FESPA urges its visitors to “Explore the wider opportunities” of digital print at FESPA Digital 2012 (Barcelona, 21-24 February), so even a coffee break will provide an innovative collection of print in a very visual setting. Visitors are invited to take inspiration from print applications in a relaxing atmosphere at Big Buck$ Cafe. This lively, fully operational ‘pop-up’ café will be serving hot drinks and snacks so customers can check their emails or surf the net using the free Wi-Fi, enjoy a drink and check out these unusual and extensive surroundings that provide a unique overview of the power of print.
Big Buck$ Cafe will open visitors’ eyes to the full range of applications achievable using wide format digital printing equipment, substrates and consumables. A comprehensive showcase of the range of possibilities using different substrates to create unique environments and integrated marketing campaigns, Big Buck$ Cafe includes examples of signage, promotional and point-of-sale graphics, interior decor, printed furniture, soft signage, fine art and garment applications.
Almost every item inside Big Buck$ Cafe will be printed: tables, chairs, sofas, cushions, carpet, tiles, wallpaper, curtains and bar counter, together with cups, plates and cutlery. This distinctive area will also be covered with stickers and signage, baristas’ apparel will be personalised, and promotional giveaways will also be available.
The Big Buck$ Cafe ‘menu’ will tempt the visitor to explore further, with simple explanations of the applications on display and how they were produced. FESPA also plans to launch an interactive website which will run on a screen in Big Buck$ Cafe, allowing visitors to discover more about the display items, including sponsors’ stand details and case studies of companies who have successfully diversified their print applications.
FESPA’s Head of Events & New Media, Duncan MacOwan comments, “Print service providers may already be aware of the importance of looking beyond their print equipment to create innovative applications. Our aim is to invite the printer to look at technology with fresh eyes, and from a more commercial and creative angle. Big Buck$ Cafe will give visitors an outstanding real-life example of the diversity and power of print as we are surrounded by print, even when we have a cup of coffee!”
As part of FESPA’s Profit for Purpose reinvestment programme and commitment to its global print community, FESPA is also commissioning a research survey which will provide PSP’s valuable business insight by identifying growth opportunities across each market segment. Interiors, web to print, sustainable printing, outdoor, signage, POP/POP, direct mail, packaging and labelling, vehicle and building wrapping, fine art, 3D printing and floor graphics are the main areas addressed by the FESPA survey being conducted in conjunction with Lyra. VIP visitors to FESPA Digital 2012 and customers of the Big Buck$ Cafe will have access to the research.