BOHEMIA, NY—Seasoned Flexographic Technical Association members have long seen the value in FORUM INFOFLEX. Many view annual attendance as critical to success. Others praise the collaborative environment. Still others commend its relationship building attributes. And everybody enjoys and points to the spontaneous networking opportunities the exhibit hall brings.
Here is a sampling of comments shared with FLEXO at last year’s event. It’s offered in hopes of inspiring both first-time and repeat attendance. Pittsburgh is calling. May 5-6 is just weeks away when INFOFLEX will be staged for the 43rd time; FORUM for the 66th. Some 150 exhibitors are planning to display their wares and offer solutions to long-standing printer/converter challenges. Their motto: “Let the networking begin!”
In commenting on his INFOFLEX experience, Brad Ehlers, C-P Flexible Packaging, stated, “INFOFLEX provides me with a direct line to suppliers in case something ever goes wrong. It gives me the ability to grab information on things like film washers and blade assemblies. I’ve been coming since 2011 and appreciate the interaction year-in and year-out.”
Sean Mackesy, Proampac, declared. “Love the sessions! They really drive home what we are looking for. CPC interaction is great. Our customers are here. At least four of us come every year. Continuous improvement opportunities available at INFOFLEX are enormous. The show helps us grow our relationships with our vendors and explore how each relationship fits with our business model.”
Richard Voisinet, Interflex Group, told FLEXO, “I am here at INFOFLEX because of purchases already made. Typically, I come every year. INFOFLEX is a great communications tool. It’s a great networking event.”
Expressing similar thoughts, Brad Vette, Castle-Pierce, said, “Things change very rapidly. INFOFLEX is the best networking opportunity out there. While I’ve been attending for 25 years. Today, looking at things from a printer’s perspective, I’m reviewing everything entailed in the package printing and converting process and hoping to identify solutions to make our process more efficient and more responsive to our customers.”
Bradley Beskau, Priority Envelope, reported, “At INFOFLEX 2024, my interests turned to sustainability. I am looking at what is out there and what is coming—seeing the here and now and staying ahead of the market. Walking the floor has been great. I learned as much as possible.”
TC Transcontinental’s Zac Patterson confided, “I came to INFOFLEX to network, as I always do—to see new innovations, to look for ways to save money and align with sustainability. … Gaining direct feedback in such a collaborative environment is a huge asset.”
For his part, Brandon Means commented, “McCourt Label gets a lot of value out of seeing new technologies, networking on the INFOFLEX floor and meeting people. Functions like the awards banquet, are a true highlight of FORUM. The announcements, coupled with the Awards Gallery at INFOFLEX afford us a true opportunity to see what people are doing in pushing the envelope in flexography.”
Advice rendered by Kariahlyn Lindsey, Esko, this year’s FORUM chair, “Take INFOFLEX one row at a time. Find booths that are on target for your needs and be sure to visit something new each day. …We are all—you included–here to learn how new innovations can lead the way.”
Even members of the association’s elite club—the FTA Hall of Fame—have lauded their experience at, and vision of, the signature event.
Jean Jackson recommended attendees, “Get connected, learn, and feel welcome. INFOFLEX is the only place where flexo technical and research people stand side-by-side with management and sales people.”
Mark Samworth, industry color guru, delivered similar praise: “The Yin and Yang of FTA is the theoretical and the practical. You can attend FTA Webinars, FORUM sessions, and read publications for the theoretical. Attending INFOFLEX is a good way to get the practical. Seeing and touching the physical products in person is great.”
Almost on cue, Greg Collins observed, “INFOFLEX has the greatest number of flexo-oriented resources under one roof than any other place on Earth, ready for those that seek them out. Its singular focus, flexography and all its supporting disciplines, is really the key to its success.”
Page Crouch shared, “The first benefit of INFOFLEX is the most valuable of all! INFOFLEX is the easiest way to meet the leaders and technology brain trusts in every phase of the industry. … Whether it’s design or prepress, or the latest in ink technology or inline converting, the companies participating are represented by their best.”
A short and succinct assessment from Jason Cagle, a past FORUM chair, pointed to setting aspirations. “Expect an enriching experience filled with a blend of visionary insights, practical applications, and a vibrant environment fostering invaluable networking opportunities.”
“From entrance to exit, the exhibit hall is filled with innovative solutions. In two short days, INFOFLEX puts it all out there and allows you to set your agenda. Then get things done!”
