This is a bittersweet time for many Canadians. I’m talking about the sad passing last month of a major player in our industry – former Toronto Mayor, City Councillor, printer and protagonist – Deco Labels’ Rob Ford. Founded as a small label and tag manufacturer in Toronto in 1962, Deco Labels & Tags has grown into a leader in our industry, manufacturing pressure-sensitive labels and tags for a multitude of industries, from facilities in Toronto and the U.S. Deco has also been a valued and dedicated advertiser with us for over 10 years.
The 46-year-old married father of two young children died after 18 months of treatment for a rare cancer first diagnosed in the midst of his 2014 bid to be re-elected mayor. He would have turned 47 on May 28. Ford was arguably one of the most polarizing political figures of our time. People either loved him or hated him, it seems. In the words of his own family, “he was a dedicated man of the people who spent his life serving the citizens of Toronto.” As proof, constituents would constantly praise the fact that he would answer their requests personally and quickly look after any issues that would arise. Though controversial, he was a reflection of the struggles all of us face in this life. He could be combative, while also being kind and generous. But at the end of the day, he would always do what he thought was best for Torontonians. He’ll be missed throughout the city and throughout our industry.
Drupa is the world’s largest printing industry tradeshow, being held this year from May 31 to June 10 in Düsseldorf, Germany. Be sure to check our drupa preview beginning on page 13. We’ve also got some fascinating features this month on how the recently released budgets will impact your business, 3D printing trends, personal and business branding, and much more.
As mentioned here last month, we’re working on some new, cost-effective online packages for our current and potential advertisers. Our new online programs are an opportunity to post your videos, case studies, whitepapers, testimonials and special offers on our website, and reach the prospects you want. If you’d like more information, please call me at 1-877-513-3999.
Finally, by the time you receive this issue, our new, re-designed website (www.graphicartsmag.com) should be up and running. You can expect a bold new look with the same easy navigation and latest news. But there’ll also be more articles and special features, and more helpful “how-to” stories on key industry topics. Be sure to check it out.
As always, stay positive and stay focused.