Can we share nicely please?

I ask because there seems to be only one answer –?it has to.

Throughout 2013 one of the strongest messages coming out from all the various shows, seminars, conferences etc., has been that we must do more to promote the value of print. In my role as editor of this magazine I have spoken to hundreds of printers, vendors, associations, consultants, and have noticed a real developing understanding that this must happen. And actions have certainly been taken. For instance, where once ‘marketing’ one’s own business was once a laughable concept within the print sector, it has become a serious focus. So many print companies have diversified to become ‘solutions’ providers that they have necessarily had to be pro-active in better explaining what their businesses are now about. And individually, so many print providers and support operations are working hard to ‘re- brand’ print and make the offering relevant in the changing media landscape.

But there’s only so much you can do alone. We need a stronger, unified voice. One that speaks to potential customers in a language they understand – which, let’s face it, tends to mean print ROI. It’s a difficult nut to crack, but the likes of Print Power director Martyn Eustace believes it can be done, which is why he’s trying to get a shared, online information resource off the ground (see p18). I mention it because he’s having difficulty. There’s support in theory, but when it comes to people actually sharing their own information for the common good, all the goodwill seems to dissipate. Can we do something about that in the New Year?

Image Reports is just launching its seventh annual Widthwise Survey of the UK and Ireland wide-format digital print sector. The more of you that get involved in that, the more useful a tool the subsequent Widthwise Report 2014 will be to all when it appears in April.

Editor, Lesley Simpson

Tel. 01932 707173