Expo Bound: Understanding the Pace of Change
John Mack Jr., Vice President of Research and Development, The Imagine Group
Name: John Mack, Jr.
Title: Vice President of Research and Development
Company: The Imagine Group (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Pretend this is an elevator pitch. Tell me a little bit about your company.
Imagine is a leading provider of packaging, print, visual communications, and fulfillment solutions. We partner with some of the world’s most recognized brands to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions that help them connect with consumers, strengthen their brand presence, and drive business results. As an organization, we are committed to investing in technology, operational excellence, and our people to continually push the industry forward.
What motivates you to attend this year’s PRINTING United Expo?
PRINTING United Expo brings together the best of our industry in one place. For me, it’s an opportunity to see the newest technologies, understand emerging market trends, and connect with peers and suppliers who are helping shape the future of print and packaging. The Expo provides valuable insights that can help us improve efficiency, quality, and customer experience.
If you’re a first-time attendee, what are you hoping to learn? If you’re returning, what brings you back?
As a returning attendee, I come back because every year there are new innovations, fresh perspectives, and opportunities to learn. The pace of change in our industry continues to accelerate, and the Expo is one of the best venues to stay informed, evaluate new technologies, and network with industry leaders.
Which products, brands, or services are you most looking forward to seeing this year?
I’m particularly interested in advancements in automation, workflow optimization, digital printing technologies, and solutions that improve sustainability while maintaining high production quality. I’m also looking forward to seeing how equipment manufacturers are leveraging data and AI to improve operational performance and reduce waste.
How do you plan to maximize your time at the Expo?
I plan to spend time attending educational sessions, visiting key supplier booths, evaluating new technologies, and networking with industry professionals. I like to come with specific objectives but also leave room for unexpected discoveries and conversations that can spark new ideas.
How do you think attending the Expo will impact your business or career?
Events like PRINTING United Expo help bring fresh ideas and practical solutions back to our organization. They provide an opportunity to benchmark against industry best practices, identify opportunities for continuous improvement, and build relationships that can support future growth. Personally, it helps me stay current with industry trends and better position our manufacturing operations for long-term success.
For information, and to register for thee 2026 PRINTING United Expo, visit printingunited.com.
- People:
- John Mack Jr.
Dan Marx, Content Director for Wide-Format Impressions, holds extensive knowledge of the graphic communications industry, resulting from his more than three decades working closely with business owners, equipment and materials developers, and thought leaders.
