Characteristically, PRINTING United Expo, organized by the PRINTING United Alliance, is where you see print industry innovations, equipment demonstrations, and technologies under one roof. Set to take place at the popular and award-winning East Coast destination – Orange County Convention Centre in Orlando, Florida, from Wednesday 22 to Friday 24 October, WHERE To Print sought to know what’s new at this year’s edition and what the global printing industry should look forward to at America’s largest annual trade show. Responses from Group President, Media and Events – Mr. Christopher Curran are excerpted below in this SPECIAL FEATURE INTERVIEW:
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR NEW POSITION; HOW DO YOU FEEL?
Thank you! I’m truly honoured to step into this role. PRINTING United Expo has become the leading platform for our industry worldwide, and I feel both proud and energized to help guide it into the future. There’s an incredible team behind the Expo, and we are excited to continue building on the strong foundation already in place. All the credit goes to our amazing members and partners who have truly embraced the platform that we have built for the industry and engaged with it, which allows all our programmes, services, and events to grow and be more impactful year after year.
WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THIS YEAR’S PRINTING UNITED EXPO AS YOU TAKE CHARGE?
I’m most excited about the level of innovation and convergence on the show floor this year. We are seeing technologies and applications coming together in ways that are reshaping the business of print. Bringing all of that under one roof for attendees to experience firsthand is something I’m thrilled to oversee. We continue to grow areas of engagement and hands-on activations, which truly help attendees become immersed in all the great technology and education there is to be experienced.
WHAT’S NEW ABOUT THIS YEAR’S PRINTING UNITED EXPO THAT VISITORS SHOULD LOOK OUT FOR?
We are launching several new features this year. The AI Pavilion will showcase how artificial intelligence is transforming workflow, efficiency, and customer engagement. Our Student Day will connect the next generation with employers and technology, and the Spill the Ink Roundtables will foster real dialogue among peers. And for the first time, the G7/G7+ Exchange is taking place live on-site, which sold out months in advance.
TELL US ABOUT ‘SPILL THE INK.’
Spill the Ink is our new area of live roundtable series right on the show floor at the Expo. It’s a chance for attendees to sit down with peers, industry leaders, and influencers to discuss real challenges and opportunities. The sessions are candid, interactive, and designed to foster community. Anyone at the Expo can sign up and participate.
“It’s not just about having everyone together; it’s about ensuring that every participant – whether exhibitor or attendee – gets maximum return on investment (ROI) through connections, education, and visibility”.
TELL US ABOUT THE PRINTING AI PAVILION.
The AI Pavilion is a landmark addition. It’s a dedicated space where exhibitors, consultants, and educators will show how AI is driving efficiency, predictive maintenance, colour control, personalization, and even sustainability. It’s not theoretical – it’s hands-on, real-world AI applications for Printers and Packaging Converters. There will be daily PRINTING AI tours offered, where participants will visit a curated lineup of exhibitors who are transforming workflows, automation, data insights, and business management with AI. We’re not just talking about things; we are doing them, and we are making huge investments in the right resources and staff for our members to take advantage.
WHAT DO PARTICIPANTS GAIN FROM THE G7/G7+ EXCHANGE?
The G7/G7+ Exchange is an unprecedented opportunity to learn from the best in colour management and quality control. Attendees will gain actionable skills, insights into the new G7+ specification, and direct access to experts who are setting global standards. It’s about elevating consistency, quality, and competitiveness in print.
AS AN EXPERIENCED STAKEHOLDER, WHAT DO YOU THINK ARE THE KEY TRENDS/CHANGES IN THE INDUSTRY?
I see three big shifts: the continued convergence of market segments, the integration of AI and automation, and innovative approaches to labour acquisition and retention. Printers are looking beyond their traditional lanes to offer packaging, apparel, wide-format, and more. At the same time, AI is becoming a practical tool, not just a concept. And when it comes to people, companies are getting creative – experimenting with new ways to attract fresh talent and rethinking retention strategies to keep skilled employees engaged in an increasingly competitive labor market.
WHAT IS PRINTING UNITED 2025’S THEME, AND WHAT SHOULD VISITORS EXPECT AS THE SHOW’S HIGHLIGHTS?
Our marketing team has introduced a flamingo as the unofficial mascot for this year’s Orlando Expo. Playing off that idea, we’re encouraging attendees to “mingle like a flamingo.” With that in mind, the theme could be Flamingle: Connecting the Future of Print.
Visitors can look forward to a deeply immersive experience featuring live demonstrations, expanded education, and unparalleled networking opportunities across every segment – from labels and packaging to apparel, commercial, in-plant, wide-format, and more. Embracing the “flamingle” spirit, the show highlights interaction, community, and fresh connections – bringing together people, technology, and ideas in new and memorable ways.
IS THE ONE-ROOF CONCEPT STILL IN PLACE, AND HOW IS IT DIFFERENT THIS YEAR?
Yes, the “One Roof” concept is our DNA. What’s different this year is how we have enhanced the attendee journey with more curated zones, learning theaters, and networking activations. It’s not just about having everyone together; it’s about ensuring that every participant – whether exhibitor or attendee – gets maximum return on investment (ROI) through connections, education, and visibility.
WHAT KEY ISSUES WILL EXHIBITORS BE HIGHLIGHTING?
Exhibitors will focus heavily on automation, efficiency, sustainability, and new revenue-generating applications. You’ll see strong emphasis on AI-driven solutions, workflow software, inkjet innovations, and sustainable materials. Many will also highlight labour-saving technologies, which is a critical issue worldwide.
“Whether in America or abroad, Alliance membership means access to the largest and most influential printing association in North America”.
WHAT’S NEW ABOUT THE PAID EDUCATION SESSIONS?
We have expanded our education program significantly. Beyond traditional technical sessions, we have added leadership and business strategy tracks, hands-on workshops, and live demonstrations on the show floor. Attendees will leave with practical skills and insights they can apply immediately in their businesses.
WHAT SHOULD THE INDUSTRY EXPECT FROM OCTOBER 22 – 24?
From the moment the doors open, the industry will experience nonstop innovation. Throughout all three days of the show, the floor will be buzzing with technology unveilings, new product launches, live demonstrations, and opportunities to connect. In addition to new technology on the floor, day two is highlighted by special forums, Women in Print Alliance Programming, Student Day, bringing the next generation onto the floor, and so much more.
- Women in Print 2024 Luncheon
ORLANDO IS KNOWN FOR FUN & TOURISM. HOW WILL YOU INCORPORATE THAT?
We’re encouraging attendees to take advantage of Orlando’s world-class attractions. Many of our networking events will highlight the local flavour, and we have built in evening experiences – like After Dark Programming – that blend business with fun. Orlando makes it easy to combine professional growth with memorable downtime.
WHAT KIND OF SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS DO YOU HAVE FOR VISITORS?
We have partnered with local hotels, transportation providers, and the convention center to ensure discounted rates and seamless logistics. Attendees can book through our official housing partners to secure the best rates and benefits, making travel planning simple and affordable. The process to book hotels with our partners in Orlando has never been easier, just visit: www.printingunited.com
“Practitioners who don’t constantly seek better ways to serve their clients will eventually fail, and those who don’t build a clear plan are simply flying by the seat of their pants”.
FOR PRINTING UNITED ALLIANCE MEMBERS: WHAT DO THEY STAND TO BENEFIT FROM THIS YEAR’S EXPO?
Alliance members enjoy special pricing, VIP access, and exclusive networking opportunities. At the Expo, members can explore the VIP Lounge, get complimentary access to the show floor if they qualify, and preview our iLEARNING+ education platform live. Membership also provides year-round advocacy, research, and training benefits that extend well beyond the show.
- The Knowledge Centre at 2024 Expo
WHAT DO PARTICIPANTS GAIN FROM ALLIANCE MEMBERSHIP, LOCALLY AND ABROAD?
Whether in America or abroad, Alliance membership means access to the largest and most influential printing association in North America. Members benefit from research, advocacy, certifications like G7+, and discounted training via iLEARNING+. Most importantly, they join a global community that supports growth, profitability, and connection across borders.
WHAT BUSINESS STRATEGY SHOULD PRINT PRACTITIONERS DO DIFFERENTLY?
In today’s market, standing still is the same as falling behind. Practitioners who don’t constantly seek better ways to serve their clients will eventually fail, and those who don’t build a clear plan are simply flying by the seat of their pants. Success comes from embracing diversification and convergence – looking beyond silos to add adjacent markets and applications. It also requires investing in people through training and leaning into automation to address labor challenges.
WHAT ASSURANCE ARE YOU GIVING PARTICIPANTS?
My assurance is simple: PRINTING United Expo 2025 will be a value-driven, transformative experience. Every decision we make is focused on delivering ROI – whether that’s new knowledge, new partnerships, or new revenue opportunities. Attendees will leave Orlando not only inspired but equipped to take their businesses forward. And above all, business owners must anchor themselves in disciplined financial management, delivering real customer value, and building operational agility. Pair that with a clear, adaptable plan, and you’ll be positioned to thrive no matter how the economy shifts. And the best part? ALL of this can be worked on – right at the Expo.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME
You are always welcome.
