The Printing United Expo 2024 in Las Vegas didn’t just meet expectations—it blew them out of the water! With the event doubling in size year over year, it’s clear the printing industry is evolving faster than ever. This year’s expo brought the best in apparel printing technology, combining robotics, automation, and innovative print processes that left attendees in awe. From the newest advancements in Direct to Film (DTF) and Direct to Garment (DTG) printing to the expanding role of automation, Printing United Expo 2024 showcased how the future of branded merchandise is brighter—and faster—than ever before.
Printing United Expo 2024: From Signage To Apparel
Historically, the Printing United Expo leaned into signage and large-format printing. This year it was all about apparel. We were greeted by industry giants like Brother, Epson, Roq, and M&R, all showcasing the latest in garment printing technology. One thing was clear: DTF printing has become a major disruptor in the branded merchandise industry. It’s affecting everything from embroidery to screen printing and even HTV.
The sheer variety of technology on display made it clear that DTF printing is here to stay. Whether you’re a veteran decorator or new to the business, it’s impossible to ignore the power and flexibility of DTF when it comes to printing complex designs with vibrant colors. Brands no longer need to settle for the limitations of CMYK color models when expanded color gamuts using fluorescent inks are now within reach.
Printing United Expo 2024: Print More With Automation
One standout moment at Printing United Expo 2024 was the jaw-dropping demonstration of Roq’s robotic heat press system. Picture this: a robot arm grabbing transfers, dropping them onto shirts, and cranking out up to 600 shirts per hour. That’s double the output you’d expect from a traditional setup! With labor becoming harder to find and keep, automation like this is essential for brands looking to scale efficiently.
But Roq wasn’t the only one flexing its automation muscles. Brother introduced their GTX 600 printer, boasting additional green and orange inks, which opens up an expanded color gamut—perfect for those demanding clients who need their designs to pop beyond standard CMYK. The ability to increase speed while maintaining superior color quality is a game-changer for print shops looking to elevate their offerings.
Printing United Expo 2024: Introducing Direct To Embroidery
While DTF and DTG printing dominated the conversation, Direct to Embroidery made a quiet but impressive entrance. Imagine embroidering a white logo and immediately printing over it with perfect registration using a GTX Brother printer. The result? A combination of texture and color that’s hard to replicate with traditional methods. This hybrid process offers new creative avenues for brands that want to push the limits of customization.
New Tech Means New Opportunities
For large-scale operations, the Cobra Flex printers made their mark at the expo, particularly with their Venom and King Cobra machines. These printers can run up to 2,800 square feet per hour, making them ideal for high-volume print shops that need maximum output without sacrificing quality. For smaller shops, the Stealth printer was a highlight, especially for those working in challenging environments. With built-in humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners, it’s perfect for operations in extreme conditions.
And don’t forget about color management. With tools like Inedit software, attendees learned how to dial in the color profile to ensure that what you see on screen is exactly what gets printed. As we move towards more complex color gamuts, having precise color management will become even more critical for branded merchandise companies that pride themselves on delivering vibrant, true-to-life prints.
Automating With DecoNetwork Software
DecoNetwork made a big impact at Printing United Expo 2024, showcasing its all-in-one platform that simplifies workflow for garment decorators. From managing quotes and orders to creating product mockups and handling supplier integrations, DecoNetwork’s tools are designed to save time and increase efficiency. Visitors saw how the platform automates routine tasks, allowing print shops to focus more on growing their business and less on administrative work.
Another highlight was DecoNetwork’s easy-to-launch e-commerce websites, complete with supplier catalogs and design tools. Attendees were particularly impressed with features like real-time artwork approvals and production calendars, making it easier to manage orders and streamline production. With integrations for major suppliers like SanMar, S&S Activewear, Alphabroder, and others, DecoNetwork is a top choice for print shops looking to scale and stay competitive in the branded merchandise industry.
The Expo's Takeaway: Innovate Or Get Left Behind
Printing United Expo 2024 wasn’t just an exhibition—it was a revelation. For any business in the branded merchandise industry, the message was clear: innovate, automate, and scale. Whether you’re exploring the benefits of DTF printing, marveling at the speed and precision of automated heat presses, dreaming of the possibilities with hybrid embroidery techniques, or looking to automate your shops daily workflows, the tools and tech are here, ready to be embraced.
As brands compete to offer the best in custom apparel, the ability to streamline production while offering unique and vibrant designs is key. Automation is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. And with the leaps being made in color management, speed, and hybrid processes, the future of the branded merchandise industry has never looked more exciting.
So, if you didn’t make it to Printing United Expo 2024, consider this your wake-up call. The next wave of innovation is here, and those who don’t adapt may find themselves left behind.
Stay ahead, automate your shop, and embrace the newest technologies that are changing the game in apparel printing.
