This year’s PRINTING United Expo is shaping up to be an exciting event, with a re-imagined area specifically curated for anyone interested in exploring the lucrative world of apparel decorating. Expanding on the momentum of the past two years within the Apparel Zone, experiential learning will be elevated in 2024 at the Apparel Zone Powered by Apparelist Live. Part of the Zone this year will be the inclusion of Apparelist Live! Theatre, previously known as Future State Theater.

Educational topics will be presented on stage in the Theatre as part of the immersive learning experience. Throughout the three days of the Expo, attendees can stop by the Theatre to listen to hour-long presentations geared to address the most pressing questions and challenges apparel decorators face today.

And even better: This year, attendees won’t have to leave the Zone to participate in this education as the Theatre will be built alongside the hands-on learning areas. Check out the following line-up to get a sneak peek at just some of the presentations lined up for this year.

Preliminary Apparelist Live! Agenda Features Business, Technical Training

This year’s agenda is a packed lineup of presentations. Check out the following preliminary schedule and make sure to mark those you must attend.

Tuesday, Sept. 10

10 a.m.: Exploring the Present and Future of Dye Sublimation: Trends, Innovations, and Market Insights – Presented by Imaging Supplies Warehouse

Panel of industry experts will delve into the latest advancements and emerging trends in dye sublimation technology, highlighting key market insights and innovative applications. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on how these developments can impact and drive growth in various market segments.

11 a.m.: Building a Sustainable Workforce: Reduce Training & Boost Productivity without Recruiting Skilled Labor – Presented by STAHLS’

Explore how you can do more with less, while building a sustainable workforce by making intentional decisions with equipment and technology to meet your business goals. Filled with real-world success stories on how you can reduce training costs and enhance productivity without the need to recruit skilled labor.

1 p.m.: The Impact of DTG & DTF Technology, “My Business is Growing!” – Presented by Equipment Zone

This presentation will feature a press conference followed by a panel discussion featuring both manufacturers and shop owners discussing new technology and how it impacts apparel decorators today and in the future.

2 p.m.: Don’t Become an OSHA Inspection Statistic: How Apparel Decorators Can Become Prepared – Presented by Gary Jones, PRINTING United Alliance

Safety training and proper protocol is essential in any printing business, including apparel decoration shops. And when OSHA comes knocking, it’s crucial that you have everything in order. Learn how to put all the right safety procedures in place and be prepared for an OSHA inspection. Plus, get a review on how to comply with OSHA’s top 10 common violations in printing.

3 p.m.: 5 Key Elements for Incorporating Embroidery into Your Business – Presented by Hirsch Solutions

Embroidery is a captivating embellishment technique that can stand alone as a primary revenue source and easily complements other apparel decoration methods. However, with numerous options available, integrating embroidery into your business can be overwhelming.

This class aims to simplify the process by focusing on five key elements: selecting the right equipment, choosing the right business model, understanding the capabilities of a typical embroidery machine, choosing a digitizing strategy, and incorporating embroidery with other techniques.

4 p.m.: ASDPT Awards Ceremony

Wednesday, Sept. 11

10 a.m.: The Good, Bad and Ugly of Direct-to-Film Printing – Presented by Imaging Supplies Warehouse

Panel of industry experts will provide an in-depth analysis of the benefits, challenges, and potential drawbacks of direct-to-film printing technology. Attendees will learn about practical applications, industry insights, and strategies to navigate the complexities of this innovative printing method.

11 a.m.: INKclusivity: Company Benefits of Disability Inclusion & How to Implementation Guide for the Print Industry – Presented by Jed Seifert, Stakes Manufacturing

A look at the new book that’s all about inclusivity efforts in the printing industry with a focus on hiring those with disabilities. This panel discussion will include industry veterans who have not only built disabilities inclusion programs, but also want to help others follow the same path.

2 p.m.: DTF: The Print Shop Multi-Tool – Presented by American Print and Supply

This presentation will discuss utilizing cutting-edge printing equipment and supplies to incorporate direct-to-film (DTF) into your business. It will outline the basic components needed for DTF printing and what to look for in supplier partners. The presentation will also talk about the benefits of bringing DTF in-house and the areas the technology fills.

3 p.m.: Operational Efficiencies for the Modern Print Shop – Presented by STAHLS’

Explore the latest business tactics to enhance resource management and operational efficiency in modern print shops featuring a dynamic panel discussion. Discover how to optimize supply chain processes, organize labor and scheduling and maximize ROI on equipment, all while reducing financial risks and leveraging innovative decoration methods.

Thursday, Sept. 12

10 a.m.: Apparelist Learning Session – Apparel Decorating for Beginners

This panel of decorators moderated by Cassie Green, Apparelist content director, and Allee Bruce, Apparelist content editor, will unlock the secrets that every beginner wants to know about apparel decoration. From technology to business talk and more, newbies and even veterans will want to attend this session.

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There will be several more presentations as part of the Apparelist Live! Theatre experience. Don’t miss out! Make sure you’re subscribed to the Apparelist newsletter so you don’t miss the full agenda announcement.

And don’t forget to register for PRINTING United Expo, set to take place Sept. 10-12 in Las Vegas.