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Digital Expo : Prepare for a feast of innovation
Q: What prompted you to look at Digital Expo’s format for 2007?
A: After last year’s show we commissioned a massive piece of independent research to find out what exhibitors and visitors wanted from their event. Over 1,500 people responded, making the findings really meaningful and comprehensive. Coupled with our own research, these findings helped us shape the profile and programme of new features.
Q: What interesting facts did the research highlight?
A: It became clear that digital printer ownership is widespread. Over 60 per cent of respondents had already invested in the technology and many of these were intending to spend significant amounts over the next twelve months on more kit. In addition, statistics showed that people who were not already offering digital services were intending to make a purchase within 12 months. Many of those already running machines are also looking to replace these or buy additional kit. Budgets were also looking healthy with the average spend per company for capital purchases per annum being £96,190 and for consumables being £54,829. The research also showed that people use events and the internet in equal measures to source new products and services. This clearly shows that people still get a great deal of benefit out of exhibitions.
Q: What changes have you made following the research?
A: There were calls to highlight live demonstrations and expand our seminar programme with more business-related and educational issues. This we have done. The programme includes a live Digital Print Demonstration Trail, plus a series of free Printing-for-Profit Masterclasses developed in association with Walsall College. Free Adobe and Corel software workshops take place again, with a new programme covering the latest application versions.
Q: What companies are taking part in this year’s show?
A: We have a huge variety of companies participating this year. Big names include Roland DG, Oce, HP, Hybrid, NCS/Durst, DuPont, Robert Horne Sign & Display (including Vutek), B&P Lightbrigade, Colourgen, Xerox, Esko and Vivid Laminating Technologies. The breadth and range of equipment on show is a key show feature. Every part of the production process is represented from design and pre-press to finishing and installation.
Q: Are there trends emerging regarding new technologies?
A: New equipment, products and services are still at the heart of the event, and news from exhibitors shows that UV flatbed technology will take centre stage alongside a host of new developments including some huge new launches currently under wraps. Visitors on the day will be the first to see this new technology. One exciting prospect is a Durst flatbed being used to produce lenticular prints with HumanEyes software.
Q: Why do printers choose Digital Expo as their 2007 event?
A: No other UK event has the variety, number or quality of digital print-related exhibitors, product launches and demonstrations. This year, in addition, there’s a real educational theme with the new demonstrations, seminars and Masterclasses. Entry and all show features are free which makes a visit extremely good value given the advice, research and training opportunities available.
Q: How can people get tickets
A: To register for free fast-track entry to Digital Expo, or to find out more about the demonstration trails, seminars and Masterclasses, visit www.digitalexpo.co.uk .
