Irish Printer - Issue 6 2024

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Elevating Print

HACKETTS PARTNERS WITH MJ FLOOD FOR A CUTTINGEDGE PRODUCTION UPGRADE

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EXCELLENCE 04/12/2024 09:45

Board

Dublin

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Belfast

03/09/2024 10:00

1 ISSUE 6 2024 04 News A look at what’s happening in the print industry

11

Talking to…

With a new facility in Newbridge, the future is looking bright for Xtreme Signs & Graphics

12 Event The Power of Print seminar featured presentations that highlighted the potential for the reinvigoration of print

19 Interview For Gary O’Brien at The Printed Image, 2025 is all about delivering top quality products to the client

22 Training The Network Manager at DPP Skillnet chats about upskilling in an increasingly competitive environment

15 24

Cover Story MJ Flood supplied and installed the AccurioPress C12000e at Hacketts, an investment that’s paving the way for growth

24 Careers “Measure twice, cut once” is the mantra Lauren Gallagher took away from her first role

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ED’S LETTER Editor: Denise Maguire Email: editor@irishprinter.ie Creative Director: Jane Matthews Designer: Lenny Rooney Production: Nicole Ennis Contact:

Welcome to issue 6 of Irish Printer for 2024.

Irish Printer,

This issue of Irish Printer includes news of a recent investment made by Hacketts in an AccurioPress C12000e. Supplied and installed by MJ Flood, the new press will allow the print firm to manage heavier stocks and packaging materials, opening up new markets and revenue streams. Faster speed times mean projects that previously took three hours are now complete in under two, with no compromise on quality. Brian O’Loughlin, Director at Hacketts, says he’s excited to explore the full potential of the new press, while delivering a higherquality, faster turnaround service to clients. For more on the new investment, turn to page 15.

On page 19, Gary O’Brien at The Printed Image talks about what it takes to run a successful print firm for over three decades. Going into 2025, the aim is to move into new sectors while keeping a firm grip on the areas they excel in. Aside from recruitment and increasing costs, another challenge facing the firm is around maintaining a high level of quality amid decreasing client budgets. With budgets being squeezed across the board, balancing the two can be tricky but delivering a high quality product has to remain the priority, says Gary.

Also in this issue, we catch up with Roisin Hennessy at Xtreme Signs & Graphics to chat about the trade printer’s new facility in Newbridge and why a career in print is a ticket to anywhere in the world. On page 22 Network Manager at DPP Skillnet, Joe O’Callaghan, talks about the success of the Print Media Technician programme and why upskilling helps print firms differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market. In 2024, AI courses at DPP Skillnet proved popular with participants, as did the Colour Management in Print course. For 2025, Joe would encourage print firms to take a look at the courses available at DPP Skillnet and engage with the platform to upskill and thrive.

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Ashville Media Group, Park West, Dublin 12, D12 X9F Tel: (01) 432 2200 Web: www.irishprinter.ie Printed by:

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by Antalis.

All rights reserved. Every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is accurate. The publishers cannot, however, accept responsibility for errors or omissions. Reproduction by any means in whole or in part without the permission of the publisher is prohibited. © Ashville Media Group 2024. All discounts, promotions and competitions contained in this magazine are

As always, we’d love to hear from you. If you have any thoughts on this issue, please drop us a line at editor@irishprinter.ie. Enjoy!

run independently of Irish Printer.

The promoter/advertiser is responsible for honouring the prize. ISSN 0790-2026

As always, we’d love to hear from you. If you have any thoughts on this issue, please drop us a line at editor@irishprinter.ie. Enjoy!

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2024

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Say it with colour, say it with

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● Laser ● Inkjet ● Copier ● Offset ● Pre-print The Papago cut-size range is FSC® certified and the folio range is PEFC 100% certified.

For more information or samples, contact your local branch.

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METSA BOARD

U P D A T E S

NEWS These enhancements will further improve the print quality and visual consistency of the MetsäBoard Classic FBB product

Metsä Board drives forward with Simpele mill upgrades Metsä Board is advancing with plans to modernise

pre-drying section and the installation of a new

the Simpele folding boxboard mill, focused on

coating section on the production line. These

further enhancing product quality, production

enhancements will further improve the print

efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint of

quality and visual consistency of the MetsäBoard

its operations and products. The Simpele mill

Classic FBB product, while enabling the company

will undergo significant upgrades in the second

to shift to fossil free alternatives in its paperboard

half of 2025, including the modernisation of the

production process.

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ALDAR TISSUE

5 This new facility increases our production capacity and will enable us to fulfil up to 40% of Ireland’s bathroom tissue and kitchen towel needs committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050, actively reducing carbon footprints by prioritising local manufacturing and sustainable raw materials. The new Dublin plant features fully automated, high-speed production lines, robotic packing and wrapping technologies. With these innovations, Aldar Tissue aims to transition from a 24/5 to a 24/7 operation by 2026, further increasing capacity.

30 new roles at Aldar Tissue Dublin facility

Speaking at the facility’s opening, Keith Ockenden, CEO

Aldar Tissue, the country’s largest household and

supplied from the UK and mainland Europe. This new facility

commercial tissue paper manufacturer, has officially opened

increases our production capacity and will enable us to

its new €15 million purpose-built manufacturing facility in

fulfil up to 40% of Ireland’s bathroom tissue and kitchen

Rathcoole, Dublin. The company was acquired by Zeus in

towel needs. This will allow us to meet the evolving demands

2019 and the new 100,000 sq ft facility will create 30 new

of local markets while driving sustainability within the

full-time jobs. Both Aldar Tissue and Zeus said they are

industry.”

of Zeus, said: “Currently, 80% of the Irish tissue market is

Antalis adds new finishes to Coala range Antalis has introduced 40 new finishes to its Coala Interior Film range of self-adhesive architectural vinyls. The films, which include the PVC-Free Collection, High-Resistance Collection, Exterior Collection and XL Collection, are ideal for costeffective makeovers and redesigning spaces in offices, homes, hotels, business premises, shops or just about anywhere a surface can be covered for a fresh look. Mike Collins, Product Manager at Antalis, said: “Renovating walls, furniture, desks and spaces, rather than replacing, is a sustainable solution that is both quick to do and relatively cost-effective. These 40 new aesthetic and high-performance films from the Coala Interior Film range can offer solutions for the most demanding interior and exterior design projects.”

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XEROX

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Spotlight on… Xerox PrimeLink C9265/C9275/C9281 The new PrimeLink C9265/C9275/C9281

and sustainable printing solutions and our

printers from Xerox include advanced features

new models meet this need.”

that offer greater flexibility and customisation,

The PrimeLink C9200 Series supports the

adapting to the needs of production and inhouse operations. Featuring a new toner formulation, like that of the Xerox Iridesse Production Press, the new range includes a completely redesigned LED system featuring 10-bit processing and 2400x2400 imaging delivering fine detail, smooth colour transitions and exceptional colour accuracy, with speeds of 65 to 81 pages per minute.

Custom media catalogues allow for optimal settings for a wide range of sizes from A6 to

This exciting launch of new products reinforces our commitment to the Irish print market

latest Fiery FS600 platform and LLC print servers and integrates into Xerox’s end-to-end production printing ecosystem, which includes tools for sustainability and waste reduction. The printers feature a 10-inch touchscreen that simplifies printing, scanning and copying and offers direct access to the Xerox ConnectKey platform’s cloud and productivity apps. By integrating cloud apps and services, ConnectKey offers an intuitive user experience, mobile and cloud

SRA3 and weights from 52gsm-400gsm

connectivity, total security and instant access

including envelopes, embossed, linen and

to value-added services. The new series of

textured papers, banners up to 1300mm,

printers is available for order now.

synthetics and labels. Combined with production-class feeding and finishing features, Xerox says the new series offers versatility and sustainability, reducing

A Dress To Impress

material waste through advanced automation.

At the 2024 Icona d’Or awards, an event that

Ryan Clarke, General Manager Xerox Ireland, said: “This exciting launch of new products reinforces our commitment to the Irish print market. Our customers are looking for quality, versatility and affordability in light production printing. These new Xerox presses punch above their weight in features and capabilities.

“The new Xerox Primelink C92xx Series has been designed to help them cope with a changing market and maximise their return on investment. In today’s competitive

recognises the achievements of visual communication professionals across 13 categories, FESPA France President Julia Nojac wore a dress created using the Mimaki TS330-1600 dye sublimation inkjet printer. The print design was created by Madrid-based visual artist Kinda Youssef and with the expertise of Rosanne Kooijman, Mimaki’s youngest female application specialist, the print was turned into a vibrant, detailed fabric.

environment, businesses need comprehensive

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Polar Smooth 150 Air now available globally

P+D

Drytac has announced the global availability of Polar

Dining out P+D recently completed a project at Dundrum Town Centre that involved the brand creation, design and implementation of the Centre’s new food and entertainment destination. ‘The Dining District’ is located outdoors by the mill pond and includes an eclectic offering from food, socialising and entertainment for all ages. To promote the Dining District, P+D produced and installed a range of Efka illuminated and non-illuminated frames throughout the centre. The light boxes are powered by low energy LED lights and all prints are produced on Samba Green, a fabric where the yarn is created from recycled plastic bottles. They were all printed on P+D’s Canon Colorado using low energy UV curing.

Smooth 150 Air. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use on most surfaces including painted walls, melamine, glass and other flat or simple curved surfaces, Polar Smooth 150 Air is the ideal solution for applications spanning interior décor, wall and window graphics, decals and stickers, point of sale and construction hoardings and barriers. At 6 mil (150µ) thick, the film ensures an easier installation compared to thinner alternatives. It’s available in both permanent and removable options and coated with a clear pressure-sensitive aqueous acrylic adhesive paired with an air egress release liner, allowing for easy bubble-free installation. “We are really excited to be able to offer Polar Smooth 150 Air to customers around the world,” said Kieran Blacknall, Operations Manager at Drytac. “The product has been a great success in the North America market, with users praising its easy installation and print quality. We are delighted that even more customers will now have access to the material.”

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NORTHSIDE GRAPHICS

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This is our third year doing the motivational calendars, with all money raised going to rescue efforts in China to help save more dogs from horrific circumstances

Henry Wee Wheels at Northside Northside Graphics had possibly its cutest visitor ever recently – therapy dog Henry Wee Wheels signing off on his annual charity calendar. Henry was rescued from a slaughter house in China and flown to Belfast for life-saving surgery in 2017.

calendar along with his range of merchandise. “This is our

He had been attacked by another dog, resulting in a broken

third year doing the motivational calendars, with all money

back, legs and paralysed rear end. After being rescued, he

raised going to rescue efforts in China to help save more dogs

was adopted by Sharon Warnock who arranged for him to

from horrific circumstances. We were let down the first year

be fitted with his special custom wheelchair. Since then,

by another printer, however every cloud has a silver lining

Henry has become a therapy dog, visiting local schools,

and it was definitely a blessing in disguise. After contacting

children’s hospitals and care facilities. Today, he’s an internet

several printers, Northside Graphics came highly

sensation through Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, with

recommended… and after speaking with David Brown and

over 1 million likes on TikTok. For the past three years,

being assured of great quality with a quick turnaround, we’ve

Northside Graphics has been producing Henry’s annual

never looked back,” said Sharon.

Girls Who Print awards Girls Who Print, the largest global network of women in the print and graphic communication industry, presented three awards during the online Girls Who Print Conference in November. The 2024 Rising Star Award was presented to Kiki Heron, Account Manager, Training and Development Leader at Specialty Print Communications. The award recognises women who have stepped up and taken the initiative to proactively help the industry, their

while the 2024 Girls Who Print Girlie

pivotal role in helping her membership

company and their colleagues. The

Award for leadership and community

thrive in an evolving marketplace

inaugural Girls Who Print Ally Award

service was presented to Christine

through educational initiatives,

was presented to Ryan LeFebvre,

Hagopian, President of the Printing

networking opportunities and

Executive VP of Sales and Marketing

Industries of New England (PINE). For

resources that foster growth and

at Specialty Print Communications,

the past 18 years, she has played a

innovation.

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2024

SAVE THE

DATE ENTRIES OPENING SHORTLY 4TH APRIL 2025

VISIT

DATE

www.irishprinter.ie/ awards for more information #PRINTAWARDS24

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For All Enquiries Contact: Jill Thornton, Event Manager Email: jill.thornton@ashvillemediagroup.com Phone: 01 640 1700

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Clontarf Castle Hotel Clontarf, Dublin 3

@IrishPrinterMagazine

Sponsorship Enquiries Contact: Trish Murphy, Sponsorship & Sales Director Email: trish.murphy@ashvillemediagroup.com Phone: 086 8379246

03/12/2024 16:18

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TALKING

With a new facility in Newbridge, the future is looking bright for Xtreme Signs & Graphics

A CUT

of space. As a trade printer, we have to be able to provide our clients

ABOVE

with continuous stock when they need it, so our Newbridge facility

we tend to take them on, even if there isn’t a

allows for that. Our two 3.2m dye sub printers are also in the new

position available at the time. If we think they will

facility. Anna is the general manager there and she’s doing a great

be valuable to the company in the future we’ll

Xtreme Signs & Graphics was set up by Pierre Phieffer over 16 years ago and has evolved from a firm that specialised in safety signage to one that today, provides clients with a host of bespoke services.

As the business has grown, staff numbers have also increased from four to 15. In 2024, the firm opened its second facility in Newbridge, Co Kildare to cater for an increased workload and provide some badly-needed space. “It’s given us some breathing room in terms

job in getting our name out into the area and making our presence felt,” says Director Roisin Hennessy.

Roisin has been with Xtreme for the past six years. After obtaining a degree in graphic design, she completed a course in traditional signwriting and through that, secured an apprenticeship in Cork in a print signage firm. “I started in production so I was actually on the floor making and installing signs and wrapping cars. After that, I was lucky enough to travel around Australia and New Zealand for a few years. Once you have any experience in the sign industry you’ve got a foot in the door, so I worked in various sign firms over there. Today, I’m in design but everyone at Xtreme does a bit of

It’s also such an artistic, creative industry and I think that sometimes, young people don’t realise that

TO

create a role, just to retain them. We’re lucky at the moment with staff, but it’s definitely an issue that’s affecting all print businesses out there.”

Going into 2025, the ambition is to broaden the client list and continue to grow. Fabric is an area of growth for the firm, as is large format, vinyl and displays. “Continuous investment in technology is also important; it helps us stay a step ahead, it improves productivity and ensures a quick and reliable turnaround for our customers. That’s something we really pride ourselves on.”

everything. We all help out – everyone can jump on a machine or a mounting table.”

A print apprenticeship is a ticket to anywhere in the world, says Roisin. “I got the opportunity to travel the world with mine and that’s one thing I would always say to prospective apprentices. If you have any interest in print, it will allow you to travel. It’s also such an artistic, creative industry and I think that sometimes, young people don’t realise that.”

A number of employees at Xtreme have been with the firm for several years, however recruitment is an ongoing challenge.

“Finding people with experience in this industry is tough. If someone comes across our path that we feel would be a good fit

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EXPLORING THE

POWER ofPRINT Run by Two Sides, the annual Power of Print seminar featured a host of provocative presentations that highlighted the potential for the reinvigoration of print, writes John Blyth

While all the speakers had something interesting to say to the assembled audience drawn from the print and communications industry, I want to focus on just a few of them, those who were especially inspiring, starting with Justin Cairns, Head of Offline Production for Ogilvy UK. His team produces work that you can touch including direct mail, books, press ads, outdoor, promotional merchandise and exhibition stands.

Justin’s core message was that as the internet increasingly takes on the heavy lifting when it comes to marketing information, print is freed up to become more creative; the great seducer as it has been memorably called. And it’s OK to be more expensive than online media because, as Rory Sutherland the advertising guru and vice president of Ogilvy UK said, “messages that are costly to convey we perceive in a different way”.

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13 And furthermore creatives love print, Justin declared – they love

role in the way we interact with it, such as connected vitamin bottles

new formats, different finishes and working with something physical.

which remind the user to take the next dose and link to an app for

Printers, he noted, are the enablers of their creativity and he ran

automatic reordering. Again this is already here, a glimpse of the

through a series of powerful and eye-catching campaigns with print

future.

at their heart, including from Dulux paint, What 3 Words and from

Lastly, from individual to collaborative, as reusable packaging

JCDecaux, the outdoor media owner, with its astonishing, successful

becomes a shared asset that multiple brands can use. For example,

campaign on the Madrid metro featuring an anonymous grandmother.

there is a British nationwide refill scheme that enables customers to

Justin’s conclusion was cheerfully upbeat; he said that, like Woody

bring any empty 70cl bottle to be refilled from a bulk dispensary.

from Toy Story, the favourite toy that is always there, print can still

James left us with a positive impression of how the packaging industry

be the hero.

is set to play a bigger role in safeguarding our planet’s resources.

A change of gear followed as Keshini Dodhia from Tony’s

The stage was therefore perfectly set for Jonathan Porritt CBE,

Chocolonely stepped up to give us some insights into the ethical

the eminent writer and campaigner on sustainable development. And

values that drive this increasingly successful chocolate manufacturer.

while the latest evidence on the impact of climate change was sobering,

It has become a formidable rival to the seven dominant chocolate

he offered some hope of where respite may come from.

manufacturers, driven by a mission to trace all bars, support strong

But first Jonathan rightly foreshadowed the recent announcement

farmers, pay farmers a high price, go for the long term and focus on

from COP 29 that 2024 would be the hottest year ever and he

quality and productivity. Tony’s Chocolonely is committed to bringing

highlighted the iron clad laws of physics that are the cause of the

down the 1,000,000 plus number of children working in the cocoa

manifest impacts we are now seeing – floods,

production business in the two biggest producing countries of Cote

droughts, wildfires and storms.

d’Ivoire and Ghana.

The cost of these natural disasters is huge

At the same time, the company is a big fan of print, using its paper

and growing. They threaten the financial

wrappers to send enlightening messages and offering personalised

stability of one of the foundation stones of a

wrappers for corporate clients and individual consumers alike. And

stable world’s financial and economic

thereby winning new customers, building loyalty, and creating new

environment, namely the insurance industry.

advocates for its partnership approach to ending exploitation in cocoa.

The losses it is incurring in Florida and

James Pryor, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Touch, a

elsewhere in America for example are

structural packaging and product innovation agency, gave an insightful

unsustainable. But this industry is too

presentation into the direction of travel for packaging.

important to go bust. Jonathan is hoping for

Europe is leading the way with the most progressive initiatives, but other regions are following

A combination of retailers (who will delist brands and products

a dawning realisation among policy makers

that do not match their own sustainability goals), consumers (who

that by tackling climate change more

expect brands and governments to take responsibility for addressing

vigorously, the vital insurance industry can be safeguarded and

sustainability issues) and legislation, are causing brands to make

economic chaos prevented. So while the headline statistics may

great strides in the sustainability and recyclability of their brands’

suggest we are entering a “doom loop,” Jonathan is sanguine about

packaging. Europe is leading the way with the most progressive

a belated concerted response to the issue of climate change.

initiatives, but other regions are following.

So, a series of provocative and illuminating presentations that

James foresees by 2030 Europe creating less waste and using

highlighted the rich potential for reinvigoration and reinvention that

resources more responsibly to ensure a functioning circular economy

print enjoys, against of course the backdrop of the immense looming

for packaging. Looking further ahead to 2050, he expects three future

challenges posed by a changing climate.

directions for packaging. Recycling will be moving to regenerating as the need for non-renewable materials declines. Packaging in a

All presentations and speaker recordings can be found at

www.twosides.info/power-of-print-2024

thriving circular economy will be a tool with which to renew and regenerate, lowering climate impact and cleaning the environment.

PET bottles made from carbon emissions are a great foretaste of this as they are already here.

Secondly, packaging moving from enabling to enhancing. It will no longer just contain and protect a product. Rather, it will play a key

JOHN BLYTH is Marketing and Communications Manager, Ricoh Graphic Communications, Ricoh Europe

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COVER STORY

Charting

NEW HORIZONS MJ FLOOD recently supplied and installed the ACCURIOPRESS C12000E at HACKETTS, an investment that’s paving the way for growth at the print firm

In the dynamic landscape of production print, achieving both efficiency and high quality is critical. Hacketts’ recent adoption of the AccurioPress C12000e represents a significant advancement, enhancing productivity and redefining their future capabilities. This upgrade, characterised by increased speed, larger capacity and advanced inline finishing features, is well-equipped to handle the swift pace of the industry while meeting the sophisticated demands of their clientele.

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Upon evaluating our new AccurioPress C12000e, it’s clear that we have successfully streamlined our production at Hacketts. The integration of accelerated printing speeds and innovative finishing features, especially in short-run packaging and business card printing, has set a new operational benchmark

“Upon evaluating our new AccurioPress C12000e, it’s clear that we have successfully streamlined our production at Hacketts.

The integration of accelerated printing speeds and innovative finishing features, especially in short-run packaging and business card printing, has set a new operational benchmark. Our capacity to manage heavier stocks and packaging materials opens up new market opportunities, enabling us to meet specific client requirements with improved efficiency and environmentally friendly solutions,” said Brian O’Loughlin, Director at Hacketts.

Hacketts’ choice of the AccurioPress was motivated by the clear limitations they faced with their previous system. After five years, it simply could no longer match the pace or versatility that today’s market demands. The AccurioPress C12000e’s impressive speed – 120 pages per minute compared to the previous model’s 100 – provides an immediate edge. Yet, the speed is only part of the story. Its ability to handle heavier paper and packaging board up to 450 g/m2 means Hacketts can expand confidently into short-run packaging, an area with growing demand and untapped potential. This capability not only improves their competitive standing but also allows them to address diverse client needs with a broader range of materials and finishes.

“The smooth installation, completed by the skilled team at MJ Flood in just two days, meant that we could quickly get to work with minimal downtime. Initial reactions from our team highlight the immediate benefits: Projects that previously took three hours can now be completed in under two, demonstrating

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17 how the new AccurioPress C12000e has

complex jobs with tighter deadlines

successfully streamlined our production

positions them to compete confidently

processes at Hacketts.” The press’s inline

within both the local and wider markets.

finishing capabilities stand out, especially in business card production, where the TU-510 trimming unit enables us to achieve a level of precision and efficiency previously unattainable. The C12000e also allows us to print on heavier cardstock, eliminating the need for lamination, and it aligns well with our goal of providing sustainable, eco-friendly print solutions without sacrificing quality,” said Brian.

Since integrating the AccurioPress and TU-510, the production workflow has become more streamlined and resilient.

This automation reduces reliance on manual

inter vention,

minimises

In the coming months and years, we are excited to explore the full potential of this advanced setup, using it as a springboard to expand our capabilities and deliver higher-quality, faster turnaround services

Beyond these operational benefits, the new system has opened up opportunities for growth in specialised areas, with enhanced trimming and finishing capabilities – a feature they plan to promote actively on platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram to attract new clients.

Looking ahead, Hacketts anticipate that this installation will be instrumental in driving growth. As they continue to invest in technology, they are setting a strong foundation for long-term sustainability and innovation. The flexibility to add tools like inline creasing and perforation only reinforces their commitment to adapting with the industry’s evolving demands. In

bottlenecks and accelerates turnaround

embracing this shift, they’re not only

times, enabling Hacketts to meet tighter

boosting their current output but also

deadlines with consistent results. The

preparing to meet the next wave of

production team has observed marked

customer needs with precision and agility.

improvements in print quality, particularly

“In the coming months and years, we

on uncoated and silk stocks, where this

are excited to explore the full potential of

press brings a newfound clarity and depth

this advanced setup, using it as a

that resonates well with their clients’

springboard to expand our capabilities

expectations.

and deliver higher-quality, faster

The increased production speed and

turnaround services. Ultimately, our goal

quality not only enables them to serve their

remains the same: to elevate Hacketts’

existing customers more effectively, but

offerings and exceed expectations of our

also creates avenues for new offerings.

clients, both old and new. As we continue

Although it’s early to assess the full impact

on this path, we welcome any advice from

on profitability and production costs,

the team in MJ Flood to optimise our

Hacketts are already noticing encouraging

approach and maximise the benefits of

signs. Their capacity to handle more

this upgrade.”

BRIAN O’LOUGHLIN

HACKETTS 086 608 7644 | brian.oloughlin@hackettsprint.ie

MARK LYNAM

MJ FLOOD PRODUCTION PRINT 085 771 2144 | mlynam@mjflood.ie

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Our clients are increasingly asking us about sustainability, but our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint are something we do as standard. In 2023, we became EcoVadis Gold certified; there are very few companies in Ireland that have achieved that accreditation

QUALITY For Gary O’Brien at The Printed Image, 2025 is all about delivering sustainable, top quality products to clients

FIRST In 2025, The Printed Image is planning to install solar panels on its production facility. It’s the latest in a long line of steps intended to up the print firm’s already impressive sustainability credentials.

“Our clients are increasingly asking us about sustainability, but our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint are something we do as standard. In 2023, we became EcoVadis Gold certified; there are very few companies in Ireland that have achieved that accreditation. It puts us in the top 5% of over 100,000 companies in 175 countries and it’s something we’re really proud of. Our efforts to be as sustainable as possible go beyond what our clients want or expect – it’s something we want to do ourselves,” says Gary O’Brien, Business Development Director at The Printed Image.

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Established in 1990, The Printed Image has evolved from a traditional print firm to one that today offers a diverse range of services. An eagerness to adapt is the key to the firm’s longevity, as is a commitment to customer satisfaction. “We have production staff that will come in over the weekend to complete a job. Our team are excellent, they really want to deliver the best possible product to the customer. I know it sounds like a cliché, but this industry is all about relationships.

It’s about our clients being able to trust us and knowing we’ll deliver an excellent product, on time. We get a lot of repeat business because we go the extra mile for clients.”

About 50 people are employed at The Printed Image.

Recruitment is difficult across certain areas, an issue that’s exacerbated by the housing crisis, cost of living increases and rental pressures. The lack of a State-sponsored apprenticeship scheme is also adding to the skills gap, although the Print Media Technician programme will hopefully go some way towards filling that gap, says Gary.

Despite the challenges faced by the firm, business was good in 2024, albeit slow in Q1. A lag in client demand at the start

We’re probably one of the largest suppliers of branded merchandise in the country at the moment. It’s a segment that our clients were constantly asking about and so we investigated what was required and just went for it

of the year stabilised in Q2 and investment in new technology saw a boost to profits for the remainder of 2024. “We made some significant staff and capital investments in 2024 and hopefully, we’ll see the benefits of those in 2025. We added two new presses and we also increased our small format

merchandise in the country at the moment.

capacity. We invested in two new CNC cutting machines,

It’s a segment that our clients were

along with additional finishing equipment. We also upgraded

constantly asking about and so we

our design infrastructure. We’re constantly looking at how

investigated what was required and just

we can improve our offering to customers, so 2024 was a big

went for it. We’ve developed a huge supplier

year for that.”

base, both locally and further afield, that

Promotional merchandise is an area of growth at The Printed

we deal with on the branded merchandise

Image. “We’re probably one of the largest suppliers of branded

side. It’s a huge area of growth for us and I

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21 A recently completed project by The Printed Image that included design, production and installation

about our next move. One of our mantras is around growth and innovation, but it has to be right. We may look at exports or move further into the signage segment, which is an area we’re already active in, but I think there are more opportunities there.”

Small and medium sized businesses are struggling to cope with additional costs from government, such as statutory sick pay, increases to minimum wage, employer PRSI and extra bank holidays. “Sometimes it feels like it’s all take but you’re not really getting anything back. Those government measures are creating challenges for firms that aren’t necessarily recognised. From a sales perspective, one of the biggest challenges is keeping the quality and the level of offering in line with decreasing budgets from clients. Our service includes artwork design, structural design, production and installation but budgets are being squeezed across the board.

Maintaining the same level of innovation and service across all our departments can be very challenging, as you’re trying to get the client to understand and see the value of that particular service. But we’ll always work with our clients to come up with the right solution.”

Going into 2025 and beyond, the ambition is to continue delighting clients.

“Maintaining that level of quality that our expect that growth to continue into 2025.”

clients appreciate is the top priority. We

Investment in technology has allowed for increased

don't sell on price and that’s something we

adaptability. Both sheet fed and roll fed are an option on the

often say to our clients. It’s not that we’re

firm’s new large format presses. “Rather than having a machine specifically set up for sheet fed at a particular time of the year, say during the election, we now have the option of running other jobs on the same machine. That kind of flexibility allows for more capacity.”

In 2025, the ambition is to move into new sectors while still focusing on the firm’s core areas. “We don’t want to be a jack of all trades and a master of none either, so we’ll be selective

We don’t want to be a jack of all trades and a master of none either, so we’ll be selective about our next move

not competitive, but we’re not into penny pinching over a couple of cents. It’s quality products that we provide and that’s what helps us grow our client base. We’re also very much focused on sustainability, our own and our client’s, and on our staff’s wellbeing. The Printed Image is a great place to work and we aim to keep it that way.”

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T R A I N I N G

Joe O’Callaghan, Network Manager at Design, Print & Packaging Skillnet, chats about the power of upskilling in an increasingly competitive environment

Get ahead of the What was the take-up like of courses at DPP Skillnet in 2024?

The take-up was very good. We run a range of courses, everything from Excel, InDesign and Packaging Technology, right up to courses at Master’s level. Our AI courses proved particularly popular in 2024; we provided introductory courses to give people a broad understanding and we also ran specialist courses. We probably had the biggest intake of numbers on our AI courses.

Do you think that printers recognise the importance of upskilling and continuous education?

CURVE

Yes, I think that there’s a better realisation now than there was some years ago. People are very busy and sometimes, it’s not until you actually need something that you say, where can I go to obtain that skill? Training can really help a print firm differentiate itself; I think many print firms don’t realise how important training is until a staff member comes back after completing a course with a whole new set of skills. We’re constantly talking to printers to find out what they’re interested in and providing a course in that area. For example, we developed a colour management course based on feedback from printers. It was particularly relevant for people in the sales field and proved very popular. We’re hoping to run another one next year. Our Print Media Technician Programme, which kicked off in 2023, was also very popular in 2024.

So the industry is engaging with the programme?

the time. Along with the digital side, we found there was a big requirement

Absolutely, yes. When we initially set it up, we conducted

approximately 20 students have enrolled in the programme each year. The

research to make sure we were covering most of the topics

numbers vary, but it’s been very successful as we’re generally training people

that were required, as the print industry is changing all

who are already in the industry and require new skills.

for general skills in the likes of print estimating. Over the last two years,

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The industry is changing and evolving all the time, but I think Irish print firms are agile enough to adapt and weather the storms

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COURSES AVAILABLE AT DPP SKILLNET Print Media Technician programme In collaboration with the Irish Printing Federation and the Design Print & Packaging Skillnet, we are proud to continue with the pathways programme designed to develop the human talent needed Joe O’Callaghan, Network Manager, DPP Skillnet

to drive our sector forward. This programme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland, the

Will there be any changes made to the scheme in 2025?

The programme will change continuously, in line with how the industry evolves. At the end of each year, I chat to the various print firms that have engaged with the programme and I ask them what worked and what didn’t work. Quite a few people on the course would probably like to see more in-person training, which isn’t always possible. We try and facilitate it when we can; for example, next week Canon is running a digital

qualified staff for different roles is very challenging and if they’re lucky enough to have those staff, retaining them is another challenge. One of the advantages of

fidelity, from digital design to final print. This course is ideal for graphic designers, print technicians, sales teams and anyone involved in the print production process.

For participants ready to go

programme, companies can not

from beginner to confidently

only support the next generation

integrating AI tools into everyday

of print media technicians in

work tasks. Absolutely no

Ireland, but also enhance their

experience is needed for this

own workforce with skilled and

course. Specifically tailored

well-trained professionals.

for non-technical people and beginners who want to introduce

Course Modules Include: • Understanding workplace environment

It’s having a huge impact. Printers tell me that sourcing

practices that ensure colour

companies. By participating in this

over from Germany and the UK. We’re open to change

How much of an impact is a lack of skills having on the industry?

will explore the principles and

AI for Beginners

practices in the print

the necessary changes.

Over eight modules, attendees

European Union, and network

training session at its facility, with trainers coming and if something isn’t working, we’re not afraid to make

high-quality print outputs.

• Understanding pre-press, print & digital artwork

AI. This course explores how tools like ChatGPT can revolutionise the way we work. Learn how to craft prompts. Discover an exciting set of curated AI tools that will change the way you live and work.

• Managing print & digital

Consider data privacy, ethics and

printing machines

more while building confidence

• Managing print & digital

to integrate AI into your daily

finishing machines • Improving effectiveness in the print company • Health and safety in the print working environment

workflow.

Diploma In Packaging Technology In association with the Irish

the Print Media Technician programme is that it’s a

• Good manufacturing practice

Packaging Society and accredited

fully certified, two-year course. I think those two years

• Masterclasses for real-life

by TU Dublin, this course is

give print firms an opportunity to showcase the

experience and insights

ideal for people responsible

opportunities available and the person engaging in the

for specifying packaging or

their new skills. Increasing costs are another major

Colour Management in Print

issue for print firms across the board. Some printers

The Colour Management in

those buying or selling packaging

Print course is designed for

or those using/packing/

those in the printing and design

filling in the food, drink and

industry who seek to deepen

pharmaceutical sectors along

their understanding of colour

with brand/NPD team members,

management and enhance their

brand owners and FMCG product

ability to produce consistent,

category managers.

training is perhaps more likely to stay on and utilise

are also telling me that print runs are dropping in certain areas, falling to around 5,000 in some cases.

The industry is changing and evolving all the time, but I think Irish print firms are agile enough to adapt and weather the storms.

working in a role as a Packaging Technician. It’s also suited to

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Where it all STARTED “Measure twice, cut once” is the mantra Lauren Gallagher took away from her first role

My career in printing started in the prepress/design department at a printing company that specialised in making scratch cards. I did my apprenticeship there and was with the company for three years. That experience gave me a thorough understanding of the print process including prepress, plate making, printing and finishing. It’s safe to say I’ll never look at a scratch card the same way again!

I think the biggest lesson I learned from that role was “measure twice, cut once”. It taught me the value of doublechecking everything and that if something doesn’t seem right, it probably isn’t. Print can make you a bit of a perfectionist, but that’s a good thing.

I wasn’t fond of the limited scope of the role. I wanted to be more client-facing, working directly with customers on their briefs and projects. On the positive side, I enjoyed the design projects I got to contribute to, especially the satisfaction of getting customer approval and seeing the design in stores. That was pretty cool! But I wouldn’t consider myself a designer by any means!

I’ve always had a passion for print, really. It runs in the family – my dad, two uncles and aunt all work in the industry. Growing up, I’d listen to my dad speak to clients, guiding and advising on print projects. It inspired me to do the same, but I also

When you’re studying something you’re passionate about, the work doesn’t feel like a chore

wanted to gain technical knowledge along with the sales side so I could truly understand what I was talking about when working with clients. I completed the Print Media Apprenticeship in 2017, then pursued a degree in Print Media Management, both with Technological University Dublin. When you’re studying something you’re passionate about, the work doesn’t feel like a chore. It was

also great because I was able to work in print while studying, which made the experience even richer. The print industry is unique and no two days are ever the same. You never really know what’s coming on a Monday morning – it keeps you on your toes!

Lauren Gallagher is a Business Development Representative at McGowans

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