Setting the Stage for the Industry’s Future

“PRINT ON DEMAND. Making exactly what you need. Exactly when you need it.”

“The future of our industry is collaborative. Together, companies are pushing the boundaries and transforming the Print On Demand industry.”

THESE WERE TWO important messages that kicked off the first-ever Print On Demand (POD) Summit hosted by STAHLS’ and STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine recently in Chandler, AZ. The event brought together the industry’s top minds for an in-depth exploration of the future of POD and its disruptive impact. The invite-only conference included leading innovators, manufacturers, suppliers, platforms, and thought leaders, all eager to navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of on-demand printing.

“The ‘Sea of Sameness’ isn’t taking the decorating business anywhere in a marketplace that’s more competitive than ever,” says Jenna Sackett, STAHLS’ Brand Engagement Manager. “Premium apparel and prints are brand identity in motion. With the ever-increasing Print On Demand movement, printed apparel is moving to the next level to build stronger identity and brand awareness.”

Key discussions centered on emerging technologies, market shifts, and long-term industry implications, providing attendees with exclusive insights and strategic foresight. Panelists and speakers tackled critical topics, including automation, sustainability, supply chain transformations, and the expanding role of AI in POD.

Moderated by industry expert Josh Ellsworth, Chief Revenue Officer, GroupeSTAHL, the event also featured dynamic networking opportunities, interactive panels, and deep-dive “Burning Question” sessions, reinforcing the Summit’s role as a catalyst for collaboration and industry advancement.

Cutting-Edge Conversations

Sustainability was center stage as always, as our industry continues to scramble to catch up with other countries in our efforts to make environmental advancements. It’s a subject that’s been top-of-mind and the topic of endless conversations for decades, and manufacturers and suppliers from all facets of the industry have worked hard for years to invent eco-friendlier supplies, apparel, and equipment options. But the need to keep striving to do better remains.

“Regulations in Europe have been leading the way of ‘dirt to shirt’ for many years,” says Sackett. “There’s a growing demand for organic, recycled, and carbon neutral fabrics, etc., but scaling material development is a huge challenge. Also, finding a transparent supply chain is tough and there’s a cost associated with that. Sometimes the price point of more environmentally friendly products freaks consumers out.”

Also, a great session called “Market Trends and Consumer Behavior in POD” featured two experts very familiar with the power of on-demand printing. Maddy Alcala, President, Gooten, and Dave Higashi, Founder, Crowdmade, offered insight into the appropriate demographics to target your on-demand services. And it might surprise you.

“A younger audience doesn’t equate to more sales,” says Higashi, whose company Crowdmade specializes in YouTube merchandise purchases. “It’s easy to get lured into FOMO with TikTok, Instagram, and other social media platforms that target the under-30’s. Those who do the best with Print On Demand businesses are shops catering to an older audience — the 34+ generation. This demographic has more purchasing power overall and a longer attention span than the Internet generation.”

“This conference was a game-changer,” says Carleen Gray, CEO GroupeSTAHL. “For the first time, industry leaders came together to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of print on demand.”

“No one succeeds in POD alone,” adds Jayson Tompkins, Chief Digital Officer at STAHLS’ and the STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine founder. “Aligning with the right partners and technology is what separates industry leaders from the rest.”

With the overwhelming success of POD 2025, plans already are underway for future events to continue driving innovation and progress in the POD space.

Finally, being a STAHLS’ event, you know the team pulled out all the stops for great evening networking events. Being able to mingle with C-suite execs and owners of some of the country’s largest print and apparel decorating shops and decorators was priceless. The conversations became a Think Tank for what we collectively can do as an industry as we continue to adapt to our changing marketplace.

Inside the STAHLS’ Chandler facility, sponsor representatives were on hand to showcase the latest technology, supplies, and apparel suitable for POD. And of course, there was fun. From henna tattoos, customized popcorn, a rotating photo booth, and yes…a hot-pink feathered step-and-repeat with two llamas attendees could pose with.

It was an incredible mix of business and pleasure and all of us in attendance will agree; we could’ve stayed for an entire week brainstorming and getting excited about an incredible future in decorating. Enjoy the photo gallery below and don’t miss the fun surprise video clip at the end.

For more information about STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine and future events, visit here.

Finally, it’s Yours Truly at her finest with my dear friend Karin Bellinghausen, STAHLS’ VP of Global Communications. The educational opportunity each STAHLS event offers is second-to-none, but you can always bet the company puts the FUN in helping take our industry into the future.