Features
Defying the recession and impressing dad with a profit-earning print service
Paul Mursell is making money at a difficult time for print. He tells Adam Hooker the secrets of his success
Flexible funding
As recession bites, finding the money for a major investment project from traditional sources is becoming harder and harder, but, says Simon Creasey, more creative options are emerging
Put your ad here
Filling the space on transactional mail with advertising is predicted to be worth billions, but Philip Chadwick finds that despite press advancements making it easier, clients aren't biting
Versatility is the key for trade finisher aiming to provide a complete service
Folio chief wants people to realise the full range of services his company provides, discovers Adam Hooker
Back to school for printers
The lack of print training has been heavily criticised, but Philip Chadwick finds that new initiatives rethinking what is offered, how it is taught and how it is made available may turn things around
Digital goes heavy metal
Despite the advances in digital print technology, metallic effects have proved difficult to reproduce. However, thanks to some clever inks, that may not be the case for much longer, says Barney Cox
Made in China but for how much longer?
Despite what many Western printers believe, even export giant China is susceptible to the global recession and is facing a tough market, both at home and abroad, explains William Mitting
The benefits of lean manufacturing at Howitt
To make lean manufacturing a success you have to ensure the whole workforce feels part of the drive for savings and can see the benefits, finds Philip Chadwick
The soft option
For many, the concept of soft proofing is daunting, but if you can get your head around the importance of colour management, you will discover it is not that hard, explains Simon Nias
Traditional skills and a modern business outlook keep this bookbinder in profit
Chivers-Period is making money in a volatile market through its emphasis on quality and craft, finds Jon Severs
Take it or leave it
Carbon offsetting has split the industry into those who sing its praises and those who fail to see the benefits. Philip Chadwick weighs the arguments
A timely transfer to digital has helped this short-run printer maintain profits
Ripe Digital's small size ensures a personal service and the highest quality of print, finds Tim Sheahan
Saving the day
As part of a drive to reduce running costs, some recession-hit businesses have resorted to cutting the working week, but it's not an easy step to take, discovers William Mitting
Ad war escalates
Digital screens are on the rise in the outdoor ad sector, but Jo Francis finds that print is far from yesterday's medium of choice
Squeezing the fat out of packaging
Despite a consistent effort by the packaging industry to become greener, with print companies taking a lead role, news of its achievements is failing to reach the public, finds Philip Chadwick