PacPrint is entering a new era, with Visual Connections assuming full ownership of the iconic industry show and setting its sights on re-energising the event for a fast-changing print and packaging landscape. The association says the move strengthens its ability to steer the expo’s evolution and deliver stronger value for exhibitors and visitors alike.
PacPrint, which has a long and proud history in Australia and New Zealand, was formerly jointly owned by Visual Connections and the Visual Media Association (VMA), and has been to date run by Visual Connections, under a joint venture agreement between the two associations.
Earlier this year, following the dissolution of the joint venture, Visual Connections purchased VMA’s 50 per cent share of the show.
Karren Challoner-Miles, chief executive officer of Visual Connections, said the move is aligned with the supplier association’s confidence in the ongoing relevance and value of trade shows to both suppliers and industry businesses, and their commitment to supporting a sustainable future for the sector.
“Visual Connections has a well-established reputation for delivering high-quality trade shows under both the PacPrint and Visual Impact brands, and we strongly believe that they provide opportunities for business, learnings and inspiration which simply can’t be delivered via other channels,” Challoner-Miles said.
“Like many in the industry, we have been watching the evolution of trade shows – locally and globally, and within our own industry and in other sectors – and we remain convinced of their relevance and value going forward.”
According to Challoner-Miles, industry expos need to evolve to deliver strong ROI for exhibitors, while also providing visitors with the information, ideas, inspiration and connections they need to build their business success.
“That’s always been our primary focus as the shows’ organiser, and will continue to be so under our ownership,” she continued.
“Full ownership of the PacPrint brand and assets allows us the freedom to develop and evolve the industry’s leading trade shows to align with the ever-changing needs of both exhibitors and visitors, and to explore options to expand the brand into other exciting areas and opportunities.
“We look forward to continuing to collaborate with the VMA, and with other key industry associations, to ensure all our future trade shows meet the needs of our diverse and dynamic industry.”