The event will showcase manufacturers of both wrapping materials and digital printing machines, with companies presenting more than 60 live demonstrations, with additional talks and ‘fireside’ chats.

The event will also host the inaugural UK and Ireland World Wrap Masters competition regional heat, where 24 vehicle wrappers will compete in timed competitions to qualify for the world final at Fespa Global Print Expo 2023 in May.

Duncan MacOwan, head of marketing and events at Fespa, said it was no exaggeration to say there had been no event like this before in the UK.

He said: “Vehicle wrapping has long been one of the most colourful and eye-catching attractions at our Fespa exhibitions. 

“The growth of the industry over the last 20 years has been impossible to ignore, and it is only right that there is now an exclusive event that serves the need of this community.”

The launch event, he said, had been designed to appeal to the diverse wrapping community, as well as those who are interested in learning more.

He added: “Fom live demonstrations and Q&As with leading wrapping figures, to wrapping competitions and live music, there is something to cater to everybody in this diverse, unique community.”

Companies exhibiting at the show include HP, which will be demonstrating its Latex water-based ink technology; and film manufacturers Hexis, 3M, APA, and Surfex.

The event has been designed to distinguish itself from a typical trade show, according to Fespa.

The show will have a ‘festival forecourt’, with food trucks and music, and will host a wrap party at the end of the first day with live DJs and a beer tent.

For more information, and to book a ticket, visit: www.wrap-fest.com/