WrapFam Unleashed - October 2024

Editorial

October 2024

6 / Liner Notes

We Will Not Be Denied!

James “Ruggs” Kochevar invites you to be unstoppable in this month’s editorial.

8 / The Wrap Business

“Quit Calling My Cell Phone”

Matt Richart talks about setting limits and respecting boundaries to keep your personal life from being infringed upon by your work life.

12 / Feature

Transforming the Vehicle Wrap Industry, Again

Tyler Dunn, Owner of 360 Wraps, issues a challenge to all wrappers to think differently and invites everyone to his shop to see the difference firsthand.

20 / Opinion

Do You Trust Your Subby?

Jonathan Belkus-Blair, My Wrap Game, asks this pointed question and explores the ramifications of unclear expectations.

23/ Featured Podcast Series

WrapOn Podcast

Scott Decker sits down with Tanner Johnson (That Wrap Dude) about his contract installation business in NY. Click to watch this in-depth interview.

24/ Pro Tip

The Leadership Gap

Brent Knott argues that you’re the reason you can’t find good help.

28 / Feature

The Thought Process of an Aging Installer

Installer and wraps trainer, Mike Zick, talks about longevity in the wrap game.

32 / Feature Q&A with Duncan MacOwan

The creative mind behind FESPA’s premiere wrap event WrapFest allows us a peek behind the curtain.

38 / The Centerfold

Joker 3.0

Joe Solis shares his reimagined Joker mobile celebrating his love for the Batman characters.

45 / Featured Video Series

Branded NOT Blanded

Dan Antonelli of KickCharge Creative, does his best Ben Stein impression.

46 / Design Studio

Passion, Pride & The Pursuit of Perfection

Javier Cruz and Damian Cordero give us a closer look at their passion project for Cambea.

Editorial Ad Index

October 2024

52 / Windows, Walls & Floors (WWF)

Maximizing Your Mindset

A&M Graphics’ Matt Ferguson explores available options when transforming interiors.

56 / Shop Profile

Wraptor Customs Design

Zach Copus talks about overcoming stress points in owning your own business.

62 / Featured Wraps

Gallery

A visual showcase of inspiration.

66 / Feature Beetlejuice

Tyler Hardin, The Decal Doctor, shares his love for the Tim Burton films in this wrap showcase.

70 / Tips & Tricks (TNT)

Three Free and Easy Ways to Boosting Your Shop’s Online Presence

Lisa Humrich, shares simple tips to elevate your digital footprint.

74 / Inside Scoop

MoB Takeover at

Printing United

A coop at one of the biggest events of the year.

77/ Trainers Spotlight

Trainer Profiles

A look at who’s ready to train you for success!

78 / Feature

Wrapping Up Printing United

A recap of wraps happenings at this year’s show.

80/

In the News

A Look at What’s Happening in the Market

Bringing you the latest news.

81/ Products

Product Showcase

Bringing you the industry’s latest innovations.

82 / Video Minute

Understanding Slip Solutions

Industry vet and Tallest Wrapper Alive, Matthew Wolynski, talks about PPF installation and reading what you see.

83 / WrapToons

The Wrap’s Markets

Dedicated Toon!

Dallas Fowler’s unique perspective and artistic gift to the wrap world.

- On the Cover -

The Czech Republic’s Wrapstock does a hit-and-run on this month’s cover. Marek Herman shares this blood-spattered beauty in Featured Wraps on Page 62. Photo by Kevin Webb, Red Line Photography.

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Liner Notes

That was the topic of our latest staff meeting. We were thinking about “Next Steps.” What is on our horizon? We have hit goals, we have established benchmarks, but there’s no room for being satisfied.

One of the missions we have is to get WrapFam Unleashed delivered to every wrap shop on the PLANET! We are currently working at a feverish pace to build our distribution list and we’re scouring to find everyone we can, but we know there are many installers lurking in the shadows, quietly biding their time in print and sign shops, waiting impatiently to get through certification training, building/launching their websites, etc… We want them all to know, “This is the resource that YOU’VE GOT TO HAVE!” The subscription is FREE and there’s no one out there covering the market the way we are.

We have a message for advertisers too. This market is hungry - for knowledge and new products. They want to hear from you and you should get involved editorially. Task your engineers, your product managers, and your marketing teams to brainstorm topics, script videos, and compile white papers, because a well-educated consumer buys and truly understands how to utilize your products.

You’ll be seeing a lot more of me in person as well. I just got back from Printing United. I’ll be representing WFU at WrapFest in Silverstone and SEMA is right around the corner. I would love to meet up with you at these events, don’t hesitate to reach out and let’s get some collaboration going.

We invite you all to, ‘not to be denied.’ Keep reaching, keep pushing, keep striving for that next rung on your ladder whatever it may be.

Cheers!

-Ruggs

Publisher, Editor-in-Chief

James “Ruggs” Kochevar ruggs@thewrapfam.com

Art Director, Graphic Design

Leslie Kochevar leslie@northstargraphicspromo.com

Contributors

Johnathan Belkus-Blair

Dallas Fowler

Matt Ferguson

Matt Richart

Guest Contributors

Dan Antonelli

Damian Cordero

Zach Copus

Javier Cruz

Scott Decker

Tyler Dunn

Tyler Hardin

Lisa Humrich

Brent Knott

Michelle LaPreze

Joe Solis

Matthew Wolynski

Mike Zick

COLOR LOGO

"Quit Calling My Cell Phone"

By Matt Richart

wish I could actually say this to my existing clients and especially potential new clients. I know this may be an unpopular opinion and the last thing I want to do is lose a client or upset any new clients that could help our company grow. I think we all need to be available to our clients when they need us. Some of our businesses are remote and we count on our cell phone as our mobile office. With that said the past few years have been tough dealing with company growth, organization, and clients reaching out via text or phone calls on my cell phone. As our company has grown and evolved, we have become even more professional. Our team has created procedures, rules, new software, and a road map on how we communicate and navigate existing clients along with new customers. I have noticed in the past few years that clients want to text me random questions or text me a photo of a project asking for a price or information in regard to what they are after. I also have clients texting me links to files, artwork, and random photos of examples they are after. The issue that I have is that all this gets lost in the shuffle. When I don’t have emails sent to me that describe what the client or a new client wants it is very difficult for me to manage and stay on top of. I guess common sense would tell me that I might need another company cell phone to accommodate these requests and communication.

Maybe I’m being stubborn by not wanting to carry around two cell phones to live my life. I have a hard enough time dealing with what’s on my plate now. We all have busy lives outside of our work life. Our life outside of work is just as important as our daily routine. I have three boys that keep us very busy with school, sports, and other activities. It also doesn’t help that my three boys still don’t drive. On top of that, I coach AAU basketball and that requires a lot of planning, scheduling, practices, travel, and games. I would say on average I receive 40 -50 calls per day that pertain to my personal life and my business. This doesn’t include any communication that comes my way to my office as well. This is very hard for me to manage and maintain a professional line of communication with everyone involved. Especially when I must sift through a text from friends, family, and clients.

I have been discussing this topic lately with industry friends and current customers of ours as well who deal with these same issues daily. Maybe I should just suck it up and deal with how the world is now. I truly believe that I just need to change my dialogue with my clients and let them know the best way to communicate with me. The one main topic that came up repeatedly was we now live in an on-demand world. People want instant access to people immediately. I think we have all played a part in creating that world. We can shop online and receive our purchases sometime that very

same day. I ordered a nice bottle of tequila a few weeks ago from a local store that was delivered to my house within 24 minutes. I don’t even get pizza delivered that quickly to the house. Every online store usually has a bot that you can use to communicate with any questions or concerns. When we don’t get a quick response, it can be frustrating at times. I think most of us just want an instant response and feel that’s an honest request. With that said it still becomes a problem when your clients want to deal strictly through cell phone communication at all times of the day. A perfect example was a few months ago when a client texted me a picture of the work truck they may be purchasing soon. This message was sent to me at 10 pm on a Saturday evening. I was sitting by my fire pit enjoying the evening and sipping on the tequila that was delivered in 24 minutes. I received the message but didn’t respond back because it was late Saturday evening, and my brain was shut off from work life. We all need to decompress. When I woke up Sunday morning that same client had sent me another message with just a question mark. To me, this sends some red flags up. This may come across as being lazy or not caring about our clients, but I find this kind of disrespectful. I’m more than happy to accommodate any of our clients or new customers. When the communication consists of one sentence with an attachment via text followed by a question mark 12 hours later, I find it somewhat disrespectful.

I sat on the edge of my bed wondering if I even wanted to do business with this person. In my opinion, the correct way would be to email me pictures of what job you were requesting so that I

could put them into our sales software and begin our company procedures on how to communicate and respond back to that client on Monday. I also wanted to show this client some behavioral grace. This particular customer might just be used to utilizing their cell phone or operating that way even if it was late Saturday evening. The client also might have been trying to plan on the purchase of this new vehicle. I could also convey how we like to communicate and correspond with sales in previous conversations that we have had. I do take the blame if that was the issue or problem.

I’m all on board with our clients having easy accessibility to myself of members of our team. A major part of our marketing is the experience that our customers have with Digital EFX. We want our clients to feel wanted, welcomed,

The Wrap Biz

respected, and part of our special family. I do feel that easy accessibility can create problems. These problems are gaps in communication, not being able to sift through your family’s correspondence shuffled in with your work messages on your personal cell phone, and being able to recognize the seriousness of what they are requesting. I realize that this is all part of running a business and usually, we must go that extra mile. I thrive off being busy and staying on task when deadlines are close along with having to meet our sales goals weekly. We all wear many hats throughout our workday to make sure the business is running smoothly and set up for success.

After reading through some articles online in regard to this subject I have come up with two solutions to combating this issue. The first is what I have been doing for the past six months. I have let my clients know that if they can’t get ahold of me via email or my office phone call me on my personal cell phone. Especially if it’s an emergency or urgent. I don’t want to lose that personal touch.

I have also let them know that any correspondence with images, examples, artwork, links to media, or estimates needed to email everything to me or my sales staff. Most have understood and also had a few apologies for sending all correspondence through cell phones. I have also let them know that on the weekends we are usually unplugged so that we can recharge our batteries, decompress, and get ready for battle again on Monday.

The second solution is to get a company cell phone that is only utilized for business. My biggest concern with this is as stated before that

I don’t want to carry two phones. A big part of my concern is that this might make it even more unmanageable for me to keep organized. I am continuing to communicate with my clients to let them know that our office phone and email are the best ways to communicate with me.

It also might help to remove my cell phone from my email signature. My issue with that is I still want to make sure that I don’t miss out on anything. My biggest fear is that I don’t drop the ball on any of our clients.

This is why I wanted to write this article on this topic. It might be a simple solution for some people but for me and my organization, it has become an issue. I believe precise communication and transparency can combat this issue and start to alleviate some of our communication problems moving forward. As I sit here typing out this article I have received two text messages on possible jobs that I’m blessed to have.

I just need to be clear with my clients in a respectful way to let them know how we operate and why. I need to work more on communicating with our clients on how we communicate.

I would love to hear back from you the reader if you have any insight, advice, or other solutions that you have implemented that work. We are all in this together and I love our industry. Feedback on your experience with this is welcome.

Matt Richart Matt@digitalefxwraps.com Co-Owner/CFO, Digital EFX Wraps LLC. Instructor, Inside The Wrap Shop

Transforming

By Tyler Dunn, 360 Wraps

I’ve been putting off writing this article for a long time, and I want to be fully transparent about why. I’ve struggled with how to express what I believe without offending anyone. The truth is, I think our industry is at a crossroads. The vehicle wrap business is young, rapidly growing, and full of promise. Yet, it’s also become messy— filled with bad advice, outdated teachings, and leaders who hold their positions simply because they’ve been around the longest. Some of you know me, some of you don’t. I’m Tyler Dunn, Owner and CEO of 360 Wraps, a vehicle wrap company based in Dallas, Texas. We’ve been in this game since 2007, starting in a cramped 800-square-foot space. We had the standard cheap printer/laminator Wrap Shop Startup Kit and we had to take a deposit on our first job simply to cover the cost of the film to do it. No experience, no training—just a burning passion for vehicle wraps. Back then, “we” were a team of one, but we sounded bigger so that’s what we said. We were excited and ready to take on the industry.

The Search for Real Guidance

Some things have changed since then, but not enough.

When we started, we looked everywhere for advice on how to improve, and how to grow. What we found was nothing but closed doors. Shop owners guarded their so-called trade secrets. Many wouldn’t even let us tour their businesses. They wouldn’t hire us because we had no experience, and they wouldn’t train us because they couldn’t afford to—or worse, they feared we’d take that knowledge, leave, and take their clients. I’ve always hated that mentality, but we’ll dive deeper into that later. So, like most shops starting out, we taught ourselves. Luckily, this industry carried such high margins that we could afford to operate without prior experience or additional capital. Clients didn’t care if you worked out of the back of a warehouse or a storage facility; they just wanted the job done. We took the deposit from our first job, bought the film, got paid, and made our margin. We paid the rent, maybe took a little for ourselves, and kept pushing from one job to the Next.

Growing in an Industry With No Rules

It doesn’t take long in this business to start feeling like a mogul. One day you’re making great money, buying new cars, renting space for a real shop, maybe adding air conditioning if you’re lucky. It’s easy to feel like you’ve “made it.” But here’s the reality: we were playing a game that had never been developed. There were no rules or standards. Every shop was doing its own thing, and we didn’t realize that our perceived success was because we were all playing on “easy mode.”

Most of the general public didn’t even know what a vehicle wrap was back then, and many still don’t. This gave birth to inflated egos and so-

called industry experts everywhere. Our vendors and film manufacturers jumped on board because, let’s face it, their job is to sell us more stuff.

They didn’t know what it was going to take to build a strong vehicle wrap company, they are pushing what is working at the moment. They don’t need to worry about the sustainability or scalability of our businesses when new wrap shops open every day. When we started, most wrap businesses were extensions of sign companies. The popular wisdom was, “You need a wrap division because clients are asking, but you can’t make money just doing wraps. You have to offer everything.” It wasn’t until later that standalone shops began popping up, and it quickly became the new industry standard.

A Moment to Acknowledge Our Industry Builders

Let me be clear: none of this is inherently bad. I’m not trying to dismiss the hard work of those who shaped this industry. Many of us have leaned on each other, and we’ve grown this business together. There are shop owners making millions with nothing but street smarts and grit. We’re an industry of people literally living the dream. I owe who I am and the success of 360 Wraps to so many of you, and I’m grateful.

However, we need to acknowledge that the wildfire growth of this industry also came with some pitfalls. Manufacturers and vendors started jumping on the “easy success” bandwagon, offering classes, certifications, and advice at every turn. Now, there’s more information out there than any of us could possibly digest. Everywhere you look, someone is selling a tool, class subscription, or certification.

Transforming the Vehicle Wrap Industry, Again

The Problem With Today’s Training

The issue isn’t the abundance of information; it’s that our training hasn’t evolved. The mindset has remained the same. We’re still teaching shops how to run small businesses and how to install wraps “the right way,” whatever that means. If you don’t follow someone’s specific method, you’re labeled as “the cheap guy.”

As an industry, we need to wake up to where we are in our growth and work together to take the next step. I’ve attended trade shows for years, and while they’re getting bigger, the message hasn’t changed. Every manufacturer, wrap demo, guest speaker, and breakout session repeats the same mantras of ego and bad advice. How many times have you heard: “Make sure you get paid,” “Charge your client for every little thing,” “Only take the jobs you want,” or “We stay booked out for months”? It’s the same script, and it’s holding us back.

Time for Self-Reflection: What Kind of Business Are You Building?

Where do you want your business to go? What kind of owner and leader are you striving to be? Everyone is different, and that’s fine. If you’re content with where you are, if your clients love you and your local community respects you, that’s great. I support that 100%. Every shop is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

But for those who are just starting, struggling, or feeling stuck, I want to offer you a different path. From day one, we’ve run 360 Wraps in a way that’s different from what you’ve been taught. And I’ve built one of the most successful vehicle wrap companies in the world because of it.

360 Wraps: Doing Things Differently

Today, 360 Wraps operates with 44 employees, running lean and efficiently. Our Dallas location is a 47,000-square-foot facility located on DFW Airport property for overnight shipping coast to coast. Our Houston branch started in 2018, and two years ago, we bought out our largest competitor, doubling our size overnight. Our third location in Corona, CA, is known for its quality and innovation, led by one of the raddest dudes on this planet. We refer to Team360 as the network powering our company. To design, print, and ship 300-500 vehicles every week, you need a dedicated, loyal team. At any given moment, we have 500 active projects and 200 vehicles in the installation queue in Dallas alone. If a new client walks in the door today with a deadline of 2 days, we can get them in as soon as tomorrow. We don’t book out, we scale up and schedule accordingly. This kind of operation is only possible through partnerships—with vendors, clients, and a nationwide network of contractors or more appropriately referred to as partner shops. We work with hundreds of vehicle wrap companies across the country. I genuinely believe that we can all grow together. There’s enough business out there for every shop to thrive. Let’s eliminate the inability to train, the mindset of upselling clients at every turn, and the hostility that comes from thinking we have some kind of trade secret that can’t be shared.

Opening Up the Playbook

Knowledge is power, and I’m here to share it. The doors at 360 Wraps are open to everyone, anytime. There isn’t a question you can ask that

we won’t answer. Over the next few months,

I’m going to share with you how to build the kind of business no one else will tell you about. I’m going to show you the difference between Team360 shops and others, so you have an option on how to grow your business.

I’m forever grateful for my mentors, team, friends, and family who’ve helped grow this monster of a company. Now, I want to challenge the industry norms and teach you how to focus on the client, not the money. At 360 Wraps, we don’t charge for design, we don’t tack on cleaning fees or prep fees, and we don’t bill for missed appointments, reprints, or removals. We don’t change invoices on our clients, and we don’t hold artwork hostage if they want to leave. We aim to create the ultimate buying experience.

Every job we touch comes with an in-house warranty with national coverage because I wanted our clients to have something free from loopholes and exclusions. We don’t charge installers for reprints, and we loan our warehouses to any installer or any shop in need at any time, free of charge. Our priority is the client and our team, and we are willing to risk anything to stand behind our product.

The Path Forward

This isn’t about offending anyone; it’s about challenging the status quo because we can do better. As providers, we have the choice to put the client and their needs first. Upselling and squeezing every dollar out of them isn’t a win for anyone. Your clients don’t owe you for years of experience—they’re paying for the value you deliver today. Holding their artwork hostage or being difficult to work with doesn’t make you stronger; it makes you weaker.

I’m saying this to push you, to make you better. It’s 2024, and the learning curve for our industry is shrinking every year. The manufacturers have made films easier to work with, colors more forgiving, and printers more vibrant and consistent than ever. The hard part isn’t the wraps anymore—it’s how we do business.

Let’s raise the bar together. Let’s make the buying process simple and enjoyable again. The next generation of vehicle wrap shops is coming, and I’m committed to teaching them how to do it right—how to treat people right.

Let’s share knowledge, support each other, and grow beyond the small business mindset. The potential is right in front of us.

Do You Trust Your Subby?

Lessons from a Costly Experience

By Jonathan Belkus-Blair, My Wrap Game

o here we are. Another day, another lesson learned the hard way.

I’ve always prided myself on being able to sniff out the bad apples, but sometimes even the sharpest nose misses a whiff. Trust is a funny thing; fragile, easily given, and often dangerously misplaced. And when it’s broken, the fallout can be catastrophic, especially when it involves your livelihood.

Initially, the contractor seemed reliable. I gave them a steady stream of work, allowed them to charge premium rates, and let them dictate their availability. Naturally, they competed and serviced other customers in the industry. But then the cracks started to show: the quality of work began to slip, they became overly reliant on my business, and a sense of entitlement started to creep in. Before I knew it, they had twisted the situation to claim backpay of lavish employee-status benefits, all the while continuing to run their own business.

How did I let this happen? Simple. We were friends before we were colleagues, and the harsh reality is that business and friendship don’t always mix. My own complacency played a big role in this mess. I trusted too easily, didn’t set clear expectations, and ignored

the warning signs as they appeared.

I’ll share my advice on hiring subcontract installers, drawing from my own experience, so you can know exactly who you’re dealing with before the work begins.

The Importance of Clear Agreements

When was the last time you had your contractor fill out a questionnaire or sign an agreement? If you’re like most, probably never. After all, why bother? Isn’t their word enough? Obviously not. Too often, contractors walk away with a pocket full of cash and unearned confidence, leaving a mess in their wake. One of the biggest mistakes I made was not formalizing my relationships from the outset. I worried that a written agreement might scare off new contractors. But the truth is, if they’re not willing to enter into a formal arrangement, why should I trust them with my business?

Don’t rely on good intentions; put everything in writing. Issue purchase orders, specify the nature of the work, set deadlines, outline compensation, and clearly define worker classification. And for heaven’s sake, make them sign it. After all, if their word was really that good, it wouldn’t hurt to back it up with a signature, right?

The Dangers of Mixing Business with Friendship

Remember when old mate offered to help you out on weekends? Seemed harmless, and you were always happy to talk shop afterward over a beer. But while you were casually spilling your hard-earned operational know-how, old mate was quietly building a competing business, poised to poach your core customers.

This is just one example of how mixing business with friendship can backfire. The reality is, that when you prioritize your friendship, you tend to overlook red flags that you wouldn’t with a regular contractor.

My advice? Treat your friends like future competitors. It may sound harsh, but in business, maintaining a bit of distance and professionalism commands more respect. You can still be mates, but it’s crucial to enforce boundaries and set clear expectations. A true friend will respect that, and if they don’t, maybe they weren’t such a true friend after all.

The Consequences of Misclassification

Imagine this: you’ve hired a contractor who sets their own rates, works on their own schedule, brings all their own tools, and even markets their services to other clients. On paper, they’re the perfect independent contractor—self-sufficient, ambitious, and clearly running their own show.

But here’s where things get tricky. When a contractor like this starts taking on more work from you, exclusively, the line between contractor and employee can start to blur. At what point does their independence start to resemble something closer to employment?

Free Download: Contractor Agreement Form

Use the link below to download our Contractor Agreement & Questionnaire for FREE.

This is the very form I personally use to identify contractors, understand their intentions, and set clear expectations from the start. Protect your business by ensuring everything is laid out from day one.

www.mywrapgame.com/products/ contractor-agreement-form

The consequences of getting it wrong can be severe. If a contractor is reclassified as an employee, their benefits might be scaled according to the high fees they charged as a contractor, leading to a financial impact that is not only unexpected but also profoundly unfair. That’s why it’s crucial to regularly assess your contractor relationships, ensuring that the terms are clear, fair, and legally compliant.

Conclusion

In business, trust is a precious commodity, and we often part with it at a very low price Some

individuals, under the guise of friendship, will exploit this trust—seeking favors, extracting insights, and ultimately using them against you, even if it means tarnishing their own reputations in the process.

Fortunately, the market has a way of weeding out these bad actors, much like white blood cells targeting an infection. In time, the unscrupulous find themselves isolated and without the trust they once exploited. To act this way and know you’re wrong is bad enough, but to do it all and think you’re right? That’s a menace to any business that crosses their path.

Yet, even these difficult experiences carry lessons. I’ve learned the importance of being more discerning and more protective of what I’ve built. Trust remains crucial, but it must be earned and carefully guarded. After all, he who learns must suffer, and we are only healed of suffering by experiencing it to the full.

Jonathan Belkus-Blair Owner, My Wrap Game

Spruce

Scott Decker is the founder of Wrap On Tools, a company dedicated to providing high-quality tools specifically designed for the vehicle wrap industry. With years of hands-on experience in the field, Scott understands the challenges faced by installers and has developed innovative solutions to make the wrapping process more efficient and precise.

Tanner Johnson (That Wrap Dude)

Tanner Johnson, a contract graphic installer, shares his journey from aspiring musician to accomplished wrapper. His passion for music led him to pursue it professionally, but a lack of financial success forced him to seek a more reliable source of income. Johnson's initial aversion to car culture shifted after being exposed to the industry through his father's business. His early years were marked by a mix of rebellion and immaturity, but he eventually found purpose and fulfillment in the world of wrapping. Johnson now embraces his career as a wrapper, enjoying the creative challenge and the camaraderie within the wrap community.

The Leadership Gap

You are the reason you can’t find good help

By Brent Knott

n today's rapidly evolving workforce, many entrepreneurs and business owners echo the sentiment, "These kids just don't work like they used to." But is this really the case? I believe it's time to challenge this mindset and examine what's happening beneath the surface. The talent is out there; it's just harder to attract because the landscape has changed—and so should our approach. I often find myself engaging with fellow entrepreneurs who lament their difficulties in finding good help. My first question to them is always: "What are you doing to attract the right talent?" After all, finding toptier talent isn't about luck. It's about making yourself and your business attractive enough for the people you want to work with.

Think about it like dating. If you’re out of shape, unfit, and not taking care of yourself, you’re unlikely to attract the kind of partner you desire. The same principle applies in the workplace. If you’re not investing in yourself, your culture, and your vision, why would someone talented want to dedicate their non-refundable time to your mission? As business owners, we have to ask ourselves what makes us, and our businesses, unique enough to attract and retain the best talent.

The Importance of Getting

Healthy—Inside

and Out

When I weighed 300 pounds and lived off fast food, I wasn’t the best version of myself. I was lucky to have a solid team around me, but looking back, I realize that I wasn’t truly honoring myself or my business. And if I couldn’t take care of myself, how could I take care of them?

The moment I committed to improving my health, everything started to change—not just physically but mentally. I began running, sticking to a routine, and holding myself accountable. I showed my team through actions, not just words, that I could set goals and achieve them. This newfound discipline permeated every aspect of my business. It wasn't long before my team began to believe in my vision because I was embodying the leadership and discipline that I expected from them.

As leaders, if we can take care of our health— both physically and mentally—we can better inspire and lead those around us. People want to follow leaders who are driven, disciplined, and authentic. Simply put, if you want your team to believe in you and your vision, you have to lead by example.

I’ve gone to extremes of completing 50mile Ultra and 100-mile Ultra running events, I included my leadership in crewing me on these events and I can tell you the camaraderie created from it is like nothing I’ve ever experienced. They saw me at my lowest lows and I continued to progress. It's almost as if it was an example that I would never give up on their goals or mine.

Creating Opportunities: The Power of Delegation

In my business and our industry, I’ve learned that holding onto old responsibilities can hinder the growth of both my team and me. If I’m still holding a squeegee and wrapping cars 10 years into the business, how can I expect my employees to envision a career path beyond that? Young employees today want to see growth, opportunity, and leadership in action.

That’s when I had a paradigm shift: If I’m holding onto the squeegee, I’m robbing my employees of the opportunity to grow. Delegating tasks and trusting your team with important responsibilities is essential for their development. It’s not just about showing them the steps to success—it’s about stepping aside and giving them the room to climb that ladder.

Showcasing Your Culture and Vision

The truth is, that most of the best talent is already employed somewhere else. If you're waiting until the last minute to hire, you're putting yourself at a disadvantage. To attract top talent, you have to make your company stand out, not just in terms of the work you do but in the culture and environment you create.

Employees want to feel seen, heard and appreciated. They want to work for a company that offers a clear path to advancement and invests in their growth. At my shop, we offer a "Road to 100k" for our installers—a clear, performance-based roadmap that shows them exactly how they can progress in the company and achieve their financial goals.

This approach has worked wonders. By having a clear plan and a well-defined culture, we attract people who want to be a part of something bigger. We’re not just hiring workers; we’re building a team of individuals who believe in our mission and see a future with us.

Hiring is a Skill and is Often Overlooked

Finding the right talent isn't a matter of chance. It's a skill that takes time, effort, and a proactive approach. One of the biggest mistakes I see business owners make is waiting until they need someone to start hiring. By then, it’s often too late. The best candidates might not be looking for work at that exact moment, but that doesn’t mean they’re not out there.

At my company, we keep our job listings active year-round, whether we’re hiring or not. This way, we can build a pipeline of potential candidates and

stay on top of the talent market. And when the right person comes along, we're ready for them.

Another key part of our hiring process is using personality assessments, like the DISC profile, to filter out candidates who aren’t a good fit. This helps us avoid wasting time on interviews with people who don’t have the right temperament for the role. It’s just one of the many ways we streamline our hiring process and ensure we’re only bringing on people who will thrive in our culture.

Proactive Leadership: Shaping the Future Workforce

The days of saying "Kids these days don't want to work" are over. The reality is that today’s workforce has different expectations—and it’s our job as leaders to meet them. We need to show them what’s possible and give them a reason to choose us over the competition. It’s not just about offering a paycheck; it’s about offering a career path, a positive work environment, and the opportunity for growth.

In conclusion, if you’re struggling to find good help, it’s time to take a step back and assess your leadership. Ask yourself: What makes my company attractive? Am I creating real opportunities for growth? Am I leading by example? When you can answer these questions confidently, you’ll find that the talent is out there— you just need to position yourself to attract it.

Brent Knott Owner, Design it Wraps & Graphics

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The Thought Process of an Aging Installer

TBy Mike Zick, MZ Installations

he moment I came up with the subject of this article, I thought this should be easy. Boy, I was wrong because I feel like I have to write my own obituary. I’m not and I’m about as good as a 54-year-old solo installer can be these days. What this article has done is make me look at the current stage in my career knowing that I don’t have many years ahead of me.

There are few things in life that are certain……. Taxes & Father Time. Father Time has never lost in case you haven’t figured that out yet. I have been in the sign and graphics business for over 35 years so that makes me one of the “Old Dogs” in

the industry. So being one of the “Old Dogs”, my thought process has changed over the years. Back in the day, it wouldn’t be a big deal to pull an allnight install, work a 100-hour week, or be 75ft + up in the air. I was just doing what it took to get the job done that day. Today I put a lot more thought into things. I’m more worried about the physical risks of the installation or the project scheduled for tomorrow. I also focus on family time more now than I did in the past. It’s truly interesting to me how my focus has changed the older I’ve gotten. My installation style has changed over the years. These changes are a product of my aging and

how physically demanding it is to be an installer. More things just naturally hurt in the morning. I don’t move as easily as I used to. Something pops, cracks, or you feel that twinge. I used to have great eyesight. Now I’m always making sure I have my readers on me or I have an extra pair stashed somewhere. Advil is my best friend right next to the heating pad and ice pack. I’m joking about all that but not really. Things I never thought about when I was younger are on the radar now. If I had known then what I know now, I would have taken better care of myself when I was younger. Now, I must put more planning into my days by making sure I have plenty of water, food, and the right snacks to get through the challenges of the day. Diet, exercise, supplements, and stretching play a big part of me being able to get through my days. If I could give any younger installers any advice it would be to take care of their body…… you only have one. With age comes experience and with that experience my installation techniques have evolved. I’ve always been a pretty quick installer, but I have

realized that I can’t squeegee any faster than I currently can. I also, know that there are much younger, faster, and more talented installers out there. So how do I compete with these installers??? My initial thoughts were that I just needed to go faster. The problem was that I just couldn’t physically do it consistently. One day as I was installing a set of trailer graphics, it came to me that if I wanted to go faster, I needed to minimize my movements. From that point forward I started looking at my installs differently. For example, when I’m working on a trailer, everything is a calculated move. How and where I set my panels, torch placement, to even how far away my ladders and walkboards are away from the trailer. All of these elements work in connection together to keep my speed up to where it needs to be. Being able to move during your install is super critical too. If you can’t move, you can’t install it efficiently. I see installers who are constantly on A-Frame ladders trying to install larger panels and I ask myself why are you doing it that way?? Why are you slowing

The Thought Process of an Aging Installer

yourself down….. you’ve got to move!!! I’ve also developed a process to install my panels that has also cut down my install time. The technique builds flexibility so that if I have any issues, they can be corrected but not disturb the leading edge of the panel. The great thing about this technique is that it will work with any paneled graphic whether it's on a trailer, box truck, walls, windows, or floors. The less I must handle the panels the better and the more efficient I can be. I also place a lot of focus and effort on being consistent in every portion of the install. My consistency comes from where I place a hinge, how much liner I pull, and how far I squeegee down the panel and finish where I’m physically at. The more consistent I can be and truly focus on my movements, the faster I can go. For fun, I’ve raced a few guys down the side of a trailer and I’m done and not broken a sweat. The other guys are worn out and sweating up a storm. It’s all technique and a process.

Part of my installation evolution involves materials as well as tools. Materials have changed so much from when I first started. Back in the day, there were no pressure-activated vinyl adhesives. All the vinyl in the industry was pressure-sensitive, and you better have great squeegee techniques to get that stuff down. There was no air egress technology, nothing was digitally printed, no overlaminates, and none of the great things we have today. As new technology came about, new installation techniques were developed, and we had to adapt. With the new materials came different tools to work, in some cases, specifically with the newly developed films. I’ve gone through dozens of installation pouches, hundreds of squeegees, numerous buffers, many

knives & blades, seam busters, rivet brushes, Stabilo pencils, air release tools, Blade Cage, & tuck tools, torch heads, heat guns, and numerous other tools. There is not one squeegee for every install but, I think I’ve found what works best for me. I use a softer squeegee than I have in the past. Part of this change is to minimize the amount of pressure I’m putting on my wrist. With as much of a repetitive motion as squeegeeing is, I need to preserve my wrist and let the flex in the squeegee do the work. By using a softer squeegee and being more deliberate, I can make every squeegee stroke count……. every squeegee stroke is a $!!

Now that I try and make every squeegee stroke count while I’m minimizing my movements, I’ve turned into more of a cerebral type of installer vs. an all-out attack kind of installer. My current style of installing makes it easier on these old bones.

In 2012 I became a 3M Authorized Trainer and at the time I had no idea how this could benefit me in my future. Being a trainer has given me the opportunity to take myself out of the daily grind. The classes give my body a chance to rest for a few days. It has also given me the opportunity to mentor others and pass along knowledge that I’ve acquired over my years in the business. I can see myself doing more training in the future and less of the day-to-day installs. I don’t want to ever get out of the day-to-day stuff because I feel you need to bring real-world situations to the classroom. I don’t know what the future holds for me. Hopefully, I have many more years ahead of me because I love this industry, the people I’ve met along the way, the people I call my family, and I love what I do. I feel like I still have more to give!!!

Q&A with

WrapTalk presentation from 2023 WrapFest in Silverstone.

Duncan MacOwan

Head of Marketing and Events, FESPA

By James “Ruggs” Kochevar

The world of vehicle wraps has evolved significantly over the past two decades, becoming a cornerstone of the graphics and print industry. At the forefront of this evolution stands FESPA, a global federation of national associations for the screen printing, digital printing and textile printing community. In this Q&A we explore the history and future of wraps within FESPA events, exploring how competitions like the World Wrap Masters have shaped the industry and what lies ahead.

Q. Tell us how wraps gained a foothold in FESPA.

A. Wrapping has been a part of FESPA exhibitions for over 20 years. From the early days of vinyl graphics, wrappers and sign and graphics shops have been attending both FESPA Global Print Expo and

FESPA Mexico. As interest in wrapping surged in the 2000s, we introduced the Wrap Cup competition in 2010, creating a focal point for the community within the FESPA Global Print Expo. The event was so well-received that we brought it back in 2011. In 2012, we launched the World Wrap Masters Series, which featured competitions at all our shows, with winners competing for the title of World Wrap Master at FESPA Global Print Expo 2013. Since then, it has become a key highlight of our events.

Q. How were you chosen to lead the wrap exhibition portion at the events?

A. When I joined FESPA in 2010, I was quickly immersed in the world of specialty print and wrapping. With a background in event production and experiential content, I was asked to lead the delivery of the Wrap Cup, alongside other

Pit presentation by Justin Pate of the Wrap Institute at WrapFest 2023.

Q&A with Duncan MacOwan

Head of Marketing and Events, FESPA

engaging experiences at that year’s FESPA Global Print Expo. As a self-confessed petrolhead, I loved seeing how car wraps transformed vehicles, and I was warmly welcomed by the wrap community. It was a great learning experience, and my passion for the wrap industry has grown ever since.

Q. How did World Wrap Masters come to be?

A. Since 1963, FESPA has always been about connecting people globally, sharing expertise, and building lasting relationships. After seeing the success of the Wrap Cup, we decided to launch the World Wrap Masters Series in 2012. The aim was to find, challenge, and celebrate the best wrappers in the world. Since its launch, the series has expanded significantly. We now host World Wrap Masters competitions at every FESPA exhibition—including events in Brazil, the Middle East, Mexico, Eurasia, South Africa, and our new WrapFest event. Additionally, national competitions are held in countries like Denmark, Sweden, Japan, Belgium, and Spain, all culminating in a grand final at FESPA Global Print Expo.

Q. What inspired you to start Wrap Fest?

A. One of the best things about the World Wrap Masters Series is seeing how the wrap community comes together. Despite being in competition, participants are always eager to share tips and techniques with each other. We launched WrapFest to give this community an even deeper experience, with a pure focus on wrapping, PPF (paint protection film), and detailing. It’s an education and

experience-led event with over 60 demonstrations, 16 presentations, workshops, and, for 2024, a business surgery with Yiannimize. It also features competitions like the World Wrap Masters UK & Ireland, the Wrap Warrior competition, and fun experiences like simulator racing, a show-n-shine of wrapped rides and the wrap party. Of course, it’s a chance to get hands-on with the latest materials and connect with others in the industry.

Q. What sets Wrap Fest apart from other events in the market?

A. The educational opportunities at WrapFest are second to none, offering new and experienced wrappers valuable insights—all included in the ticket price. What really makes it stand out is the venue: an iconic Formula One race circuit. The demos and World Wrap Masters competition are held in the same pit lanes used by racing legends, which is an amazing experience for

motorsport fans. WrapFest is also where you’ll see world-first material launches, making it an exciting event for anyone in the industry.

Q. Do you consider World Wrap Masters the "standard" for wraps competitions and why?

A. We’re incredibly proud of the World Wrap Masters Series and believe it sets the global standard for wrap competitions. It’s the only series with events worldwide, where national and regional winners have their travel and accommodation covered to compete in the final. Our expert judges, many of whom are past World Wrap Masters champions, bring deep industry insight and ensure a transparent, fair, and consistent judging process across every event. Competitors receive valuable

feedback, and thanks to our partners, there are prizes and goodies for everyone who participates.

Q. How many events do you have on the calendar for 2025?

A. We’re currently midway through the 20242025 series, which will conclude with the final at FESPA Global Print Expo in Berlin, Germany, from May 6th-9th, 2025. This series includes 10 national and regional qualifying competitions, leading up to the final event.

Q. What are your expansion plans for the future?

A. We’re always open to expanding the World Wrap Masters Series and welcome inquiries from anyone interested in hosting an official event. As

Q&A with Duncan MacOwan

Head of Marketing and Events, FESPA

for WrapFest, it’s growing stronger in its second year, with more educational opportunities and more brands participating. We’re currently finalising plans for the next WrapFest and will continue working closely with the community to determine the best location and timing for future events.

Q. What type of growth do you expect from the wraps market in the next 5, 10, 20 years?

A. The wraps market is poised for substantial growth, driven by increasing demand for customisation across industries, especially in automotive. The global market for automotive wrap films is projected to exceed $25 billion by 2030, with Europe emerging as a pivotal region for this industry. In the next 5 years, I expect to see even more widespread adoption of wraps for personalising vehicles, not just cars but across various transport sectors like marine, aviation, and even public transportation.

In 10 years, innovation in wrap technology will likely play a major role, with developments in self-healing materials, more sustainable wrap options, and advanced application techniques. The rise of electric vehicles will also drive demand for wraps that offer both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, like enhanced aerodynamics or thermal regulation.

Looking 20 years ahead, I foresee wraps becoming even more integrated into mainstream consumer and business practices. As more brands focus on sustainability, wraps will likely replace traditional painting methods in industries such as architecture, interior design, and retail

environments, offering a cost-effective and ecofriendly solution for customisation and branding.

The wrap industry continues to demonstrate remarkable growth and innovation, with FESPA playing a pivotal role in its development. Through initiatives like the World Wrap Masters and the newly introduced WrapFest, FESPA has created platforms for education, competition, and community building within the sector. As we look ahead, the future of wraps appears bright, with projections suggesting a global market exceeding $25 billion by 2030. From automotive customization to potential applications in architecture and public transportation, wraps are set to transform various industries. With ongoing advancements in materials and techniques, the wrap industry is poised for exciting developments in the coming years, promising new opportunities for creativity, sustainability, and functionality.

By Joe Solis, Image Grafix

In October of 2023, Joker 2.0 was hit by a motorcycle and subsequently totaled. It was heartbreaking and truly disappointing. A lot of work went into creating the truck just right so that it would garner attention as well as act as a showpiece for people to admire. After all the dust had settled and we finally knew where we would land on the accident we decided to move forward with the new project.

In November of 2023, I decided to try again this time doing a version of the Joker that would be slightly different but still stretch the limits of both creativity and my abilities in my industry. Having been in the industry for over two decades you can get into a rut or get complacent. I have always done my best to keep pushing the envelope and learning new techniques. I have always been in the mindset to keep learning, whether it was through wrap classes or watching and learning from other artists.

So fast forward to Joker 3.0, this time I wanted to change the path of this version. This version started with a canvas of a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500. This concept I wanted to be different, I wasn’t even sure I wanted to do another Joker truck or something completely different, but something led me back to this villain. I have normally used photos and changed or manipulated them to add or subtract design aspects but this time I wanted to reach a little forward and stretch into a new avenue in the design world. As AI has started to dive into art, I chose to utilize this tool and have it help with the concept. Utilizing AI has been a journey that has helped expand my capabilities in the illustration world. It’s not an end-all-be-all, and I know a lot of true illustrators are very opposed to using AI for design.

The Centerfold

The Centerfold

The Centerfold

As much as I can empathize with them, I also see AI as a tool like using Photoshop to help with design.

Heath Ledger’s character of the Joker is my favorite version, so I keyed on that character and started building. Normally when I build a themed wrap like this one, I start with a “focal point”, in this case, the character, and then add many more layers to complete the composition of the “scene”. With this one as with other others, I look at the vision as a movie poster scene and try to execute the scene as such. Now for the kicker, I chose to make one side Joker and the other Harley Quinn. That was a plot twist I did not see coming so that added some challenges. Having two different characters I wanted to make sure that everything flowed together and tied into each

other. For me when I see some designers that I admire I love their overall complete composition.

So, for Harley Quinn, I love the character of Margot Robbie from the suicide squad. I focused on that character for the passenger side. Now the one thing I have learned is that with AI there are only some things that it can create so actual work is needed to make sure that things look “right”. As many designers know, when using AI some things like hands or clothing don’t always look right. As with any design, there is some time and attention needed to add or subtract to make it complete. After many hours I finally finished the design and the next step was to get it into production. I wanted to try something new, so I opted for Orafol Gloss Nacre, which is a pearl white. I wanted to have a base that I printed on to have a metallic feel when in the sun. Secondly, I wanted to add a layer on top that wasn’t the same ol’ same gloss laminate. I added KPMF Gloss Blue Pearlescent to see if I could give it that “pearl paint job” feel. We printed it on an HP 365 Latex printer.

Other additions to the build were a full custom audio system, with a custom-made box enclosure with 3 10” subs and full audio in the doors and dash all done by Ultimate Innovations. Marine Kustomz created a full lighting system featuring under glow, wheel lights, engine bay lights, and interior lights. Then the truck had a 9” McGauheys lift, powder coated by Clutch Coatings and installed by NXTUP customs. All seats were custom upholstered with black and purple leather. For wheels and tires we used Xtreme Wheels 24’x14” on 35’s to finish it off. Thank you to the entire team for helping bring this to life.

Dan Antonelli is the owner of KickCharge Creative, an award-winning branding agency specializing in small business marketing. With over 20 years of experience, Dan has elevated countless brands through impactful designs, particularly in vehicle wraps. His expertise in branding and graphic design has made KickCharge Creative a leader in the industry, delivering innovative and attention-grabbing solutions.

Want More Branded Keyword Searches?

In this episode of "Branded or Blanded?" Dan Antonelli reviews one of our favorite rebrands, Buehler Air Conditioning & Plumbing in Jacksonville, Florida. Jason Buehler's business, once named Air Source America, had a forgettable name and White Van Syndrome. KickCharge Creative tackled this, rolling out a disruptive logo and color scheme that transformed the company. In five years, revenue soared by over $15M, the average ticket price doubled, and branded keyword searches surpassed 1,500 in a test month. This is what we mean by getting KickCharged!

Design Studio

Passion, Pride The Pursuit &

of Perfection

THE CAMBEA PROJECT

By Javier Cruz and Damian Cordero

Entering this competition was very important to us. We knew that it was the first time that the Alltak and Tekton brand was going to

be promoted in North America and we wanted to be part of that project. The competition was very thought out, they brought in experts to judge and

also gave the audience a chance to vote. We thought this to be very fun and inclusive. Plus the idea of having to share our progress on social

media and seeing what the competitors were doing gave it that competition edge. For the last few years, Damián have had a chance to collaborate together, we are two very like-minded people who love what we do. We enjoy promoting the industry and learning from it every day. When we found out about this competition we couldn't pass up the opportunity to participate together. We were very happy to have been chosen as one of the 10 finalists in the Cambea Virtual Wrap Competition… Damian and I spent a couple of days deciding what our focus was going to be. We really wanted to create something unique and original. Our goal was to design something that could showcase the appreciation and perspective of an installer. Right off the bat, we thought, let's create an octopus. This character has a very deep meaning, as installers we need to work like we have extra hands to be more productive and use many tools to help

Javier Cruz and Damian Cordero

Design Studio

get us the final result. In our first draft, the Octopus was drawn on a sheet of paper and we started to think about what tools we could incorporate into its many tentacles. So we then decided on the tools that we believe are the most important; such as the torch, the spatula, the measuring tape, the "KnifeTucker" and the "Blade Cage". We took all these tools and added them to the Octopus so he looked like he was ready to take on that difficult project. The look we wanted was an installer hard at work and for that reason we named him “The Wrap Beasts”. The next part was picking the colors. Alltak and Tekton really challenged us because right after being selected they asked us to send our colors and our rough draft so they could send us the materials. When we ordered the material we did

not have the whole concept together, just a general idea. So we took the colors we ordered and started to pick colors that would complement each other. We wanted to convey two different color schemes for each side of the vehicle, the same design just different colors. On the driver's side, we chose strong and vivid colors to represent the aggressive installer who does not need to plan and gets the job done, which is more of Damian's personality. On the passenger side, we made softer and brighter colors for the installer who is strategic and analytic in its installation which is more of my personality. From there we wanted to take it a bit further and see how we could incorporate unity within the design, so we included the different flags of the countries that made this project possible. Brazilian

Design Studio

Flag for Alltak, Canada since they are Tekton the Importers, Argentina Flag for Damian, and United States and Mexico flags to represent myself. Every single detail was thought out very carefully. The color of the car was a bright light color so to help bring the design together we decided to wrap everything that could be wrappable and remove the original color. We ended up wrapping the door jambs, under the hood, the trunk, and some interior highlights. This vehicle was a special treat because it challenged us even further as an installer. The Corvette Stingray is one of the only cars that has the capability to wrap under the car and so we said why not?! This design was projected more toward a wrap installer. It really helped us learn how to work together, helped us get creative, and helped showcase how much we do as installers. We were very anxious to see the results of who would win.

Once the work was submitted the 10 finalists designs were going to be reviewed by the judges for scoring. The way they would be scored was 50% by the judges scores and the other 50% by public vote. The prize was a paid trip to Brazil to participate in one of the biggest Wrap events in South America “Cambea 13” which will be held at the Interlagos Festival from August 8th to 11th. The day the results were given, Damian and I were in Long Beach California at another wrap competition. We were getting ready for that next competition when we received a call telling us that we had won the Cambea Virtual Wrap competition. We were ecstatic! We really put a lot of effort, passion, and time into the Cambea Virtual Wrap Contest. We are extremely happy and grateful to Alltak and Tekton for the opportunity and also to all the public who voted for our work to make this possible.

Maximizing Your Mindset and Creativity for Every Project

By Matthew Ferguson, A&M Graphics

n today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world, the sign, graphic, and film industry is more vibrant and dynamic than ever before. It continues to advance at an incredible pace, bringing with it new materials, tools, and possibilities. The result? Boundless potential for creativity. Every surface - windows, walls, and floors - is an opportunity for innovative wrap projects. As professionals in this industry, we wake up each day with the exhilarating opportunity to tackle new and creative challenges. Our industry's culture and collaboration drive us to continuously push the envelope, delivering designs and installations that not only meet but exceed client expectations. This environment fosters an atmosphere where creativity thrives, and, in turn, so do our businesses.

Creativity in a Cookie-Cutter World

Creativity has become a premium asset in an era that often prioritizes speed over substance. The world is increasingly drawn to cookiecutter solutions, where projects are churned out with a focus on quick turnarounds rather than innovation. But for those of us in the sign and graphic industry, we know that creativity can be the game changer for our businesses, which can lead to more sales volume and higher margins.

Consider this: if you design, print, and install a simple wall mural, you can quickly complete the

job and net, say, $1,200. Fast and efficient, yes. But now, imagine recommending a value-added upsell, such as a laser-cut acrylic logo instead of just a flat-printed logo. With that enhancement alone, you’ve added another $500 or more to the project. That’s an additional 42% added to your project, achieved with minimal extra effort. For example, a simple wall mural may net you $1,200. But by adding a value-added upsell, like a laser-cut acrylic logo, you could add another $500 or more. That’s an additional 42% for minimal extra effort. Doing one small wall wrap per week could earn you $62,400 annually, but adding an upsell could bring that total to $88,400. The right materials, like textured laminates or metallic films, can enhance both the project and your bottom line. It’s a win-win: the client gets a premium result, and you earn more.

Amplifying Every Project with Creativity

One of the most satisfying aspects of working in the sign and graphic industry is seeing how these creative enhancements transform projects. What could be an ordinary wall wrap turns into a jaw-dropping visual environment. The inclusion of custom-cut signage, metallic finishes, or 3D elements doesn’t just elevate the aesthetic—it creates an experience. Your clients won’t just see

the finished product; they’ll feel the difference. And when creativity becomes the driving force behind your projects, it has a snowball effect.

Once you raise the bar, you and your team will be eager to push it even higher with each subsequent project. The next project will be more creative, dynamic, and impressive than the last. This momentum drives continuous

improvement—not just in design but also in client satisfaction, team morale, and business growth. Your portfolio begins to speak for itself and becomes your best salesperson.

The Business of Creativity

Creativity isn’t just an artistic endeavor; it’s a business strategy. Offering value-added

elements to a project enhances the end result and positions you as more of an expert in your field, someone who doesn’t just meet client expectations but smashes them. This fosters stronger client relationships, builds trust, and often leads to repeat business and referrals.

Incorporating creativity into your projects doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complex. Often, it’s about leveraging the tools and resources already available. Modern technology has made it easier than ever to add that extra flair to your projects. From laser-cut signage to specialty films and textures, the options are virtually limitless.

Thinking outside of the box and creative graphic design should always be billed for, however. If the team is working on a large project, we can typically estimate how much design time the project will take. If there are still a lot of unknown variables with the client, or it is going to be a 'design-by-committee' scenario, then we have set a standard of quoting 40 hours of design time, which we can track and then reduce or add to when the dust has settled. Getting paid for your time and the time of everyone on your team is crucial, and unfortunately, too many of us in this industry have had to learn this the hard way. We also charge a Project Management fee for larger scopes of work. This comes from looking back on too many jobs and saying, "Man, that project took up a lot of my time." When it comes to design and project management, how much have you left on the table?

The Value of Collaboration

One of the greatest aspects of working in our industry is our peers' collaborative nature

and culture. Every project is truly a collaborative endeavor. It takes a talented team, each person bringing their own expertise and creative insight, to pull off the successful survey, design, printing, fabrication, and installation of a great project. And that collaboration extends beyond your internal team. Working closely with clients to understand their vision, needs, and objectives is crucial in delivering a product that not only satisfies but wows them. It also extends to your industry relationships with other shop owners (one of my favorite parts of this game). You should have a network of peers you can outsource things to, friends you can lean on when a printer goes down, and mentors who can guide you. (You know who you are, thank you!)

The creative process benefits immensely from this give-and-take. Clients and peers bring unique perspectives, and we bring the tools and skills to transform their ideas into reality. This exchange often sparks unexpected innovations, where the initial concept evolves into something far more dynamic and impressive than anyone initially envisioned.

In many ways, the business side of things becomes an extension of this collaborative spirit. Open communication, flexibility, and a willingness to experiment all contribute to maximizing creativity on every project.

Maximizing Every Surface: Windows, Walls, and Floors

No longer limited to traditional mediums, today’s projects span windows, walls, floors, and more. These diverse surfaces provide ample opportunities to experiment

Windows, Walls, Floors WWF

with materials, textures, and designs.

Take Windows, for instance. Gone are the days of basic window graphics (we have all installed plenty of single-color plotter film). With advancements in perforated films and translucent materials, you can now create window graphics that are vibrant, layered, and interactive. Whether it's a storefront display or an office window, there are countless ways to turn an ordinary pane of glass into an engaging visual experience.

As we’ve discussed, Walls are another prime canvas for creativity. From large-scale murals to dimensional lettering, the possibilities are endless. With the right materials and approach, walls can become immersive environments that tell a story and draw people in.

And let’s not forget the floors. Once an afterthought, floor graphics have become a powerful design tool. Whether it’s wayfinding graphics in a commercial space or eye-catching promotional artwork in a retail environment, floor designs can complement and enhance the overall aesthetic of any project.

The Future of Creativity in the Industry

The exciting part of being in this industry today is that we’re only just beginning to scratch the surface of what’s possible. As technology continues to evolve, so too will our ability to push the boundaries of design and installation. We’re seeing the rise of interactive graphics, smart materials, and even augmented reality elements being incorporated into signage and graphics. The future promises even more ways to captivate and engage audiences through creative design.

What does this mean for us as professionals? It means that there has never been a better time to invest in your team, your tools, and your mindset. Encourage creativity at every level of your business, from design to installation. Make experimentation a part of your process. Embrace new materials and techniques. And, most importantly, foster a culture that values innovation and continuous improvement.

Final Thoughts

Creativity is no longer just a bonus; it’s a requirement at the highest end of our industry. In a world that often prioritizes speed over originality, those who take the time to add value through innovative, creative solutions will stand out. And as we’ve seen, the financial rewards for doing so can be substantial.

So, the next time you’re working on a project—whether it’s windows, walls, or floors— take a moment to consider how you can maximize your creativity. What value-added elements can you incorporate to make the project truly exceptional? How can you push the envelope to deliver something memorable and impactful?

The opportunities are endless, and the potential is vast. In this industry, creativity isn’t just about making things look good—it’s about driving success, both for your clients and for your business.

Matthew Ferguson President, A&M Graphics

By Zach Copus, Owner of Tidy Rides and co-owner of Wraptor Customs Designs

ProfileShop

@wraptor_customs_design

My original career plan as a business and finance major at The Ohio State University about eight years ago was to go into the financial field. I was about to start an internship with Northwestern Mutual when I realized working in finance was just not for me.

Fortunately, I also took a bunch of classes in entrepreneurship. One day, I was cleaning out my car in the parking lot of my apartment near campus when I noticed a Safelite auto glass repair vehicle go by. It reminded me of something one of my professors had said, that everything is going to be mobilized. Consumers like the convenience of services coming to them. That sparked the idea of buying a van and outfitting it to start up an auto detailing business. I named the company Tidy Rides.

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That moment opened my eyes to how small opportunities could evolve into something much bigger. It felt like the perfect blend of business and creativity, and I knew I wanted to pursue it further. I was successful in building up a customer base, but I learned that in a northern climate like Ohio, you only have about seven months to do auto detailing out of a mobile van. So, pretty quickly, I got out of the mobile business and rented some space from a vinyl shop to establish a physical location in Columbus.

Over the next six years, we added paint protection film, window tint film, ceramic coatings, and color change wraps to our original interior and exterior detailing services.

About a year ago, one of my longtime detailing and PPF clients told me he was interested in getting into the industry. Robert is an avid car collector with a fleet of very cool cars that all have full PPF. He also has a lot of connections in the car world.

Around that time, the graphic designer and lead installer at the vinyl shop we were renting from came down to Tidy Rides. They weren’t happy where they were and asked about going to work for us. After talking with Robert about the opportunity this represented, we decided to go into business. We launched a new venture, Wraptor Customs Designs, in a second location in Powell, Ohio, about 30 minutes north of Columbus.

Wraptor Customs specializes in print and design. We have a Mutoh printer and our graphic designer has 15 years of experience in the printing business. On the vehicle side, we offer full and partial vehicle color change and digitally printed wraps; decals, splash graphics, and striping; and

commercial fleet graphic services. We moved the color change wraps offering from Tidy Rides to the new shop and continue to provide the other services in the Columbus location. We also opened a second Tidy Drives shop in Findlay, Ohio, about an hour northwest of Columbus.

All the vehicle restyling and vehicle graphics services at Wraptor Customs have been doing great. The printing side is different from what I’d been used to, but we’re learning.

An important factor in the early success of Wraptor Customs has been the flexibility of our team. We have two full-time employees at the Powell location today, but we are looking to scale that pretty quickly. Meanwhile, my paint protection film installer at Tidy Rides has the skills to help out when needed in the wrap shop. Our manager at Tidy Rides has 20 years of experience in the sign industry, so he is able to help out with printing projects when needed.

Even so, having separate locations isn’t ideal, so we’re looking to combine the two businesses in one facility with 8,000 to 10,000 square feet under one roof.

Speaking of my partner Robert’s many connections, one of them recently led to a really interesting project. Once or twice a year, Robert brings in a photographer, Will Pohlman, who has a specialty in car photography, to do a photo shoot. I often lend a hand, which is how I got to know Will.

It turns out, Will also does a lot of photography work for Avery Dennison. Two months ago, they asked him if he knew of any wrap shops that might have cars available for a rush wrap job using the company’s new Supreme Wrapping Film™ colors, which were scheduled to be introduced in

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mid-September. He put them in touch with us.

I was nervous about the tight deadline, but we had two cars available and we believed we could get the job done—though we knew it wouldn’t be easy. I actually had never used Avery Dennison color change film and my installer only had a little experience with the product. We viewed that as both a cause for hesitation and a great opportunity. We decided to take the opportunity. The film was great. Supreme Wrapping Film was very conformable and I loved its ability to coldstretch. It adhered well in recessed areas where we traditionally used inlays. It’s probably the best colorchange material I’ve worked with. We’re definitely going to use more of it in the future. We also got all the telephone tech support from the Avery Dennison team we needed throughout the process. We washed and wrapped the cars in about two and a half days with three installers working full-time and some help from a fourth. On the last day, we worked about 22 hours straight. Will, the photographer, filmed and shot the whole time. After we finished the wraps, we took a 45-minute nap before driving the cars to another location for the photo session, where we also helped. It was a long, long day. I feel like I'm just recovering from it all.

I think the new colors, which Avery Dennison names “Bright Escapes,” will be a big hit. They are very vibrant. You cannot miss those cars going down the road. We took the Supreme Wrapping Film Bright Escapes color Pool Party Pink “Barbie” Porsche 911 Targa to a car show last weekend. About 900 people took photos with it.

Looking to the future, we’re especially excited about the growth opportunities in the print and

design side of the Wraptor Customs business because there are so many different avenues you can go down. I’ve always been a believer in niche markets. You’re not fighting with a bunch of competitors all after the same piece of the pie. For example, we’ve had a niche focus in the detailing and PPF business with the car collector car market. I hope we can find some niches with Wraptor Customs and do the same thing.

That said, Columbus is a good market for auto detailing and customization. It has a vibrant car scene, with a lot of car collectors and enthusiasts. There are a lot of big shops, but we’re spread out, so there is plenty of business for everybody. Interest in PPF and color change wraps continues to grow, and I think color PPF is going to take off.

As the Avery Dennison project demonstrated, owning a shop is stressful at times, and it can take a toll on you if you’re not careful. But at the end of the day, it’s very rewarding. I love what we do.

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE

A Love Story

This wrap was not commissioned by anyone. This was a passion project. I do a good bit of these wild, detailed, themed designs so I was trying to think of something fun and creative to be able to express and get attention for the business.

I have always loved Beetlejuice as a kid growing up in the 80’s so with the release of the new movie coming out I decided kind of last minute to make a Beetlejuice-themed wrap most likely for temporary purposes until I find inspiration for the next idea. I designed the truck

BEETLEJUICE BEETLEJUICE

A Love Story

over a few days. In jobs like these, I usually try to find an interesting way to present the art to the client or public. In the past, I have done several full reflective wraps or used other specialty films such as snake skin laminate and a Medusa reflective wrap to really help drive the concept's effect and cause more attention to the wrap.

This time, on short notice, we printed on a holographic metallic-style white film made by VIS FILM and laminated with Avery 1360z gloss laminate. The metallic film really helps give it a special pop in the sun or high

exposure to light, similar to 3m psychedelic, but in white, so it prints cleanly.

I also did the installation myself over a couple of days. The plan originally was to do a temporary wrap and pick up some exposure at the same time the movie was coming out and ride it to Halloween and then a little before Thanksgiving add some pieces on top to make all the characters dressed in Christmas-themed clothing/accessories and ride that out a couple more months before changing to another theme. Maybe you’ll see those in a future issue? ;)

Three Free and Easy Ways to Boost Your Shop's Online Presence

By Lisa Humrich, Steelbloom

s a business, attracting local customers and standing out from the competition can be a challenge. But there’s good news—there are a few simple, free marketing strategies you can implement right now that will help you get found online and build your reputation. Let’s dive into three game-changing tactics: adding your business to Google Maps, optimizing your Google My Business (GMB) profile, and starting a Google review campaign. These quick and easy steps will give your shop more visibility and credibility while helping you bring in more clients without spending a dime.

1) Add Your Wrap Shop to Google Maps

If your business isn’t on Google Maps yet, it’s time to change that! When potential customers search for a “vehicle wrap shop near me” or even “best car wraps in [your city],” you want your business to show up right at the top. Google Maps helps people discover local businesses like yours on their phones or computers—don’t miss out. Most customers who need wraps for branding or personal projects will start with an online search. If your shop isn’t listed on Google Maps, you’re essentially invisible to anyone looking for vehicle wraps in your area. When your shop is on the map, your business will show up when people

search for vehicle wrap services in your city or area, giving you a chance to capture new leads. For vehicle wrap shops, being on Google Maps is especially important because your potential customers are likely to want to see your location, read reviews, and maybe even get directions to your shop. Google Maps also allows you to post photos of your best work, which can attract customers as they see your skills before they even call you.

How to Add Your Vehicle Wrap Shop to Google Maps

Adding your shop to Google Maps is a quick and straightforward process:

Step 1: Set Up a Google My Business Account

Go to Google My Business (https://www. google.com/business/) and create an account for your vehicle wrap shop. Enter your business name, address, and contact information. If you offer mobile services in addition to your in-shop work, you can list that too!

Step 2: Enter Key Business Information

Make sure you include accurate hours of operation and a phone number where potential clients can easily reach you. You’ll also want to pick the most relevant category for your business. Choose something like "Vehicle Wrapping Service" or "Auto Customization" to make sure you’re appearing in the right search results.

Step 3: Verify Your Shop

To finish setting up your business on Google Maps, Google will send a verification code by postcard or phone. Once you enter this code into your Google My Business profile, your shop will be listed on Google Maps, and people can start finding you online.

Step 4: Upload Photos of Your Work

This is the fun part— show off your best vehicle wraps! Upload high-quality photos of wrapped cars, trucks, or fleet vehicles you’ve worked on. Adding photos can help potential customers see your work and make your shop stand out. A good portfolio of images on Google Maps is like a free advertisement.

2) Optimize Your Google My Business (GMB) Profile for Vehicle Wrap Services.

Getting on Google Maps is only the first step. To really make your shop stand out, you need to optimize your Google My Business profile. Think of it as your shop’s online storefront—a place where customers can see reviews, photos, and key details about your services.

Why Your GMB Profile Is Crucial for Wrap Shops

A well-optimized Google My Business profile can help bring more traffic to your shop.

Customers will use it to check your shop’s location, hours, services, and—most importantly—reviews. It can make all the difference when someone is deciding between your shop and a competitor. Keeping your profile updated, adding great photos, and getting reviews, your GMB profile will improve your local search ranking, making you more likely to appear in the coveted “Local Pack”—the top three local results on Google searches. For vehicle wrap shops, where trust and craftsmanship are essential, a great GMB profile can lead to more calls, foot traffic, and sales.

How to Optimize Your Vehicle Wrap Shop’s GMB Profile

Step 1: Complete All Basic Information

First, make sure your business name, address, phone number, and website are all listed correctly. This might seem obvious, but customers often get frustrated when they can’t

find basic info. If you’ve got a website with examples of your work, make sure that link is prominently displayed on your GMB profile.

Step 2: List All Services You Offer

Wrap shops offer a variety of services beyond just vehicle wraps. Maybe you do vinyl wraps for boats, custom graphics for trucks, or commercial fleet wraps. Whatever services you offer, list them in your GMB profile. Not only does this help customers know exactly what you offer, but it also helps Google understand the range of services you provide, making it easier to match your business with relevant searches.

Step 3: Add Photos and Videos

This cannot be stressed enough: photos of your work are critical for a vehicle wrap shop. Customers want to see the quality of your work before they even consider contacting you. Add clear, high-quality photos of recent wraps you’ve done, from colorful branding wraps for businesses to sleek, personal car wraps. You can even upload videos of the wrapping process or of finished projects driving off the lot.

Step

4: Use the Google Posts Feature

Google My Business lets you post updates just like social media platforms. Use this feature to announce promotions (like 10% off for new clients), show off new work, or highlight upcoming events. This keeps your profile fresh and shows that your shop is active and engaged with customers.

Step 5: Stay on Top of Reviews

Customer reviews are the lifeblood of a wrap business. Positive reviews build trust, and customers rely heavily on them to choose between different shops. Make sure you regularly monitor and respond to reviews, both positive

and negative. Responding to feedback shows you care and can help diffuse any negative situations.

3) Start a Google Review Campaign for Your Vehicle Wrap Shop

If you’re looking for a way to really boost your shop’s credibility, reviews are the answer. Positive reviews can bring in more customers, build trust, and even improve your ranking in local search results. More reviews equal more visibility, which equals more potential clients for your vehicle wrap shop.

Why Reviews Are So Important

For vehicle wrap shops, reviews do more than just provide feedback—they act as social proof for new customers. Wrapping a car, truck, or boat is a big investment for clients, and they want to know they’re choosing the right shop. Seeing a long list of happy customers with five-star reviews can convince a hesitant client that you’re the real deal. Google uses reviews as a ranking factor, meaning the more reviews you have—and the better they are—the more likely your shop is to show up in local search results. Plus, Google’s algorithm tends to prioritize businesses that engage with their reviews, so don’t ignore the reviews!

How to Start a Google Review Campaign

Step 1: Ask for Reviews from Satisfied Customers

After completing a job, ask your customer for a review while the experience is still fresh. If they’re happy with the work, most people are willing to leave a quick review, especially if you make it easy for them. Send them a link directly to your Google review page or print out a QR code they can scan with their phone.

Step 2: Incentivize Reviews

If you want to encourage more reviews, consider offering a small incentive like a discount on future services, a freebie, or entry into a giveaway. This can nudge clients to take the time to leave you a positive review.

Step 3: Respond to Reviews (Good and Bad)

Don’t just let reviews sit there—respond to them! Thank customers for their kind words, and if someone leaves negative feedback, address the issue professionally. Showing that you care about both positive and negative feedback builds trust with potential clients.

Wrapping it UP

Marketing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Getting found online is key to attracting new customers and growing your business. By adding your shop to Google Maps, optimizing your Google My Business profile, and running a Google review campaign, you’ll be well on your way to improving your online presence—without spending a dime. These free, low-effort marketing strategies will help bring in new clients, build trust through customer reviews, and show off your work to a broader audience. Over time, these small moves can lead to big results. Don’t wait, bring more visibility to your shop today!

GET IT IN PRINT

Lisa Humrich SteelbloomLLC@gmail.com Founder, Steelbloom

Leveraging experience at ORAFOL, Mimaki, and General Formulations, Lisa helps businesses improve processes and marketing.

The Inside Scoop

MoB Takeover at PRINTING United

Installers Wow Crowds with Unforgettable GF Booth Transformation

By Michelle LaPreze

hat happens when you bring together seven of the industry’s top installers at the PRINTING United Expo in Las Vegas? A booth takeover by the M.O.B.!

The energy at PRINTING United was already high on Day 1, but Day 2 delivered an unexpected spectacle. While members of the Masters of Branding (M.O.B.) could be seen installing and wrapping materials at various booths across the Expo, the real surprise unfolded on Wednesday, September 11 at 3:00 p.m., when the M.O.B. crew descended on the General Formulations (GF) booth in the South Hall.

In a perfectly coordinated takeover, the elite group of installers executed a planned invasion that left passersby in awe. Customers, attendees, and onlookers stopped in their tracks as the M.O.B. unrolled branded caution tape, encircling the entire GF booth. At the entrance, a massive "M.O.B. TAKEOVER" graphic was placed front and center, while other members commandeered the booth’s microphone and music. With ladders set up, heat guns blazing, and tools in hand, the team went to work. Each installer

tackled a different area of the booth, applying M.O.B. branded graphics using GF’s pressuresensitive films. Within moments, the floor was buzzing with excitement, and in less than 45 minutes, the M.O.B. wrapped every inch of the GF booth—from the tower display to the reception desk, car hood, wall exhibits, and even the meeting tables. No surface was left untouched, as they transformed the space into a branded masterpiece.

The idea started with a smaller GF booth takeover in Long Beach with Slim Sheddy and Vinyl Vixen of Wrapsesh at GPX WRAPSCON.

Seeing the buzz a smaller event created, GF knew to take it to the next level for Printing United and approached the M.O.B. board with the idea.

“We know the M.O.B. is respected within the industry as the most trusted, recognized, experienced, and accredited installers worldwide, so we were honored to give them a platform to showcase their exceptional talent,” says Michelle LaPreze, Director of Marketing Communications, General Formulations.

The M.O.B. used nearly nine full 150’ rolls of General Formulations pressure-sensitive film for vehicle wraps, windows, walls and floors. The material used included GF 830 AutoMark™ Cast & GF 844 Uli-Matte Cast Laminate for the car hood, transit door, and corrugated wall stations, GF 226HTR WallMark® to cover both the booth tower and reception desk, GF 885AE

WATCH NOW

The Inside Scoop

RoughMark™ Cast & GF 813 Gloss Laminate for the brick wall, GF 218 WindowMark™ for the glass door and window panels, and GF 212 Traffic Graffic® & GF 109 Scratch-Resistant Matte Laminate for the floor graphics.

Members of the M.O.B. present were Preston Jordan of Digital Precision, Matt Richart and Dallas Fowler of Digital EFX Wraps, Jim Miller of Miller Decals, Chad Munroe of Get Graphic, Russell Voigt of FlipSide Graphics, and newest member Javier Cruz of Mad Monkey Wraps.

For more information on the M.O.B., visit www.mastersofbranding.org. For more information about General Formulations pressure-sensitive film, go to www.generalformulations.com.

Michelle LaPreze Director of Marketing Communications General Formulations

Left to right: Javier Cruz (Mad Monkey Wraps), Jim Miller (Miller Decals), Preston Jordan (Digital Precision), Chad Munroe (Get Graphic), Russell Voigt (FlipSide Graphics), Matt Richart and Dallas Fowler (Digital EFX Wraps).

Welcome to the Trainer Spotlight, where we highlight individual trainers. The spotlighted trainers are industry leaders with a wealth of knowledge to share, offering valuable tips, techniques, and hands-on experiences that will empower you to excel in your wrap craft. Be sure to visit their websites for more info and training dates .

Adam Sumner

WRAPIX Academy

Burbank, CA 91502

818-433-7548

Adam@wrapixacademy.com

Wrapix Academy is the only west coast 3M Authorized training and testing facility. With over 6000 square feet our training facility is dedicated only to graphic installations. We offer 11 different hands on stations to build and refine skills. Whether you be new to the industry or a seasoned professional, our training classes can be adapted to fit any need.

Jamie Mullican School Of Wrap Nashville, TN 37210 (615) 646-3277

mully@schoolofwrap.com

Located in the heart of the music city, School of Wrap is a 3M Authorized Training Facility offering 3 different certifications and training. As 3M Preferred Installer you will be recognized as among the best in the industry. Promote yourself and your business as a leader in installations and 3M will list and promote you as well. Our training will teach you the latest techniques and standards used in the industry.

In the News

International Window Film Conference & Tint Off

For the first time, the WFCT offered a Vehicle Wraps Competition and stunned the market by offering $10,000 cash to the winner.

The Vehicle Wraps Competition kicked off its inaugural year at WFCT 2024 and crowned the wrap installer who performed the highest quality vehicle wrap. WFCT tapped well-known wrap installer Jeremiah Bienko of Sick Wrap in Tampa, Florida and PG NOLA’s Kevin Kempf to judge the competition.

Finalists included Jen Carney (Carbon Wraps, Orlando, FL), Gurdeep Dhaliwal (Dynamic Auto Styling - Kitchener, CAN), and contest winner Charlie Trujillo (Lettering Express - Oklahoma City, OK). Congrats to all who competed. For a complete list of winners: https://windowfilmmag. com/2024/09/wfct-2024-winners-unveiled-after-intensethree-day-competition/

WWWRAP 2024 Releases

Updated Sponsor List

Once again, the largest gathering of wrappers at SEMA will be at the World Wide Wrap Recognition & Appreciation Party, hosted by Paint Is Dead. The event is Wednesday, November 6th at the IPEC Las Vegas. If you’re in town for the event, be sure to register ahead at wwwrap.event.com Fellers will be the Title sponsor along with Paint is Dead and WrapperMapper. Other sponsors include WrapChannel, Evolv, BriteLine, HEXIS, General Formulations, Arlon, The Wrap Shirt and WrapFam Unleashed.

Final call to take part in World Wrap Masters UK 2024

Wrap installers are invited to participate in the UK regional leg of the prestigious World Wrap Masters competition at WrapFest 2024 at Silverstone, October 3-4. The competition will consist of multiple rounds Their work will

undergo rigorous scrutiny by a panel of esteemed judges.

The World Wrap Masters UK competition is supported by a roster of industry-leading sponsors. Participants will be challenged to test their technical expertise with complex surfaces, and the event provides an opportunity to connect with the community and meet some of the experts and well-known wrappers from across Europe.

The winner of the final regional leg will receive a trip to Berlin to compete in the World Wrap Masters Series Final at Global Print Expo 2025. Attendees interested in registering to take part in World Wrap Masters can use promo code WWM2406 to receive £10 off the entry fee when they sign up: https:// www.wrap-fest.com/worldwrap-masters. Attendees can use promo code WPFM403 receive £10 off ticket purchases.

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New Products

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iscover the latest in wrap industry innovations. Here, we feature cuttingedge tools, materials, and solutions designed to enhance your wrap projects. These new offerings come from leading manufacturers, boasting advanced features and improved efficiencies. Explore these novel products to stay at the forefront of wrap technology and elevate your craft. Visit their websites for detailed information and availability. Transform Ordinary to Extraordinary!

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Boost Efficiency. Elevate Your Installations.

RIDE THE 90s WAVE

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Limited Edition. Easy Application. Long-Lasting. Head-Turning.

GetWrappedBeforeThey'reGone!

Wrapping up PRINTING United

By James “Ruggs” Kochevar

Vegas seldom disappoints when you’re looking for a huge tradeshow to wreak havoc on your feet and back! Printing United held up its end of that bargain! Congratulations to them on another successful (and BIG) show.

Of course, we were there to check out the newest products, coolest exhibitions and latest wrap happenings. We found our share, beginning with our friends at PDAA (Professional Decal Application Alliance). Ray Weiss frontman said, “Our

PDAA booth was popular this year, and we had our annual Mustang Hood competition, Happy Hours on Tuesday (sponsored by General Formulations) and Wednesday (sponsored by Drytac), along with many demonstrations (sponsored by DAF Products/ Fedrigoni, mactac and TVF). New this year was a demonstration showing off resurfacing films (sponsored by Bodaq Interior Films). All in all, it was a great event for our installer community. Lastly, we had a couple of panel sessions with the Connecting Printers and Installers, being popular with our

all-star group of Ken Burns, Rich Thompson, Chris Ulmer, and Eric Kahle. We’re looking forward to great things next year in Orlando.”

This year’s go-to vehicle is obviously the Tesla Cybertruck and at couple of booths took it to task. The Roland Booth offered a team wrap by the MoB as well as daily wraps by the crew at Digital EFX and the IT Supplies booth had a stunning red metallic as well.

Many booths, such as 3M, Canon, Fedrigoni/DAF Products, Arlon, Carlas

Industrial, and General Formulations, offered demos, competitions, and hands-on training with their certified trainers and staff.

While not every booth focused on the wraps market, several showcased viable products for wrap production, such as various types of vinyl, paint protection film, fabric, printers, laminators, software, tools, and more. If you haven’t been to a Printing United event, we highly suggest you add it to your schedule for next year.

2024 PDAA panel

Dallas Fowler at the Roland booth

Matt Ferguson at the DAF/Fedrigoni booth

The Canon booth

TALLEST WRAPPER ALIVE

@TallestWrapperAlive

Matthew Wolynski, known as the "Tallest Wrapper Alive," has over 15 years of experience in the vehicle wrap industry. As a Certified 3M Trainer, he provides instruction not only in color change but also in windows, walls, floors, fleet, and Paint Protection Film (PPF). Certified by 3M, Xpel, Hexis, Arlon, and others, Matthew offers commercial wraps, full color changes, and PPF services, along with private training and staff consulting.

Understanding Slip Solutions

Matthew Wolynski, known as the Tallest Wrapper Alive, guides a student through interpreting what they observe beneath the PPF (Paint Protection Film) while using a slip solution. He explains the importance of understanding how slip solutions work during the application process.