Ford Bowers · CEO & President · PRINTING United Alliance · Print Matters 2026

At Intergraf Print Matters in Budapest, Morten Reitoft speaks with Ford Bowers, CEO of Printing United Alliance, about the similarities and differences between the European and North American printing industries. As one of the most influential voices in the U.S. print market, Ford shares his perspective on industry trends, market dynamics, automation, and the challenges facing print businesses on both sides of the Atlantic. The conversation begins with a discussion about what European events, such as Print Matters, can offer international visitors. While the United States is often viewed as an early adopter in certain areas, Ford explains that Europe frequently leads in others, particularly in regulation, measurement, sustainability initiatives, and industry-wide collaboration. These differences create valuable opportunities for learning and knowledge exchange between markets. Morten and Ford dive into industry statistics, productivity measurements, and the challenges of comparing European and American print markets. They discuss consolidation, the role of large acquisitions in shaping industry revenues, and why headline numbers can sometimes mask important differences between commercial print, wide-format, apparel decoration, packaging, and other print segments. The interview also explores one of the industry's most important topics: the relationship between automation and people. From AI and robotics to workflow automation and so-called lights-out manufacturing, Ford reflects on the practical realities of implementing technology in production environments. While automation continues to advance, he argues that the human element remains critical, particularly in businesses built around creativity, customization, and customer-specific solutions. The discussion concludes with thoughts on labor, productivity, workforce development, and the importance of international events in helping industry leaders learn from one another. It also touches on Printing United Expo in Las Vegas and why bringing together technology providers, printers, and industry professionals remains essential as the industry evolves. A candid and insightful conversation about global printing markets, automation, productivity, and the future of print from a uniquely transatlantic perspective.

Ford Bowers · CEO · PRINTING United Alliance · CONNECT 2026

At the CONNECT 2026 show, we had the opportunity to speak with Ford Bowers, CEO of PRINTING United Alliance. It's amazing to think of how much PRINTING United Alliance has changed the organizational landscape in the US in less than ten years. Being together is still important for Bowers, as we talk about the political influence and more. Enjoy the conversation!

Chris Curran & Mark J. Subers · PRINTING United Expo 2025

It takes time to plan an event like PRINTING United, and it takes even more time when the organizer continues to develop the show. This time, PRINTING United takes place in Orlando from October 22-24, and INKISH, Revista El Impresor, and Printing-Connect.online are busy covering the show. Here, we talk to Chris Curran and Mark Subers about the show - it's good to learn from them!

TARIFFS · Ford Bowers PRINTING United & Morten B. Reitoft INKISH

No question that the tariffs the US Administration is imposing or threatening to impose affect the printing industry, first and foremost printers in the US, but consequently OEMS and suppliers throughout the entire value chain. In this interview, Ford Bowers from PRINTING United Alliance discusses the consequences and what can be done. It may give hope of certainty before PRINTING United opens its doors in Orlando in the autumn. Interesting discussion - listen, and let us know your thoughts :-)

President · Dave Leskusky · PRINTING United Alliance & NAPCO Media