Jack caught up with Duncan MacOwan, Head of Marketing and Events at FESPA, to learn more about Wrapfest coming up in October
Can you share with us the inspiration behind WrapFest?
The inspiration behind WrapFest stemmed directly from FESPA’s decade-long experience hosting the World Wrap Masters competition. Witnessing the passion and drive within the vehicle wrapping and surface detailing community to connect with their peers as they constantly learn and evolve, we recognised a unique opportunity. WrapFest was envisioned as a dedicated platform for the talented artists who transform vehicles into moving canvases, the skilled professionals who enhance spaces with their craft, and the suppliers who equip them with the tools to do so.
We had many core objectives. We wanted to establish a central hub to bring the wrapping community together in a positive way. There are some incredible businesses, individuals, products and technologies in this sector and we wanted to provide a platform that allowed them all to connect, share their creativity and knowledge and drive the industry forward. Ultimately, WrapFest was born from a desire to celebrate this dynamic field and fuel its continued evolution by providing a space for inspiration, innovation, and connection.
What makes Silverstone the ideal location for WrapFest?
Silverstone is the home of British motorsport and a great place to visit. It also offers a unique and very practical location that makes it the perfect venue for WrapFest. As soon as you arrive at the circuit, you can feel all the racing history in the air. Seeing all the cars being wrapped and worked on in the actual pit area is quite something.
The venue also has all the space we need to set up exhibition areas and can provide a great choice of refreshments and food to suit everyone.
Has the event met your expectations so far?
Absolutely, the response and anticipation surrounding the event have exceeded our expectations. The inaugural WrapFest in 2023 was a resounding success. We had lots of great feedback from attendees and exhibitors. Building upon that momentum, we have expanded the 2024 programme with new features like the Surface Application Showcase and Business Surgery (taking place on 3 October), further enriching the experience for attendees.
The addition of these learning experiences, coupled with returning favourites like WrapTalks, World Wrap Masters UK Competition, Wrap Warrior Battle, and Pit Demos, have generated significant excitement within the vehicle wrapping and surface detailing community. We have a fantastic programme planned for this year, with leading partners already confirming their support of the event – full details will be announced in the coming weeks.
What were the highlights from last year’s event and what do you expect from this year?
WrapFest 2023 was a landmark event, characterised by strong industry collaboration, insightful talks from renowned professionals, a fantastic line-up of exhibitors showcasing the very latest innovations, including several world-first product launches, the exciting debut of the World Wrap Masters UK competition, and the notable presence of industry influencer Yiannimize. With attendees including members of Formula One race teams, livery designers, and fleet operators, WrapFest 23 event set a high bar that we are working hard to emulate and build on. We’re expanding our “WrapTalks” programme to offer a range of sessions hosted by some great speakers. These will include a wider array of training sessions suitable for diverse skill levels and creating more networking opportunities to foster valuable connections.
What are the key trends in vehicle graphics and how does WrapFest respond to these?
The vehicle wrap industry in Europe is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing popularity of Paint Protection Film (PPF) alongside the traditional mainstay of fleet graphics. Additionally, surface detailing for interiors and architectural applications is rapidly gaining traction.
WrapFest is at the forefront of highlighting these trends, emphasising these areas in live demonstrations, insightful conference sessions, and the expanded range of materials incorporated into the World Wrap Masters competition. This ensures that attendees are equipped with the skills and knowledge to capitalise on new and emerging opportunities within vehicle graphics and protection.
What can attendees look forward to at this year’s WrapFest event?
Visitors to WrapFest 2024 can engage with suppliers showcasing cutting-edge tools, materials, and technologies and gain valuable insights from industry professionals in the WrapTalks sessions. Attendees can also put their wrapping skills to the test in the Wrap Warrior Battle hosted by WrapFest’s Training Partner, The Wrap Institute or showcase their design talents in the Show and Shine Line-up.
The World Wrap Masters UK Competition will see the best in the industry compete for top honours, while hands-on demonstrations in the Pit Garages offer opportunities to learn new techniques.
Also new for 2024 is the Surface Application Showcase, which highlights the versatility of vinyl applications across various surfaces.
Another great new initiative that we’re looking forward to is the Business Surgery, which takes place on 3 October. This is a unique opportunity for business owners to gain expert advice and guidance from industry leaders, helping them overcome challenges and achieve success in their ventures.
And it wouldn’t be a FESPA event if we didn’t host a great party. Join us to have fun and meet fellow professionals at the fantastic Blackpit Brewery.
To register for WrapFest – click here
Follow Wrapfest on Eye on Display’s dedicated page here
