It’s a Wrap…

The 2009 ICMA EXPO had strong attendance, excellent topics/speakers and a plethora of networking opportunities. The warm, lively vibe of Puerto Rico infused its way into the networking receptions and the annual Élan Gala where guests were treated to a San Juan San Sebastian Street Party. This spectacular night of eclectic Latin music, performers and dancers provided a great backdrop for the unveiling of the Élan winners and finalists.

The EXPO was officially launched on Tuesday, March 31 with a Welcome to the Island reception in the exhibit hall. Exhibitors and attendees were able to meet face-to-face in a fun, relaxed environment and exhibitor, Kurz, provided tropical drinks to all. The educational component of the EXPO began on Wednesday with keynote speaker, renowned world economist Don Reynolds, who provided a sobering but very entertaining look at the current economic climate around the globe. While the past twelve months have shown a dramatic slow down and the next promise the same, there is light at the end of the tunnel.  

Following Don Reynolds, Adam Scheer of JDSU Authentication Solutions addressed the case for branding beyond CR80, following him John Ekers of ABnote gave an overview of NFC and its impact on the card industry. The next topic of card sustainability was given by Tom Mucenski of Klöckner Pentaplast, followed by Tom Kleeman of Spartanics who addressed laser applications in card production, and wrapping up day one, was Sonia Reed of Visa. Day one finished with a Tropical Tiki Party Networking Reception held on the outside balcony with spectacular ocean views and island music.

Al Vrancart kicked off day two with his presentation titled a “Strategic Window for Success in an Uncertain Economy.” Following him was Michele Logan of CompoSecure who addressed the challenges of developing financial transaction products for the “high net worth” market. Following the exhibitor luncheon, a regional round-up was presented by Mike Swiecicki of The Procard Group (U.S.), Thies Janczek of Cocaso (Europe) and Kazim Awan of Cupola Plastic Cards (Middle East). The final two presentations of the day were A Global Study on the Carbon Footprint of Cards given by MasterCard Consultant, Uwe Trüggelman and high speed versus thermal imaging inkjet printing given by William Strater of 509 Technologies. The day’s finale was the Annual Élan Gala, themed a San Sebastian Street Party.

The final day of the EXPO began with an ICMA update, which highlighted ICMA’s new initiatives, given by ICMA Executive Director, Jeff Barnhart and Al Vrancart. The next presentation by Jeffrey Strahl from H.W. Sands Corp. addressed enhancing the performance of translucent cards. Up next to address adding value with decorative card features was Güenther Friedl of Kurz. The final presentations of the 2009 EXPO were maintaining ISO standards during the manufacturing process by ICMA Standards Representative Dr. Brad Paulson of Thor Engineering and the complex structure and security of the EU driver’s license given by Roland Gutmann of Bundesdruckerei.

The winners of the annual Élan Awards for Card Manufacturing Excellence were announced at an awards ceremony on April 2, 2009. The awards recognize the latest advancements and achievements in card design throughout the industry.

The only award that recognizes card design innovation as well as technical achievement in the industry, the ICMA Élan Awards honor card manufacturers and vendors for their excellent card design and innovative products.

Click here to see the winners and finalists that were chosen in each category.

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