This month saw the return of FESPA Digital to Amsterdam, where 16,309 unique visitors attending the combined exhibitions, descended on the RAI to participate in the first global wide format event of the year.

An increase of 34% in footfall since the last Digital show held during a similar time period in 2012, and a total of 23,240 visits over the four days, highlights the strategic importance and continual growth of the event, organisers report.

Product launches

Over 75% of attendees are heavily involved in the decision making process for their businesses, and this was apparent by the record number of sales that were being made on exhibitor stands over the four days.

The high level of product launches witnessed on the show floor was also indicative of the importance that exhibitors place in FESPA Digital as the leading digital wide format event, and the wide format launch platform of choice for new products in 2016.

Particular highlights include Mimaki, who launched a series of UV-LED printers and sold 52 units throughout the show, with both resellers and PSPs making purchases. HP announced its Scitex 9000 industrial press, while EFI unveiled six new Vutek printers, including textile, LED and inkjet options. Durst also launched its water technology dye-sublimation printer, suitable for soft signage and fabric applications, while Kornit Digital introduced two new industrial direct-to-garment printers within its Storm range.

Attendance

With its central location within Europe, Amsterdam proved an ideal setting for wide format specialists to convene and expand their knowledge within the ever-changing digital print landscape, with visitors from 120 countries in attendance.

The top visiting countries were the Netherlands (35%), Germany, UK, Belgium and Italy, however, visitors from North America, Asia, Australasia and Africa were also in attendance, demonstrating the truly international scope of the FESPA Digital exhibitions.

Concurrent events

With four events under one roof, visitors were able to seamlessly switch between FESPA Digital, Textile, European Sign Expo and Printeriors to uncover all of the possibilities of wide format digital print and non-printed signage.

Popular features included the Wrap Hub and the Signage Demo area. Both the Digital Textile and Printeriors conferences received positive feedback, with global visitors from across the print, digital textile and interior design sectors in attendance. The Printeriors Print Hotel showcase displayed the possibilities of interior décor and digital print, and its eye-catching room sets captivated visitors and exhibitors alike.

Successful edition

“What a fantastic way to celebrate the 10^th anniversary of FESPA Digital. I am delighted with how many exhibitors chose our event to launch their latest products and technologies, and those who visited left as true print superheroes; inspired, invigorated and excited to see where the next chapter of digital print and signage may be heading, taking away invaluable insights that will provide them with the opportunity to diversify,” commented FESPA CEO Neil Felton.

“The halls were buzzing with activity and feedback from both visitors and exhibitors has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly for the value-add seminars, demonstrations, competitions and interactive workshops. Many exhibitors have declared this their best FESPA ever, with expectations greatly exceeded. I can’t wait to see what the next chapter will be in Hamburg next year.”

www.fespa.com