Cutting Into the Future: 2025 Highlights & What’s Next for DCA
As we enter the first full week of 2026, the team at Die Cutting Advisors is taking a moment to look back on a transformative year—one marked by client success, affiliate growth, and big steps toward the future of automation in die cutting.
“Everything we do is rooted in one goal: helping people solve problems,” said Rob Weidhaas, Founder of Die Cutting Advisors. “If we stay focused on our customers and continue operating with integrity, the rest will follow.”
Here’s a look back at some of our biggest accomplishments and standout moments from the past year — and a preview of what we’re excited to build on in 2026:
Hands-On Training to Power the Next Generation
One of our proudest accomplishments this year was installing a Crest Clamshell press at Mathias Headquarters. This wasn’t just another equipment placement—it was an investment in the future of the industry. The press will be used as a training tool, giving emerging talent hands-on experience with the kind of equipment that powers high-performance die cutting operations.
“We believe in empowering the next generation,” said Rob. “Placing a Crest at Mathias means students and new professionals can learn the right way — with real equipment, real guidance, and real-world scenarios.”
Industry Presence and Printing United Success
This year, Printing United Expo in Florida was a major highlight for our team. We connected with forward-thinking converters, packaging leaders, and equipment manufacturers—all looking for ways to work smarter, faster, and more efficiently.
Our presence wasn’t just about visibility—it was about conversations that matter. We discussed the challenges companies face with labor shortages, setup times, and inconsistent throughput. And we introduced solutions rooted in experience, not theory.
But what excites us even more is what’s coming next.
“At Printing United 2026 in Vegas, we’re planning to bring a robotic press feeder for live demonstration—and we can’t wait to show what this technology can do.”
At next year’s event, we’ll be showcasing the transformative power of robotic automation in the die cutting space. Designed in partnership with Crista Robotics, this press feeding system will show how automation can maximize uptime, reduce manual labor, and dramatically improve workflow efficiency—all without sacrificing precision.
“This isn’t about the future—this is about what’s possible right now,” Rob added. “We’re excited to put this in front of the industry and show how automation can unlock real results.”
If you’ll be in Las Vegas for Printing United 2026, come see it in action. Whether you're exploring automation for the first time or looking to refine your existing process, this is a demo you won’t want to miss.
Dozens of Clients, One Shared Goal: Results
In 2025, we had the privilege of working with dozens of companies across packaging, printing, converting, and manufacturing. From helping clients transition from digital to analog die cutting, to sourcing high-throughput solutions for growing production lines, we stayed focused on one thing: solving problems with clarity and confidence.
“Our clients trust us to guide them,” said Rob Weidhaas. “We don’t just recommend equipment—we learn their applications, understand their business goals, and help them make smart, future-ready decisions.”
One standout story came from McPherson Manufacturing, where uptime is critical. They operate 40 hours a week on Schwabe and Crest presses purchased through DCA—and they rely on our team for support when it matters most.
“What sets DCA apart is their responsiveness,” said Ryan Whiddon of McPherson Manufacturing. “I can call them any time—day or night—and they always pick up and take care of us. That’s huge…Knowing I can reach someone immediately and get the issue resolved quickly gives me real peace of mind. For me, that kind of support is the real value of working with DCA.”
This kind of feedback fuels everything we do. Our mission isn’t just to help clients buy equipment—it’s to be the kind of partner you count on when it counts most.
Expanding Our Affiliate Network
In 2025, we continued to build out a robust network of affiliate partners—onboarding new companies and deepening relationships—to give our clients more options and ensure we can meet every die cutting challenge head-on.
Today, our affiliate network includes industry leaders like:
Freeman Schwabe
Preco
B&R Moll Inc.
Acu-Gage Systems
Crista Robotics
National Steel Rule
Kensol-Franklin
And others behind the scenes who help bring every job together.
This diverse group of partners allows us to offer flexible, innovative, and customized solutions across markets—from packaging and print finishing to automation and precision tooling.
Robotic Automation Is on the Horizon
We’re especially excited to be partnering with Crista Robotics to bring robotic automation into the die cutting space. This marks a major step forward for the industry, and a natural evolution of our mission to deliver smarter, more efficient solutions.
This collaboration represents the next big leap in pressroom productivity. By automating key steps like press feeding, we’re helping companies scale their operations, reduce labor dependency, and maintain consistent throughput—even with a leaner team.
“Automation isn’t a buzzword—it’s a necessity,” said Rob. “With Crista, we’re delivering solutions that are practical, scalable, and built for the future of American manufacturing.”
The first wave of this technology will be on full display at Printing United 2026 in Las Vegas, where we’ll be showcasing a robotic press feeder in a live demo. This will be the first time many in our industry see this level of automation in action—and we believe it will reshape expectations for what’s possible in modern die cutting.
“This is about empowering our clients to do more with less—without compromising on quality, precision, or control,” Rob added. “We can’t wait to show you what it can do.”
What’s Else is Ahead for 2026?
Looking forward, we’re excited to keep building on the momentum:
Launching new services to deepen our consulting and support capabilities
Demoing robotic automation live at Printing United 2026
Helping U.S.-based companies reshore production through smarter equipment planning
Continuing to grow our educational initiatives and partnerships
Expanding our affiliate network to deliver even more value to our clients
Ready to Build with Us?
If you’re looking for a trusted advisor to help guide your die cutting strategy in 2026 and beyond—whether it's automation, equipment selection, or custom training—we’d love to talk.
Get in touch with us today and let's make next year your most efficient and productive one yet.
