The first spring-time R2R USA Conference & Expo, scheduled for May 19–21, 2026, will draw a record number of attendees and exhibitors to the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, OH. The event, organized by the Association for Roll-to-Roll Converters (ARC), is expected to be the largest R2R USA to date as it brings together the entire industry for technical sessions, networking opportunities, and an expanded exhibition where converters, suppliers, and manufacturers can collaborate.

With the shift from its usual fall dates to May 2026, the ARC’s R2R USA Conference & Expo will carry on the tradition of the International Converting Expo and Conference (ICEC), its long-time partner, which united the industry each spring for education, networking, and business development.

“For more than a decade, ARC (formerly AIMCAL) partnered with ICEC USA to provide technical programming at the show. With ICEC USA no longer taking place, ARC’s R2R USA Conference will now fill that role,” states ARC president Bob Pasquale, who also serves as SVP of technology at New Era Converting.

The Expo portion of the meeting will offer more floor space and booth options. “Exhibitors requested larger booths to show more of what their companies offer,” reports Chris Kerscher, Executive Director of the ARC. “This year, we have 10×10-, 10×20-, and 20×20-foot booths. Bigger booths attract more attention and provide more space to highlight equipment and other products. We anticipate exhibitors will make their booths more interactive with demos, hands-on experiences, or equipment to engage attendees and convert them to customers.”

Participation in an R2R Conference is an investment for attendees and exhibitors, according to Simon Cheung, a former exhibitor, who now serves as ARC’s Business Development Director. He notes, “ARC R2R events are a fantastic place for business development, learning, and networking. They also provide countless opportunities to speak to the right people at every level. Over the years, we generated multiple millions in sales, which started with a conversation at an R2R event. We also had the added benefit of assessing market trends, liaising with suppliers, and continuing professional development at each event. If you are willing to engage and contribute, the opportunities at an R2R Conference are endless.”

Attendees at the 2026 edition of R2R USA will benefit from an expansive educational agenda, including half-day Converting Fundamental sessions for newcomers to the industry, keynote addresses, and technical presentations organized in seven tracks: Battery, Coating and Laminating, Printing, Sustainability, Flexible Packaging, Web Handling, and Vacuum Metallizing. Additional presentations will focus on emerging trends, such as extended producer responsibility and AI in manufacturing. With a full slate of technical content, R2R USA provides the ideal setting for continuing education, troubleshooting, and innovation. 

Connecting the industry is core to ARC’s mission, and the R2R USA schedule delivers multiple opportunities for networking, including the Kickoff and Evening Exhibitor Receptions, the annual 5K Run to benefit the Bernard Henry Scholarship Fund, and the Farewell Happy Hour. Another highlight, the ARC Awards Ceremony, recognizes innovations in Product, Technology, and Sustainability categories, a WISE (Women in Industry Scholarship for Excellence) winner, Hall of Honor inductees and other honorees.

Cleveland, the host city, is within easy driving distance for many global brands, as well as printers and converters, and material providers. It also boasts deep industrial roots associated with polymers, coatings, packaging, solar, rubber and tires, paints, batteries, and labels. Located in the heart of downtown, the R2R USA venue, the Huntington Convention Center, is a short walk from hotels, restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Nearby highlights include the Playhouse Square Theatre District, sports venues, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and the Great Lakes Science Center.

Registration for the R2R USA Conference & Expo is open with early-bird rates for attendees and exhibitors. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. See the ARC website (www.rolltoroll.org) for details. Plan now to participate as an attendee, exhibitor and/or sponsor.

“We invite all members of the converting industry to attend what is expected to be a record-breaking R2R USA Conference & Expo,” says Pasquale. “Everyone in attendance will reap the benefits ARC offers the industry: access to industry experts, new business development, and educational opportunities focused on the latest technology, best practices and skill building.”