Irish Printer - Issue 6 2023

I S S U E 6 2 0 2 3 | | T H E V O I C E O F T H E I N D U S T R Y | | W W W. I R I S H P R I N T E R . I E

A for

OFC_IP_2023_Issue 6_Cover_FINAL.indd 1

CANON 13/12/2023 11:16

Elliott Baxter Ireland Limited

EBB Service

EBB Service is based on investment in state-of-the-art route planning, real time vehicle tracking and the latest vehicles that comply with Euro 6 emissions standards meaning increased engine efficiency, better fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions.

Handled with care Fully qualified, friendly drivers trained in paper and board handling ensure your order arrives safely.

Delivered with care We take responsibility for your order until the moment it’s delivered to you.

Next day and, in some cases, same day deliveries from our warehouse straight to your door (no third party involved).

Dublin

Belfast

T: +353 1 401 0008 E: dublinsales@ebbgroup.com

T: +44 28 9600 1480 E: belfastsales@ebbgroup.com

252843_1C_EBB Group_IP Issue 6 2023_V1.indd 1

05/12/2023 09:38

1 ISSUE 6 2023

04 News A look at what’s happening in the print industry

09 Careers MM Fiber Packaging has a number of positions open to potential recruits at its Dublin label facility

10 Sustainability Messe Frankfurt is on the right track to becoming a truly sustainable events business

13 16

Cover Story

11

Acquisitions With the acquisition of Limerick’s SignLynx earlier this year, Hacketts Print is on track for growth

16 Industry Views Printers give their thoughts on the year that was and the year to come

As the year draws to a close, we sat down with Philip Brady, Director and Donnán Cullen, Key Account Manager, to look back on what’s been a momentous year for Canon Ireland

24

24 Talking to…

Roisin Hennessy on the challenge of attracting young people into the industry and inspiring women to grow a career in print

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

001_IP_2023_Issue 6_Contents_FINAL.indd 1

13/12/2023 14:56

2

2

ED’S LETTER Editor: Denise Maguire Email: editor@irishprinter.ie Creative Director: Jane Matthews Designer: Lenny Rooney Production: Nicole Ennis Contact:

Welcome to issue 6 of Irish Printer for 2023.

Irish Printer,

2023 was a big year for Canon. The Colorado M-Series made its debut at FESPA, offering customers something a little bit different. Since its launch, the fully modular UVgel roll-to-roll range has been installed at PD Visual, McGowans, Anglo Printers and Xtreme Signs. It is, says Donnán Cullen, Key Account Manager at Canon, a series that’s capable of printing white without any of the typical challenges white brings. Other features include double-siding, printing on clear substrates, 5-layer printing with blackout, matte and gloss prints, matte and gloss in the same job and magnetic substrate printing. This year, Canon also launched the latest Arizona 1300 GTF series, featuring new Flow Technology which improves customers’ abilities to print non-standard product shapes as well as reducing print time. It’s not just about the technology at Canon though.

Building and maintaining relationships with customers is key, says Philip Brady, Director at Canon Ireland. “We pride ourselves on the relationships we’ve created over the years with our customers. Our innovation and technology are a part of that of course, but trust and resilience are key.” For more on innovation at Canon and the company’s plans for 2024, turn to page 13.

Also in this issue, we asked business owners and managers for their take on the year that was and their expectations for 2024. While optimism reigns, many are concerned about rising costs, competing in an increasingly online world, increases to minimum wage and postal charges. For more views from the industry, turn to page 16.

From all of us here at Irish Printer, we’d like to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year!

Unit 55, Park West Road,

Ashville Media Group, Park West, Dublin 12, D12 X9F Tel: (01) 432 2200 Web: www.irishprinter.ie Printed by:

McGowans Print

Printed on: HP Indigo 10000 using Novatech paper supplied

by Antalis.

All rights reserved. Every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate. The publishers cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Reproduction by any means in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. © Ashville Media Group 2023. All discounts, promotions and competitions contained in this magazine are run independently of Irish Printer.

The promoter/advertiser is

As always, we’d love to hear from you. If you have any thoughts on this issue, please drop us a line at editor@irishprinter.ie. Enjoy!

responsible for honouring the prize. ISSN 0790-2026

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

002_IP_2023_Issue 6_Ed'sletter_FINAL.indd 2

13/12/2023 14:56

Write your success story with us.

The Speedmaster XL 106 Packaging

Label

Commercial

Heidelberg Graphic Equipment Ltd. - UK 1 Furzeground Way, Stockley Park, Uxbridge, UB11 1EZ Phone: +44 (0) 844 892 2010 www.uk.heidelberg.com

253309_1C_Heidelberg_IP May_June 2023_V1.indd 1

14/06/2023 11:11

4

4

U P D A T E S

NEWS

RICOH

New inkjet press from RICOH

Ricoh Europe has launched the new RICOH Pro VC80000, a new high speed inkjet webfed platform that’s been designed to produce exceptional quality direct mail, colour books, catalogues, magazines and commercial print applications on coated media up to 300gsm. The smallest machine in its class with a full duplex engine measuring less than 10m, the new product incorporates the latest generation ink and temperature controlled inkjet heads. Ricoh says it introduces a number of groundbreaking technologies that achieve a maximum resolution of 1200 x 1200dpi, a maximum speed of 150mpm – creating a 50% increase in production output compared to previous generation presses – and focuses on maximising productivity to drive down the Total Cost of Ownership. The RICOH Pro VC80000 high speed inkjet press

RICOH Pro VC80000 » Faster startup times with new ‘firefly’ dryer technology » Next level automated quality control with a fully incorporated RICOH Pro Scanner, first introduced as an option on the RICOH Pro VC70000 » Elimination of manual image adjustment with a spectrophotometer for real time monitoring of colour reproduction » RICOH Supervisor collects and interprets operational data sourced from the RICOH Pro Scanner and other connected production print devices and creates web based dashboard views using analytics from its business intelligence tool to optimise device utilisation and throughput » Highly automated quick paper setup, enabling a brand new substrate that is not stored in the media library to perform optimally at the touch of a button » Intelligent communication enables maintenance and performance improvements.

is available from early 2024 across EMEA.

Peach Fuzz is Pantone Colour of the Year Pantone has announced that ‘Peach Fuzz’ (Pantone 13-1023) is its Colour of the Year for 2024, describing it as “a velvety gentle peach whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul”. The company added that its pick for Colour of the Year is a cosy peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange. “Pantone 13-1023 Peach Fuzz brings belonging, inspires recalibration and an opportunity for nurturing, conjuring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel and heal and to flourish from whether spending time with others or taking the time to enjoy a moment by ourselves,” said Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director at Pantone Color Institute.

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

004_IP_2023_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 4

13/12/2023 14:57

MCGOWANS

5 We see CarbonQuota as another tool in our arsenal of positive progression towards a more sustainable company Emerson Palmer, Sales Director, McGowans Emerson Palmer, Sales Director, McGowans

consumption behaviours. We see CarbonQuota as another tool in our arsenal of positive progression

Journey to sustainability

towards a more sustainable company,” said Emerson

McGowans recently announced its partnership with

Palmer, Sales Director at McGowans. Initially, the print

CarbonQuota, signalling its commitment to delivering

firm engaged CarbonQuota to assess its Scope 1 and 2

honest and accurate sustainability reporting in the

carbon footprint and since then has integrated

industry. CarbonQuota offers companies access to five

CarbonQuota’s carbon calculator into its Management

years of activity-based, scientifically sound and real

Information System (MIS). This integration captures

sector data to measure carbon emissions accurately.

specification data at point of entry for a quotation and

Unlike more general carbon calculations, CarbonQuota

returns product-level carbon footprints directly back to McGowans in seconds.

does not use financial spend data or averages, but instead uses a specific

Dominic Harris, Co-Founder of

industry-led and science-rooted

CarbonQuota, said: “With consumers

database which forms the engine that

and regulations applying pressure for

drives its accuracy.

organisations to go Net-Zero, the need

“We believe that to truly make a

for scientific measurement and

difference, we need solid, measurable

detailed reporting of packaging and

data. Through our partnership with

print is now a pre-requisite for doing

CarbonQuota, we can now show tangible results and provide our clients with accurate, informed data on their

Dominic Harris, Co-Founder, CarbonQuota

The Spirit of Christmas with Antalis Antalis supplied a selection of festive coloured papers to members of the Paper Artist Collective, a global community of paper artists whose aim is to raise the profile of paper art and artists, for their creative responses to a brief on the theme of ‘Christmas Spirit’.

‘Christmas Carousel’ was made by Anaïs Herd-Smith out of newly relaunched papers from Antalis’ Keaykolour and Curious collections. The design features a threedimensional paper sculpture that uses a windmill mechanism as its foundation. It was created using Alchemy Gold from the Curious collection and three papers from the Keaykolour range.

business. We aim to provide a full view of the total lifecycle environmental impact of a job.”

APPOINTMENT Drytac has announced that Emily Butcher has been promoted to the role of Customer Service Manager for the UK and Ireland. Emily will be responsible for overseeing the key relationship between Drytac and its recently appointed exclusive UK and Ireland distributor, Premier Paper Group. She has been a member of the Drytac team since November 2017, serving as a customer service advisor within the Drytac Europe business for almost six years. A large part of this role has involved working with customers across a range of markets to help them access the products and solutions they need from Drytac.

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

004_IP_2023_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 5

13/12/2023 14:41

6

FUJIFILM

Fujifilm Revoria to debut in Europe Fujifilm’s new B2 format toner press is set to headline at a Peak Performance Print event in Germany in early 2024. The

Peak Performance Print (PPP) 2024 will also feature live demonstrations of the rest of Fujifilm’s digital press portfolio

Revoria Press GC12500 is the market’s first B2, sheet-fed digital press using dry toner technology, developed to make high quality B2 format digital printing even more widely accessible. The new printer can print double sided on paper up to 750 x 662 mm, the largest

APPOINTMENT

B2 sheet size for a digital press

Neil Little joins Miraclon

in the industry. This means it

Miraclon has announced that Neil

can print six A4 pages per sheet

Little has joined its team as Sales

and can also handle a variety

Manager for the UK, Ireland and

of paper weights from 64 to 450

Nordics. In his role, Neil will be

gsm and print on a wider range

supporting customers and prospects

of substrates including

to maximise their production

sy nthetic

productivity and efficiency for

papers.

Peak

Performance Print (PPP) 2024

business growth, while ensuring they

w ill

get the most value out of their

a lso

feature

live

demonstrations of the rest of

investment in new technology from

Fujifilm’s

press

Miraclon. With a long career in the

portfolio, which now includes

print and packaging industry, Neil

options for all commercial and

brings a wealth of knowledge and

multi-site reprographics provider York

folding carton packaging print

experience from previous roles at

Reprographic and inline print

businesses.

Esko, Coveris, Sessions of York,

inspection companies AVT & EyeC.

dig ital

3M Guarantee for Agfa printer and inks 3M recently granted Agfa’s Tauro wide format printer series and Anuvia 1551 ink the 3M Performance Guarantee. The two products were subjected to a series of rigorous mechanical and physical tests carried out under 3M’s stringent assessment conditions to qualify for the Performance Guarantee. Dieter Jancart at Agfa said: “At Agfa, we’re committed to partnering with print service providers to help them achieve sustainable growth. Our best-in-class Tauro printers provide a modular printer platform with advanced automation options. With the 3M Performance Guarantee, we are even better equipped to give our customers peace of mind and empower them to meet the highest quality standards and achieve boundless creativity. It lets them take full advantage of the Tauro and Anuvia performance across a full spectrum of graphics including banners, front- and back-lit graphics, self-adhesive vinyl, rigid plastics, cardboard and more.”

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

004_IP_2023_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 6

13/12/2023 15:17

DAMASTOWN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, D15 RYY9 Ideally located 5 minutes from the M50, 2 minutes from the M3

With 48,000 square feet spread across two warehouses, we provide Expert Packaging Solutions and Trade Finishing Services such as: Laminating | Die Cutting, Window Patching | Gluing & Handwork

TRADE FINISHERS PROVIDING SEAMLESS SUPPORT FOR THE CARTON AND CORRUGATED PACKAGING INDUSTRY SINCE 2007 TEL: 01 254 1985

253037_1C_Venture 2023_V1.indd1 1 253035_1C_Venture Finishing_IP September JulyAug 2023_V4.indd

E: patrick@venturefinishing.ie | www.venturefinishing.ie

13/12/2023 21/08/2023 10:47 16:26

CALL FOR

ENTRIES

The Irish Print Awards aim to recognise the country’s best companies in the print and press sector, with over 400 professionals from across the print industry celebrating the best in their industry.

DEADLINE FOR ENTRIES IS THE 16TH OF FEBRUARY 2024

www.irishprinter.ie/ awards for more information

VISIT

DATE

26TH APRIL 2024 Clontarf Castle Hotel, Clontarf Dublin 3

#PRINTAWARDS23

@PrintAwards

@IrishPrinterMagazine

For All Enquiries Contact: Jill Thornton, Event Manager Email: jill.thornton@ashvillemediagroup.com Phone: 01 640 1700

@IrishPrinterMagazine

Sponsorship Enquiries Contact: Trish Murphy, Sponsorship & Sales Director Email: trish.murphy@ashvillemediagroup.com Phone: 086 8379246

Irish Printing Federation

IPA 2024_1C_Enter Now_V2.indd 1

27/10/2023 13:10

MM Fiber Packaging has a number of positions open to potential recruits at its Dublin label facility

9 CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AT MM FIBER PACKAGING

T

he search for talent is on at MM Fiber Packaging, a

organisation provides career opportunities in a multinational

global company with a longstanding presence in

footprint. As a company of scale, the ability to weather uncertain

pharmaceutical and medical device printed components

times and supply chain disruption provides security and stability

in Ireland that currently employs over 400 skilled print

to the workforce, while the family-owned business promotes a

and packaging team members. Growth is driven by significant

positive and engaging work environment.

investment with expansive plans over the next five years.

With two pharmaceutical division sites in Dublin and one in

MM Fiber Packaging employees have an exciting future. By investing in training and development, creating a positive work

Cork, as a core supply chain partner to key industries, the company

environment and exploring new growth opportunities, the

is well placed to increase its share locally and globally. Ongoing

company will build a team to thrive in the years ahead.

investment in upgraded premises and the latest print and finishing technologies across the sites embrace efficient and sustainable

Positions to support opportunities are currently advertised for the

platforms to meet the evolving needs of customers, staff and

Dublin Label facility. If you would like to join a company on an

the environment.

ascending growth path and would like your career to grow alongside,

To deliver this future, MM Fiber Packaging focuses on attracting and retaining highly skilled employees. Development within the

please send a copy of your CV to sheldon.booth@mm.group or contact us at 01 806 2200.

DBM-700 key advantages

DUPLO

» Enhanced automation – the DBM-700 is designed to streamline operations, featuring a high degree of automation that simplifies complex tasks, ensuring accurate and efficient booklet production

Duplo launches DMB-700 Duplo International has launched the DBM-700 booklet maker, designed to diversify booklet making capabilities and optimise productivity. The new booklet maker, which has been engineered to accommodate print outputs from multiple presses, streamlines workflows and reduces production time, while maintaining exceptional quality. Duplo says one of the standout features of the DBM-700 is its adaptability and ability to handle a wide array of printing jobs, including the capability to create square spine booklets. This functionality allows users to meet the demands of the widest range of applications, all from a single booklet system. The DBM-700 booklet maker is available through Quadient

» Thicker book capacity – with an expanded capacity to handle thicker books, this system empowers businesses to take on a broader range of projects, accommodating diverse client needs effortlessly » Higher speed – significantly elevating production efficiency, the DBM-700 operates at an accelerated pace, reducing turnaround times and meeting the demands of high-volume projects without compromising quality » Square spine innovation – the addition of a square spine feature introduces a higher level of finished quality to the booklets, offering a professional finish that delivers a highly premium offering.

Ireland; email info.ie@quadient.com for more information.

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

004_IP_2023_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 9

13/12/2023 14:41

10

10

P A R T N E R P R O F I L E

EMAS certification FOR MESSE FRANKFURT

Messe Frankfurt is on the right track to becoming a truly sustainable event business

Messe Frankfurt has passed the audit for the internationally

a sustainable trade fair sector.”

recognised environmental management system in accordance

This environmental management system (EMAS) is geared

with the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS). With

towards companies that continually improve their

the EMAS validation, which also meets the requirements of

environmental performance on their own initiative. Companies

environmental management norm ISO 14001, the company

that adopt the EMAS environmental management system

commits itself to continually improving its environmental

commit to recording all environmental aspects of the company

performance.

and conforming with all environmental laws. To meet these

Messe Frankfurt President and CEO Wolfgang Marzin said:

requirements, Messe Frankfurt drew up an environmental

“Last year, Messe Frankfurt decided of its own accord to

policy and set ambitious environmental targets. These are

introduce an environmental management system in accordance

included in Messe Frankfurt’s binding ecological target to be

with the EMAS Regulation. This means that we now have an

climate-neutral at its Frankfurt base by 2040 at the latest. The

internationally recognised instrument with which we can

company sees this as attaining greenhouse gas neutrality and

optimise our ecological sustainability target architecture and

establishing a sustainable water management system. The

demonstrate our progress in a consistently transparent and

transformation process includes all Messe Frankfurt companies

measurable way. In this way, we can take the next verifiable

at its Frankfurt base. To this end, Messe Frankfurt has created

steps to reaching our ambitious environment-related corporate

a sustainability target architecture that not only includes long-

objectives by 2040 and can usher in the transformation towards

term targets but also short- and medium-term milestones.

WORKING TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE EVENT BUSINESS As one of the world’s leading organisers of trade fairs, congresses and events with their own exhibition grounds, Messe Frankfurt is a driving force for climate protection and a sustainable event business. In recognition of its efforts to create a sustainable event business, Messe Frankfurt has received the AEO Excellence Award 2023 in the Best Sustainability Initiative category. In 2022, the company participated in an ESG rating (Environmental, Social and Governance) for the first time and was awarded a bronze medal. The Group underlines its sustainable business practices with a series of voluntary commitments, such as the United Nations Global Compact and the Charter of Diversity. As well as supporting the sustainability initiatives of sector associations AUMA and UFI, Messe Frankfurt has also signed the Net Zero Carbon Events Pledge.

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

010_IP_2023_Issue 6_Messe Frankfurt_FINAL.indd 10

13/12/2023 14:58

11 With the acquisition of Limerick’s SignLynx earlier this year, Hacketts Print is on track for growth

E

P A R T N E R P R O F I L E

A Good Fit arlier this year, Hacketts Print who have multiple

signage industry in the mid-west region. With an excellent

locations across Ireland, acquired SignLynx, Limerick.

management team led by Jack O’Loughlin, SignLynx comes with

SignLynx has been owned and operated by Jack

deep industry experience, which in this current climate is difficult

O’Loughlin since 2005 and alongside his staff, has

to obtain. We have ambitious growth plans and I’m very glad to

proudly served their customers starting in Drombana Co

Limerick, moving to East Link Business Park, Ballysimon Road in Limerick in 2008.

Jack O’Loughlin commented: “Having started SignLynx 20 years ago, we have enjoyed much success and amassed a strong list of

say SignLynx is now a part of those plans.”

With our own 65+ years in business, combined with Jack’s 20 years industry experience, Hacketts looks forward to continuing to move forward as part of our ongoing growth and acquisition strategy.

good customers. There have been challenges, all of which we have overcome, but many times more opportunities. This year a chance

For any enquiries please contact Brian O’Loughlin, Director,

opportunity arose to bring SignLynx to another level, to be able to

Hacketts on 086 608 7644 or brian.oloughlin@hackettsprint.ie

provide our clients with a full gamut of print and signage services.

or see www.hackettsprint.ie

“I am delighted that SignLynx has found its new team. In Hacketts, there are 60+ people who can now provide all the quality skills and services that SignLynx customers will further benefit from. Moreover, there’s now so much more that SignLynx can offer its customers that we couldn’t before. So, it’s a good fit and one I am very pleased with. It works for SignLynx, Hacketts and our combined customers. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all of my many customers over the last two decades for their loyal custom.”

There were obvious synergies between Hacketts and SignLynx which appealed from the start, perhaps the most obvious being the two companies’ combined expertise in the internal and external signage market in Munster. Now with the merging of our two businesses, as well as the good-will acquired, Hacketts will ensure that SignLynx’s existing customers can expect the same reliable and excellent service, as well as enjoying greater access to a wider range of print services via our multiple locations in Ireland.

Brian O’Loughlin, Director, Hacketts said: “SignLynx is an exemplar in the print and signage sector in terms of its people and quality of service. This acquisition provides multiple opportunities to drive long-term growth and build on our future in the print and

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

254084_1C_Hacketts_IP Issue 6 2023__ND_V3.indd 11

13/12/2023 15:03

SAVE THE VISIT

DATE 26TH APRIL 2024

@PrintAwards

DATE

www.irishprinter.ie/ awards for more information #PRINTAWARDS23

Clontarf Castle Hotel, Clontarf Dublin 3

@IrishPrinterMagazine

For All Enquiries Contact: Jill Thornton, Event Manager Email: jill.thornton@ashvillemediagroup.com Phone: 01 640 1700

@IrishPrinterMagazine

Sponsorship Enquiries Contact: Trish Murphy, Sponsorship & Sales Director Email: trish.murphy@ashvillemediagroup.com Phone: 086 8379246

Irish Printing Federation

IPA 2024_1C_Save the Date_V1.indd 1

27/10/2023 11:43

COVER STORY

to

A Year for

CANON

As the year draws to a close and we look ahead to 2024, we sat down with Philip Brady, Director and Donnán Cullen, Key Account Manager, to look back on what’s been a momentous year for Canon Ireland

“There’s no doubt that 2023 has been a hugely successful year for us,” said Philip Brady, Director at Canon Ireland. “We’ve been able to introduce dynamic new technologies to the Irish market which our customers have been very quick to embrace.

“But for us, it’s not just about the technology. It’s about how we’ve been able to work in partnership with our customers to help them build and futureproof their businesses. We pride ourselves on the relationships we’ve created over the years with our customers. Our innovation and technology are a part of that of course, but trust and resilience are key too. It’s been a challenging year for businesses and it’s a testament to their strength that they’ve pushed forward and continued to thrive.”

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

013_IP_2023_Issue 6_Cover story_FINAL.indd 13

13/12/2023 14:26

14 Through tailored demonstrations its certainly proved itself time and again. And with customers being able to be hands-on with it themselves, they’ve seen the benefit it could bring to their business Meeting demands across the industry With a number of innovations having launched throughout 2023, it’s been exciting to see how these have been received by the industry. The Colorado M-Series, the latest iteration of Canon’s market-leading Colorado range of fully modular UVgel roll-to-roll printers, is a prime example of this. Launched earlier this year at FESPA, the Colorado M-Series offers printers something a little different including the capability of printing white without any of the typical challenges white brings, double-siding, printing on clear substrates, 5-layer printing with blackout, matte and gloss prints, matte and gloss in the same job, magnetic substrate printing and much more.

“The ability to print white without worry is a feature which has really resonated with our customers. Since the M-Series was launched, we’ve successfully installed devices with PD Visual, McGowans, Anglo Printers and Xtreme Signs who are all seeing benefits to their business,” says Donnán Cullen.

Donnán comments: “We have also installed the latest Arizona 1300 GTF series with Hackett’s in Cork. The new Flow Technology has improved their ability to print non-standard product shapes as well as reducing print time. Our new Canon varioPRINT 140 Quartz mono series has also supported customers producing offset matte finishes with our original CopyPress technology, which our book printing customers are appreciating.

“With the much-anticipated launch of our imagePRESS V series, it gave us the opportunity to relook at our Customer Experience Centre in Dublin, enabling us to feature a new range of devices to showcase to our customers. With the introduction of the imagePRESS V1000, we’ve been able to give our customers the full experience of its consistent productivity, quality and reliability. Through tailored demonstrations, its certainly proved itself time and again. And with customers being able to be hands-on with it themselves, they’ve seen the benefits it could bring to their business.”

In May of this year, the team took 12 customers from

across Ireland to visit its European Customer Experience Centre in Munich, Germany. A vast facility holding all the new technology Canon has brought to market, customers were able to immerse themselves in hands-on demonstrations of market-leading technologies, most notably the varioPRINT iX-Series, ColorStream and ProStream inkjet digital presses.

Committed to the future of Irish printing For a number of years Canon Ireland has supported the Irish Print Awards, celebrating the diverse and exciting talent in the Irish print industry. In 2024,

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

013_IP_2023_Issue 6_Cover story_FINAL.indd 14

13/12/2023 14:26

15

Looking ahead to 2024 Canon Ireland is certainly pushing forward and not just with new technologies but with infrastructure, having recently completed a move to a new head office just around the corner from its previous home in CityWest Business Campus.

“This move will futureproof our presence here in Ireland,” says Philip. “It gives our team access to a modern, sustainable, state-of-the-art workspace which embodies who Canon is as a world leading imaging company.

It also gives us a tremendous platform to grow our market share and realise our ambition as the go-to name in Irish printing. The service we provide our customers is made possible through the

This move will futureproof our presence here in Ireland

work of our local technicians, consultants, account managers and management team. We firmly believe that having a local presence is the only way to provide the service our customers require.

“We’re also excited to return to DRUPA next year alongside some of the key players in the industry. This is a huge opportunity to not only showcase new technology, but also celebrate our achievements over the last few years. We expect to see a lot of conversation around

the advancement of inkjet technology when it comes to production and wide format print and are excited to share our developments in this space.”

We can’t wait to see what exciting innovations Canon will bring to the market in 2024.

To get in touch with Canon, feel free to email marketing.ireland@canon.ie

Canon Ireland will be contributing a bursary towards one deserving candidate’s enrolment fee in the Masters in Professional Practice in partnership with DPP Skillnet and @TU Dublin.

“We firmly believe that our industry needs support to ensure its growth and viability for the future. By investing in education and supporting the next generation of young people, we aim to help futureproof the Irish print industry through fuelling the ambition of the amazing talent here in Ireland. We’re looking forward to working with DPP Skillnet and TU Dublin to realise this ambition in 2024,” said Philip.

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

013_IP_2023_Issue 6_Cover story_FINAL.indd 15

13/12/2023 14:26

16

16

INDUSTRY VIEWS

DERMOT DOWNER, MANAGING DIRECTOR, WESTSIDE PRESS LTD How was business in 2023?

It was the same as last year which isn’t bad as the volumes of work are decreasing.

been difficult. The launch of the Print Media Technician course through the IPF and Skillnet will hopefully help us attract the next generation. In the meantime, we have

What are some of the challenges facing the business?

employed a couple of people with no

The amount of commercial print is certainly

ourselves, which has worked out well.

decreasing and that’s why companies have diversified into packaging and large format, to give them a wider range of products to offer their clients.

PRINTERS

Did costs come down at all in 2023?

It was good to see energy costs coming down.

Paper came down a small bit, which isn’t much compared to the rate it went up last year.

experience and have trained them up

What will you not miss about 2023?

The weather.

What issues are most likely to impact your business in 2024?

The smooth supply of raw materials. As the volumes of commercial print decrease, the likelihood of consolidation gives companies a better chance of concentrating on sales and

How difficult is it to find and retain staff? Have you had to introduce new incentives to attract and keep employees?

outsourcing production.

Introducing young people into the trade has

Yes, we always welcome the challenges ahead.

Are you optimistic about next year?

CIARAN BOWE, SALES DIRECTOR, P+D What are some of the challenges facing the business?

The cost of business remains a significant factor. Costs in certain areas have

GIVE THEIR THOUGHTS ON

continued to escalate and the cost of living crisis is having an impact on wage costs. Digital advertising continues to erode print spend, but the diverse range of products and markets that we operate in have insulated us to an extent.

How did you find 2023?

It was a very positive year for P+D. We won a number of new clients and produced some exceptional campaigns. Picking up seven Irish Print Awards and three POPAI awards was a huge achievement for the business and our staff. We have seen our third consecutive year of growth. This continued trend has allowed us to accelerate our investment programme with the arrival of a new EFI Pro 32R and two new Canon Colorado’s.

Did costs come down?

Some material costs have reduced but we’re extremely careful with our procurement and investments to maintain control on costs. Energy costs have stabilised, but the general cost of living crisis continues to be a factor for our staff.

THE YEAR THAT WAS AND IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

016_IP_2023_Issue 6_The Year ahead_FINAL.indd 16

13/12/2023 14:59

17 EUGENE HEALY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, TRIMFOLD Did costs come down this year?

Costs stabilised in 2023 but it looks like they’re starting to rise again as we head further into winter.

How did you find 2023?

The launch of the Print Media Technician course through the IPF and Skillnet will hopefully help us attract the next generation

Ahead of where we were in 2022, but down on budget.

What are some of the challenges facing the business?

Global uncertainty leaves a lack of confidence in the market. Two major wars are having an effect on raw material and energy costs and the new minimum wage being introduced in 2024 will also reflect in higher costs.

What will you not miss about 2023?

The rain and storms.

How difficult is it to find and retain staff?

This is an extremely difficult area. The first difficulty is getting the quality of staff that are required, the second is getting enough of said staff and the third is retention.

The competition from big pharma etc is very hard to compete with!

Has recruitment been an issue?

We’re lucky that we have a very limited staff turnover. Some staff members have been with P+D for over 40 years. Treating staff with respect and trying to be flexible where possible has helped us retain our core of committed staff members.

Since coming through the pandemic, we’ve built a high level of trust and teamwork across departments and this has helped us develop a great company culture.

What will you not miss about 2023?

What issues are most likely to impact your business in 2024?

The negatives are postal charges, energy costs, staff costs and retention. The positives are sustainability reporting, carbon footprinting and the removal of plastics.

World Cup loss to New Zealand.

Are you optimistic about next year?

Are you optimistic about next year?

optimistic, then we

2023 was a great year but I think like most people, I want to forget the Rugby

We maintain a cautious optimism into 2024. There may be macroeconomic challenges, but we have more new kit arriving early in 2024 which shows our continued optimism. We’ll continue to focus on delivering award-winning innovation and with a continued commitment to our long-term client

If we can’t be shouldn’t be in business. Optimism is a prerequisite of being a business person.

relationships, we’re very positive about continuing our growth and development in 2024.

THE YEAR TO COME ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

016_IP_2023_Issue 6_The Year ahead_FINAL.indd 17

13/12/2023 14:33

18 NIALL MESCALL, MANAGING DIRECTOR, READS DIRECT How was business in 2023?

We were happy with 2023 and overall it was successful. We had changes in premises and we also upscaled some of our equipment.

Did costs come down?

Staff costs, overheads and all the usual suspects play on everyone’s bottom line, so no change there really. Make sure you pigeonhole your suppliers for set costs or advanced notice on increases. They survive on regular business and most Irish suppliers are excellent. Our suppliers really provide a top class service especially

Nobody knows what’s around the corner, so all you can do is be prepared and ready for the good and the bad

Premier Paper, Material Solutions, Quadient, MJ Flood, Xerox IBS and Print & Finishing Equipment, to name just a few. Top notch service and speed of supply is vital for anyone in this game.

What are some of the challenges going into 2024?

For a lot of printers and finishing businesses, upgrading equipment and machinery will be a challenge, as will dealing with online business competition, new challenges in AI and ChatGPT as well as the general day to day issues that thwart advancement or increases. If you can upskill staff and systems, upgrade machinery and equipment and advance your online presence, you have a

months – that was a real hassle and disruption.

What issues are most likely to impact your business in 2024?

If costs keep increasing, our business model will be affected. Players driving down quality to get low costs to clients is also never a good thing. If you’re able to move with technology

very good fighting chance.

and advancement in creative areas, you will be

How difficult is it to find and retain staff?

Are you optimistic?

As we have the latest technologies and systems

Very! We’ve just taken in our fifth Roland – a

like Slack, Monday.com, ChatGPT, AI, excellent

new Truevis VG3 640 fully loaded, along with

IT backup as well as the latest computer

a new Versant and a new Morgana. A new HP

technology with full Adobe suites and modern

large format printer arrives in January, along

machinery, it’s easier to retain staff. Good clients

with three new digital copiers for traditional

and customers are often better than just lumping

self-service photocopying. We have new online

money at staff – once they have a good working

features on the website – conferences &

environment, fair wages and all their holidays,

exhibitions area, design your own personalised

it’s certainly easier. Travel is the big bugbear in

gifts, plus much more to come in 2024. If you

the staff area – sitting in traffic, long journeys

have projects and goals to reach, it really helps.

and extra travel costs really hurt.

Every year rolls into the next one faster and

fine.

faster. Nobody knows what’s around the corner,

What will you not miss about 2023?

so all you can do is be prepared and ready for

Leaks in my new premises that went on for three

the good and the bad.

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

016_IP_2023_Issue 6_The Year ahead_FINAL2.indd 18

14/12/2023 09:36

19

MAL MCGOWAN, OWNER, MCGOWANS PRINT How was business in 2023?

It was good, we launched our folded carton division and it is growing day by day.

What are some of the challenges facing the business?

Getting on top of sustainability and shouting about what we have done so far.

IT development - to allocate more resources. Attracting more young people into the business.

Did costs come down at all in 2023?

Some costs came down but not by the amount they should have. Massive profit taking in 2021/2022 by suppliers which printers can not and should not pass on.

How difficult is it to find and retain staff? Have you had to introduce new incentives to attract and keep employees?

Staff retention is good, the incentive that I have difficulty with is working from home. If you don’t give it to your admin staff, they will find employment somewhere else. It creates another unnecessary division between production and admin.

What will you not miss about 2023?

Global wars. Morality and inhumanity have hit an all-time low.

What issues are most likely to impact your business in 2024?

Positively - our continued passion to grow and promote digital technology as the future. Negatively - the real potential for a global recession.

Are you optimistic about next year?

I am always optimistic, so yes.

On the positive side – our continued passion to grow and promote digital technology as the future

ENDA BROPHY, MANAGING DIRECTOR, GPMI LTD What will you not miss about 2023?

Did costs come down in 2023?

2023 was a positive year for all at GPMI so nothing to

On balance, no.

not miss!

What was positive about it?

What do you foresee as the obstacles to growth next year?

Following the acquisition by PPG, 2023 was a year of

Further business uncertainty, a slower economy and

change for us. We migrated to a new group IT system

a risk of bad debts.

and integrated into the PPG group. As far as business goes, it was quite inconsistent in 2023. The year got off to a slow start, with business uncertainty generated from

Are you optimistic about next year?

Yes! Bring it on!

interest rate increases and a reducing rate of inflation.

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

016_IP_2023_Issue 6_The Year ahead_FINAL2.indd 19

14/12/2023 09:34

EQUIPMENT-new.pdf 1 16.03.2022 13:53:30

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Untitled-8 1 251799_1C_Trimwel_IP Mar_April 2022_ND_V1.indd 1

23/02/2023 16/03/2022 10:41 14:08

21

As the industry contracts, we see more opportunities opening up for us as there are fewer competitors in our space

PADDY GALLAGHER, SALES DIRECTOR, PRINT MEDIA SERVICES What will you not miss about 2023?

Did costs come down?

Although 2023 was a very successful year for the business,

As the pendulum of supply and demand swings slightly in

all of the team here at PMS will be glad to see the back of it

our favour, we have seen some commodity costs decrease.

as it was challenging for all.

The cost of energy is also going the right way.

How was business this year?

Business started off quite slow in January. Book really took

What issues are most likely to impact your business in 2024?

off in February and unusually kept its momentum right

One of the biggest issues for us and for many small to medium

through the summer until December. It’s fair to say business

size printing companies will be the issue of more key suppliers

was quite good in 2023.

closing their doors due to owners retiring and voluntary liquidations. We’re talking here about some well-established

What are some of the challenges facing the business?

suppliers getting out of the trade.

2022 saw some challenges in relation to supply of various

Are you optimistic?

materials, but 2023 saw the additional challenge of supply

Yes, of course. I’m very optimistic about next year. 2023 was

of services, with some of our suppliers moving/merging and

a very good year as we saw a definite upturn in new business

some closing their doors in 2023. As I write this piece I am

with some lovely ideal accounts being landed. As the industry

also being made aware of some takeovers/mergers happening

contracts, we see more opportunities opening up for us as

with some of our existing suppliers, which may also pose

there are fewer and fewer competitors in our space actively

challenges for us in 2024.

chasing business. When those opportunities come along, we grab them with both hands.

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

016_IP_2023_Issue 6_The Year ahead_FINAL.indd 21

13/12/2023 14:34

22

22

PACKAGING

How do we reach new heights with digital print in corrugated packaging? ROBERT SEAY investigates

the potential EXPLORING of CORRUGATED Digital print has been promising broad transformation in corrugated for a long time. Significant progress has been made, but digital print today still only represents and addresses a small subset of corrugated print needs. New approaches are needed to broaden the reach and value of digitally printed corrugated packaging.

Digital print transformation in the corrugated industry has been a promise waiting to happen for many, many years. Part of the reason for the delay could be the industry has been perceived as having one monolithic set of needs and digital print has been promoted as one generic solution to fit all of those needs. However, all corrugated needs and digital print solutions are not the same.

The reality is much more nuanced. Indeed, there has been some progress in several use cases and sub-markets including high quality graphics, samples, mock-ups, displays, short-run, large

Digital print transformation in the corrugated industry has been a promise waiting to happen for many, many years

format, double-sided print and supply chain efficiency including turn-around time, but there are still a few other

As suggested, the various digital print capabilities are nuanced.

use cases like personalisation and variable data that haven’t yielded

Digital print solutions generally do not adequately address all

transformation. Regardless, digital print still only addresses a fraction

substrate, board combination and form factors. Special requirements

of the overall market for printed corrugated packaging. For this to

of the printed product like ink holdout, colour, overprint varnish,

change, we must ask why and eventually address the many gaps that

coefficient of friction, durability and gluability all play a part in what

exist today with the overall solution set.

can or cannot be done by any given digital print solution. Specific

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

022_IP_2023_Issue 6_Drupa_FINAL.indd 22

13/12/2023 15:00

23 For those of us who have been championing digital print in the corrugated industry, the pace of progress is both encouraging and disappointing

press limitations might mean something can be done in limited

levels of efficiency. Digital print must do something better or different

quantities or certain situations, but cannot be done at scale and

to provide more value than analog.

remain cost effective.

Finally, digital printing must consider the macro trends and what

Digital print was and still is supposed to simplify, streamline and

the needs of tomorrow will be. These macro trend requirements

accelerate the overall graphics, print process and product development

include fast turnaround, short run lengths – for many different

for the corrugated industry. Digital print in corrugated has been

reasons – supply chain efficiency, eCommerce, lightweighting,

most successful in areas in need of disruption including samples,

sustainability and automation that could make digital solutions more

mock-ups, displays and ultra short runs. However, to get at the bulk

compelling in the future.

The predominant issue with digital print is the production costs for a given run length compared to the analog alternative. For digital to win more broadly, it must look beyond just consumables cost and look at reducing overall value chain costs including running costs, maintenance, capital, useful life and any other steps or parts that can be streamlined. Digital print, in general, has a big problem with amortisation of the overall solutions supporting capital and infrastructure required. Certainly, for parts of the market already identified, digital print can work and add value. However, to get at the larger volume of work, digital must either add new value and/or improve cost structure to compete with optimised analog processes.

It is encouraging to see there is a next generation of solutions being developed that will hopefully help make some of the necessary improvements to expand the segments of the market where digital can add value. With these solutions, they are addressing the broader value chain, reducing steps and improving overall economics rather than just addressing print.

For those of us who have been championing digital print in the corrugated industry, the pace of progress is both encouraging and disappointing. There are pockets of great success, but there is also a lot of work to do to get us to the full transformation that all members of the value chain need. These improvements and new solutions

of the market, digital needs to contend with what analog printing

cannot get here fast enough. It will be exciting to see what’s announced

does well, day-in and day-out.

and shown at drupa 2024 to further drive the industry’s digital

It has been incrementally fine-tuned to provide the quality,

transformation.

productivity, reliability, equipment life expectancy and cost structure that the market recognises today. Different production workflows

Robert Seay is Vice President of Digital Print Strategy and Growth,

have evolved to meet various product requirements with different

Georgia-Pacific

ISSUE 6 2023 IRISH PRINTER

022_IP_2023_Issue 6_Drupa_FINAL.indd 23

13/12/2023 14:28

24 TALKING TO

The Xtreme Signs & Graphics owner on the challenge of attracting young people into the industry and inspiring women to pursue a career in print

TALKING TO...

ROISIN HENNESSY How did you get into the print industry?

After completing my degree in design, I went on to do a traditional sign writing course in Cork. After that, I was hooked. I started work experience in production, followed by installing, wrapping and design. I then moved into management

Favourite film?

Forrest Gump.

What’s your favourite band/ musician?

Anything happy and upbeat, I don’t have a specific

roles in sign companies in Australia and New Zealand, before returning home.

one.

What do you like and dislike about the industry?

Who or what makes you laugh?

I like solving problems. I dislike that there is always a problem to be solved.

What’s the worst job you’ve ever had?

Stripping an old van wrap outside in the freezing New Zealand cold and snow with only a wonky heatgun and old plastic scraper. Got it done in the end though!

What’s your dream job?

To be in charge of designing an entire festival with no budget.

As a business, what are the main challenges you face?

Has to be my dog Tino.

What superpower would you most like to have?

To be able to read my clients minds... and their budgets. Or the ability to just click my fingers and turn a low res file into a clean vector.

How would you like to be remembered?

I would like to think I was remembered for inspiring women to grow in the sign industry, which

Finding new young people that are interested in the signage industry and

traditionally would have been male orientated,

showing them the potential it has as a long term career or trade.

whether in design and project management or in

What are your ambitions for Xtreme Signs and Graphics?

To keep growing and adapting with the ever changing landscape in the print industry. We aim to be a one-stop-shop for all our clients’ needs.

production and installation.

Life is...

Never assuming anything because it just makes an ass out of you and me!

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2023

024_IP_2023_Issue 6_Talking to_FINAL.indd 24

13/12/2023 15:00

Home of Landa Home of the Landa...

NEW DIGITAL B1 TRADE PRINTING SERVICE ➜ ➜ ➜ ➜

Brilliant Colours 97% PANTONE Accurate Water Based Inks Stocks Up To 800 Micron

Contact Us For An Instant Quote 01 4106700 or hello@mcgowansprint.com 000000 McGowans Irish Printer A4 Advert 10.22.indd 111 1 253043_1C_McGowans_IP September 2023_V1.indd 253042_1C_McGowans_IP July August 2023_V1.indd 253041_1C_McGowans_IP May_June 2023_ND_V1.indd

29/11/2022 10:28 19/09/2023 15/08/2023 15:36 17/05/2023 15:11 17:06

Ireland’s leading supplier to graphical printers & converters with paper, board & plastics and supplying latest technology print solutions.

SAME DAY & NEXT DAY DELIVERY COUNTRY WIDE l Corrugated l Banner l Foam l PVC l Ink l LED l Sheets l Packaging l Equipment l Digital Vinyl l Industrial Plastics l Exhibition Displays

Paper & Materials, Delivered Nationally

gpmi.ie GPMI Advert A4 8-23.indd 253593_1C_GPMI_IP Issue 16 2023_V1.indd 1

02/10/2023 13/12/2023 12:28 11:39