TEXINTEL LIVE INTERVIEW - FESPA Barcelona: Why In‑Person Trade Shows Still Matter in an AI-Driven World with Danna Drion of Mimaki

Debbie McKeegan, the FESPA Textile Ambassador, talks with Danna Drion from Mimaki about the real value of trade shows in today’s increasingly digital and AI‑driven world.

In this conversation, we discuss why events like FESPA remain essential for the textile print and signage community - offering something you simply can’t get online: human connection. Danna shares Mimaki’s experience of FESPA as a leading global show that consistently delivers strong ROI, high‑quality leads, and a clear view of where the industry is heading.

We explore how the industry is becoming fatigued by purely virtual and AI‑mediated interactions, and why customers still want to see print machines in action, talk face‑to‑face with experts, and experience the culture and values of the brands they invest in. If you’re interested in where the print and visual communications industry is going - and how to balance AI, digital tools, and genuine human relationships - this short conversation from the FESPA show floor offers genuine, human insight and inspiration.

Watch to learn more >>


KEY TAKEAWAYS

FESPA remains a leading industry show: Danna notes that FESPA is still the number one show in their market, delivering strong ROI and high-quality leads, and that the Barcelona edition already feels busy and successful.

Human connection is more valuable than ever post‑Covid: Despite the rise of webinars, podcasts, social media, and AI, customers still want to meet in person, see the machines, and discuss their business face‑to‑face over a coffee.

Growing fatigue with purely AI-driven interactions: Danna observes that people are becoming tired of synthetic, AI‑mediated communication and strongly prefer to buy from real human beings, not automated systems.

Regional and global shows play complementary roles: Regional events like The Print Show and Sign UK help businesses understand their local market, while global shows like FESPA provide a broader, international perspective on trends and innovation.

AI supports operations but can’t replace trust and culture: AI has a big role in administration, operations, and efficiency, but both speakers stress it cannot replace human trust, company culture, and personal relationships, which are central to sales and long-term partnerships.



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TEXINTEL LIVE INTERVIEW - Inside Zimmer’s Colaris 72: Water-Saving Digital Printing and the Future of Technical Textiles with Andreas Rass