A word to the wise

The worst of times has been the best of times for some. That may not be what you want to hear if Covid has just about sunk your business but, according to the 195 large-format orientated UK/Ireland-based print businesses that answered our 14th Widthwise poll at the start of this year, the sector has not fared too badly overall - some have even benefitted - and levels of optimism are high despite worry over the rising cost of supplies, uncertainty about UK economic bounce-back etc. All in all, many large-format PSPs have seen the Covid-19 pandemic, and all the upheaval that has created, as an opportunity for a great reset. But don’t take my word for it - the survey information speaks for itself and can be found in the newly published Widthwise Report 2021. A précis of the key findings is included in this issue, but you can download the whole report - for free - at https://imagereportsmag.co.uk/widthwise


Data from the survey shows that 30.8% of PSPs intending to invest in the next year or two are doing so with the aim of improving efficiencies. Many are looking at workflow as you’d expect, but when it comes to MIS - well, let’s just say its deployment in this sector looks set to remain low. We know the reasons why it is eschewed by so many, but is it time to re-evaluate given what MIS suppliers have to say about developments? The What To Watch feature provides a management report.


This issue also looks into another key issue - carbon emissions, and what this sector can do to reduce them. Plus, there are updates, tips and advice on other areas of concern, such as regulations on dealing with staff suffering from Long Covid, how to handle requests for flexible working etc.


Here’s hoping all our efforts go some way to helping you during this great reset.