A packed event awaits visitors to this year’s EskoWorld, with more than 150 sessions, workshops and demonstrations running alongside a showcase of innovative new solutions and keynote presentations.

With just a few months to go until more than 500 packaging and labels converters, brand representatives and packaging experts come together at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine, Texas, the largest technology-focused event for packaging professionals has unveiled an agenda tailored for the times.

“With productivity and sustainability the prime concerns for brands and packaging converters alike, we have curated an event that focuses on how customers can boost efficiency, reduce costs and minimize the risk of errors by improving their processes and embracing digital transformation,” says Bob Miller, Esko North America general manager. “The ability to be flexible, adapt to the changing needs of an ever-evolving market and the demands of customers is paramount, and that’s where the latest innovations can deliver immediate, tangible benefits.”

Returning to Texas June 25-27, Miller says EskoWorld 2024 boasts a program of inspirational talks, networking and training sessions to support customers on their journey to automate, connect and accelerate their processes. “We’ll kick off our 33rd EskoWorld event with a fantastically informative panel, in which experts from top companies, suppliers and the Esko leadership will all discuss many of the challenges faced today, and how these can be overcome,” he says. “Across the two-and-a-half days that follow, attendees will discover new ways to boost their operational efficiency, reduce waste and increase print quality as they continue their own digital transformation journeys.”

As well as product roadmap sessions taking a deep dive into the very latest innovations, EskoWorld will feature sessions teasing future technology. The event will also host a number of presentations and panels addressing the key issues faced today – and detail how digitalization and automation can overcome those through enabling better productivity, consistency and sustainability.

“We have a truly packed calendar, with some exciting new additions for 2024,” adds Miller. “While the Interaction Room is always a hugely popular attraction, giving attendees the chance to get close-up and hands-on with the latest technology, we’ve introduced an additional feature this year – the new Esko Innovation Lab,” said Bob. “Fresh from its unveiling at drupa, the Innovation Lab will give a sneak peek at how we’re incorporating AI into our software suite, speeding up processes throughout the production chain from estimates and workflow management through to inline inspection.

“We will also have a full color and flexo schedule in a dedicated classroom that will feature our platemaking hardware and include live demos,” Miller says. “We’ve expanded our AVT demos too, to focus not only on the machinery but also other print inspection solutions that ensure optimal quality on press.”

Among other highlights, the Women In Packaging session returns for 2024 and will be bigger than ever, with a panel discussing the importance of mentoring in the industry. Dedicated sessions will deliver best practice techniques and provide learning on how to get the most out of latest innovations, and there will be a look into the future with exciting new product development roadmaps.

“Our closing keynote will this year be delivered by retired U.S. Army Colonel Gregory Gadson, a former commander of the U.S. Army Fort Belvoir garrison,” says Miller. “Retired Colonel Gadson lost both his legs and severely injured his arm to a bomb while serving in Baghdad, and subsequently reshaped his career to include campaigning and acting. He will bring EskoWorld 2024 to an end with a rousing look at how circumstances do not define us, and that we can adapt to whatever a situation demands.”