As we all arise from the bunkers and head out to industry events, many for the first time since 2019, it’s common to greet old friends and colleagues with, “It’s great to be back at shows again!” And yet, the existential question we keep asking ourselves is, “What is the future of shows?”

The Americas Print Show was held August 17–19, in Columbus, Ohio, and like the maiden voyage of any event, it had some hiccups, but the general consensus, from exhibitors and attendees, was that it was a worthwhile event. “As an attendee, I found the event helpful,” said Randy Beck, President of SCP Group, a Sharon, Pa.-based company that specializes in digital printing, direct mail, and wide-format. “I assume each printer is asking themselves, ‘Where do we go, what do we offer in today’s market?’ The show had a good balance of vendors, so each of us can get the information to make these difficult decisions.”

Some exhibitors also found that the show exceeded expectations. “In the new normal of regional trade shows, the Americas Print Show was a huge success for Graphco,” said Chris Manley, President of Graphco. “Not only did we sell the smaller machines we brought to the show, but amazingly a customer from eight hours away walked up to our stand to ask about RMGT. We sold them a 9 Series press with LED on Monday and the press is shipping out later this month. I’ll trade that result for crowded aisles any time.”