FTA Fall Conference Reunites Flexographic Community

FTA’s Fall Conference 2021 brought flexographers back together to explore the evolution of flexographic workflows, network with more than 60 exhibitors and reconnect with colleagues.

The industry gathered in-person at the four-day event, held October 3-6 at Embassy Suites by Hilton Dallas Frisco Hotel & Convention Center in Frisco, TX. Printer/converter attendance increased more than 50% while overall turnout grew 20% compared to the last live FTA event.

With eight technical sessions and more than 20 in-depth presentations, industry experts discussed every piece of a flexographic workflow. Attendees heard insights into the current state and outlook of the flexographic market from Sean Smyth of consulting and market research firm Smithers, a sit-down discussion about merger and acquisition activity with McDowell Label’s John McDowell, and a keynote presentation on seizing opportunity delivered by Dave Fleming of We Are Alexander.

“Fall Conference has a reputation for delivering high-quality technical content, and this year was no exception,” says John Gleich of We Are Alexander, Fall Conference 2021 program chair. “I believe everyone in attendance gained insight into modernizing flexographic workflows and walked away armed with solutions for navigating the future. I also sincerely hope people enjoyed their time in Frisco, as well as being able to connect in person. I know I did.”

Industry professionals who were unable to attend the conference can purchase access with Fall Conference 2021 On Demand. Every technical presentation and discussion is available to watch 24/7, from anywhere and from any device. The On Demand package also includes complete presentation proceedings to take notes and follow along.

INFOFLEX at Fall Conference featured an expanded exhibition with 65 companies showcasing the latest package printing technologies on a sold-out show floor. Attendees were able to see the latest products and services and have one-on-one, in-person discussions with exhibitors eager for facetime with a live audience.

“We could feel a fresh vibrance in the air from the vendors and attendees walking the show floor,” says Adam Bland, president of Quantum Ink. “Our booth visitors were engaged with seeing what we and other exhibitors had to offer. Attendees took advantage of the opportunity to explore technology that can help their printing operations.”

Fall Conference 2021’s sponsors included Diamond sponsor Miraclon, Platinum sponsors Anderson & Vreeland and DuPont, Gold sponsors Fujifilm Graphic Systems Division and Hybrid Software, and item sponsor Polymount US.

FTA’s next in-person events are Forum & INFOFLEX 2022 held March 13-16, 2022 in Fort Worth, TX.