Kirk Galloway, director and general manager, Buxton Press
What we see and learn at Ipex will definitely influence our forthcoming and long-term purchasing decisions. We admire the courage of exhibitors showing at Ipex; even though many recognise that they might be better placed financially if they stayed at home, we are delighted that they’ve decided not to do so. It is a clear indication of the industry’s buoyancy, resilience, grit and determination to win through this deep recession and Ipex 2010 could well prove to be the first brave beacon of light that heralds a brightening future – let’s hope so!

Malcolm Exeter, process engineer, Chesapeake
Chesapeake is always looking at the very best production options, so the fact that Ipex attracts so many potential equipment suppliers is invaluable. In print, our focus will be on equipment that can best meet shorter run lengths, whether in digital or conventional format. Tighter control, reduced makeready times and faster speeds are also crucial for both print and finishing equipment, which we aim to support with 100% inspection systems. We have invested strongly already this year and plan to ensure our factories remain well equipped.

Lance Hill, managing director of print services, 4DM
We will be attending Ipex with a view to looking further into the options available on the digital print and specialist finishing sides. While we already have three Xerox digital presses, we need to further understand how the continuous technology and quality is moving forward. There is already some excellent kit available. However, there is still a very big question mark over the demand in the direct mail sector for high-volume variable digital print. The capacity that is out there is nowhere near full and to change that the costs need to come down to incentivise the clients.

Stephen Burry, production director, Butler Tanner & Dennis
I tend to believe that, these days, if you want to look at a piece of kit, you will look at it immediately rather than waiting for a show. This Ipex it is a case of seeing new developments in general. Certainly, in the conventional printing arena, it will be about advancements in existing technology ,rather than reinventing the wheel. I don’t expect anything groundbreaking in conventional print, although digital may be different. Some people probably won’t have looked at what was out there since the last Ipex, so I think they will be going along to see what is on offer.