New year predictions: Tony Strong, Opus Trust Communications

Strong: As the vaccine is rolled out confidence will grow
Strong: As the vaccine is rolled out confidence will grow

Opus Trust CEO Tony Strong has had the opportunity to put a memorable piece of advice into action this year, and is now planning ahead for a busy time in 2021

If possible, what positives are you able to draw on from the experiences of 2020?
I have been incredibly humbled by the commitment, support and hard work of our colleagues at the OTC Group. The human spirit is a very powerful thing!

What trend do you think has been accelerated because of the pandemic?
The obvious one is the accelerated move to digital, as business have had an opportunity to stop (Covid induced) and consider how they wish to operate in the future. The second would be the increase of SMEs looking to outsource as the realisation has firmly taken root, that operating in-house print rooms is not core to the success of their businesses.

What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2021 and why?
The recovery of the economy. As the vaccine is rolled out confidence will grow, and businesses will want to get back up to speed as soon as possible. There will be a land grab for market share on both the client and supplier side. Let’s hope between us, we don’t cannibalise our industry.

What are your hopes for 2021?
A Covid-free world. OTC has a very busy 2021 planned, with further announcements to follow as we continue to move towards our objective of leading the mid-tier market

We can't believe we're asking this question for the fourth year running: what is your one-word view on Brexit?
Noise

What was the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
You should never run away from trouble… you should always face it, head on!

What, if anything, will you do differently in 2021?
Nothing radically different – just ensure we continue to deliver for our clients, protecting, enhancing and delivering their brands. Offering them creative solutions to help grow their businesses. After all, we are simply, an extension of our client’s business.

What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?
What did Adam say on the day before Christmas?
It’s Christmas, Eve…

Sprouts: yes or no?
Every time

Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?
Work even harder…