“Our vision was to create more than just another conference, but a cutting edge information exchange for the UV print industry where attendees bring immeasurable value to each other.”
MARCH 10-12, 2025: WYNN ENCORE LAS VEGAS
“Just a single, actionable idea is all it takes to make attending the PRINT UV conference worthwhile. And the time spent networking with colleagues, peers and friends (old and new alike) for a few days in a relaxed setting in Las Vegas is priceless.”
Kick off the Print UV Conference with a vibrant welcome reception! This full networking event brings together sponsors and attendees in a relaxed environment, offering a perfect preview of the event’s energy and excitement. Join us for hearty appetizers, refreshing drinks, and an opportunity to make connections that will set the stage for the days ahead. This evening is designed to allow attendees to meet industry peers, engage with top suppliers, and set the tone for an inspiring conference ahead.
Begin the day with a robust breakfast buffet to fuel up for an incredible agenda ahead. This breakfast offers more than just a meal; it's a chance to start networking early, compare notes with other attendees, and make meaningful connections in a relaxed setting before diving into the day’s insights.
The Print UV Conference officially opens! Attendees are welcomed by the conference MCs, who will introduce the conference goals, share the agenda, and highlight key themes to keep in mind. This session sets the stage for two full days of learning, collaboration, and insight, getting everyone ready to make the most of the days ahead.
Keynote Speaker: Kerry Brown, VP of Operations, Curtis Packaging
In a world of evolving print technologies, where innovation is the key to staying ahead, one method continues to reign supreme: UV printing. This captivating keynote presentation will dive deep into the core reasons why UV printing remains a dominant force in the industry, exploring its unmatched advantages and the groundbreaking innovations that are pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
The Unmatched Advantages of UV: We'll explore the inherent qualities that set UV printing apart, from its exceptional print quality and remarkable durability to its unparalleled versatility across a wide range of substrates and applications.
A World of Applications: Discover the vast landscape of UV printing applications, from eye-catching packaging and labels to high-impact marketing collateral, stunning embellished graphics, and beyond. See how UV printing is being used to create innovative products that captivate audiences and drive results.
Grab some coffee and refreshments as you mingle with industry-leading sponsors. Take this opportunity to explore the latest UV printing technologies, build valuable connections, and discuss new ideas. The sponsor area will feature displays, product demos, and experts ready to help you elevate your operations.
Presented by: Dirk Winkler, Head of Print Technology and Product Management at Koenig & Bauer AG
Hold on to your beer (or coffee, depending on where you are)! Koenig & Bauer is set to light up PRINT UV 2025 with a mind-blowing live demo straight from Germany. Imagine witnessing the Rapida 106X blazing through 20,000 sheets per hour, its LED-UV technology turning ink into art in the blink of an eye. We're talking plate changes faster than you can say "Prost!" and curing systems that switch gears quicker than a Formula 1 pit crew. This isn't just a presentation; it's a high-octane sprint into the future of printing. So grab your shades – because the future of UV printing is about to get brilliantly bright and set the tone for the rest of the conference!
Enjoy a high-quality lunch and the chance to interact with fellow attendees and sponsors. This relaxed meal allows you to reflect on the morning’s sessions, continue your networking journey, and explore the exhibitor area to see what’s new in UV printing.
Speaker: John Foody, Finance and Operations Leader, Double H Plastics, Inc.
Speaker: Jonathan Graunke, VP of UV/EB Technology, INX International Ink Company
Food packaging presents unique challenges in the printing world, but UV and LED UV technologies are proving to be transformative for this growing sector. This session dives into an eye-opening case study from a leading packaging company that successfully transitioned to LED UV, showcasing the strategies, challenges, and benefits of this cutting-edge technology.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Transitioning to UV:
Explore the step-by-step journey of adopting LED UV for food-safe packaging, from initial decision-making to implementation. Learn about the process of achieving low-migration results that meet strict food safety regulations and how to navigate the complex requirements for compliance with industry standards.
Technical Hurdles and Real Solutions:
Get an insider perspective on the technical challenges faced during this transition, including equipment retrofits, ink and coating selection, and balancing the needs of engineers and production teams. Discover how issues like adhesion, curing consistency, and scalability were overcome, as well as lessons learned from integrating UV into food-grade operations.
Benefits Realized – And Why They Matter:
Unpack the significant advantages that UV and LED UV bring to food packaging, including:
Enhanced printing speed and efficiency.
Superior print quality on a wide range of substrates.
Reduced energy consumption and operational costs through LED technology.
The Future of Food Packaging with UV:
This session also explores how UV continues to innovate in the food packaging space, from next-generation inks and coatings to hybrid curing solutions that expand application possibilities.
Whether you’re considering UV for food packaging or looking to optimize your existing processes, this session provides actionable insights, inspiring ideas, and a roadmap for success in this complex and exciting field.
Panelists: Industry Color Experts, UV Ink Specialists, and Press Technologists
Panel Leaders: Chris Travis, Vice President Print Technology, Koenig & Bauer; Jack Frank, Director of Color Management, Smurfit Westrock
The demand for vibrant, true-to-life colors has never been greater, especially in packaging, branding, and high-impact visual communications. Expanded gamut printing (EGP), powered by UV technology, is revolutionizing how brands achieve precise, stunning results without relying heavily on spot colors. This panel brings together top industry experts to explore how mastering 7+ color UV printing can transform your capabilities and give your business a competitive edge.
Why Expanded Gamut Matters:
Break through the limitations of traditional CMYK to deliver more vibrant, consistent, and saturated colors.
Explore how expanded gamut printing helps meet evolving brand demands for more complex and precise color reproduction.
Learn why industries like pharmaceuticals, beverages, and high-end consumer goods are leading the charge in adopting this technology.
Technical Deep Dive:
Panelists will discuss the innovations enabling expanded gamut printing, including:
UV’s role in achieving exceptional color accuracy and vibrancy.
Advanced ink formulations designed to maximize performance on a wide range of substrates.
Real-world examples of presses running continuously with 7+ color configurations, offering improved efficiency and reduced setup times.
Economic Advantages:
Discover how EGP reduces dependency on costly spot colors, saving time and resources while improving consistency across print runs.
Insights into how businesses are adopting 8-color configurations to accommodate specialty effects, such as metallics or whites, to further enhance design versatility.
Overcoming Challenges:
Learn about the common hurdles in transitioning to expanded gamut workflows, from plate calibration to press adjustments, and how industry leaders are overcoming them.
Tips on optimizing equipment and processes to unlock the full potential of EGP while minimizing downtime and waste.
Design Possibilities Unlocked:
See how expanded gamut printing opens new creative horizons, enabling designers to achieve high-impact visuals that were previously unattainable. From bold packaging to intricate marketing materials, EGP is redefining what’s possible.
This session is a must for anyone looking to push the boundaries of color, elevate their offerings, and tap into the next generation of UV printing capabilities.
Take a break, enjoy refreshments, and revisit the sponsor area to connect with industry leaders and discover the latest offerings. Discuss how new technologies can drive improvements in your business and get direct answers to your questions.
Keynote: Kevin Abergel, President and Founder of Taktiful Software
Panel Moderated by: Eric Vessels, Sexy Print Evangelist and Bourbon Lover
Panelists:
Spencer Bruno, Product Manager, Harris & Bruno
Brian Damitz, Business Development, KURZ
Barry Walsh, Director of Digital Embellishment, Konica Minolta
Step into the dazzling world of digital UV embellishments, where creativity meets cutting-edge technology. This session, led by Kevin Abergel of Taktiful, brings together a powerhouse lineup of industry pioneers—printers and equipment manufacturers—to explore how digital embellishment is transforming print into an art form that captivates and drives results.
Revolutionizing Print with Digital Embellishments:
Precision Meets Creativity: Discover the unparalleled versatility of digital UV technology, enabling the creation of intricate, personalized designs on demand. From high-end packaging to luxury labels and beyond, see how this technology brings ideas to life with unmatched precision.
Versatility in Application: Learn how digital embellishments are redefining a wide range of print products, including tactile marketing materials, premium labels, and show-stopping packaging that leaves a lasting impression.
Exclusive Insights from Industry Leaders:
Real-World Success Stories: Hear directly from printing experts who’ve integrated digital UV embellishment technology into their operations. They’ll share firsthand accounts of overcoming challenges, maximizing creativity, and delivering unique value to their clients.
Equipment Roundup: Our panel will review the leading manufacturers and their latest digital UV embellishment machines, showcasing groundbreaking features like foil applications, raised coatings, and spot gloss finishes—all designed to seamlessly integrate with offset and digital workflows.
A Game-Changer for Your Bottom Line:
Profitable Opportunities: Learn how investing in digital embellishments can attract high-value clients, unlock new market segments, and deliver a fast return on investment. This technology isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a strategic move for any printer looking to stand out and grow.
Short Runs, Big Impact: With digital UV embellishments, short-run projects can deliver big-time creativity without sacrificing cost-efficiency. Explore the market potential for personalized and limited-edition designs.
Interactive and Engaging:
This session isn’t just about listening—it’s about learning, questioning, and connecting. Engage with panelists, ask the questions that matter to your business, and walk away with actionable strategies to integrate digital UV embellishments into your operations.
Prepare to be inspired, informed, and equipped with the tools and insights you need to deliver print products that pack a creative punch and keep your clients coming back for more!
Presented By: The Print UV Association Board of Advisors
Including A Special Dedication to Hans Ulland, Co-Founder of the Print UV Conference
Join us for a historic moment at the 2025 Print UV Conference as we proudly unveil the industry's first-ever "Ullee Award for UV Printing Excellence." This award celebrates the passion, innovation, and personality that drive the UV printing community forward, named affectionately in honor of Hans Ulland—a true industry visionary whose inspiring spirit and love for UV printing touched everyone he met.
Be there as we reveal this year's recipient—a trailblazer whose dedication exemplifies the spirit Hans embodied. It's a can't-miss moment to celebrate innovation, creativity, and community in our industry. Let's honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future!
After a day packed with insights and learning, unwind at the networking reception. This informal gathering is the ideal place to discuss the day’s sessions, meet new contacts, and connect with leading technology providers. Grab a drink, enjoy delicious food, and dive deeper into conversations that can help you shape the future of your business.
A hearty breakfast awaits, offering another excellent chance to meet and connect with fellow attendees. Whether discussing Day 1’s highlights or looking forward to the new sessions, this is the perfect way to start the day.
Let's get back to it after a few announcements and some quick breathing and stretching exercises. Don’t miss this… there may be surprises!
Moderator:
D.J. Cabler, Director of Technical Printing, Smurfit Westrock
Panelists:
Kerry Brown, VP of Operations, Curtis Packaging
Rod Franson, Print Solutions Expert, Carlson Print Group
Get back to the basics of UV printing, combined with an insider look at the latest technological advancements. Our panel of UV industry veterans will discuss the foundational benefits of UV technology and explore why it continues to be the gold standard. Topics include the evolution of UV ink formulations, eco-friendly solutions, and efficiency improvements that keep UV relevant in today’s competitive market. This session provides a critical foundation that will prepare attendees for the deeper dives to follow.
Discover why UV printing remains the cornerstone of modern print innovation while learning practical strategies to optimize its use. This essential session combines foundational principles with cutting-edge advancements, designed to give attendees a well-rounded understanding of UV technology’s power and potential.
The Basics, Reimagined:
Our expert panel will break down the core advantages of UV printing—think exceptional durability, instant curing, and unmatched versatility across substrates. Whether you’re new to UV or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide valuable insights for everyone.
Technology That Evolves With You:
Learn about the latest developments in UV printing, including next-generation ink formulations, eco-friendly advancements, and the growing role of LED curing systems. Gain a clear understanding of how these innovations translate into cost savings, reduced waste, and higher production efficiency.
Real-World Strategies for Success:
Our panelists will share practical tips and success stories, tackling key questions such as:
When is UV the best choice for your printing needs?
How can you optimize your workflow to achieve maximum impact and efficiency?
What are the common myths about UV that might be holding you back?
Whether you’re considering UV for the first time or looking to expand its applications, this session will prepare you for deeper dives into the technology and its transformative potential.
Take a mid-morning break and visit our sponsor area for another chance to explore products and services. Grab a coffee, ask questions, and deepen your industry connections.
Panelists:
Tim Sterbak, Managing Director, IST Metz
Robert Rae, Managing Director, GEW
Marc Boden, Founder and CEO, Benford UV
Moderated by: Steve Metcalf, Co-Founder, Print UV Productions
Dive into the future of UV and LED curing technologies with this powerhouse panel of industry leaders. From innovative hybrid systems to groundbreaking multi-wavelength curing solutions, this session will showcase the latest equipment advancements and how they’re driving efficiency, quality, and sustainability in print production.
The Cutting Edge of Curing:
Explore hybrid UV/LED technologies that combine the strengths of both systems, offering unmatched flexibility and performance for diverse applications.
Learn about multi-wavelength curing innovations that expand curing capabilities, enabling enhanced adhesion, faster speeds, and greater substrate compatibility.
Get a first look at proprietary LED advancements, including dual-module systems that optimize curing while minimizing yellowing and energy use.
Practical Insights for Printers:
Discover how these advancements address the real-world challenges faced by print shops, from energy efficiency and maintenance reduction to improving the reliability of curing systems.
Hear success stories from recent installations and understand how to implement new curing technologies without disrupting operations.
Sustainability at the Forefront:
Panelists will discuss how UV and LED systems are advancing sustainability goals by reducing energy consumption, eliminating hazardous materials like mercury, and enabling low-impact production processes.
What’s Next for the Industry:
Get insights into R&D efforts shaping the future of curing technologies, including LED systems with enhanced photoinitiator options and solutions designed to lower overall costs.
Discover how manufacturers are collaborating with ink and coating suppliers to deliver more tailored, integrated solutions for printers.
Missed drupa? Catch Up Here:
If you didn’t catch the latest at drupa or other industry events, this is your opportunity to get up to speed. Our panelists will share insider details on the technologies and trends that are setting the pace for the next wave of innovation.
This session is essential for anyone looking to future-proof their business, streamline production, and leverage cutting-edge curing systems to meet today’s demands and tomorrow’s opportunities.
Enjoy a robust, flavorful lunch and use this time to connect with peers, share insights, and make lasting connections. It’s also a final chance to explore the sponsor area and dive into discussions that can elevate your operations.
Panelists:
Robert Andrews, Product Manager, Actega
Derrick Hemmings, Product Management, Sun Chemical
Jonathan Graunke, VP of UV/EB, INX International
Moderated By:
Chris Travis, Koenig & Bauer
Explore the dazzling future of UV and LED UV energy-curable inks and coatings in this must-attend session featuring the industry’s top innovators. From groundbreaking special effects to enhanced curing efficiencies, this session will uncover the latest advancements redefining the possibilities of print.
The Next Generation of Special Effects:
Discover new formulations designed to deliver high-impact, tactile finishes, from gloss and matte effects to raised textures and metallic enhancements.
Learn how next-level UV coatings are creating exciting, interactive print experiences that captivate audiences and elevate brand messaging.
Faster Curing, Greater Efficiency:
Explore inks and coatings optimized for faster curing speeds, reducing production time while maintaining exceptional quality.
See how new developments are minimizing energy use without compromising on performance, offering a win-win for productivity and sustainability.
Meeting the Sustainability Challenge:
Gain insights into how ink and coating providers are addressing environmental concerns, with low-migration options, recyclable coatings, and energy-efficient LED formulations.
Learn how these innovations help printers align with growing market demand for eco-friendly solutions.
Expanding Applications Across Substrates:
From traditional materials like paper and plastic to more unconventional substrates such as wood, metal, and textiles, find out how new UV ink and coating technologies are breaking boundaries in application versatility.
A Practical Perspective:
Hear from industry leaders about the challenges and opportunities in adopting these advanced formulations.
Get actionable insights on how to integrate new UV inks and coatings into your existing workflows for maximum impact and efficiency.
Whether you’re looking to add wow-factor special effects, streamline your operations, or stay ahead in sustainability, this session will arm you with the knowledge to take your print offerings to the next level.
Panelists:
Dan Cunningham, Quartz Lamps, Inc. & Victory Lighting
James “Jimbo” Eakin, Former Foster Printing & Trojan Litho
Steve Howell, Advanced Applications Specialist; Sun Chemical
Implementing UV and LED printing technologies can revolutionize your operations, but it doesn’t come without challenges. From retrofitting equipment to gaining client confidence, this interactive panel dives deep into the obstacles print shops face and provides actionable strategies to overcome them.
Navigating Pressroom Challenges:
Learn how to address common operational hurdles, including curing consistency, equipment maintenance, and troubleshooting issues that arise when transitioning to UV or LED technologies.
Hear firsthand experiences from print shop owners who’ve successfully integrated these technologies while managing production demands and minimizing downtime.
Staff and Workflow Transitions:
Get expert advice on managing the learning curve for press operators and training your team to maximize the benefits of UV and LED printing.
Discover strategies for optimizing workflows to achieve seamless integration and improved efficiency across your shop floor.
Building Client Trust in UV Products:
Gain insights into communicating the value of UV printing to clients, including how to address misconceptions, highlight its advantages, and demonstrate its ability to meet or exceed their expectations.
Learn how to position UV as a premium, eco-friendly solution to attract high-value projects and differentiate your offerings.
Retrofit Strategies for Success:
Dive into the technical and financial aspects of retrofitting conventional presses to UV or LED.
Panelists will break down the feasibility, costs, and benefits of retrofitting, sharing tips to help you make informed decisions that maximize ROI.
Lessons Learned from the Front Lines:
Hear success stories and lessons learned from industry veterans who have overcome the same challenges you may be facing.
Walk away with practical advice, actionable solutions, and new ideas to help your operation thrive in a competitive market.
Whether you’re planning to adopt UV or LED technologies or looking to optimize your existing setup, this session offers the expertise and insight you need to confidently navigate the process.
Speaker: Steve Metcalf, AI Strategist, Founder and CEO, IMAGINE AI LIVE
Embark on a journey into the future of printing as we demystify the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This isn't science fiction; AI is revolutionizing industries worldwide, and the printing sector is no exception. Discover how this technology, with its ability to learn, adapt, and analyze vast amounts of data, can revolutionize your printing operations, and pretty much every aspect of how you run your company.
We'll explore real-world examples of AI optimizing press performance, enhancing quality control, enabling growth and mass personalization, and streamlining workflows. Through interactive elements and insightful discussions, you'll gain a clear understanding of AI's potential and leave inspired to embrace the opportunities it offers to elevate your business in the ever-evolving world of printing.
Special announcements will be made at the conclusion of the annual Print UV Conference.
