Weekly Snapshot

From AI to automation to shifting supplier dynamics, the conversations happening at FESPA 2026 offer a look at the technologies, products, and strategies currently shaping apparel decoration.

Headlines From Around the Industry

• ICYMI: SanMar Enters Definitive Agreement to Acquire BELLA+CANVAS
  • Why it matters: Continuing M&A activity could reshape sourcing, distribution, and product strategy across the decorated apparel market.
• Shirt Lab Announces 2026 AI Summit
  • Why it matters: AI is rapidly moving from experimentation to implementation, and decorators are looking for practical ways to apply it to sales, production, and workflow.
• MADE Laboratory Brings a New Event to Texas with Make-Ready 2026
  • Why it matters: Smaller, focused industry events offer new opportunities for decorators to access hands-on education and niche expertise.

Featured Picks

• Holy Grail Design Tips for Digital Printing
  • Why we picked it: Strong digital printing starts long before production, and smart design decisions can dramatically improve print quality and consistency.
• How Creative Merch and Sales Strategies Shape the Future of Print and Promo
  • Why we picked it: Great merch doesn’t sell itself — decorators who combine creativity with intentional sales strategy separate themselves from the competition.
• An Assessment of Apparel Decorating Technology for the Modern Print Business
  • Why we picked it: Technology decisions directly impact speed, scalability, and profitability, making it critical for decorators to evaluate what truly fits their business needs.