New Year, New Opportunities
January is the time to set optimistic resolutions: I’m going to get back to the gym, I’m going to be better at keeping in touch with friends, and I’m going to stop spending so much money on online shopping (oops… that last one didn’t take long to break).

Most of us make resolutions at work, too – often as part of setting annual goals and reviewing budgets. You’ll be pleased to hear that IMDA can help you keep those resolutions!

• Need to connect with existing customers and find new prospects? IMDA can help position your company as an expert, referring business your way and sharing leads from the tradeshows where we exhibit.
• Need to learn about new markets, opportunities for growth and trends in the plastics industry that could affect your company? IMDA hosts monthly In-Mold Meet-Ups to bring our members together and share information about where the industry is going.
• Need to watch the bottom line? IMDA has cost-saving programs with partners like Grainger, FedEx, Staples and CDW.

If you aren’t a member of IMDA yet, fill out the membership application at www.imdassociation.com. While I can’t force you to go to the gym, I can help move your business in the right direction. Let IMDA connect you with everyone along the in-mold production chain so your business can keep on growing in 2026.

Sugar Land, Texas to Host 2026 Plastic Product Decorating Summit
IMDA’s Annual Conference Event to be Held September 1-3
The In-Mold Decorating Association and Plastics Decorating Magazine have announced the dates and location for the 2026 Plastic Product Decorating Summit: September 1-3 at the Houston Marriott Sugar Land hotel in Sugar Land (Houston), Texas. The conference event brings the plastics industry together to learn, listen and discuss all types of direct-to-object plastic decorating and in-mold decorating (IMD), labeling (IML) and electronics (IME) applications.

Featuring a day and a half of industry-focused content, the Plastic Product Decorating Summit will announce keynote speakers, technical presenters and panelists later in 2026. The line-up typically includes market and economic data applicable to the plastics manufacturing segment, developments in technology and decorating processes, application case studies and conversations with brand owners and OEMs.

In addition to a wide selection of presentations and panel discussions, a Supplier Trade Fair will feature tabletop exhibits from leading suppliers to the industry, including injection molders, label printers, equipment manufacturers, and ink and substrate providers. Additional information on the Supplier Trade Fair is available for companies interested in exhibiting while spots remain.

And, as in previous years, the event will open with an optional baseball game outing to watch the Sugar Land Space Cowboys (the Houston Astros’ Triple-A affiliate). Event attendees will gather in a semi-private, reserved space for ballpark fare and a relaxed night of fun before the Plastic Product Decorating Summit sessions begin the next morning.

Mark your calendars now and watch www.productdecoratingevent.com for online registration, hotel information and the full schedule in late Spring 2026.

Member Benefits Expand with Staples and CDW
IMDA is pleased to provide two new discount programs for IMDA members with national partners Staples and CDW. Find more information on these programs in the Members Only section of the IMDA website or email dianna@imdassociation.com.

Staples is recognized as one of the most trusted office supply chains in the US. From promotional signage and receipt paper to floor care, first aid, seating, shipping and more, Staples supports businesses in maintaining smooth and efficient operations. Through this partnership, IMDA members gain access to significant discounts on over 1,000 of Staples Business Advantage’s top-selling products, along with next-day delivery, live customer support and
volume pricing.

CDW is a trusted, multi-brand provider of technology solutions that keep businesses connected, secure and efficient. From networking and power equipment to end-user devices and print accessories, CDW delivers the tools organizations need to modernize operations and strengthen performance. Through IMDA’s partnership with CDW, members gain immediate access to exclusive pricing and dedicated IT support. Beyond everyday savings, members also can take advantage of project-based discounts and personalized guidance to help bring IT initiatives to life.

IMDA Welcomes New Members
InMold Solutions
InMold Solutions (IMS), Phoenix, Arizona, is an engineering-based company with the technical knowledge base and resources to develop, install and maintain vertically integrated production cells for in-mold decorating (IMD) and in-mold electronics (IME). Its mission is to add value, efficiency and quality to the injection molding process, allowing OEMs to get their new products to market quickly. 

INX International Ink Co.
INX International Ink Co., with US corporate offices in Schaumburg, Illinois, is a global manufacturer of high-performance printing inks and coatings for commercial, packaging and digital print applications. INX is a leader in chemical formulation; best manufacturing practices; functional, innovative and sustainable solutions; and field service and support.

WayPoint Marketing Communications
WayPoint, Fort Mill, South Carolina, partners with small- to medium-sized business to help them reach their goals through marketing and communication activities. The company takes a strategic approach to understanding its client’s key challenges, working as a partner to plot the best course of action to achieve business goals. WayPoint helps to implement marketing communications, talent acquisition and retention strategies that drive results.