Sykesville, MD – A full slate of timely and engaging presentations are in store for attendees at this year’s International Metal Decorating & Packaging Association’s annual conference. Critical details related to sustainability, logistics, compliance and others dominate a power-packed schedule, October 4-6 at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Itasca, Illinois, near Chicago.

Two keynote speakers will address IMDPA members and others, and an impressive cast will provide lively conversation in the supporting breakout sessions, says Renee Schouten, the vice president of marketing for INX International Ink Co. who is concluding her two-term as president of the IMDPA.

“These are interesting and challenging times for the industry, so we’ve identified the top concerns and found the right speakers who can provide an accurate assessment and balanced perspective for this year’s conference,” said Schouten. The IMDPA currently has 500 members made up of lithographers, metal decorators, canmakers, designers, and trade suppliers from more than 200 companies.

“I think the key takeaway is the insight all of our speakers have to offer. They are front-and-center with the latest developments and trends. When you consider the educational aspects of our program, combined with the networking opportunities, it promises to be time well spent to attend this event.”

The conference begins with the annual charity Golf Outing and Banquet on October 4. Proceeds benefit the IMDPA Scholarship fund that awards the children and grandchildren of IMDPA members to further their education at the collegiate level.

Rob Clark, Head of Innovation for Anheuser-Busch, is the keynote presenter for the general session on October 5 that begins at 9 a.m. He has over 20 years of product and packaging development experience, and he will share the latest Innovation developments at his company that may impact the beverage can market. Other sessions that morning include a Wall Street perspective on metal packaging from two representatives with J.P. Morgan, a Cyber Security discussion, and a presentation on Sustainability in Metal Packaging. Two members of the Can Manufacturers Institute will conduct the latter session.

The IMDPA Member of the Year, Decorators of the Year and Excellence in Quality winners will be recognized at the Awards luncheon. Technical breakout sessions are on tap afterwards, with top speakers leading separate Flat Sheet, Two-Piece and Manufacturing presentations. A tabletop exhibition and sponsor-hosted hospitality begins at 5 p.m.

Mike Regan is the keynote speaker on October 6. The Chief of Relationship Development at Transact Technologies, LLC, he will discuss Supply Chain Logistics at the general session that starts at 8:30 a.m. He has impressive credentials, serving on the executive boards of several logistics industry organizations. Other presentations on Substrate Challenges and Opportunities, Educational Offerings, Data Systems Management and Oven and UV Maintenance will follow.

Members and non-members can register online and onsite starting October 4 at 7:00 a.m. For the complete schedule and to register for any of the events including the Scholarship Golf Outing, click here.