Trade Show Insights on Technology, Trends, and On-Demand Decoration
The apparel decorating industry is taking on 2026 with a spirit of optimism — that has been the overall sense as the year’s first trade shows kicked things off.
While 2025 felt chaotic, most decorators ultimately reported that business was fine. However, trends in equipment, technology, and styles reflect an industry that is ready to embrace new opportunities.
As the industry anticipates upcoming events such as PRINTING United Expo 2026 (set to take place September 23-25 in Las Vegas), Apparel Decoration Summit (scheduled for June 22-24 in Nashville), and more, things got off to a fast start in January. Events such as ASI Orlando and the Impressions Expo have given decorators insight into what the year has to offer the industry. On the heels of Impressions Expo 2026, there are a few key highlights we feel apparel decorators should have on their radar this year.
The Edge in Equipment
Topping charts once again this year are advancements in direct-to-film (DTF) technology. The industry is fine-tuning DTF printing by focusing on a better hand-feel, improved ink and productivity systems, and even safety.
Of note on the trade show floor was Epson’s latest launch, the SureColor G9070 (pictured above). It can print two media rolls simultaneously. Paul Morales, product manager, Professional Imaging, Epson Americas, notes the design is ideal for high-volume printing, oversized graphics, and large transfer orders. “We’re always developing and working on the next best thing and what we can do to continue to improve,” he explains.
The machine allows for the twin roll capability but can also handle media up to a total of 64” wide. Morales adds that it can connect with two separate shaker systems to maximize space and allow decorators to utilize equipment they may already own. To top it off, the inks are OEKO-TEX ECO PASSPORT certified, CPSIA-compliant, and non-toxic.
There was a powderless system on display in the DCC Group booth. The NeoFlex allows decorators to utilize either a powderless or traditional powder and shaker solution. “The conversion kit is what makes it powderless,” Thomas Trimingham, director of marketing USA at DCC, explains. He feels this allows for a softer hand that resembles a screen print. “The great thing about this machine is you can flip it back and forth, if you have to or if you want to,” he adds.
He adds that the company makes all of its own machines and materials, giving them full control over both the process and outcome. “They can really manage all the variables,” he says. “It’s everything in one integrated system.”
This draws attention to automation, which is the name of the game this year for decorators. Everywhere on the show floor, from DTF printers to screen-printing presses, automation solutions that will help decorators stay nimble in today’s tech-driven environment were featured front and center.
Morales says that the G9070 can not only run quickly, but doesn’t require babysitting, allowing operators to produce multiple custom transfers while simultaneously working on other projects. This also reflects the print-on-demand (POD) mindset that could also be seen nearly everywhere in both equipment and blank goods.
Staying in Style with Apparel Trends
In an on-demand business landscape, decorators also look for the latest apparel trends that meet today’s custom craze. The story in 2026 is the continuing push toward comfort, cozy, and all things earthy while reducing minimums and waste.
A common theme throughout was the spotlight on different collections at each booth. According to Etienne Houseknecht, VP of marketing at Next Level Apparel, it’s important that the company tells a “powerful story” not only with its retail-inspired booth, but all of its collections. For him, it’s about lifting the apparel industry. “We wanted to continue to raise the bar, not only for Next Level, but for the [entire] apparel industry, especially premium blanks,” he says.
Story telling is also a big emphasis for LAT Apparel, who featured its classic Rabbit Skins line alongside others such as the Versatile Luxury Collection. Tami Miller, director of creative marketing, explains that there are stories woven into all of LAT’s collections, giving decorators confidence and trust to provide blanks that fit any end-user’s needs.
Among the major stories getting told by blanks suppliers is sustainability, which is no longer just a nice thought but an actionable part of their business. Céline Dufour, head of decoration at Stanley/Stella, says that this is part of the company’s ethos not only from a blank manufacturing standpoint, but a decoration standpoint as well.
Houseknecht points to Next Level’s recent membership with the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol as one way they’re working to build sustainable practices. “The US. Cotton [Trust Protocol] membership is key for us, because it does provide all that transparency and confidence [to our customers],” he explains.
The emphasis of sustainability is reflected in this year’s overall color trends as well, which are still heavily influenced by earth tones. While brighter color palettes are making their way back onto the scene, they still embody a soft, earth-friendly vibe.
Among those in the industry providing additional support in the realm of sustainability is Sawgrass, who showcased its digital label transfer (DLT) solution. According to Peter Valinski, VP of business development at Sawgrass, this solution helps decorators address digital passport (DPP) legislation. DPP legislation, while primarily existing in the E.U., is making its way to the U.S.
“With our DLT solution, we can do really detailed QR codes,” Valinski says. These QR codes can be printed on garments to inform end-users on everything from the fibers used during the manufacturing process all the way to how to dispose of the garment at the end-of-life stage.
While we likely won’t start to see this type of legislation in the states until 2027, decorators should start prepping now. “Companies are looking now for these solutions, getting their ducks in order,” Valinski says. “With [Sawgrass sublimation] printers, we can actually put in a 2 1/2x5” piece of paper so you can print out the QR code, and then [it’s] easy for registration and everything else. … So, workflow is very simplistic, very straightforward.”
And of course, heavyweight and ‘90s nostalgia still reign supreme, with blanks suppliers offering everything from ultra heavy hoodies to cozy T-shirts that bring the comfort without being overly boxy.
Overall, Houseknecht feels it’s about providing the right road map to decorators without falling into the fast fashion trap. “It's a long path to make sure that we source the right type of fabric, and also really look at the cuts and the relaxed fit to make sure that we are addressing those customer needs,” he says.