FESPA’s biggest event in history! 

Printers from every continent are converging on London this week for the most comprehensive and international FESPA event ever (25-29 June 2013, ExCeL London).

Online pre-registrations have been received from more than 150 countries and visitors will find a truly international supplier line-up, with 71% of the 664 exhibitors coming from outside the UK.

FESPA 2013, comprising FESPA Fabric and the new co-located European Sign Expo, occupies the North and South halls of ExCeL, covering 63,603 sqm (gross), making this the largest combined FESPA event in the organisation’s fifty year history.

Visitors to FESPA 2013 will find the full spectrum of screen, digital and textile print represented: signage and graphics; flags and banners; retail promotions and point of sale; outdoor and indoor advertising; interior and architectural decor; and many industrial print applications.

The now-familiar FESPA Fabric zone -home of the tee shirt design competition - is the place for visitors to find screen and digitally printed fashion textiles and garments, as well as garment decoration applications, while the addition of the new Promotional Products Business Academy adds a focus on promowear and promotional items.

The adjacent European Sign Expo - accessible on the same visitor ticket - complements FESPA, addressing all aspects of non-printed signage, including conventional and digital signage and digital out-of-home media.

Mood of optimism

Fresh research by FESPA among European printers shows that the FESPA print community is more optimistic than at any time since 2007, with a growing appetite for investment in new output technology and increased spend on media and inks.

Respondents to FESPA’s latest Worldwide Survey – conducted in partnership with InfoTrends - rate their optimism about the future of their businesses at a median 7.9 out of 10, up from 7.4 in 2007 and 7.6 in 2010. This rise suggests that innovation and the pursuit of new application opportunities are giving entrepreneurs increased confidence in the performance of their own businesses.

Buying intentions are stronger than at any time since 2007, with 51% of respondents planning to purchase a new wide format printer in the next year, up from 37% in 2010.  

The mean investment level in wide format output reported by respondents is Euros 141,500, an indication that printers are ready to embrace more sophisticated technology to maximise their business potential.

FESPA Managing Director Neil Felton comments: “FESPA 2013 gives wide format printers every reason to feel optimistic about their future. Hundreds of innovations in technology and consumables are here under one roof, so visitors can seek out the solutions that will add momentum to their business.

“FESPA 2013 is broader in its reach than any previous event, in terms of the technologies, applications and market segments it addresses. We’re out to show printers how, with the right ideas, technology, materials and insights, there are endless possible destinations for their business.”

Felton continues, “For printers who are still figuring out their route map, we’re delivering the richest and most relevant visitor programme yet here in London. FESPA 2013 is guaranteed to guide and inspire, with ideas and advice on how to improve productivity, diversify into new applications and markets, and create clear differentiation through new products, services and business models.”

Eight individual attractions - including five that are new to FESPA 2013 - showcase the effectiveness, energy and excitement of wide format print. (Note to editors: individual press releases are available detailing these features).

• Jet Set conference – NEW

A free onsite conference addressing the opportunities for printers through a world-class line-up of industry experts, leading suppliers and inspirational print service providers.

• Print Inspiration Runway – NEW

An exhibition of inspiring print showcasing print’s effectiveness in its many different applications.

• Creative Corner – NEW

Inspiration and information for brand owners, agencies and designers, with peer insights and global brand case studies to show how print increases campaign cut-through and drives response.

• Pilot’s Briefing Zone – NEW

Garment gurus offer insights into advanced garment design and decoration techniques with FREE presentations, demonstrations and hands-on interactive workshop sessions.

• Promotional Product Business Academy – NEW

Exhibits, case studies, research and demonstrations highlighting the business opportunity of the promotional products market segment.

• Wrap Cup Masters Series

Vehicle wrappers from around the world compete for the title of global “WRAP Cup Master”.

• Hall of Fame

A gallery of leading printers from all over the world who their peers hold up as inspirational role models in the print community.

• FESPA Awards 2013

A celebration of innovative and exceptional work created by printers from around the world.