We have just returned from Print 09 in Chicago, and what a great city Chicago is. Chris Price and the management of Print 09 did a terrific job in pulling off an excellent show in the midst of these economic times. I think there were more Canadians at Print 09 than any other year. The crowds weren’t as big, but most of the exhibitors were pleased with the show. Check out Kristen Read’s article “Print 09 – post-show report” (page 26) and go to www.graphicartsmag.com to view our exclusive gallery of photos and video interviews from the show.
I think the highlight of the show, for me, was listening to Andrew D. Paparozzi, chief economist, NAPL, speak at the Xerox and Heidelberg booths. At the Xerox booth, Paparozzi spoke about the widening gap between NAPL leaders and the rest of the industry from 2000 – 2009. The cumulative growth of NAPL leaders was 45.6% while the industry average was negative 2.5%. Why such a difference? Leaders are getting more productive, more competitive and more valuable to their clients. Leaders are focusing on how to prepare for recovery, not moaning about how bad the economy has been.
NAPL defines leaders as
- An organization that can react to change, whether cyclical or structural, into an opportunity rather than a threat.
- Leaders do not do it over night! And their numbers may not look pretty while they’re doing it.
- Leaders make the necessary changes to create an advantage through making tough decisions that others delay or avoid.
I had another opportunity to hear Andrew D. Paparozzi at the Heidelberg booth. There, he was speaking about the state of the printing industry today. The positive story is that he stated recovery is on its way. In 2010, the printing industry will grow for the first time in three years – a welcome for many.
Paparozzi says that “once upon a time, our recoveries were inclusive, the rising tides lifted all boats. Now, they are increasingly exclusive and reserved for companies that are prepared to face the changes in our industry. The printing industry is being redefined and reinvented. Its fundamental structure is different, creating historic opportunity for those prepared but profound threats for the unprepared. Adaptation is key to success.”
We are all living in a brave new world and must see the industry with a new set of eyes. For more information on Andrew D. Paparozzi’s report go to www.NAPL.org or call 1-800-642-6275.
Our own Canadian show, Graphics Canada is coming up soon on Thursday, Nov. 12 – Saturday, Nov. 14. We are at booth 2011 at the top of Hall Two. Make sure to come by and say hello.
Last but not least, I encourage you to go to our new and improved website, www.graphicartsmag.com and let me know what you think. We will have a special show edition for Graphics Canada next month.
And as always, stay focused and stay positive.
Joe Mulcahy
