The PrintWeek Awards do indeed increase the amount of positivity flowing to your brain. Fact.

Well, certainly to this brain. If there’s a larger assemblage of delightful print folk in one room than took place last night, I’d like to hear about it.

There is so much inspiration to be found among the finalists – exceptional standards of print production, an abundance of innovation, topped off with a generous helping of business acumen.

And when someone says: “I’ve never heard of them,” in relation to one of the companies lauded on the night, I’m absolutely delighted. That, to me, is a fantastic thing.

This industry isn’t about a handful of very large ‘big’ names; it’s about a profusion of printing companies of all shapes and sizes. Being small is no barrier to being successful in a big way, and there is much inspiration to be gleaned from the winners.

I saw one influential print buyer noting down various names as the evening unfolded, and I know for a fact that new business contacts were forged last night. Doubtless more will ensue over the coming weeks and months as all those involved capitalise on their achievements – the winners, highly commended and finalists all have much to be positive about.