In an era defined by rapid digital transformation and shifting consumer behaviors, the print and packaging industry stands at a critical crossroads. As brands demand more agility, sustainability, and high-impact visual communication, the leaders tasked with steering production operations must be more than just technicians; they must be strategic visionaries. John Mack Jr., Vice President of Research and Development at The Imagine Group, embodies this modern leadership approach. Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, The Imagine Group has solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in the visual communications and fulfillment landscape.
As the industry prepares for the 2026 PRINTING United Expo, we sat down with Mack to discuss how a culture of relentless innovation and strategic networking keeps a company of Imagine’s scale at the vanguard of the market.
The Imagine Group: Redefining Visual Communications
To understand the significance of Mack’s role, one must first understand the ecosystem of The Imagine Group. As a premier provider of comprehensive packaging, print, and fulfillment solutions, the company operates at the intersection of creative strategy and industrial execution.
"Imagine is more than just a printer," Mack explains during our discussion. "We partner with some of the world’s most recognized brands to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions that do more than just exist on a shelf or a wall. We help these brands connect with consumers, strengthen their brand presence, and drive tangible business results."
The company’s philosophy rests on a three-pillar foundation: investment in cutting-edge technology, a commitment to operational excellence, and, perhaps most importantly, an investment in people. In a manufacturing environment that is increasingly automated, Mack emphasizes that the "human element"—the talent, the creativity, and the problem-solving capacity of the workforce—is what ultimately pushes the industry forward.
The Necessity of the PRINTING United Expo
For industry veterans like Mack, events like the PRINTING United Expo are not merely trade shows; they are essential forums for professional and corporate development. The 2026 iteration of the Expo serves as a focal point for the industry’s brightest minds to converge.
"PRINTING United Expo brings together the best of our industry in one place," Mack notes. "For me, it’s an opportunity to see the newest technologies, understand emerging market trends, and connect with peers and suppliers who are helping shape the future of print and packaging. The Expo provides valuable insights that can help us improve efficiency, quality, and customer experience."
Why Returning Attendees Keep Coming Back
While first-time attendees are often drawn by the sheer scale of the event, seasoned veterans like Mack are driven by the accelerating pace of industry evolution. When asked why he continues to return year after year, Mack highlights the necessity of staying informed in a market that never stands still.
"The pace of change in our industry continues to accelerate," Mack says. "The Expo is one of the best venues to stay informed, evaluate new technologies, and network with industry leaders. Every year, there are new innovations, fresh perspectives, and opportunities to learn that simply cannot be replicated in a virtual environment."
Strategic Focus: What’s on the Horizon?
As the Vice President of R&D, Mack’s focus at the Expo is highly targeted. He is not looking for incremental improvements; he is scouting for transformative shifts in how business is done. For the 2026 Expo, his agenda is centered around four core pillars:
1. Automation and Workflow Optimization
The labor market and the need for faster turnaround times have made automation a non-negotiable requirement for large-scale operations. Mack is particularly interested in how software-driven workflows can remove friction from the production process, allowing human talent to focus on high-value tasks rather than manual data entry or repetitive file preparation.
2. The Digital Printing Frontier
Digital print technology continues to offer more flexibility and customization, allowing brands to engage in "versioning" and hyper-personalized marketing. Mack views digital print as a key driver for The Imagine Group’s ability to meet the fast-moving needs of retail and corporate clients.
3. Sustainability as a Business Imperative
Sustainability is no longer a "nice-to-have"; it is a primary demand from clients and a regulatory requirement in many markets. Mack is on the lookout for solutions that reduce waste, incorporate more eco-friendly substrates, and optimize energy consumption without compromising the premium quality that The Imagine Group is known for.
4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data-Driven Manufacturing
Perhaps the most intriguing part of Mack’s agenda is the integration of AI. "I’m looking forward to seeing how equipment manufacturers are leveraging data and AI to improve operational performance and reduce waste," he shares. The potential for predictive maintenance, intelligent color management, and optimized inventory management using AI is a frontier that could redefine profitability in the coming decade.
Executing a Strategy: Maximizing Expo Attendance
With thousands of exhibitors and dozens of educational sessions, the risk of "information overload" is high. Mack’s approach to the Expo is methodical, balancing preparation with serendipity.
"I plan to spend time attending educational sessions, visiting key supplier booths, and evaluating new technologies," Mack explains. However, he acknowledges that the value of the Expo often lies in the unplanned. "I like to come with specific objectives, but I also leave room for unexpected discoveries and conversations that can spark new ideas."
This "structured flexibility" is a hallmark of effective leadership. It ensures that while the company’s core strategic goals are met, the team remains open to disruptive technologies or partnerships that might not have been on the radar before the event began.
The Broader Implications: Impacting the Future
The ripple effect of attending a major industry event like the PRINTING United Expo is significant for an organization the size of The Imagine Group. For Mack, the impact is threefold:
- Benchmarking: By seeing what peers and competitors are doing, Mack can effectively benchmark The Imagine Group’s performance, ensuring they are not just keeping pace with the market but setting the standard.
- Continuous Improvement: The insights gained from the Expo are brought back to the Minneapolis headquarters and integrated into long-term operational plans. This allows the company to pivot quickly when a new technology or workflow proves to be a game-changer.
- Relationship Building: The print industry is, at its core, a relationship business. The connections made on the show floor often evolve into long-term supplier partnerships or collaborative initiatives that support future growth.
For Mack, the personal benefit is just as vital. "It helps me stay current with industry trends and better position our manufacturing operations for long-term success," he concludes.
Looking Ahead: The 2026 Outlook
The 2026 PRINTING United Expo arrives at a time when the print industry is finding its footing in a hybrid digital-physical world. Companies like The Imagine Group, led by individuals with the foresight of John Mack Jr., are proving that the industry is not dying—it is evolving.
By prioritizing R&D, embracing the complexity of automation, and fostering a culture of continuous learning, Imagine is positioning itself to lead in an increasingly competitive landscape. As the industry gathers in 2026, the focus will undoubtedly be on the intersection of technology and human potential—a space where John Mack Jr. and his team continue to excel.
For those interested in following the trajectory of the industry or exploring the latest innovations firsthand, the 2026 PRINTING United Expo offers the ultimate window into the future of print. Registration and additional information are available at printingunited.com.
Summary Checklist for Industry Professionals:
- Identify Goals: Like Mack, enter the Expo with a specific list of technologies (e.g., AI, automation) you need to evaluate.
- Balance Schedule: Dedicate time to educational seminars, but keep a "white space" in your calendar for networking and unplanned discoveries.
- Focus on Sustainability: Look for vendors who can prove their environmental credentials—it is becoming a primary RFP requirement.
- Data-Driven Decisions: Focus on how equipment manufacturers are using analytics to reduce downtime and material waste.
- Network Proactively: The value of the Expo is often found in the conversations between sessions as much as the content within them.
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