{"id":1427,"date":"2026-07-29T10:37:14","date_gmt":"2026-07-29T10:37:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/packmailer.com\/?p=1427"},"modified":"2026-07-29T10:37:14","modified_gmt":"2026-07-29T10:37:14","slug":"driving-innovation-a-conversation-with-the-imagine-groups-john-mack-jr-on-the-future-of-print-at-printing-united-expo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/packmailer.com\/?p=1427","title":{"rendered":"Driving Innovation: A Conversation with The Imagine Group\u2019s John Mack Jr. on the Future of Print at PRINTING United Expo"},"content":{"rendered":"

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. <\/p>\n

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\u2019s scale at the vanguard of the market.<\/p>\n

The Imagine Group: Redefining Visual Communications<\/h2>\n

To understand the significance of Mack\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n

"Imagine is more than just a printer," Mack explains during our discussion. "We partner with some of the world\u2019s 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."<\/p>\n

The company\u2019s 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"\u2014the talent, the creativity, and the problem-solving capacity of the workforce\u2014is what ultimately pushes the industry forward.<\/p>\n

The Necessity of the PRINTING United Expo<\/h2>\n

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\u2019s brightest minds to converge.<\/p>\n

"PRINTING United Expo brings together the best of our industry in one place," Mack notes. "For me, it\u2019s 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."<\/p>\n

Why Returning Attendees Keep Coming Back<\/h3>\n

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.<\/p>\n

"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."<\/p>\n

Strategic Focus: What\u2019s on the Horizon?<\/h2>\n

As the Vice President of R&D, Mack\u2019s 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:<\/p>\n

1. Automation and Workflow Optimization<\/h3>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\"Expo<\/figure>\n

2. The Digital Printing Frontier<\/h3>\n

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\u2019s ability to meet the fast-moving needs of retail and corporate clients.<\/p>\n

3. Sustainability as a Business Imperative<\/h3>\n

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.<\/p>\n

4. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data-Driven Manufacturing<\/h3>\n

Perhaps the most intriguing part of Mack\u2019s agenda is the integration of AI. "I\u2019m 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.<\/p>\n

Executing a Strategy: Maximizing Expo Attendance<\/h2>\n

With thousands of exhibitors and dozens of educational sessions, the risk of "information overload" is high. Mack\u2019s approach to the Expo is methodical, balancing preparation with serendipity.<\/p>\n

"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."<\/p>\n

This "structured flexibility" is a hallmark of effective leadership. It ensures that while the company\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n

The Broader Implications: Impacting the Future<\/h2>\n

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:<\/p>\n