EVENTS - / NEWS Since its launch in 2015, The Print Show has pledged to help connect visitors with the tools, solutions, and partners they need to succeed in the modern market. While of course much of this is focused on the many high-calibre exhibitors that attend the show yearon-year, those who attend have been granted access to various feature areas to gain additional insight into key market trends. One of the mainstays of the show has been its speaker area, which rebranded in 2023 as the ‘Knowledge Zone’. Returning again this year, the Knowledge Zone will be free to access to visitors across both The Print Show and new co-located event The Sign Show. With the double event in mind, organisers have put together an intriguing programme that not only picks out key topics in the print and sign-making markets but also addresses wider issues that are important to any businesses with links to these industries. “The Knowledge Zone is a must-attend for anyone visiting either show this year,” says Chris Davies, event director for both The Print Show and The Sign Show. Thinking Ahead The 2025 Knowledge Zone programme kicks off with a look at the long-term benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) in print. Heading up this session will be the hugely experienced Jeremy Page, global head of brand and strategy at Brandnation agency. Following this will be more innovation and forward thinking with Tom Willday, the founder of Willsow, who will speak with visitors about his exciting business and how it not only drew the attention of investors on the BBC’s Dragon’s Den, but also David Beckham and King Charles III. Other day one highlights include an insightful session from the talented group of young people in FESPA UK’s Next Generation initiative, as well as a look at how automation can help plug the prepress skills gap from Artworker’s Nate Duckworth. The opening day concludes with a look at the impact of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on print, with a panel session featuring Jonathan Tame of Two Sides, Rebecca Elliott of Elliot Baxter and Co. (EBB), and Joanne O’Sullivan of Sappi UK. On day two Simon Cooper, chief executive officer of Solopress will also focus on AI but instead consider the environmental impact of this technology for those in print who decide to adapt it. Next up, The Printing Charity will be hosting a ‘Knowledge Exchange Live’ session, with a look at wellbeing in the workplace. Looking to the 1pm lunchtime slot, Puneet Gupta OBE, chief executive officer of PG Paper, will lead a session on entrepreneurship, sharing hints and tips on how to build a successful business. Later on in the day, visitors can look forward to a panel session on how to futureproof their business, considering ancillary services such as financing, insurance, and coaching. Day two will conclude with a panel session from VB Media, considering the importance of a quality online presence. As for the final day, Reuseabox founder Jack Good will look at the power of circularity in packaging before Mark Bidewell of Made by Bison shares his secrets on diversification. The Online Print Coach, Colin Sinclair McDermott, will then take to the stage for a live edition of his Printerview series with RMC Digital Print’s Nicole Spencer as his guest. The penultimate session will be a panel discussion with Matt Hanley on encouraging and supporting young people to further their careers in print, with a focus on the ongoing initiatives at KGX Genix. The 2025 programme will then conclude with an insightful panel session on the growing opportunities for women across both the print and sign industries, featuring input from Karis Copp and Carys Evans, both of the Karis Copp Media agency. “This year’s programme is one of our best yet,” Davies says, adding: “I would urge anyone who plans on visiting the two shows this year to take a look at the programme beforehand to see who is speaking and plan their visit to allow them to attend some of these hugely valuable sessions.” ▲Puneet Gupta OBE, CEO of PG Paper, will lead a session on entrepreneurship on day two In the know at the Knowledge Zone By Rob Fletcher ►Tom Willday, the founder of Willsow, who will speak with visitors about his meeting with King Charles III 29 www.signlink.co.uk Issue 260 - August / September 2025
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