Did you notice something different about this month’s issue? It’s perfect bound! This will be the new format for our magazine going forward. I’d like to personally thank Point One Graphics in Etobicoke, Ontario for doing such a fine job on the printing. I’d also like to mention the great work of Manoj Sheth, CEO of Sherwood Printers, for printing our die-cut cover, Amanda Grey of Greyscale Design for designing it, Norm Beange at Specialty Graphics for the perfect perfect-bound book, and Jason Lisi for our lead story on industry icon Benny Landa. The cover, by the way, was produced utilizing new LasX technology at Sherwood Printers. Pages 26 and 27 delve into this exciting new method.
I’m also happy to announce the launching of our Gutenberg’s Estimators and Buyers Guide 2017-2018 Edition. We intend to have a printed version and a digital version available online. See our announcement on page 35 and expect more news in the future.
Like it or not, Donald Trump is the 45th president of the United States. I’m no economist, but I think most people in our industry are cautiously optimistic regarding his “re-negotiating NAFTA” comments and his “make America first” rhetoric. If you’re one of those, here are some facts that might calm you. First, nearly 9 million U.S. jobs depend on trade and investment with Canada. Second, Canada is the top export destination for over 35 U.S. States. And third, Canada is the number one supplier of crude oil, refined petroleum products, natural gas and electricity to the U.S.
That being said, his unpredictability looms large. At press time, he gutted the Trans Pacific Partnership (not surprising), while U.S. print organizations such as the NPES remain strongly in favour of it. If you sell products to the U.S., Trump said he would impose a tariff of 30%-35%. Will that apply to Canada? His trade reps are telling us not to worry. The bottom line here is that we simply don’t know what will be enacted as actual legislation and what is just “hot air.” So, your guess is as good as mine. Obviously, a trade war will benefit no one, least of all the printing industry here in Canada.
During his campaign, I recall that Trump mentioned Canada only twice. In 2015 he praised our healthcare system. In 2016 he said it was a disaster. Need I say more? So while it may be difficult in the months and years to come…
As always, stay positive and stay focused.
View from the publisher – February 2017
