We are just back from a trip to Europe. Many people complain that things are not good in Canada, but if you lived in Ireland, England or Spain you would have a lot more to complain about.
Take for example, in Ireland, where I grew up, one of the three major banks was taken over by the government, and the value of the other two banks have gone down by 80 per cent. Real estate has dropped 50 per cent or more and the country is in a real mess. The Celtic Tiger has turned into a pussy cat. So rejoice and be glad that you are living in a country like Canada. We have our own problems, but the way forward looks a lot brighter than a lot of other countries.
The printing industry is going through a fundamental shift and we must be open to new ways of doing things. A lot of economists are saying that the recession is over – I think we’re slowly coming out of it and the worst is behind us.
It came as a great shock to learn of the passing of David Marsh, former owner of Sydney R. Stone. Our sympathies go out to his wife Dorothy, five children and many grandchildren. May he rest in peace.
As we head out to Chicago for Print 09, there is a lot of confusion in the market. The management of the show has dramatically helped out customers this year. They have created their own stimulus package with unlimited package handling at the show site for large manufacturers and limited material handling for other exhibitors for both machinery and non-machinery items at the site. To those who have had booths at the show in the past, you are aware of the marked savings that this offers the exhibitors.
In this issue, Brian Collins has written a feature on what many of the exhibitors are showing in Chicago (page 18). We are starting a new feature “For the Record,” which interviews leaders and movers in our industry. The first interview is with Dan Mustata, general manager of Graphics Canada. He discusses his upcoming Graphics Canada show that takes place in Toronto, November 12-14 (page 40). Also, don’t miss Professor Lisi’s article on data asset management (page 34).
I’m looking forward to meeting many of you in Chicago. Until next time, stay positive and stay focused.
