From then to now: the history of Visualize Expo
Visualize Expo is the result of years of development within the graphic and signage industry. What began as a trade fair for traditional printing techniques has gradually grown into the premier event for everyone working with visual communication. See how we have evolved together with the industry and are ready for the future.
2002
Start of the Graphic Arts Trade Fair in Hardenberg
The first edition of the Graphic Arts Trade Fair takes place in Hardenberg with 27 exhibitors. The fair focuses primarily on traditional printing techniques and targets printing houses and print companies.
2007
Benelux edition in Gorinchem
The market is changing due to digitalization and the rise of digital printing techniques. Due to growing demand and the international presence of companies, the trade fair is moving to Gorinchem and will have a strong Benelux focus.
2009
Introduction of Vakbeurs Sign
The sign industry is growing due to the increasing demand for visual communication. Therefore, alongside the Graphic Arts Trade Fair, we are introducing Sign Trade Fair, with a strong focus on signage and visual applications.
2017
Grafische Vakbeurs and Vakbeurs Sign: a balanced distribution
With a balanced focus on print and sign, the fair grows along with the market, in which the graphic and sign industries increasingly reinforce each other. The demand for custom work and niche applications is increasing accordingly.
2019
Sign & Print Expo
Innovations in digital print and signage solutions are accelerating. The revamped Sign & Print Expo replaces the Grafische Vakbeurs and Vakbeurs Sign and continues under a single name, focusing on both the print and signage industries.
2025
Visualize Expo: a new direction
The demand for online print and custom work continues to grow, while digital signage and promotional products are gaining more and more ground. Due to these changes in the market, the trade fair is evolving into Visualize Expo. In addition to print and signage, digital signage and promotional solutions will now also take center stage, under three strong pillars: Printing Technologies, (Digital) Signage, and Promotional Solutions.