Foster City, Calif. –– EFI, the world leader in customer-focused digital printing innovation, wrapped up another well-attended Connect users' conference earlier this month, welcoming almost the same number of customers as last year – a strong testament to the educational and business impact potential of this annual event. The 10th Connect conference enabled leaders from around the globe to attend more than 160 educational sessions, test drive the latest EFI products, voice their opinions at user group meetings, discuss industry trends, and network with peers.
 
"In these challenging times, it's great to see industry leaders come together to discuss business strategies and tools with a focus on positioning their companies to not just survive but to lead," said Frank Mallozzi, senior VP of worldwide sales and marketing, EFI. "Connect has always been a great venue, but this year even more so than others, customers came to ensure they're getting maximum value from their EFI investments and to explore new products and solutions. We're very pleased that attendance was just slightly below last year's turn-out and thrilled that actual sales activity was so high."
 
Randy Herron, president of Herron Printing in Gaithersburg, MD, said: "Every year, EFI Connect is the one event I won't miss! I've attended all 10 of the Connect conferences because of the unprecedented attention I get from EFI – there's no better way to become more educated about my current EFI solutions while providing input on future direction. The chance to learn from my peers is also extremely valuable."
 
The profit-boosting potential of the revolutionary VUTEk GS3200 superwide format UV printer was evident, with 60 wide format customers in attendance and multiple units sold during the conference. The Connect lab also showcased the latest versions of EFI's print MIS (including PSI and Logic), web-to-print, proofing, and workflow offerings, and Fiery controller and software solutions. The lab highlighted end-to-end integration from Digital StoreFront/EFI Pace to Fiery XF, and Fiery XF driving the VUTEk GS3200. For the first time, a special Fiery "dealer track" was among the educational sessions.
 
"I've researched all of the superwide format digital printers out there, and the VUTEk GS3200 is hands-down the best in the marketplace," said Jeff Main, president of AMP Printing in Dublin, Calif. "The unique ability to print 10 colors in-line is huge. Combine that with blazing speed, superior dot resolution and exceptional color gamut and there is no competition. After seeing the GS3200 in action at Connect, we placed our order without hesitation."