi progressi del 2011 nel campo dell’hardware, dei substrati, degli inchiostri, del software e dell’automazione del flusso di lavoro. Allo stesso tempo, gli appuntamenti formativi permettono ai visitatori di inserire queste innovazioni nel contesto appropriato, nell’industria nella sua interezza e nei loro settori e mercati target specifici.”

“In FESPA siamo entusiasti della risposta del mercato all'ultima edizione della FESPA Digital. Se gli ineguagliati volumi di preregistrazione corrisponderanno alle presenze in fiera, la FESPA Digital 2011 sarà ad oggi l’edizione più grande e di maggior successo. Siamo certi che l'evento sarà un forte incentivo che spingerà la nostra comunità ad adottare e a utilizzare con profitto la tecnologia digitale.”

Les Visiteurs Affluent Pour Découvrir Les Tout Dernières Nouveautés Technologiques À L’Occasion Du Salon De La Fespa Digital 2011

Tue, 24 May 2011 15:56:42 +0000

Le salon FESPA Digital 2011, qui s’étendra sur une superficie nette de 18.000 m2 contre 14.500m2 en 2009, est sur le point d’entrer dans l’histoire comme étant le salon FESPA Digital non seulement le plus bouillonnant d’activités jusqu’à ce jour, mais aussi à enregistrer des ventes record en un rien de temps. Avec un nombre incroyable de plus de 14.000 membres issus de la communauté de l’impression d’ores et déjà inscrits pour sa visite, il sera le plus grand évènement spécialisé dans l’impression grand format d’Europe, puisqu’il présentera 370 exposants, soit une augmentation de 11,4 % par rapport à son édition précédente.

Des imprimeurs de toute l’Europe afflueront vers Hambourg en avant-première des innombrables lancements effectués en Europe par les plus grands fournisseurs de l’industrie, et ce avec deux objectifs en tête : découvrir toute une gamme de produits innovants au salon, et se tenir au courant de l’évolution de l’industrie de l’impression grand format.

Se déroulant pour la première fois en parallèle avec FESPA Fabric, sur quatre jours au lieu de trois, l’édition 2011 de FESPA Digital livre un message innovateur et optimiste, incitant les imprimeurs désireux de demeurer sur le marché, à se projeter vers l’avenir et à s’adapter à la conjoncture économique.

La FESPA Digital 2011, c’est aussi tout un programme d’animations proposées sur place. Des initiatives éducatives animées par de grands acteurs de l’industrie grand format numérique offrant aux visiteurs des éclairages sur les tendances actuelles du marché, ainsi que des conseils et méthodes pour adapter leurs entreprises et se tenir au courant des mutations intervenues au sein du secteur.

Le textile sera le thème choisi pour la troisième conférence de FESPA Digital Textile qui se tiendra le deuxième jour du salon (25 mai). Parmi les thèmes couverts par toute une myriade de spécialistes de l’industrie, mentionnons l’utilisation croissante de procédés numériques destinés aux applications industrielles comme la céramique et le verre, étayant la soutenabilité et la personnalisation de masse d’une chaîne d’approvisionnement entièrement numérique, ainsi qu’aux « applications d’impression textile numérique ». Animée par le rédacteur en chef du magazine spécialisé Digital Textile, la conférence inclut également un panel de discussion ayant pour but d’identifier et de maximiser les opportunités présentes.

Seconde animation éducative complète proposée lors du salon FESPA Digital : le théâtre des showcases numériques. Composé de 14 séminaires dont l’entrée est gratuite, ceux-ci se dérouleront à partir de 11h00 au cours des trois premiers jours du salon dans le Hall A2, et compteront parmi les intervenants Ronen Zioni de HP, Mark Alexander de Xaar et Steve Bennett, vice-président de Sign & Display Business de EskoArtwork. Proposant aux visiteurs des éclairages exclusifs sur tout un éventail de thèmes portant sur l’impression numérique, les séminaires informeront non seulement les imprimeurs des changements intervenus en matière de technologies et d’applications, mais mettrons également en avant les opportunités de développement offertes par rapport aux tendances du marché des produits numériques.

FESPA Digital n’a pas manqué de concocter une nouveauté pour l’édition de cette année : les entretiens live de la FESPA Live, qui se tiendront chaque jour sur le stand de la FESPA (Hall A3 Stand B60) à 13h00. Avec d’éminents représentants du secteur y seront présents, en vue de prendre part à des débats portant sur les segments les plus difficiles du marché de l’impression numérique. ‘Qui dit que l’impression est morte’ sera le thème choisi pour le premier jour ; ‘Quelle est votre grande idée ? Conversation avec nos clients’ le second jour. Le troisième jour traitera, quant à lui de ‘l’i-Print : Utilisation intelligente de l’Internet pour l’impression’, tandis que le quatrième jour portera sur ‘L’histoire, l’innovation et l’avenir’ de l’impression numérique.

Tout au long du salon, les Wrap Cup Masters tant attendus créeront une ambiance tout à fait spéciale au niveau du hall d’exposition. Désormais au cours de sa troisième étape, ayant déjà pris part aux salons FESPA Mexico 2010 et FESPA Americas 2011, la coupe de l’habillage de véhicules est en passe de devenir l’évènement préféré des visiteurs des salons FESPA. Attirant une foule de fans innombrables, il met en lice les meilleures équipes dans le domaine de l’habillage de véhicules au cours de cinq matchs tout au long du déroulement du salon. Le gagnant sera couronné du titre de champion des séries FESPA Digital et sera invité à prendre part à une grande finale qui aura lieu dans le cadre de la FESPA 2013 à Londres.

Nigel Steffens, PDG de la FESPA commente : « FESPA Digital 2011 sera un salon AVEC une différence. Notre quatrième jour donnera aux visiteurs encore plus de possibilités de se mettre en rapport avec des acheteurs sérieux, d’autant que son contenu a été soigneusement concocté en vue de pouvoir refléter les tendances façonnant l’évolution de la communauté de l’impression. Le salon regorge des plus grands exposants au monde prêts à offrir les avancées les plus significatives en matière de hardware, supports, encres, logiciels et automatisation du flux de travail d’impression. Ajoutons à cela, notre programme d’initiatives éducatives qui devrait également permettre aux visiteurs de placer ces innovations dans le contexte adéquat, pour l’industrie dans son ensemble et pour leurs marchés commerciaux et ciblés en particulier. »

« À la FESPA, nous sommes absolument ravis de la réaction du marché à l’égard de notre tout dernier salon FESPA Digital. Si nos volumes de pré-inscriptions sont reflétés sur place, FESPA Digital 2011 sera notre salon le plus important et le plus réussi jusqu’à ce jour. Nous sommes convaincus qu’il aura un élan positif qui propulsera notre communauté en avant dans son adoption et son application rentable de la technologie numérique. »