Category: Industry Mole

Anything that can go digital will go digital

A great quote that I read recently was “Anything that can go digital will go digital” which I think is a good way of looking at how technology will continue to change the way we all live and work in the future. The latest digital print machines being launched will continue to erode the market share of the traditional ‘analogue’ technology of web, litho and screen printing and open up new markets and applications at the same time.

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Where’s the happy medium between cutting prices and downtime?

If, like the Mole, you have at the heart of your business a stream of large-format printers chugging away, then you will probably have, from time to time, given plenty of thought, like me, as to how you can earn more from them. When things are a bit quiet and machines are sat idle, the “If I drop my prices really low, I’ll print more, sell more and make more” argument enters your head. 

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If it ain’t broke why fix it?

After writing a few months ago about all of the great looking printers and production kit on show at Fespa 2013, stories have started to filter through about people’s purchases, including my own. But, a friend of mine made the decision to upgrade his two printers to the latest all singing, all dancing version. He was promised that improvements had been made in all areas and it was now faster, printing at a higher quality and onto a wider range of materials.

 

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20 years in sign and display

As autumn has settled in and I’m feeling slightly melancholy I thought it might be time to reflect on what is fast approaching 20 years working within the sign and display industry. Back in 1993 the UK was, funnily enough, in the doldrums and we were all hoping that things would start to improve soon. Nothing ever really changes! Fed up with working within retail, I was keen to start- up a business that would make me my fortune.

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Services need to be paid for

With temperatures nudging up it seems long lost customers are again popping up, wanting to pick up on conversations from months ago and place orders based on quotes provided in the winter. Like me, during these tough periods you probably drop your prices in the hope that it will result in more work that week. Also like me, you probably regret doing that when you are rushed off your feet again!

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29 September to 1 October, 2026
The Print Show

https://www.theprintshow.co.uk/

Where?

NEC Birmingham, UK • Hall 1

What is it?

The Print Show is committed to helping visitors discover new opportunities for their business, demonstrating that print is so much more than simply putting ink on paper. With access to exhibitors from all corners of the industry, all free of charge, The Print Show is an event that cannot be missed.

Now in its 10th anniversary year, The Print Show is established as the most important and best-attended industry event in the UK, and is still the only exhibition entirely dedicated to the UK print sector. The Print Show is the primary meeting point for the market, offering visitors the opportunity to see the latest technological developments, meet and network with peers, and access advice from some of the leading experts in print.

30 September 2026
The Print Industry Awards

Where?

National Conference Centre, Birmingham.

What is it?

The Print Industry Awards celebrate excellence across the print and visual communications sector, recognising the achievements, innovation and talent that drive the industry forward. From outstanding print businesses and suppliers to individual professionals, the awards highlight the very best in print, digital and visual communications. Backed by decades of industry expertise, the Print Industry Awards provide a platform to showcase success, raise standards and honour those making a real impact.