The Printing United Expo 2024 in Las Vegas is a feast for anyone in the branded merchandise industry. Whether you’re focused on apparel, signage, or even offset printing, this event offers an eye-opening glimpse into the future of printing technology. And while it’s famous for its massive exhibition halls and cutting-edge equipment, it’s the stories behind the innovation that make this event truly unforgettable. Today, we’re diving into Day 3, where automation, digital printing, and the latest in apparel decoration took center stage.
Printing United Expo 2024: The Biggest Show in Printing
If you’ve never attended the Printing United Expo, trust me, you’re missing out on the largest printing trade show in North America. From massive flatbed UV printers to intricate post-press equipment, this event brings together the giants of the industry under one roof. And while Printing United has its roots in offset and signage printing, apparel has quickly become one of the biggest draws, expanding its presence year after year. If you’re in the branded merchandise business, this is where you see the future in action.
Walking the halls, one can’t help but be amazed at the sheer scale of the event. We’re talking millions of dollars worth of equipment—brought in, set up, and running for just three days. This isn’t your average show; it’s a spectacle of technological achievement.
Apparel Takes the Spotlight
Apparel continues to dominate the conversation at Printing United. As Zach Dewhurst, DecoNetwork’s Business Development Manager, puts it: “Automation is everything.” And he’s not wrong. With skilled labor becoming harder to find post-pandemic, automation has become essential for staying competitive in the branded merchandise world.
From cutting-edge DTF printers to fully automated sublimation lines, apparel decorators are finding ways to streamline production without sacrificing quality. Digital printing, in particular, is on the rise. It allows businesses to move faster and more efficiently, reducing the time needed to train employees and speeding up production times.
Fujifilm: More Than Just Cameras
Fujifilm made quite the splash on Day 3. Known for their cameras, they’ve become a force in the printing world as well. Their digital presses are nothing short of revolutionary, and Zach couldn’t help but admire the massive $6 million press they unveiled at last year’s Expo. This year, they brought even more jaw-dropping equipment, all focused on how digital solutions can replace traditional lithography processes.
But it’s not just about flashy new machines. What really stood out was the ease of operation. As Zach explained, “The learning curve for digital operators is much smaller compared to older methods.” That means more businesses can adopt this technology without the headache of extensive training, a huge advantage in today’s tight labor market.
Outsourcing: The Leaner, Meaner Business Model
With all the shiny new technology on display, it’s easy to forget that not every business needs to invest in expensive equipment. Zach reminded us that outsourcing is a viable—and often smarter—option for many in the branded merchandise industry.
“There are wholesale trade partners who can print for you at incredible prices,” Zach pointed out. If your business doesn’t have the high demand to justify buying a $6 million press, outsourcing can be the lean solution you’re looking for. Plus, when you outsource, you avoid the headaches of machine maintenance, training, and labor issues. It’s all about staying nimble and focusing on what matters—delivering great products to your customers.
Mimaki and Sublimation: Printing the Future
No discussion of the Expo would be complete without mentioning Mimaki. Known for their sublimation printers, they demonstrated just how far the technology has come. Their massive roll-to-roll machines print fabric panels that can then be cut and sewn into finished garments. It’s a seamless process, optimized for speed and precision.
One standout moment was seeing the overlap between signage and apparel printing. More and more, equipment designed for one industry is being adapted for another, blurring the lines and creating exciting new possibilities for brands. Zach highlighted how this crossover could inspire apparel decorators to think outside the box. “Maybe there’s something they’re doing in signage that could make your DTF life easier,” he mused.
Automation at Every Turn
Automation wasn’t just a buzzword on Day 3—it was the main event. As we toured booth after booth, it became clear that the future of printing, whether for apparel or signage, lies in streamlining processes. Robots moving media from one station to the next, digital printing systems that reduce waste and increase output, and cutting-edge folding equipment were just some of the highlights.
One of the most impressive pieces was a machine capable of handling massive mass-mailing campaigns, complete with different names on each item. If you’ve ever wondered how your mailbox is stuffed with personalized advertisements, this is how it’s done.
Automating with DecoNetwork Software
DecoNetwork DecoNetwork presented its all-in-one platform at Printing United Expo 2024, demonstrating how it streamlines workflows for garment decorators. The platform provides tools for managing quotes, orders, product mockups, and supplier integrations, all designed to enhance efficiency and reduce time spent on administrative tasks. Attendees saw how DecoNetwork automates many routine processes, enabling print shops to focus more on growing their business.
The platform’s e-commerce website feature, which includes supplier catalogs and design tools, was another key highlight. Features like real-time artwork approvals and production calendars were noted for simplifying order management and production processes. With integrations for major suppliers such as SanMar, S&S Activewear, Alphabroder, DecoNetwork remains a strong choice for print shops looking to scale in the competitive branded merchandise market.
Wrapping Up Day 3: Printing United Expo 2024
The Printing United Expo 2024 was a showcase of innovation, automation, and the future of printing. Whether you’re running a small apparel shop or managing a large-scale operation, this event is the place to be for anyone serious about growing their business. As Zach Dewhurst emphasized, “It’s all about making things easier and more efficient.” And with the technology on display, the future looks bright for the branded merchandise industry.
So, if you haven’t marked your calendar for Printing United 2025, what are you waiting for? Get ready to witness the future of printing—and maybe even get some inspiration to take your own business to the next level.
