The Western Grafik’Art Trade Show premiered last month. It was held in Abbotsford, British Columbia from April 11 – 13. It was a relatively small show, but it was a great show by most other standards. Congratulations to Louie Bernard for doing such an outstanding job. I’m sure this is the start of many big events in store for the industry on Canada’s friendly west coast. Don’t miss our coverage in the next issue.
As you’ve probably noticed, our variable cover is featured in this issue. Please check out the front and back cover, as well as the inside front and inside back cover, to get a true picture of variable data’s ability. Notice also that your provincial flag is used on the front cover, linking you to Drupa, Germany. A special “thank you” to those who were a part of this project.
Be sure to mark June 13 down on your calendar, especially if you’re in the Montreal area. The Canadian Printing Industry Sector Council (CPISC) will present a forum entitled, “The Future of Print” from 9 am to 3:30 pm at the Delta Centre-Ville in Montreal. The Forum will benefit anyone who owns, manages or works in a printing and/or graphic communications company. Its panel will be mapping out the skills and technologies required for the present and future of our industry. The keynote speaker will be Warren Werbitt, President of Pazazz Printing. For more information call toll free 1-888-688-0293 or e-mail info@cpisc-csic.ca.
With all the negative news in the industry recently (i.e. closings, layoffs), it’s good to report that Xerox had a 13% growth in revenues in its first quarter. A few years ago the picture for Xerox looked rough, but they’re rebounding in a big way.
With the ups and downs in the market we have to stay positive and ride the waves. It gives us an opportunity to look constructively at our businesses and develop new strategies to better service our customer base. As they used to say in Ireland, “There’ll be dust on the road yet!” For those who don’t know the climate of Ireland, it’s similar to parts of B.C. where it rains a lot. So, as we ride yet another turbulent cycle in this industry, remember what goes down will come up again.
Finally, our condolences go out to Reg Johnson’s family and friends for their loss this month. There was a great gathering at his wake. He was a great Canadian who loved the graphic arts industry and will be missed. May he rest in peace.
Until next time, stay positive and stay focused.
Joe Mulcahy
