Expanded agenda includes a “Shark Tank” entrepreneur

Fairfax, Virginia - The list of speakers for THREADX 2018 – a new conference from the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) – continues to expand with the addition of Brandon Barber, Director of Manufacturing, Vapor Apparel; Mark Coudray, owner, Coudray Growth Technologies; and entrepreneur Mel Lay, SandiLake Clothing, who appeared on ABC’s “Shark Tank.” THREADX, designed by and for garment decorators, takes place February 25–28, 2018, in Palm Springs, California.

With just a screen press and the guidance of how-to videos on YouTube, Lay started SandiLake Clothing from her garage when she was unable to find simple, modern clothing for her young children in mass-market retail. Within a few years, she expanded her business and pitched her brand on “Shark Tank,” and now has her own storefront and a busy website.

Lay adds her unique perspective on creating a garment print shop from the ground up to the valuable experiences and insights of the innovative speakers on the THREADX lineup.

“THREADX isn’t a ‘how-to’ conference for garment decorators,” said SGIA Director of Community Development Sarah Perkins. “Its focus is on the effect of today’s consumer culture on the industry. We’ll provide a high-level view of e-commerce optimization, consumer trends, social media, branding and more.”

Also adding their extensive industry knowledge and impressive achievements to this educational platform are Coudray and Barber.

Well known for his business innovation and strategy, Coudray, who started his first company at age 19, has helped companies adapt to significant changes and disruptions in the specialty printing and decorated apparel industry.

Barber brings expertise in daily operations with his oversight on spot-hit sublimation, screen printing, direct-to-garment and cut-and-sew. He has also supervised the development of Vapor Apparel’s print-on-demand business for Amazon and other online marketplaces.

“THREADX will challenge attendees to look at their businesses from a new perspective, to be successful businesspeople as well as artists,” Perkins added.

Other THREADX speakers include Johnny Earle, CEO and founder, Johnny Cupcakes; riCardo Crespo, Chief Operating Officer, Th13teen; Rob Kramer, Chief Technology Officer, Custom Ink; and Tim Williams, CEO and founder, YR Store.

Registration for THREADX is currently open at the best possible rates, and SGIA members receive a 25% discount on registration. Visit THREADX18.com to learn more and register.