September 15, Silverstone: WrapFest is returning in 2023, and this time it promises to be even larger and better than its wildly popular debut. Taking place from 3-4 October 2024 at the iconic Silverstone racing circuit, Northamptonshire, this year’s event will once again unite wrap professionals, enthusiasts, and industry leaders from across Europe.
The overwhelmingly positive response from the industry in 2023 highlighted the need for a dedicated event that caters to the specific requirements and interests of this vibrant and growing sector. Furthermore, the first WrapFest effectively promoted teamwork and information sharing in a lively and interesting setting.
The expanding wrapping market
The vehicle wrapping market is expected to reach new heights in the upcoming years, continuing its extraordinary expansion on a global scale. According to Straits Research, the automobile wrap film market is expected to grow to a value of over $25 billion by 2030, with Europe being a major player in the sector.
This expansion will be reflected in WrapFest 2024, which will highlight the newest developments, fashions, and technological advancements advancing the sector. The two-day event will feature an extensive schedule of educational seminars, hands-on activities, training sessions, and networking opportunities to give each attendee the tools they need to advance their business and leave their mark on the vinyl wrapping industry.
WrapFest 2024 features exhibitors’ inventions
A thorough presentation of top companies in the car cleaning and wrapping business will be available at WrapFest. Visitors will get a rare chance to see the newest advancements in window tinting and paint protection films (PPF), as well as graphic and color-change films. Modern digital printing and laminating apparatus, vinyl finishing and cutting tools, design software, cleaning supplies, and an extensive assortment of accessories will also be showcased at the event. Wrap professionals may engage with items at every step of the wrapping process through this interactive experience, enhancing their understanding of the business and advancing their career goals.
Sign and display professionals William Smith extends an invitation to WrapFest guests to explore its esteemed Training Academy, which provides in-depth instruction in PPF, window film installation, architectural film, and vehicle wrapping. In the pit lanes, guests may watch in-person product debuts and live demonstrations of the recently introduced VION Automotive Window Films. Experts will highlight the intriguing potential of architectural wrapping and its unrealized potential for companies on their stand. Premium materials and accessories from top manufacturers including 3M, Arlon, Avery Dennison, VION, and Cover Styl’ are expected to be on display at William Smith’s table.
SunTek® will showcase its cutting-edge Paint Protection Film, designed to safeguard vehicles against the rigors of the road while enhancing their style and performance. Visitors can explore the company’s range of self-healing films, available in a variety of finishes, engineered to resist rock chips, scratches, and other environmental hazards. The brand will also highlight its innovative 2-in-1 technology, merging the protective properties of PPF with the durability of ceramic coating for unparalleled defence. SunTek® will highlight the durability and performance of its Paint Protection Film (PPF) products, emphasizing their rigorous testing standards and commitment to long-term vehicle preservation.
Signgeer extends an invitation to guests to visit their exclusive pit garage, where they will find an exhibition of cutting-edge wrap materials and tools. A live demonstration of Wizard Pro Tools’ architectural wrap products and state-of-the-art wrap devices from Yellotools, Knife Tucker, PID Pro Series, Weldy, Superglove, and SOTT are available for visitors to see. There will also be displays from reputable companies like Surfacework and Steinel. Signgeer will also offer a selection of exclusive Printropolabs gadgets, race-themed competitions, special offers, and giveaways.
A fresh training initiative for enthusiasts
A brand-new, immersive Surface Decoration Showcase showcasing innovative tools and methods for modernizing interior spaces will be on display throughout the two-day event. Attendees can expect to discover the latest trends in furniture wraps, window films, wall coverings, and window tinting solutions, with hands-on demonstrations from seasoned independent professionals.
One of WrapFest’s main events, WrapTalks, is back with an amazing lineup of business executives sharing their knowledge and perspectives. The CEO and founder of The Vehicle Wrapping Academy, Paige Walton, will facilitate an insightful conversation on women’s experiences in the wrapping business, emphasizing the value of inclusivity and diversity.
Shedding light on the world of social media to fuel the growth of the wrapping industry and attract the next generation, a panel session will cover different perspectives on the industry and discuss ways to make it more appealing to new talent. FESPA UK Next Generation Committee
members Lauren Brown, Customer Service and Project Manager at stylographics; Alex Pollard, Contracts Manager at RMC Digital Print; Chris Edwards, Director of CVI Group; Isabel Shanahan Project Coordinator at Imageco; and Jake Adams, Managing Director at Trade Embroidery; will discuss everything from curating learning programmes to apprenticeships and social media strategies.
Sean Bull, a well-known Formula 1 graphic designer, will provide an inside look at the sport’s unique blend of technology, design, and aesthetics. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on how to translate these principles into their own work, elevating their creative output.
Owner of RGVA Vehicle Graphics Keiran McCabe will also share his knowledge of developing fleet liveries that work, offering helpful advice on how to produce eye-catching images that increase brand awareness and encourage interaction with customers.
WrapFest will explore the fascinating world of architectural wraps in addition to the recently launched Surface Decoration Showcase. An exclusive interview with Chris Edwards, Director of CVI Group, touching on the transformative power of architectural wraps in reimagining spaces and pushing the boundaries of design.
For those with an eye for design, motorsport design consultant Jason Price, who has over 20 years of experience, will walk visitors through the process of creating a livery design from start to finish using Blender and the Adobe suite. He will also introduce attendees to the software.
One of the most eagerly anticipated additions to WrapFest 2024 will give attendees the opportunity to book one-on-one sessions with celebrity car wrapper Yiannimize at the new Business Surgery Clinic. By signing up, visitors can receive personalised advice and guidance on how to grow their businesses and achieve greater success in the industry.
Additionally, The Wrap Institute, the official learning partner of WrapFest, is inviting participants to an exclusive training session in its dedicated pit garage. With more than 2,000 educational videos covering vinyl wrap installation, manufacturing, design, and business, this virtual learning powerhouse will provide you with exclusive insights and viewpoints that you won’t find anywhere else. These workshops will help participants advance their wrapping knowledge and abilities to new levels. They will be guided by two legendary figures in the business, Justin Pate and Rainer Lorz, who are both well-known Avery Dennison trainers.
Live demos given by well-known figures in the business
The famous pit garages at Silverstone will be transformed into a bustling center of live demonstrations where attendees can see directly how industry professionals reveal the newest methods and materials that are revolutionizing car customization. Announcing the whole demo schedule soon will inspire and astonish you, so stay tuned.
Beyond the pit lane, the Show & Shine competition will showcase over 10 meticulously wrapped vehicles each day, vying for the coveted People’s Choice and Judges’ Awards. Meanwhile, The Wrap Institute will challenge attendees to put their skills to the test in the thrilling Wrap Warrior Battle, including the fan-favourite “Wrap The Dots” contest.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Silverstone Simulators will offer the chance to compete for the fastest lap time in an F1 simulation experience, adding an exhilarating dimension to the show. To wind down and catch-up with old faces and meet new fellow industry names, the Wrap Party will take place on Thursday 3rd October at the nearby Blackpit Brewery and is open to all attendees, with a limited number of tickets available.
Silverstone will host the World Wrap Masters again.
At WrapFest 2024, the UK leg of the esteemed World Wrap Masters tournament will also be featured prominently. A series of rounds aimed at showcasing a wrapper’s ability, application techniques, knife or cutting skills, and precision, as well as their expertise in printed media, color change, and, for the first time, PPF materials, will pit up to 20 of the most talented wrappers in the world against one another. Participants must make an impression on the judges in order to have a chance of winning and making it to the World Wrap Masters final, which will take place at the FESPA Global Print Expo 2025 in Berlin. This promises to be an incredible show for everyone who attends, with industry heavyweights Ole Solskin, Kiss Lajos, and Ivan Tenchev on the judging panel.
The World Wrap Master competition at WrapFest is supported by HP, as its Headline Print Partner; Carlas, as its Product Partner (Colour PPF); Wrapstock, as its Design Partner; and Arlon as Product Partner (Printed Media).
Duncan MacOwan, Head of Marketing and Events at FESPA, said: “WrapFest is tailor-made for the vibrant and diverse wrapping community. We’ve curated an experience that caters to everyone, from seasoned professionals to curious newcomers, with live demonstrations, expert Q&As, and exhilarating competitions. The incredible growth of this industry over the past two decades demands a dedicated platform, and we’re thrilled to bring together the leading names in the field to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. We can’t wait to see the entire wrapping community converge at Silverstone this October for an unforgettable celebration of this unique craft.”
Visit the WrapFest website to sign up to attend the event, which will take place from October 3–4, 2024, at the Northamptonshire Silverstone Racing Circuit.
Concerning FESPA
FESPA, a worldwide federation of associations for the screen printing, digital printing, and textile printing industries, was established in 1962. FESPA’s dual aim is to promote screen printing and digital imaging and to share knowledge about screen and digital printing with its members across the world, helping them to grow their businesses and learn about the latest developments in their fast growing industries.