Canada’s largest and longest-running showcase for the graphic communications and printing industry, Graphics Canada, took place April 6-8, 2017 at the International Centre in Mississauga, ON. The biennial event, now in its 53rd year, featured well-attended conferences and panels – and of course, the latest technology, equipment and services from over 170 exhibitors. From all accounts, the show received good reviews and the crowds seemed to be steady and positive.
Some of our industry’s top OEMs reported excellent traffic and some major sales. Konica Minolta Canada used the event to announce the first-ever Canadian order for its groundbreaking MGI JETvarnish 3D Evolution digital finishing system at Belmont Press in Markham, ON. This was followed by the second and third orders in Canada for its MGI JETvarnish 3DS and iFoil System – destined for Scan Copy Print in Edmonton, AB and Creative Path in Richmond Hill, ON, respectively. Agfa Graphics demonstrated for the first time in Canada its newest UV inkjet printer – the Jeti Ceres RTR3200 LED. The first installation in Canada will be at XL Prints in Scarborough, ON. Canon Canada had the largest booth at 4,500 sq ft and showcased several printers, highlighted by its ImagePrograf Pro Series. We’ve got a brief review and photo wrap-up on page 16.
Speaking of the Toronto Maple Leafs, at press time they lost in overtime 2-1, losing the series in six games to the Washington Capitals. Kudos to the Toronto Maple Leafs for their valiant effort in the playoffs. What a run they had! I think you’ll agree that this was one of the most exciting teams to watch in recent years. Their speed, skill, youthful exuberance and experienced coaching staff will make them competitive for years to come.
The organizers of the ISA International Sign Expo 2017 that closed April 22 in Las Vegas also deserve accolades. The show shattered all previous records as over 20,500 attended. It also exceeded projections for education events, surpassing previous attendance records by nearly 40%.
Finally, I’d like to thank the members of our Editorial Board for taking the time to attend our April meeting and for providing such helpful advice one how we can improve our magazine and our website.
As always, stay positive and stay focused.
View from the publisher – May 2017
