The Association for Roll-to-Roll Converters (ARC) has announced that the 2026 R2R USA Conference & Expo, scheduled for 19 – 21 May 2026, is expected to be the largest in the event’s history.
The shift from the traditional autumn timing to a spring schedule marks the continuation of the role previously filled by the International Converting Expo and Conference (ICEC), which had long served as the industry’s spring gathering.
According to ARC president Bob Pasquale, the R2R USA event will now assume the space formerly held by ICEC USA, maintaining a combined focus on education, technical programming, and business development for the roll-to-roll converting sector. The 2026 edition, to be held at the Huntington Convention Center in Cleveland, Ohio, will feature an expanded exhibition floor with larger booth options, responding to exhibitor requests for more space to demonstrate equipment and interactive displays.
ARC executive director Chris Kerscher said the introduction of 10x10ft, 10x20ft, and 20x20ft booths is intended to support more engaging exhibits and encourage greater attendee interaction.
The 2026 programme will include half-day Converting Fundamentals courses, keynote presentations and technical sessions across seven tracks: Battery, Coating & Laminating, Printing, Sustainability, Flexible Packaging, Web Handling and Vacuum Metallizing. Additional talks will explore emerging themes such as extended producer responsibility and the use of AI in manufacturing.
The association’s business development director, Simon Cheung, commented: “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.”
