October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    21–24 Oct 2026

    City / country

    Dallas, United States

    Venue

    Dallas Market Center

    Time

    (Wednesday–Friday)

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for IMPRESSIONS EXPO FORT WORTH 2026

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    Notable exhibitors

    Companies exhibiting at IMPRESSIONS EXPO FORT WORTH 2026 include 3N Designs LLC, A4, Advertising Specialty Institute, American Print and Supply and Anatol Equipment Mfg Co.

    • 3N Designs LLC
    • A4
    • Advertising Specialty Institute
    • American Print and Supply
    • Anatol Equipment Mfg Co

    Event overview

    Overview

    IMPRESSIONS EXPO FORT WORTH 2026 is the dedicated decorated-apparel trade event for the central U. S. , running October 21-24, 2026, at the Dallas Market Center.

    It serves as the annual gathering for professionals in screen printing, embroidery, heat transfer, sublimation, and imprinted products. The expo floor hosts leading suppliers of inks, presses, garments, software, and accessories, while the education conference offers technical workshops, business management seminars, and trend briefings. As part of the PRINTING United Alliance's portfolio, the event provides an integrated marketplace where buyers can compare live equipment demonstrations, source new decoration techniques, and secure exclusive show-floor pricing.

    The 2026 edition emphasizes sustainability innovations, digital direct-to-garment technologies, and automation for small-batch production.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Dedicated B2B trade show for decorated apparel and imprinted products, co-located with PRINTING United Expo, October 21-24, 2026.
    2. 2Over 150 leading suppliers expected to showcase screen-printing, embroidery, heat-transfer, and sublimation equipment and consumables.
    3. 3Multi-track education conference includes hands-on workshops, business-growth sessions, and color-management clinics for all skill levels.
    4. 4Exclusive show-floor discounts and new product launches make it a key sourcing event for custom decorators and promotional distributors.
    5. 5Venue is Dallas Market Center, providing convenient access for the Southwest and national apparel-decoration community.

    Why visit

    Attend to evaluate the largest concentration of decorated-apparel suppliers in the Southwest, with live machinery demonstrations that let you test presses, printers, and embroidery systems before purchase. Gain access to 40+ educational sessions covering technical skills (color separation, registration, curing) and business topics (pricing, workflow automation, social media marketing). Network with 5,000+ industry peers, discover 2026 trend-forward garments and decoration effects, and take advantage of show-only discounts on consumables and equipment. The co-location with PRINTING United Expo also offers exposure to commercial printing and wide-format graphics, broadening your cross-selling opportunities.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibiting puts your brand in front of qualified buyers—custom decorators, promotional distributors, and retail sourcing managers—who are actively seeking new equipment, materials, and decoration technologies. The expo draws decision-makers from across the central and western U.S., providing a cost-effective platform to launch new products, demonstrate equipment performance, and book on-site orders. Participate in the New Product Showcase and live demo stages to generate media buzz. With organized buyer-hosted programs and pre-scheduled meeting spaces, you can build deep relationships with both large-volume printers and emerging shop owners. Emerald X provides comprehensive exhibitor support, including lead-retrieval tools and targeted pre-show marketing to drive traffic to your booth.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Owners and managers of commercial screen-printing and embroidery shops
    Garment decorators and custom apparel manufacturers
    Promotional products distributors and ad-specialty buyers
    Corporate in-house decoration departments and uniform program managers
    Retail apparel brands seeking private-label or custom decoration services
    Contract decorators and fulfillment houses
    Designers and production managers from the imprinted sportswear and workwear sectors

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Screen-printing equipment and consumable manufacturers (presses, inks, screens, squeegees)
    Embroidery machine and thread suppliers
    Heat-transfer film, paper, and equipment producers
    DTG and sublimation printer vendors
    Garment and blank apparel wholesalers
    Curing and drying system providers
    Pre-press and software developers (RIP, design, workflow)
    Finishing and packaging machinery firms
    Industry associations and publishing/media serving the decorated apparel trade

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Direct-to-film (DTF) transfers and heat-press systems
    Screen-printing equipment: automatic presses, flash dryers, washout booths, and accessories
    Embroidery machines, threads, and production management software
    Direct-to-garment (DTG) printers and digital decorating systems
    Blank apparel: sustainable, trend-setting garments, and headwear
    Pre-press and design software (RIP, workflow, digitizing)
    Inks, curing systems, and consumables
    Sublimation equipment and supplies
    Heat-transfer materials and films
    Garment finishing and packaging solutions

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Dallas Market Center

    2100 N Stemmons Fwy, 75207 Dallas, United States

    Facilities

    Parking

    The Dallas Market Center campus offers over 10,000 free parking spaces for visitors and exhibitors.

    Prayer rooms

    No dedicated prayer rooms are mentioned on the venue website.

    On-site shuttle

    No shuttle service operates between the four buildings on campus; all buildings are within walking distance.

    Food options

    Hall of Nations Cafes, Sundries Convenience Store, On-Site Dining

    On-site dining

    Parking: The Dallas Market Center campus offers more than 10,000 free parking spaces for visitors and exhibitors. The campus is self-contained with 24/7 security.

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Trade-only

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    Event days(Wednesday–Friday)
    • General admission

      Free with advance registration code

    • General admission

      On-site or standard registration

    • General admission

      Includes unlimited seminar sessions and show floor

    Register

    Ticket info

    Ticket notes

    Trade-only event for decorated-apparel and commercial embroidery professionals. Exhibit hall passes grant full floor access. Educational seminar tracks require paid registration.

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Emerald X, LLC

    Event Organiser

    What's on

    Programme

    Co-located events

    Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market

    Separate ticket

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2026 · 110 exhibitors

    Organiser forecast of approximately 110 exhibitors occupying over 21,600 sq ft (approx. 2,007 sq m) of exhibit space.

    Forecast — not final

    Exhibitors

    118

    Floor area (sqm)

    2,257

    Growth over time

    New this edition

    • 1

      Mid-Week Schedule (Wednesday-Friday)

      New Wednesday-to-Friday format for 2026, replacing the Thursday-Saturday schedule, to help attendees and exhibitors maximise on-site time and improve ROI.

      Source
    • 2

      New Venue: Hilton Anatole

      Relocation to the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, following the long-time Fort Worth venue's renovation. Offers enhanced facilities and convenience.

      Source
    • 3

      Conference Camps and MANIFEST Conference

      Educational program restructured into subject-specific 'camps' (Embroidery, Heat Transfer, FX, WB, G2, OP, Screen Printing 101, Embroidery 101, Automation 101, STAHLS' Pro Day) in partnership with MADE Laboratory, plus the inaugural MANIFEST professional conference at the Texas Theatre featuring speakers Nigel Barker and Matt Cliff.

      Source
    • 4

      Two-Day Overlap with Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market

      Event overlaps for two days (Oct 21-23) with the Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market, creating cross-sourcing opportunities and exposing exhibitors to new buyer segments.

      Source

    Next edition outlook

    2026
    confirmed

    The 2026 Impressions Expo Dallas (Oct 21-23) is positioned as the most innovative edition to date, featuring a new mid-week schedule, relocation to the Hilton Anatole, a completely revamped education conference with subject-specific 'camps' and the inaugural MANIFEST conference, and a two-day overlap with the Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market. Organisers forecast approximately 110 exhibitors occupying over 21,600 sq ft of exhibit space. The show aims to serve as the premier sourcing and education hub for the Southwest's decorated-apparel industry, with a strengthened focus on DTF, DTG, automation, and sustainable decorating technologies.

    New Wednesday-Friday schedule (October 21-23) replacing Thursday-Saturday Relocation from Fort Worth venue to Hilton Anatole, Dallas Education programme restructured into Conference Camps (Embroidery, Heat Transfer, FX, WB, G2, OP, etc.) and MANIFEST conference Two-day overlap with Dallas Apparel & Accessories Market Enhanced focus on automation, DTF, DTG, and sustainable technology Expanded networking and cross-industry opportunities

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    The 2025 Fort Worth edition demonstrated the sustained strength of the decorated-apparel industry with 118 exhibitors occupying 24,300 sq ft of show floor. While official visitor counts were not published, exhibitor participation remained robust, and the show continued to serve as the primary regional marketplace for screen printers, embroiderers, and heat-transfer specialists in the Southwest. The event's move to Dallas for 2026 with a new mid-week schedule signals strategic adaptation to attendee and exhibitor feedback, aiming to improve on-site efficiency and maximize business opportunities.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    The 2025 edition attracted a qualified audience of shop owners, production managers, and purchasing decision-makers from commercial screen-printing and embroidery businesses, promotional products distributors, and corporate uniform programs. The show floor featured live equipment demonstrations and hands-on product evaluations, indicating a buyer-ready audience focused on capital equipment and consumable sourcing. No official visitor count is available, but trade reports indicate consistent year-over-year attendance from the central and western U.S. decorated-apparel community.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Post-show feedback from 2025 exhibitors indicated strong lead generation and on-site order writing, though specific ROI metrics are not published. The show's value is reinforced by returning exhibitor participation and the organiser's decision to expand education and networking features for 2026. The new 2026 features—including conference camps and co-location with the apparel market—are direct responses to exhibitor requests for more targeted buyer access and extended business hours.

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    North America (Southwest U.S.)

    Why it matters

    IMPRESSIONS EXPO FORT WORTH 2026 serves as the critical annual marketplace and education hub for the Southwest's decorated apparel industry. In a sector undergoing rapid technological change—driven by AI, automation, and the shift to on-demand production—the event provides a live venue for buyers to compare equipment, source materials, and learn from experts. The 2026 edition's strategic changes, including a new mid-week schedule, relocation to the Hilton Anatole, and a revamped education conference with 'camps' and the MANIFEST conference, reflect the organiser's commitment to adapting to industry needs. The expo matters because it directly connects technology providers with the thousands of screen printers, embroiderers, and decorators who must invest in new capabilities to remain competitive in an increasingly automated and digitally driven market.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Automation and Robotics Drive Production Efficiency

    Investment in robotics and autonomous production is a top priority for manufacturing and industrial sectors, with 41% of professionals citing it as the key competitive advantage area for the next five years. For decorated apparel, this translates to increased adoption of automated screen-printing presses, embroidery machines, and DTF/DTG lines to reduce labor costs and increase throughput.

    Source
    02

    AI as the Overarching Disruptive Force

    Artificial intelligence is identified as the most disruptive megatrend across industries through 2050, driving 27 industry megatrends related to tech disruption. In apparel decoration, AI is influencing design, color management, production scheduling, predictive maintenance, and quality control, making 'smart' factories a reality.

    Source
    03

    Interconnectivity and Smart Factory Integration

    While robotics leads investment, its true value is unlocked through interconnectivity. Smart/connected factories (33% of investment priority) rely on data integration and AI to link disparate systems—from order intake to production and shipping—enabling real-time visibility and operational agility.

    Source
    04

    Sustainability as a Core Competency

    Sustainability pressures are influencing ink chemistry, energy consumption, garment selection, packaging, and overproduction reduction. Credible environmental claims, supplier certification, and transparent labeling are becoming essential for institutional buyers and brand reputation.

    05

    Growth in Personalization and Creator Commerce

    Consumer demand for unique, identity-driven apparel continues to expand across fashion, corporate uniforms, team wear, promotional products, and creator merchandise. The global decorated apparel market is forecast to grow from $29.74 billion in 2025 to $68.25 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 12.59%.

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    Strong US Jobs Data Fuels Fed Rate Hike Fears but AI Chip Demand Lifts Asian Markets

    Asian markets traded mixed as strong US jobs data raised expectations of a Fed rate hike, while a surge in global chip demand and AI investment sentiment buoyed semiconductor stocks in Japan and South Korea.

    Read

    AI Named Most Disruptive Megatrend Through 2050 by BMI

    A new report from BMI identifies AI as the leading megatrend shaping industries, surpassing climate change and geopolitical shifts in its potential to transform business models and competitive advantage.

    Read

    2026 Impressions Expo Dallas Creating Professional Education 'Camps' for Apparel Decorators

    The upcoming expo will organize its professional education series into subject-specific 'camps'—including Screen Printing 101, Embroidery 101, Automation 101, and STAHLS' Pro Day—to help attendees dive deeper into relevant topics.

    Read

    Special Report: The State of Apparel Decorating in 2026

    Industry report highlights technology innovations: STAHLS' Fulfill ONE Innovation Hub, Melco's SUMMIT Manager Software, the ROQ HYBRID PRO+ hybrid system, ZSK's Racer R1W embroidery machine (2,000 spm), and EPSON's SureColor G9070 DTF printer, demonstrating rapid automation and convergence in decorating technologies.

    Read

    Decorated Apparel and Imprinted Products Trade Show Circuit

    October 2026 – October 2027

    The North American decorated apparel trade show circuit is concentrated in key manufacturing and distribution hubs. IMPRESSIONS EXPO is one of several regional and national events that serve the screen-printing, embroidery, and promotional products industry, with a strong presence in the Southwest.

    Fall 2026 – Southwest Focus

    IMPRESSIONS EXPO FORT WORTH 2026PRINTING United Expo 2026

    October 2026 is a concentrated period for the Southwest market, with both events co-located in Dallas.

    Winter/Spring 2027 – National Circuit

    Impressions Expo Long Beach 2027Impressions Expo Atlantic City 2027ISS Show – Fort Worth 2027

    The national circuit moves to the West Coast, Northeast, and back to the Southwest throughout the first half of 2027.

    Event dates and positions are based on organiser websites and historical patterns. Future dates are subject to change; verify with official event sources.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    DFW

    Dallas Fort Worth International Airport

    Major international hub, 20 miles from downtown Dallas. Primary gateway for international attendees. Located between Dallas and Fort Worth.

    to venue

    by car

    DAL

    Dallas Love Field

    Domestic airport closer to downtown Dallas. Serves Southwest Airlines and other domestic carriers.

    to venue

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    Budget
    Dallas Market Center vicinity or suburban hotels off I-35E

    USD 100–150 / night

    Estimated range for economy chain hotels within a 15-minute drive of the venue. Prices are estimates based on typical Dallas rates.

    Mid-range
    Downtown Dallas, Design District, or near the Hilton Anatole

    USD 180–280 / night

    Estimated range for 3-4 star hotels and select boutique properties. The Hilton Anatole, the official event hotel, falls in this tier.

    Premium
    Uptown Dallas, Arts District, or luxury downtown properties

    USD 350–600 / night

    Estimated range for luxury hotels such as the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek and other 5-star properties.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Rideshare / Taxi

    Estimated costDFW: $30-45; DAL: $20
    Best forFrom both airports (DFW, DAL) and city hotels to Dallas Market Center campus

    Uber and Lyft are widely available at both airports and throughout Dallas. Demand pricing may apply during peak hours.

    Car Rental / Driving

    Estimated costRental: $50-100/day
    Best forSelf-drive from airports, hotels, or other points to the venue

    Free parking available on the Dallas Market Center campus with over 10,000 spaces. Driving is a convenient option, and the venue is located off Stemmons Freeway (I-35E).

    DART Light Rail

    Estimated cost$3
    Best forFrom Dallas Love Field or downtown stations to near the venue

    Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) operates light rail and bus services. The closest stations may require a transfer or short walk/rideshare to the Dallas Market Center campus. Check DART schedules for specific route options.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    B-1 Business Visitor VisaNon-U.S. citizens from countries not covered by the Visa Waiver Program who are traveling to attend a trade show, meet with business associates, or conduct commercial activities.$185.00Several weeks to months; processing times vary by country and individual circumstances.
    Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)Citizens of 40+ participating countries traveling for business or tourism for 90 days or less.$21.0072 hours (electronic approval)

    Citizens of Canada, Bermuda, and certain other territories/compacts are generally visa-exempt for short business visits. Citizens of 40+ countries (including UK, EU, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and South Korea) may travel under the Visa Waiver Program with ESTA approval. Nationality-specific entry rules are subject to change and should be verified with U.S. immigration authorities.

    The United States accepts ATA Carnets for temporary admission of commercial samples, professional equipment, and exhibition goods. The U.S. does not accept ATA Carnets for postal or courier shipments; items must be hand-carried or accompanied by the Carnet holder. The U.S. began phasing in digital ATA Carnets in 2026; check with the issuing chamber for current format requirements.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    Dallas in late October typically has mild to warm weather. Average daytime highs around 75°F (24°C) and nighttime lows near 55°F (13°C). Pack layers for comfort between air-conditioned indoor spaces and outdoor transit. Rain is possible, so a light waterproof jacket is advisable.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Dallas Market Center is a 100-acre campus located at 2000-2200 Stemmons Freeway. The campus includes four buildings—World Trade Center, Trade Mart, Interior Home + Design Center, and Market Hall. Access is primarily by car or rideshare. DFW Airport is 20 miles from downtown Dallas, approximately a 25-minute drive without traffic.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Texan Hospitality

    Dallas is known for Southern hospitality and friendliness. Expect warm greetings and a generally relaxed pace of interaction.

    Dining

    Texas is famous for barbecue (brisket, ribs, sausage) and Tex-Mex cuisine. Dallas has a thriving culinary scene ranging from food trucks to upscale steakhouses.

    Business Culture

    Business attire in Dallas tends to be professional but can lean business casual depending on the industry. For a trade show, comfortable yet presentable clothing is recommended as you'll be walking the show floor.

    Size and Driving

    Texas is vast—Dallas-Fort Worth is a sprawling metroplex. Renting a car is common for getting around, though rideshare services are widely available.

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

    Book early for best pricing. DFW is a major hub for American Airlines and offers numerous international connections.

    Visa

    Most non-U.S. citizens require a visa or ESTA to enter the United States for business purposes. Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries need an approved ESTA. Others require a B-1 Business Visitor Visa. Apply early; processing times vary.

    Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

    Processing: ESTA: 72 hours; B-1: several weeks to months

    U.S. visa and entry rules are nationality-dependent. Attendees should check with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for specific requirements. The event organiser may provide a visa invitation letter upon request and proof of registration.

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Areas to stay

    Dallas Market Center vicinity / Design District · Downtown Dallas · Uptown Dallas / Arts District · Near DFW Airport (for convenient airport access)

    Budget

    $100–$150 per night

    Mid-range

    $180–$280 per night

    Premium

    $350–$600 per night

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) or taxi: approximately 20-25 minutes from DFW, 15 minutes from Love Field. Rental car is also a viable option.

    Hotel → venue: Rideshare, taxi, or rental car. Free parking is available at the Dallas Market Center campus, making driving a convenient option.

    Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available throughout Dallas and operate from both airports.

    Public transit: Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) operates light rail and bus services; however, access to the Dallas Market Center may require a transfer. Rideshare or driving is more direct.

    Parking: Free parking is available on the Dallas Market Center campus, with over 10,000 spaces.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: October

    Temperature: 55–75°F (13–24°C)

    Seasonality: Mild weather with occasional rain. Late October is in autumn, generally pleasant with low humidity.

    Packing: Layered clothing: lightweight long sleeves, a light jacket or sweater for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, and a small umbrella.

    Itinerary builder

    Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

    Add side trips

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    T

    Register for the event and book travel (flights, hotel) — Early registration often provides cost savings. Book refundable options if possible.

    T

    Review exhibitor list and floor plan (if available); create a must-see list and schedule — Prioritise booths and sessions based on your business needs.

    T

    Confirm appointments with key exhibitors and partners; prepare questions for technical demos — Reach out to exhibitors via email or LinkedIn to secure dedicated time.

    T

    Pack business cards, comfortable shoes, a notebook/tablet, and a portable charger — Comfortable clothing is essential for walking the large show floor.

    T

    Review session schedules and the event app; finalise daily plan — Download the event app if available for real-time updates and networking.

    T

    Arrive in Dallas, check into hotel, and prepare for an early start — The show runs from October 21-23; plan your arrival accordingly.

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    08:00 AM

    Registration check-in and badges

    Dallas Market Center Hall Registration Desk
    09:00 AM – 12:00 PM

    Walk show floor exploring screen printing, DTG, and embroidery equipment

    Exhibition Hall Floor
    12:00 PM – 01:00 PM

    Networking lunch with apparel decorators and suppliers

    Campus Food Court
    01:15 PM – 02:45 PM

    Masterclass seminar on digital textile printing workflow & color separation

    Conference Seminar Rooms
    03:00 PM – 05:00 PM

    Live apparel decorating competitions and vendor meetings

    Demo Stage
    06:00 PM onwards

    Evening industry mixer and dinner in Dallas Design District

    Design District / Oak Lawn

    Side trips

    4

    Texas Theatre

    Historic Venue

    Hosts the inaugural MANIFEST conference session for Impressions Expo 2026 on October 21, featuring speakers Nigel Barker and Matt Cliff.

     

    Bishop Arts District

    Neighborhood

    Vibrant district near the Texas Theatre with eclectic shops, murals, and dining; part of the MANIFEST conference location.

     

    Deep Ellum

    Neighborhood

    Known for live music, street art, indie shopping, and bars.

     

    Dallas Arts District

    Cultural District

    Walkable 20-block area with symphony, opera, and museums.

     

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Hotel × 3 nights$375.00
    • Per diem × 3$207.00
    • Insurance$35.00
    Estimated total$617.00

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    This interactive quiz helps you decide whether attending, exhibiting, or skipping IMPRESSIONS EXPO FORT WORTH 2026 is the best move for your business. Answer the 8 questions below based on your role, objectives, budget, travel, and readiness.

    QUESTION 1 OF 8

    What is your primary role in the decorated apparel industry?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Best for those with a specific purchase or upgrade plan, who want hands-on equipment demos, and who can attend the full 3 days or at least 2 days of the show.

    Best for

    Screen printers, embroiderers, DTF/DTG operators, garment decorators, and promotional distributors who are actively evaluating equipment, sourcing blanks, and seeking production efficiencies.

    Min. budget

    $500.00

    Timeline

    2-4 weeks to register, book travel, and plan meetings; on-site badge collection available.

    Risks

    Travel or hotel costs may exceed budget if not booked early.

    Limited time to cover all exhibitors and sessions—prioritise must-see booths and sessions.

    exhibit

    Optimal for companies with a proven product, a dedicated sales team, and a budget that covers a 10x10 or larger space, plus pre-show marketing to drive booth visits.

    Best for

    Equipment manufacturers, consumable suppliers, blank apparel wholesalers, software vendors, and service providers targeting the decorated apparel industry, especially those launching new products or expanding in the Southwest.

    Min. budget

    $3,500.00

    Timeline

    T-90: secure booth; T-60: plan marketing; T-30: finalise logistics; T-14: confirm staff, schedule, and shipments.

    Risks

    Exhibitor costs (booth, freight, staff, promotion) can add up; ROI depends on qualified foot traffic.

    New mid-week schedule may adjust buyer attendance patterns — promote your booth proactively.

    skip

    Consider skipping only if budget is unavailable, you are not in a buying or selling decision cycle, or you can adequately follow the show's resources (e.g., session recordings, product announcements) remotely.

    Best for

    Students, early-stage startups with no active purchasing or selling plan, professionals who cannot secure travel budget, or those who primarily follow industry via digital content.

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    N/A

    Risks

    Missing a year of industry innovation and networking may set you back if you're planning a major investment or launch.

    You may find yourself less informed than competitors who attended.

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Glossary

    1
    Decorated Apparel
    Garments that have been customized with designs, logos, or text using techniques such as screen printing, embroidery, heat transfer, or sublimation.
    2
    Direct-to-Garment (DTG)
    A digital printing process that applies ink directly onto textiles using specialized inkjet printers, allowing for full-color, detailed prints without screens.
    3
    Heat Transfer
    A decoration method where a design is printed on a carrier paper or film and then transferred onto fabric using heat and pressure.
    4
    Imprinted Products
    Promotional or functional items (e.g., bags, hats, mugs) that carry a custom print or logo, often decorated using the same equipment as apparel.
    5
    Sublimation
    A dye-based printing process where heat turns solid dye into gas, bonding with polyester fabrics to create vibrant, durable, all-over prints.
    6
    Screen Printing
    A stenciling technique where ink is forced through a fine mesh screen onto a substrate, widely used for high-volume garment decoration.
    7
    Embroidery
    The art of decorating fabric with needle and thread, often using computerized machines to produce logos and designs on apparel and accessories.

    Digital business cards for the show floor

    Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.

    Create a free card