2014 Inkjet Summit: Raising the Bar High–Michelson

Last year’s inaugural Inkjet Summit, admittedly, was a big gamble. Pay all of the expenses for 65+ U.S. printers—execs looking to expand their existing production inkjet printing output, or install their first high-speed inkjet press—to travel and stay at a four-star resort in Florida for three full days of educational sessions, peer-to peer networking and meetings with industry suppliers.

But, fortunately for Printing Impressions and our partner, nGage Events, this first-of-its-kind industry hosted buyer conference proved to be a success. And, with more than 90 printers and 36 sponsor company representatives attending the second-annual Inkjet Summit in April, the bar was raised even higher.

More user panels, comprising direct mail, book, general commercial and transactional printers, shared their real-life inkjet experiences. More educational presentations from inkjet experts, boardroom-style case study presentations and group networking opportunities. And more one-on-one meetings between attendees and leading inkjet press, postpress, paper and workflow suppliers, all in a relaxed resort setting.

Check out our special 2014 Inkjet Summit highlights section in this issue, which begins on page 32. There, you’ll find a general overview of the event itself and, more importantly, key takeways about inkjet adoption.

One point that stuck with me is the fact that many pages produced on continuous-feed inkjet presses today represent new jobs—not just work being transferred from toner-based digital or offset analog presses. Also key is the availability of more paper stocks. Most satisfying, too, is the sense of camaraderie that exists between veteran inkjet users—many of whom are competitors—inkjet suppliers and shops still considering a press. All constituents are committed to moving the industry forward.