Konnections: A Simple Gathering Evolves into a Must-Attend Digital Printing Conference

THOSE IN THE DIGITAL apparel and fabric decorating space are familiar with Kornit, an international company based in Israel but with a U.S headquarters in New Jersey, that has been a pioneer in direct-to-garment (DTG) digital printing since the processes’ infancy. Starting decades ago, the desktop DTG models gave way for a completely different industry — the ability to do short runs, samples, or one-offs to cater to the smaller decorators whose orders just weren’t worth it for traditional screen printing. That’s because of course, of how technical the process is for short runs.

Ilan Elad, President of Kornit North America

But it also was perfect for super-small entrepreneurs who wanted to start a “T-shirt” company in an economy that wasn’t exactly in its heyday. But those who started slowly could make a living — even during the pandemic — and see their companies grow. Many built them large enough to evolve into commercial screen and digital printing businesses.

Of course, Kornit has grown with the changing times, developing larger and high-production DTG machines for those screen printers who have added large-run services to their customers as an alternative to traditional screen printing. Recently I was honored to have the opportunity to have an exclusive interview with Ilan Elad, the President of Kornit North America. Here’s his take on the original vision of how Konnections got started and why attending is so important.

Chatting With the Top Brass

Konnections was not originally meticulously planned three years ago — it was an amazing discovery. Initially launched as an open house at Kornit’s New Jersey office, the event was expected to attract potential new customers. However, most attendees were existing customers, leading to an unexpected but valuable exchange of insights. This realization sparked the idea to create a community where customers, competitors, and industry leaders could share knowledge and collaborate openly.

As Ilan Elad, President of Kornit North America, recounts, “We sat down, spoke to our customers, and it was refreshing. We weren’t guarded; we were there to listen. Customers, in turn, found themselves learning from one another in ways they hadn’t anticipated.”

This impromptu gathering evolved into what is now a full-scale industry event. By the second year, the format had expanded to include structured feedback sessions, team discussions, and networking opportunities. Today, Konnections is a pivotal event fostering collaboration in the digital printing sector.

Konnections continues to evolve. The event now features influential speakers from major brands discussing their transitions into digital printing.

Driving Industry Convergence: Why Now?

The convergence of traditional and digital screen printing has been a topic of discussion for years. But, as Elad explains, three key factors have accelerated the shift:

1. Improved Quality – Earlier digital prints couldn’t match the quality expectations of retail store prints. This changed with Kornit’s MAX technology, which now meets the required standards.
2. Enhanced Speed and Cost Efficiency – Kornit’s advancements, particularly with the Apollo system, have reduced the total cost of ownership while increasing speed and efficiency, making digital a viable alternative to screen printing.
3. Changing Market Demands – Consumer habits have evolved post-COVID, with retailers now favoring shorter print runs to reduce overproduction and unsold inventory.

“The demand and supply equation is shifting in favor of digital printing,” says Elad. “Screen printers who once thrived on large orders are seeing more requests for orders in the 200-400 range, necessitating diversification into digital.”

Konnections has a broader focus beyond printing. Brand leaders will be speaking and overall the event is focused on helping customers learn from brands and influencers manage through some turbulent economic changes in 2025, with onshore and offshore production, tariffs, and supply chain challenges.

Print-on-Demand: A Misunderstood Concept

Many printers equate print-on-demand (POD) with direct-to-consumer, single-item orders. However, Elad clarifies that POD simply is a smarter supply model. Rather than bulk-producing inventory that may not sell, retailers now order smaller initial quantities and replenish stock as needed. This approach minimizes waste and optimizes inventory management, making digital printing an attractive solution for retailers.

“Retailers want the ability to order 40, then maybe 20 more, rather than committing to 400 upfront and risking excess stock,” Elad explains. “It’s not about replacing screen printing but about offering more agile solutions.”

A standout feature of the Konnections conference is its broader focus beyond printing. The event now integrates key players across the supply chain, including blank apparel suppliers, software providers, logistics experts, and financial services.

“Printing is just one stage of our customers’ operations,” says Elad. “Our goal is to create an ecosystem where they can connect with suppliers, demand generators, and logistics partners — all in one place.”

This expanded approach has led to the introduction of an independent advisory board for Konnections. Comprising industry leaders, the board ensures that the conference agenda remains relevant and valuable. Rather than dictating topics, Kornit actively seeks input from past attendees and board members to identify fresh, impactful subjects.

Kornit executives standing in front of the company’s Atlas Max machine, which created the industry’s first white-on-dark print capabilities. (left to right; Ilan Elad, President of Kornit North America; Kyle Garner, Director of Regional Sales; and Chris Carson VP of Sales)

The Future of Konnections

With each year, Konnections continues to evolve. The event now features influential speakers from major brands discussing their transitions into digital printing. The ultimate vision is to foster a marketplace where businesses of all sizes can connect, collaborate, and grow together.

“Even industry giants started small. Printful and Monster Digital were once startups with just a few systems. Our goal is to provide tools and networking opportunities that can help the next wave of innovators succeed,” adds Elad.

As Konnections heads into its third annual event in Miami, it remains a beacon of innovation, education, and collaboration for the future of the digital printing industry.

See the entire agenda here: Home – Kornit Digital Konnections Event 2025