Organisers say they decided to postpone the exhibition due to ongoing uncertainties in the UK caused by the emergence of the Omicron Covid-19 variant.

Tony Gardner, event director, explains: “Although no further restrictions have come into place that affect the show taking place in February, following conversations with a large number of exhibitors regarding the ongoing uncertainties in the UK, particularly the potential logistical issues caused by Omicron, we have looked at the options of postponing the show.”

Due to take place on February 20th – 22nd, the show will now be held from April 24th – 26th and has moved from Hall 20 to the new location of Hall 12 of the NEC, Birmingham.

Gardner continues: “For the successful and safer running of the show, we felt that it was the more sensible and prudent decision to take up the option of moving to April, in view of the current climate. All being well, the situation will be a lot better by then, with exhibitors and visitors being able to attend confident of a safer and better experience for all parties.”

Having been previously cancelled in 2021 for the first time in 30 years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, organisers of Printwear & Promotion LIVE! have spoken of a strong desire amongst both visitors and exhibitors to return to the show this year.

Attracting over 2,000 first time visitors each year, the show is expecting visitor numbers to surpass 5,500 this year, in line with numbers of recent years.

Long-standing exhibitor, YES Group, will be returning and director, John-Paul Burton says the company cannot wait. “We look forward to once again showcasing YES Group at P&P LIVE! 2022. The fact is, Your Embroidery Services has been a constant attender since 1996, and it is a true testament to the organisers and the exhibitors and the exhibitors that this event is once again safely track.”

The introduction of direct-to-film (DTF) systems is expected to be a key talking point of the 2022 event with companies such as TheMagicTouch and Resolute DTG partnering to demonstrate the R-Jet PRO DTF standalone wide-format printer along with the associated films and inks required.

Also on TheMagicTouch stand, the new Mutoh/STS VJ-628D printer will be on show. Measuring in at 630mm wide, the compact desktop printer is based on Mutoh’s Valuejet 628 8-channel printer chassis and Epson industrial print head.

As well as having the chance to speak to exhibitors and sample the technology on offer, visitors will also be able to enjoy a number of other features such as The Decoration Advice Suite, and The Knowledge Centre.

A space to learn tips and advice from professionals on a range of decoration techniques, The Decoration Advice Suite will feature a range of sessions from companies such as Kornit Digital, and Dye Sublimation Supplies.

Over at The Knowledge Centre, owner of The Vinyl Guys, Alex Liggett, is just one of the speakers who will share his knowledge and advice on growing his business from scratch. He will be joined by Instagram expert Estelle Keeber will share advice on the secrets to success on the social media platform.

If you have any news, please email carys@linkpublishing.co.uk or join in with the conversation on Twitter and LinkedIn.