Speaking four weeks before the launch of the show, Ralph Nappi said the show had been affected by the recession, however, it is still predicting 650 exhibitors at the event, which is being held in Chicago from 11-16 September.

In addition, a late surge of 65 exhibitors over the past six weeks had added an additional 1,300sqm of floor space to the 42,000sqm show.

"The large number of commitments made late is indeed a sign of the times. All the major players and industry leaders though have been committed to the show for a long time," Nappi said.

"I am impressed that these companies are doing this rather than cutting back on the equipment they would bring to save money. It does show an intense commitment to not just the show but attendees and the industry."

At the show this year will be the first ever PackPrint, the packaging-focused "show within a show", as well as an environmentally focused Greenspace pavilion and Future Print section, which will look at technologies such as RFID and printed electronics.

Nappi said: "Like all shows, the recession has indeed affected us, but we are fortunate that our show is still a strong and viable marketing investment for the industry.  

"Many companies have told us this is their only show and primary marketing dollar investment for 2009."