What positives are you able to draw on from the experiences of 2024?
The benefits of being part of the Graphius Group. This has brought the opportunity to offer new services including European production and competitive case binding, and additional buying power and financial strength, both of which proved very helpful in the price negotiations and financing of our new 10-colour Speedmaster XL 106 and folders.
What trend (business or technology) do you think has dominated 2024?
Consolidation within the industry. With the cost of new equipment requiring more and more sales in order to make a return, it is becoming hard for smaller printers to be able to re-equip.
What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2025 and why?
This will vary market by market. At Park, we are excited about the synergies and opportunities that having Geoff Neal as a sister company will bring. This is about sharing of expertise, increased buying power and the internalisation of operations previously outworked.
What are your hopes for 2025?
On the business front, 2025 is about ensuring that Park Communications and Geoff Neal gain the very best from our new partnership. Globally, the hope has to be for the end of hostilities.
What piece of advice do you wish you had been given in December 2023 to prepare you for the year you’ve just had?
“Be prepared for trading to get even tougher.”
What was your word or phrase of the year in 2024?
Striving for excellence in everything we do.
What, if anything, will you do differently in 2025?
With retirement for me at the end of June, my final seven months will be focused on supporting the new team that will take Park Communications on into the future.
What did you think of Drupa 2024?
I was not part of the Graphius team attending this year, but Denis, our group CEO, signed up for €12m (£9.9m) of equipment purchases.
What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?
Was in the sun last Christmas, so sadly no crackers.
Sprouts, yes or no?
Yes, love them.
Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?
To step back and allow the new team to make decisions… not so easy after so many years at the helm.
