ICMA EXPO - Card Manufacturing and Personalization Expo 2027
Event Date
May 16–19, 2027
Location
Tampa, FL
Expected Exhibitors
50
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe ICMA EXPO – Card Manufacturing and Personalization Expo is the annual flagship event of the International Card Manufacturers Association (ICMA). The annual ICMA EXPO is the global card industry's most important event—combining education, connection and discovery, where the latest card trends come alive and where leaders come to grow.
The expo focuses on advancements and trends in card manufacturing and personalization, providing a platform for industry professionals to explore new technologies, discuss evolving market demands, and understand the future trajectory of the card industry—including innovations in materials, printing, security features, and data management—and it highlights the practical application of these developments in creating secure and functional cards for various sectors.
The event is designed for manufacturers, suppliers, issuers, and innovators within the card ecosystem, and attendees will gain valuable knowledge on industry best practices, network with peers and potential partners, and discover solutions to enhance their operations. It is worth attending for its concentrated mix of education, cutting-edge exhibits, and global networking across the card industry.
Show Highlights
Key features of the ICMA EXPO include:
- Expert-led education — gain cutting-edge insights through expert-led sessions and panels.
- Global networking — build global connections with card manufacturers, suppliers, issuers and innovators driving the industry forward.
- Exhibition floor — an exhibition of 50+ leading card industry suppliers showcasing equipment, materials, card components and services.
- The ICMA Élan Awards of Excellence — honor groundbreaking achievements in card design and manufacturing at the prestigious ICMA Élan Awards of Excellence. Award categories include Feature Cards, Secure Payment Cards, Loyalty, Promotional and Gift Cards, ID Cards, Access Control Cards, Unique Innovation, Personalization & Fulfillment, Best Supplier/Vendor for a New Product, Unique Component Supplier, and the People's Choice.
- Exhibitor and sponsor visibility — enjoy premium visibility when spotlighting your products, technologies and brand leadership as an exhibitor or sponsor.
Attendance
According to figures published by ICMA for the EXPO, the event draws 300+ industry innovators, decision-makers and suppliers shaping the future of cards, with 22+ countries represented and 148 Élan Award submissions across three days of education and networking. Attendance reflects global card industry participation including card manufacturers, personalizers, suppliers, issuers and consultants.
Registration
Registration is handled through the official ICMA EXPO website, which offers separate Attend and Exhibit pathways. Prospective speakers are directed to contact ICMA's Jennifer Kohlhepp by email. For questions, contact info@icma.com or call 1-609-799-4900. Specific pass types, pricing, and registration deadlines for the 2027 EXPO had not been published at the time of research.
History
The ICMA EXPO is the long-running annual gathering organized by the International Card Manufacturers Association (ICMA), a trade association headquartered in East Windsor, New Jersey. The event moves among U.S. host cities each year. The 2022 edition was held at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel, in the Tampa area, and the 2025 EXPO took place May 12–15 at the Renaissance Orlando at SeaWorld. The 2027 EXPO returns to Tampa, Florida. Each edition centers on an educational conference program, a supplier exhibition, and the ICMA Élan Awards of Excellence.
Exhibitors
Exhibitor Information
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
Last updated: September 19, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the ICMA EXPO 2027 taking place?
The 2027 ICMA EXPO will be held May 16–19, 2027, at the Hilton Tampa Downtown, located at 211 North Tampa Street, Tampa, FL 33602.
Who should attend the ICMA EXPO?
The event is designed for manufacturers, suppliers, issuers, and innovators within the card ecosystem. It draws global card industry participation including card manufacturers, personalizers, suppliers, issuers and consultants.
What can attendees expect at the show?
The EXPO combines expert-led educational sessions and panels, an exhibition of 50+ leading card industry suppliers showcasing equipment, materials, components and services, and extensive global networking. The prestigious ICMA Élan Awards of Excellence winners are also announced at the event.
How do I register or exhibit at the ICMA EXPO?
Registration is handled through the official ICMA EXPO website, which provides separate Attend and Exhibit options. For questions, contact ICMA headquarters at info@icma.com or 1-609-799-4900.
What are the hotel and travel options for the ICMA EXPO?
The Hilton Tampa Downtown is the official conference hotel, with an ICMA group rate of $249.00++ per night and a group-rate deadline of April 24, 2027. The hotel is about 9 miles (a 15–20 minute drive) from Tampa International Airport, though no airport shuttle is provided.
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