What’s at the top of your Christmas wish list this year?
To spend quality time with the family.
What trend do you think 2015 will be remembered for?
In my opinion I don’t think we’ve seen a trend in our industry this year. I do feel however the ‘Two Sides’ initiative that aims to set out the facts about print media’s sustainability in a clear and concise manner has dominated social media. It’s certainly been a topic that’s appeared at most conferences I’ve attended this year.
What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2016 and why?
3D printing, it is fast becoming one of print's most talked about technology both inside the industry and amongst consumers.
What do you think will represent the single biggest threat for printers in 2016 and why?
I think the speed at which digital media consumes everyday life will be a challenge, but I wouldn’t call it a threat. As far as I’m concerned print media still plays an important role in getting your message and brand across to your audience. The benefit of print media is tangibility, it’s about the feel and touch of paper – it makes the experience real.
What’s the one thing that the industry should do more of, or do better, in 2016?
Communicate more effectively! Not only internally to your staff but to your target audience. I’d like to see our industry sharing its values and promoting the unique attributes of print – as I’ve mentioned before, I believe print media has many attributes that should be shouted about.
What was your biggest disappointment in 2015?
Not playing enough golf!
What was your highlight of 2015?
Trekking around Iceland with my son.
What are your hopes for 2016?
That the economy continues to grow, and we as a business improve our bottom line and continue to produce great titles for our customers.
What was the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
My father said ‘Be true to yourself’. It’s important to act in accordance with who you are and what you believe.
What was the most important thing that you learnt in 2015?
People are key to your business success, it’s important to have a good solid team around you and appreciate them.
What if anything will you do differently in 2016?
I’m determined to improve my work/life balance and spend more time with my family.
If you’re thinking of going to Drupa next year, what are you keen to see?
Digital printing and mailing solutions.
What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?
Q: What did Father Christmas do when he went speed dating?
A: He pulled a cracker!
What was the best Christmas present you ever received?
I'm too old to remember!
Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?
My New Year’s resolution is to spend less money on bespoke shirts!
