Editor's Note: On the Road Again

It’s hard to believe Autumn is already here — and what has traditionally been the Fall trade show season. In some ways, it’s comforting to be getting back to those rituals and planning to attend a trade show, but for many of us (me included), our travel muscles are not as fully-developed as they used to be.

So much has happened over the last three years and everyone is struggling to adapt — both personally and professionally. While we might still be dealing with the economic damage from the global pandemic, struggling under the weight of cost inflation, looking for ways to shore up margins, and searching for new ways to obtain and transport needed goods, it is very apparent that the wide-format industry is resilient, and is still thriving and growing despite the pressures we’re all facing.

In this issue, we’re focusing in on the “what” and the “how”: How can we combat this new normal? What kind of improvements or ideas will help future-proof our businesses?

When it comes to making business decisions, knowing the broader trends and opportunities impacting our industry help to steer us in the right direction. But knowing what to do about them can be a challenge. We went out to industry experts across every part of the wide-format and signage industry — OEMs, suppliers, analysts, and print service providers — and asked them what the current trends mean for us now and in the future. Use these insights to help shape your decisions on everything from the equipment and software you invest in, to the people you hire, to the opportunities you pursue.

We also focus on four companies — H&H Group based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania; Phase 3 Marketing and Communications based in Atlanta, Georgia; Pictura based in Minneapolis, Minnesota; and Strategic Factory based in Owings Mills, Maryland — who are looking at the industry and their businesses in a different way. Their unique perspective is paying big dividends for them and their customers.

While business owners arm themselves with the most up-to-date and relevant market information, they also need to position it alongside the right hardware and technology to bring those plans to fruition. The best place to accomplish all those goals will be at the 2022 PRINTING United Expo. In this issue, we highlight some of the products that will be on display in Las Vegas at the Expo. With nearly 700 exhibitors, it will certainly give all business owners the opportunity to find exactly what they need to grow and future-proof their businesses.

I know I’ll be spending the next few weeks leading up to PRINTING United Expo prepping — lots of walking, bike riding, and page proofing. If you’re planning to attend and want to connect with me in Las Vegas, drop me a note at dgustavson@napco.com. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone (in 3D). Safe travels!