In this episode of printconnect, we sit down with Neil Felton, CEO of FESPA, for a deep dive into one of the print industry’s most influential global organisations.

Neil shares how FESPA has evolved into a worldwide community of 37 national associations, expanded its reach with the FESPA Direct membership model, and launched nine new international exhibitions across emerging and established markets.

We explore FESPA’s growing presence in the Middle East, including insights from recent Leadership Exchange (FLEX) events held in Riyadh, Amman and Cairo - and what these conversations reveal about opportunities and challenges across the region.

Neil also discusses:

• What makes the Middle East such a dynamic print market
• The role of AI, automation and sustainability in shaping global printing
• The importance of building education-focused, community-driven events
• How FESPA supports printers across textile, wide-format, décor, corrugated, screen, digital and industrial sectors
• What visitors can expect from the upcoming FESPA Middle East exhibition in Dubai

This is an inspiring look into how FESPA is helping printers connect, innovate and grow - regionally and globally.