Automation isn’t the future. It’s happening now. The 2 Regular Guys are joined by Brad Pengelly, Founder of Hoops, to talk about how automation is reshaping the print and promo industry. Brad shares real-world insights from running his own print business and building Hoops — modern order and sales management software made for decorators. Discover how automation can help you, eliminate wasted time and manual admin, build clarity and consistency into your workflow and unlock new capacity, growth, and profitability. We’ll cover why process is the true foundation of success, how to break the “we’ve always done it this way” mindset, and how automation empowers your team to focus on what really matters — creativity and customers. Tune in and learn how to prepare your print shop for long-term success in an automated future.
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Rise of Automation
Terry: Brad, let’s start with your story — what was the turning point that led you from running a print shop to founding Hoops?
Aaron: What does automation mean in practical terms for a small or mid-sized print shop?
Terry: Many shops feel automation sounds too complex or expensive. What’s the mindset shift they need to see it as accessible and empowering instead of intimidating?
Aaron: Before adding software or automation, you talk about “process clarity.” What’s the best way for a business owner to uncover what’s actually happening in their workflow?
Terry: Can you give an example of a shop that transformed their operations by getting their processes right before automating?
Aaron: What kind of measurable results do you see — in time saved, errors reduced, or growth unlocked — when businesses implement automation effectively?
Terry: How do you balance automation with the human side of the business — creativity, relationships, and personal service?
Aaron: We’ve always done it this way – What’s your advice for leaders trying to break through that resistance to change?
Terry: What are some early warning signs that a print shop is falling behind because it’s not embracing automation yet?
Aaron: What do you see as the next big evolution in automation for the print and promo world?
Terry: How does Hoops help decorators simplify their operations today and prepare for what’s next in this rapidly changing industry?
The Secret Sauce
We serve up bite-sized tips for our #regulators to instantly spice up their decorated apparel business. Just like the perfect wing sauce, these quick tips can transform your business experience, adding flavor and depth to your operations. Each video in this playlist is a nugget of wisdom, carefully selected for its potential to bring immediate value to your work. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started in the decorated apparel industry, dip into our ‘Secret Sauce’ for insights that can help you soar.
https://youtu.be/PJhDaFKDGTE
Trade Shows
- ASI Show Orlando, FL – January 5-7, 2026
- Impressions Long Beach, CA – January 22-24, 2026
- DAX Kansas City, MO – February 20-21, 2026
- ASI Show Forth Worth, TX – March 9-11, 2026
- Graphics Pro Expo, Irving, TX – March 12-14, 2026
- Impressions Atlantic City, NJ – March 26-28, 2026
- DAX Dayton, OH – April 24-25, 2026
- DAX Chicago, IL – May 15-16, 2026
- DAX Tampa, FL – May 29-30, 2026
- DAX Nashville, TN – June 19-20, 2026
- ASI Show Chicago, IL – July 21-23, 2026
- DAX Twin Cities, MN – August 7-8, 2026
- Graphics Pro Expo, Long Beach, CA – August 13-15, 2026
- Graphics Pro Expo, Cleveland, OH – September 10-11, 2026
- Printing United Expo, Las Vegas, NV – September 23-25, 2026
- Impressions Dallas, TX – October 22-24, 2026
All dates and events are subject to change