2016 World Wrap Master Champion announced in Amsterdam

Jim Miller, owner of Millers Decals, USA, has won the prestigious title of World Wrap Master at FESPA Digital 2016. 

Sponsored by Avery Dennison and Mimaki, the European leg of the competition which took place over the first two days of the show attracted 28 competitors from 15 countries and saw Jim named European Wrap Master.

He then joined those who had already taken part in Wrap Masters events globally for the World Series ‘final battle’ over 10-11 March.

Ruan Greeff, South Africa (Wrap Master Africa 2015) and Michael Szwacki, UK, took second and third place, winning prize money of €1,250 and €750 respectively, as well as gift bags. 

Jim has received €2,500 but more importantly the global recognition and invaluable networking opportunities that taking part in this competition brings.

Wrapping a variety of items, including Audi A1 Sportbacks, clogs and superhero items, the entrants were judged by expert wrappers and trainers; Ole Solskin, Justin Pate, Kiss Lajos (winner 2014/2015) and John Duever.

Duncan MacOwan, Head of Events, FESPA, comments: "This year has been a nail-biting, edge of your seat competition as the calibre of entrants has been so high. There could, however, be only one Wrap Superhero, and Jim’s technical abilities shone through."

"It’s also been great to see non-competitors learn more about wrapping through the daily workshop sessions, as it’s such a rapidly expanding market offering a host of new opportunities that PSPs can begin to offer their clients."

Visitors to the Wrap Hub had also the opportunity to network with professional wrappers as well as discuss the technical aspects of wrapping. Free wrap workshops were running at midday on each day of the show.

Delivered by returning head judge Ole Solskin and fellow judge Justin Pate of The Wrap Institute, the workshops covered cutting tips – knives and knifeless tape, wrapping with chrome, cold pre-stretch and triangles and material considerations.

“We've always had people having informal conversations around the fringes of the event and sharing tips and tricks and now we also have these formal workshops,” said MacOwan.

“Outside the event these free workshops could cost somebody attending all four around €1,000 (£763) so for people who are already in the business or looking to get into it, those sessions alone are worth their weight in gold.”

Solskin and Pate scrutinised every inch of the wrapped designs along with Kiss Lajos - World Wrap Master 2014 and 2015 - and John Duever, president of Vinyl Images from the US.