What positives are you able to draw on from the experiences of 2024?
2024 has been an extraordinary year for Bakers, underscoring our commitment to cutting-edge technology and sustainability in the UK print and packaging industry. Our independence as a family-run business allowed us to make quick, strategic decisions, positioning us uniquely in a market dominated by larger corporations. This agility ensures we stayed ahead of evolving customer needs and technological advancements.
This year marked several milestones for Bakers and BakPac, our flexible packaging division. BakPac installed its (and the UK’s) first and second HP Indigo 200K presses, followed by the commissioning of a third Galaxy Packtech pouch converter. These investments form part of a £5m expansion strategy, enabling us to offer faster, high-quality, and customisable flexible packaging solutions for industries ranging from food to personal care.
We became the first UK company to install the Durst Tau RSC 340 LED, an investment enhancing productivity, print quality, and sustainability. With its advanced LED curing system and 1,200dpi resolution, this press aligns with our goals of reducing energy consumption and material waste while delivering unparalleled results.
What trend (business or technology) do you think has dominated 2024?
Digitally printed flexible packaging on a large scale.
What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2025 and why?
The digital flexible packaging market has huge potential and a lot of printers are just waking up to the opportunity – it won't be for the faint-hearted as the investment is significant along with the knowledge required, but that is why we are here to offer a trade service!
What are your hopes for 2025?
Looking forward, our growth continues with the planned installation of two additional Galaxy pouch converters, further expanding our capabilities. These steps position us to meet the increasing demand for sustainable and flexible packaging solutions, keeping us ahead in a rapidly evolving market.
What piece of advice do you wish you had been given in December 2023 to prepare you for the year you’ve just had?
Chuck a load of money into crypto!
Business wise though, nothing really. We’ve gone for it big time this year, it's been testing at times but we have an amazing team here that have handled the expansion incredibly well and put the company in a very strong position.
What was your word or phrase of the year in 2024?
We’re gonna need a bigger boat.
What, if anything, will you do differently in 2025?
Certainly not going to be investing in five more presses – we've nearly filled the building! 2024 was the go for it year, we now need to concentrate on consolidating that success, build the sales more, improve quality and processes so we can cope easily with the increased volumes without stress.
What did you think of Drupa 2024?
Considering we struck two very good deals for new presses, I’d say it was a very positive event for us!
What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?
What did one snowman say to the other? Do you smell carrots?
Two aerials got married – the ceremony was rubbish but the reception was brilliant!
Sprouts, yes or no?
Yes.
Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?
Enjoy it all a bit more and take more time out!
