The Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) will kick off its annual Fall Conference with a session titled “The Great Flexo Digital Plate Debate.” The two-and-a-half hour session will feature representatives from each of the major digital platemaking suppliers, who will be discussing the advantages of their plate technologies in a non-commercial format. Themed “A FIRST Rate Idea: The Future of Flexo & Process Improvement,” FTA’s Fall Conference will take place November 8-10 in Louisville, KY, USA, and will encompass nearly three days of learning, networking and inspiration.

“The Great Flexo Digital Plate Debate” panel will consist of representatives from Asahi Photoproducts, DuPont Packaging Graphics, Eastman Kodak Company, EskoArtwork, Flint Group, MacDermid Printing Solutions, and Toyobo. Each will discuss the advantages of its technology, then comment on how their products address such common issues as limited plate life, running extra decks, proofs that don’t match the print, and high run waste.

“This is a unique opportunity for our attendees,” says Conference Chair Cayleigh Nichols of Prairie State Group. “They’ll hear directly from the sources, side by side, and learn what features and benefits each digital plate system brings to the table. Basically, it gives attendees the chance to decide what makes the most sense for their businesses, in one convenient session.” Each presenter is from the technical side of the business, not sales or marketing. “This is a big plus in terms of getting the real facts, not just the glitz and glamour,” adds Co-chair Richard Black, All Printing Resources.

Conference sessions include: Color Success Before Getting to Press; Sustainability from the Printer’s Perspective; Impacting an Industry – The Flexo Quality Consortium; Process Improvement – Best Practices FIRST; and Color Consistency for Packaging – FIRST and Worldwide Standards.

Registration rates for FTA members are as follows: Consumer Product Company $95; Printer/Converter and Design Firm $295; and General Attendees $595.

In addition to the sessions, the conference will feature a tabletop exhibition, which will coincide with conference breaks, breakfasts, lunches and two networking receptions. For those interested in exhibiting, rates for FTA members are $1,295 and include one complimentary registration. For more information on exhibit opportunities contact Jay Kaible, FTA director of business development at 631‐737‐6020 x20.

Additional conference and registration details can be found at FTA’s website, www.flexography.org.