If possible, what positives are you able to draw on from the experiences of 2020?
Whilst coronavirus, and the negative impact it has had on the world, has dominated the whole of 2020, it has actually brought with it some positives (if we look closely enough).
The reduction in emissions has been brilliant to see. The BBC released some maps and graphs back in June after the first lockdown and it was mind-blowing. Car emissions fell off a cliff and smog quite literally disappeared in polluted city centres. This shows us the difference we can make and hopefully gives us more reason to make the change required.
The second positive is the slowing down of life. Whilst we have all arguably been more alone this year, we have also lived a slower pace of life due to not having busy weekends, going to bars and visiting friends. A fast paced life is great and can be real fun but it is good to slow things down, take perspective and appreciate the things we have.
What trend do you think has been accelerated because of the pandemic?
E-commerce has come on leaps and bounds. Demographics that may have always preferred to buy on the high street haven’t really been able to. They’ve been forced to shop online which may change their future behaviours, even when conditions return back to normal.
What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2021 and why?
Even though we have massively shifted to a digitally focused world, I think 2020 has allowed people to appreciate the power of physical print a lot more. With this in mind, I am expecting to see a shift in the number of print opportunities.
What are your hopes for 2021?
A more settled year with less division in politics, emotional distress in everyday life and (even) less carbon emissions.
We can't believe we're asking this question for the fourth year running: what is your one-word view on Brexit?
Shambles.
What was the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
A great decision today is better than a perfect decision tomorrow.
What, if anything, will you do differently in 2021?
Sleep a little more.
What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?
My wife just asked me if I'd seen the dog bowl.
I said to her, "I didn't even know he played cricket".
Sprouts: yes or no?
No.
Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?
I won’t be making any New Year’s resolutions as I think if there is something you want to stop doing in life (or start) then try and do so immediately rather than putting too much pressure on the New Year. The New Year is the perfect time to reflect on the year and try and learn and grow from all the good and bad things that have happened. Saying that though – I do want to run a marathon next year!
