What’s at the top of your Christmas wish list?
Rock steady suppliers for 2014.
What trend (business or technology) do you think 2013 will be remembered for?
As a buyer no one thing stands out but it was nice to see several people approaching me with the ‘Augmented Reality’ pitch only because I have been harping on about for two years now. And before you ask, no, we haven’t done enough of it ourselves.
What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2014 and why?
Adopting technology or partnering with others that ‘can’ to offer more capability in the cross media or data analysis.
What do you think will represent the single biggest threat for printers in 2014 and why?
A difficult call to make as I don’t think there is one singular threat that will encompass the whole industry. But in general terms, a rise in interest rates is potentially looming and could happen if the encouraging signs of economic progress are anything to go by. I don’t think consolidation has finished in the sector either, nor has the reliance on or adoption of alternate media by customers and printers should ignore that at their peril - new media needs to be embraced, not shied away from. The insular nature of print is another threat because the public or general perception of the trade remains an issue. I still hear how it ‘is a wasteful and slow industry’ which irritates me no end, but I continue to re-educate the ignorant and spread the word. I know there is no immediate financial hit or benefit, but the longer that those sorts of misconception remain unchallenged then the harder it will be to convince people that the opposite is true.
What’s the one thing that the industry should do more of, or do better, in 2014?
Stand up and shout about how good it is. Be more proud of itself.
What was your highlight of 2013?
Without wishing to sound too cheesy the amazing support we have received throughout the year from our suppliers.
What are your hopes for 2014?
Further stability within the market and to see those shoots of progress really flourish and develop.
What was the most important thing that you learnt in 2013?
Print technology is still moving and changing at a pace so there is nothing I want that can’t be fulfilled by most of the print suppliers we use.
What will you do differently in 2014?
Try to involve suppliers at a much earlier stage and aim to get them more involved with our business so they understand where we are coming from and what is driving us. Which should mean they can develop suitable offerings to hit our cost and delivery needs. In fact, I would like them to come in show our marketing teams what print can offer beyond just ink on paper.
What does the industry need to do differently in 2014?
Focus on what the customer needs, meeting those needs, advising where they can’t be met rather than simply trying to adopt it to your presses. Good advice will be rewarded: at least by the customers that will be worth keeping or winning.
What will you be having for your Christmas dinner?
Everything the adverts tell me I should followed by a food coma for 24 hours.
Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?
No way, it is too dangerous and usually forgotten by the 6 Jan. It is a pointless exercise when it comes to me as I enjoy the only two vices left in my life (Food and drink) too much.
