Wayne Robinson, Editor of Print21, and Lindy Hughson, Publisher of Print21 and PKN Packaging News, bring us a review of developments in the print industry during March. We start by discussing how two of the printing industry’s biggest players have been impacted by changes by the shift to online catalogues and magazines, yet they reported different results for the half year.

The discussion then moves on to the opportunities that have grown from the packaging industry responding to COVID, the emergence of companies focusing on small-run production requirements, and recent developments in the shift to paper-based packaging for products including confectionery and alcohol. The impacts of COVID are also reviewed for the wide format sector, which has seen some companies disappear, while others are booming, depending on their exposure to different markets.

Wayne identifies a major change in building signage that has followed from the Grenville Tower fire in London during 2017 as new regulations on combustibles within building cladding and signage are introduced around the world. We then review issues with global supply lines, as importers are having to increase prices to accommodate increased shipping expenses and delays.

We wrap up the episode with reviews of improvements in sustainability within the print industry, the corporates being called out for greenwashing, and look at printers are increasing the use of solar power at their facilities. Finally, we note the excitement in the industry following the announcement that Australia's PacPrint trade show will be going ahead in September.

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The Print Files Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Print21, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Print21, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media.

If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact Print21 via their website www.print21.com.au or send an email to editor@print21.com.au

MC: Grant McHerron

Host: Wayne Robinson

Editor: Chris Visscher

Producer: Steve Visscher

Print21 - © 2021