Irish Printer Issue 6 2025

I S S U E 6 2 0 2 5 | | T H E V O I C E O F T H E I N D U S T R Y | | W W W. I R I S H P R I N T E R . I E

TALKING TO...

DIARMUID DAWSON on the

THE POWER OF HOPE Fresh perspectives

power of education and ambitions for 2026

at the National Print Museum

INK

in his veins

JOHN PURCELL on a lifetime in print

CUTTINGEDGE TECH

Xtreme Signs & Graphics invests in a Veloblade Nexus 3032

OFC_IP_2024_Issue 6_Cover_FINAL.indd 1

17/12/2025 15:56

Ibema Naturale Ibema Naturale joins other sustainable products from Ibema, produced from a renewable source using fewer chemicals. Features and unbleached cellulose fibre front and back for a natural rustic appearance.

Aimed at the cosmetics and food industries, Ibema Naturale paperboard has high rigidity, and is ideal for takeaway, delivery and e-commerce.

High stiffness Suitable for food contact 70% fewer chemicals Natural color (from wood fibers) Great performance Sustainable solution

t: +353 1 620 5555

www.premierpaper.ie

256440_Premier Paper Ad 1_Irish Printer November:December 2025_V1.indd 1

sales@premierpaper.ie

12/12/2025 12:46

1 ISSUE 6 2025 04 News A look at what’s happening in the print industry

11 Investment

11

Xtreme Signs & Graphics is the first Irish print firm to invest in a Veloblade Nexus 3032

12 National Print Museum Anthony Burrill collaborated with The National Print Museum to create a new letterpress print

12 15 Opinion Andy Clarke gives his take on the trends shaping the future of the print industry

16

21 Interview

Cover Story

24 Careers

John Purcell on a lifetime in print

Diarmuid Dawson talks about innovation within the industry

At just 12 years of age, Killian Kierans learned that every detail matters on the production floor

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

001_IP_2025_Issue 6_Contents_FINAL.indd 1

17/12/2025 14:36

2

2

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 2025.

Irish Printer,

For the last issue of Irish Printer for 2025, we chat to John Purcell about his impressive career in the print industry. John’s print journey began in 1964 with an apprenticeship at The Sign of the Three Candles print firm, just off Aston Quay in Dublin. He went on to work at Wood Printing Works, which became Wood Printcraft and altogether, he stayed there for 35 years. After a move to Colorman and another 12 years, John was ready to retire. Throughout those decades, he experienced huge shifts in the industry, from copper plate and letterpress to litho and digital. His career off the production floor was just as impressive; for over 20 years, he refereed international football matches with FIFA and UEFA. The more his career in print advanced, the more successful his refereeing career became. One fed off the other, he says. “The more confidence I got from refereeing something like a big Champions League match, the more confidence I got at work.” John’s son, also named John, has followed in his father’s footsteps.

He works at Anglo Printers in Drogheda and shares his father’s love for the industry. For more on John’s career, go to page 16.

Also in this issue, we take a look at Xtreme Signs & Graphics’ investment in a Veloblade Nexus 3032. Xtreme is the first Irish print firm to invest in the cutting machine which has, says the firm, streamlined workflow and boosted productivity. To read about the investment, turn to page 11. On page 21, Diarmuid Dawson chats about the year that was and his hopes that in 2026, more print firms will engage with the Print Media Technician Programme.

From all of us here at Irish Printer, we’d like to wish our readers a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. See you in 2026!

Unit 55, Park West Road,

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

McGowans Print

Printed on: HP Indigo 10000 using Novatech paper supplied

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 2025. All discounts, promotions and competitions contained in this magazine are run independently of Irish Printer.

The promoter/advertiser is

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!

responsible for honouring the prize. ISSN 0790-2026

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

002_IP_2025_Issue 6_Ed'sletter_FINAL.indd 2

17/12/2025 14:36

Ideally located 5 minutes from the M50, 2 minutes from the M3 DAMASTOWN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, D15 RYY9

PACKAGING SOLUTIONS We provide Trade Finishing Services such as: Point of sale gluing | Foil Blocking | Handwork and division assembly with 48,000 square feet spread across two warehouses

EXPERTS IN FINISHING FOR CARTON AND CORRUGATED FORMATS TEL: 01 254 1985

254584_Venture Finishing_Irish Printer Issue 5_2024.indd 1

E: patrick@venturefinishing.ie | www.venturefinishing.ie

04/12/2024 14:53

4

4

U P D A T E S

NEWS

SPOTLIGHT ON…

DURST P5 SMP

Key Features Durst Group has launched the P5 SMP, a hybrid LED

» Max. productivity – up to 1,940 sqm/h (20.882 sqft/h)

multi-pass inkjet system with a printing width of

» Resolution – 700 x 1,200 dpi, 900 x 1,200 dpi

3.5m, designed for both board and roll printing. The

» Drop size – 7 pl

system targets the Sign & Display, POP/POS,

» Colour channels – up to 10 channels

corrugated packaging and display sectors, as well as

» Max. board printing width – 3,500 mm (11.48 ft)

industrial décor printing markets. The P5 SMP handles both roll and board materials up to 70mm

sided printing, ensuring perfect front-to-back

thick. Currently, two formats can be loaded

alignment and accurate registration for guillotine

simultaneously; in its final stage, up to four formats

and die-cut processes. Additionally, the “Automated

will be possible. Another highlight is the DSA – Digital

Corrugated System” ensures high production safety,

Substrate Alignment system – providing precise

especially in corrugated printing. The material is

digital image registration with an accuracy of ±0.25

continuously and automatically kept flat, preventing

mm. This feature is particularly valuable for double-

edge lifting and reliably avoiding material collisions.

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

004_IP_2025_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 4

17/12/2025 14:38

SMURFIT WESTROCK

5 We know that what we do here makes a difference Smurfit Westrock invests €40m in packaging facility Smurfit Westrock has opened the doors of the world’s first packaging facility designed exclusively for pharmaceutical

Pictured (l to r): Brian Sheridan, Debbie McFadden, Chris Richardson, Gerry O’Dwyer, Tony Smurfit, Liz Proctor and Sharyn Gaffney

patient medication adherence, regulated pharma packaging and clinical trials. Located close to Dublin Airport, over €40

focus and client collaboration to explore potential partnerships

million has been invested in the brand new facility, which will

than can advance the future of healthcare. Brian Sheridan,

reflect the design and operational processes of a

VP Sales Global for Smurfit Westrock Adherence & Clinicals,

pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. The facility will

said: “Our extensive investment in leading-edge technology,

be operated under the Smurfit Westrock Adherence & Clinicals

including cold chain testing and electronics assembly testing,

(SWA&C) division with a 170-person team of designers,

combined with the experience, expertise and passion of our

operators and support functions. The facility also has an

team, will deliver speed to market for clients and patients alike.

Experience Centre which brings to life its capabilities for

We know that what we do here makes a difference – we are

visitors’ individual requirements and promotes both patient

passionate about what we do.”

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

004_IP_2025_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 5

17/12/2025 14:38

6

MIMAKI

Mimaki launches aqueous pigment ink Mimaki Europe has launched a new aqueous pigment ink – AP50 – designed for use with the company’s Tiger600-1800TS. The company says the new AP50 aqueous pigment ink delivers vivid colour reproduction and sharp, smudge-resistant images thanks to its excellent drying properties.

With enhanced red saturation, Mimaki says it ensures superior visibility and impact, making it ideal for campaign visuals, retail displays and food advertising.

P+D

“With the AP50 ink, we are

P+D wins gold at POPAI

combining Mimaki’s colour

At the 2025 POPAI Awards, P+D took home gold

expertise with water-based

in the ‘Grocery - Theatrical Display’ category

innovation to support sustainable,

for its Moretti Wow Display. Commenting on

high-speed poster production,”

the win, Sales Director

said Arjen Evertse, Sales Director

Ciaran Bowe said: “Working closely with the

at Mimaki Europe. “This new

talented Indica Worldwide team, we developed

solution gives printers a

a functional but premium suite. Clever graphics deliver an authentic Italian

competitive advantage – lowering

look, while our structural team added props to the FSDU header and Wow

costs and environmental impact

display to really make it stand out. The traditional open Italian wooden

while delivering the high-impact

shutters give a window into an authentic Italian taste.”

graphics Mimaki is known for.”

HEIDELBERG UK partners with Celessence HEIDELBERG UK has announced a new collaboration with microencapsulation technology company, Celessence. HEIDELBERG UK says the partnership will revolutionise the way brands and marketers engage consumers through print by adding an unexpected sensory dimension – scent. Using Celessence’s encapsulated fragrance technology, scent can be embedded directly into printed materials and when touched, microcapsules release fragrance. The technology is suitable for versatile print applications and is compatible with a range of printing methods including lithographic presses (for inline application via coaters), screen printing (available in air-dry or UV formats) and flexographic printing (ideal for packaging and labels).

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

004_IP_2025_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 6

17/12/2025 14:39

255642_MJ Flood_Irish Printer September:October 2025.indd 1

13/10/2025 12:19

JR LABELS

8

Your hard work, loyalty and commitment have left a lasting impact on colleagues and clients throughout the industry 30 years and counting JR Labels had cause for celebration recently as two of its team members marked 30 years of dedication, excellence and commitment to the company.

Over the past three decades, Jane Clarke and David Duffy have not only witnessed the evolution of the company, but have played a vital role in shaping its success. “Your hard work, loyalty and commitment have left a lasting impact on colleagues and clients throughout the industry. Here's to many more milestones ahead,” said Andrew Carson, Managing Director at JR Labels.

Canon World Unseen photography exhibition arrives in Dublin

Marking milestones at Northside Northside Graphics had another opportunity to celebrate its staff recently. Three long-standing members of the team, with a

Canon UK & Ireland has

combined 55 years of service, were

announced the next

commended for their commitment,

chapter of its ‘World

dedication and contribution to the print

Unseen’ photography

firm’s success over the years. Richard

exhibition, coming to

Campbell, Managing Director, marked 15

Dublin in partnership with Photo Museum Ireland. Described as an

years of service, Jonny Boyd, Senior

immersive and accessible exhibition, visitors are invited to

Technology Manager, marked 30 years of

experience photography in a completely new way, showcasing the

service and Glenn Nelson, Production

power of Canon’s elevated prints technology. “World Unseen” will

Manager, marked 10 years of service.

be hosted in Dublin from Wednesday 11th to Sunday 15th February 2026, offering a tactile and sensory experience through elevated prints, audio descriptions and braille. Visitors will encounter a series of images that showcase how imagery can be experienced through touch, to tell stories, communicate and evoke emotion. The adaptations not only raise awareness of accessibility in the arts, but also highlight how inclusive design can enhance experiences for all audiences. Guido Jacobs, Managing Director, Canon UK & Ireland said: “‘World Unseen’ is a testament to how technology can break down barriers and create meaningful, inclusive experiences for all.”

Admission is free and further information will be available via the Photo Museum Ireland’s website - www.photomuseumireland.ie

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

004_IP_2025_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 8

17/12/2025 14:39

Supera White GC1 Your premium packaging will gain in performance and elegance

Double coated paperboard.

Renewable source High Renewable 100%performance virginsource fiber and excellent stiffness featuring the whiteness that pleases the most demanding 100% virgin fiber side in its category Brightest reverse markets.

reverse its category ItBrightest is madefor with a side Suitable direct foodincontact Renewable source selection of noble raw materials that and Suitable for direct foodmachinability contact Excellent stiffness 100% virgin fiber make the surface more uniform, Excellent stiffness andin machinability High printreverse qualityside Brightest its category increasing machine High print performance.

Suitable forquality direct food contact Excellent stiffness and machinability High print quality

t: +353 1 620 5555

www.premierpaper.ie

256441_Premier 2_Irish Printer_V1.indd Printer November:December 2025_V1.indd 1 256439_Premier Paper Ad ad 2_Irish 1

sales@premierpaper.ie

12/12/2025 20/10/2025 12:49 12:08

10

Packaging entrepreneur given Freedom of London In recognition of his contribution to Northern Ireland’s business landscape, Dr Terry Cross OBE was presented with the Freedom of the City of London in December. At the event, the man behind Biopax and Delta Print & Packaging reflected on his career. “Receiving the Freedom of the City of London is both a privilege and a reminder of the responsibilities we share. This honour stands within

China, India, Poland and France. When he sold

a long tradition of service, generosity and civic duty.

Delta in 2016, he ensured the continued

I have always believed that business and community should work hand in hand and I accept this award as part of a continuing commitment to support others, to build meaningful partnerships and to contribute positively wherever I can. I am deeply grateful to my family, colleagues and all who have encouraged me throughout my life and work.” Raised on the Antrim Road in north Belfast, Terry launched Delta Print & Packaging in 1979 above a corner shop. It would go on to grow into a major international supplier,

This honour stands within a long tradition of service, generosity and civic duty

employing thousands across Northern Ireland,

employment and future security of his workforce.

As Chairman of Biopax, he is guiding the company through an expansion phase focused on sustainable packaging innovation. Dr Cross is also President of the British Red Cross (Northern Ireland) and through the David Cross Foundation for Peace and Reconciliation, established in memory of his late son David, he has supported melanoma research at Ulster University, youth projects, cross-community initiatives and vital health interventions across Northern Ireland.

New faces at Zeus Group Zeus Group has appointed Brian O’Kelly

member with more than 30 years’

and Paul Hogan as Non-Executive

experience in global packaging, corporate

Directors of its Board. Brian brings

development, M&A and financial

extensive experience in investment

leadership. He began his career at Price

banking, corporate finance and company

Waterhouse and spent 24 years at

strategy, having advised many of Ireland’s

Clondalkin Group, rising to Chief Financial

public and private companies on major

Officer and leading global corporate

M&A and capital markets transactions

development and M&A activity across

throughout his career. He worked at

flexible, specialty and healthcare

“We are delighted to welcome Brian

Goodbody Stockbrokers for 24 years

packaging. In 2014 he became CFO of

O’Kelly and Paul Hogan to the Zeus

where he was Co-Head of Investment

Nelipak Healthcare Packaging

Board. Their combined strengths in

Banking, having previously been

Corporation, overseeing North American

strategic governance, corporate finance

Managing Director of Goodbody

finance across multi site healthcare

and the packaging sector will be

Corporate Finance. He is currently

operations in a private equity backed

instrumental as we scale our business,

Chairman of private equity firm

environment. In 2020, he was appointed

execute on M&A opportunities and

Bellingham Capital. Paul Hogan is a

CFO of Brook & Whittle Holdings. Brian

continue to build sustainable value for our

seasoned finance executive and board

O’Sullivan, Zeus Founder and Owner, said:

customers and shareholders.”

Brian O’Sullivan

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

004_IP_2025_Issue 6_News_FINAL.indd 10

17/12/2025 14:40

11 INVESTMENT

Laminating Technologies. The Soyang team installed the machine at Xtreme’s Dublin facility in late summer. “Our rapid growth in fabric printing created a new challenge – manual cutting

CUTTING-EDGE

SOLUTION Xtreme Signs & Graphics is the first Irish print firm to invest in a Veloblade Nexus 3032

Roisin Hennessy, Co-Owner, Xtreme Signs & Graphics

It made perfect sense as the next step in our growth process to keep up with increasing demand for large-format print

couldn’t keep up with demand. To streamline workflow and boost productivity, we decided to automate the cutting process. After reviewing multiple options, we partnered with Soyang and Vivid and selected the Veloblade Nexus as our next cutting solution investment.

“It made perfect sense as the next step in our growth process to keep up with

XTREME Signs & Graphics has

increasing demand for large-format

become the first company in Ireland to

end of the summer, which was perfect

purchase a Veloblade Nexus 3032,

timing for us, coming into the busy

taking delivery of the machine from

exhibition season,” said Roisin

Soyang Hardware to expand its

Hennessy, co-owner of Xtreme Signs &

in-house cutting capabilities. The

Graphics.

Veloblade Nexus 3032 is a large-format

While the new machine has only been

digital die cutting machine developed

in place for a few months, Roisin and

by Vivid Laminating Technologies.

the Xtreme team say they have already

With a cutting area of 3,000 x

seen an improvement in production,

3,200mm, the machine allows users to

with the Veloblade Nexus 3032 having

work with stocks up to 25mm thick,

been put to work across a variety of

including materials such as Dibond,

applications. “We’re already seeing the

MDF and acrylic, alongside numerous

results we hoped for,” Roisin said. “The

fabrics.

changes have not only increased our

Offering a top cutting speed of

fabric production but have also helped

1,500mm/s, the device includes other

our team work more smoothly,

features such as automatic cut depth

confidently and investigate many more

setting and an automatic tool changer,

possibilities. It feels great to see our

both of which increase the overall

ideas turning into real progress.

operating speed and make the

Working with Soyang and Vivid has

operator’s job much easier.

been fantastic. Their support has been

Xtreme purchased the new device from

exceptional and we’re eager to continue

Soyang Hardware, an approved

building on our success together in the

distribution partner of Vivid

future.”

print. Our machine was installed at the

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

011_IP_2024_Issue 6_Xtreme_FINAL.indd 11

17/12/2025 17:04

12

12

Collaborations with creatives offer fresh perspectives on the National Print Museum’s historic collection and reveal the power it has to connect with people in meaningful ways today

N A T I O N A L PRINT MUSEUM

The Power of

HOPE Graphic artist Anthony Burrill collaborated with The National Print Museum to create a new letterpress print during Irish Design Week Back in 2015, for Irish Year of Design, the National Print Museum featured a powerful work called ‘Oil and Water Do Not Mix’ by Anthony Burrill. An internationally acclaimed graphic artist, Burrill is known for his ability to distill ideas into simple yet striking forms. He frequently collaborates with practitioners across music, architecture, curation and education, extending the possibilities of his chosen medium – letterpress printing – into new and ambitious directions.

Ten years after featuring his work, the Museum’s CEO Carla Marrinan Funder seized the opportunity to invite Burrill to collaborate with the Museum for Irish Design Week. In response to the invite, Burril asked “How soon can I get there?!”

He frequently collaborates with practitioners across music, architecture, curation and education, extending the possibilities of his chosen medium

The following month, Burrill visited the Museum to explore its working collection and collaborate with the Museum’s printers to create a new letterpress print.

He worked with graphic artist Mary Plunkett on the composition, using large wooden type from the Museum’s collection. He worked with the Museum’s printers Freddie Snowe and John King on the historic Wharfedale Stop Cylinder Press, the type of press used to print the 1916 Proclamation. The resulting artwork, titled HOPE, will be exhibited onsite and made available for sale in both limited and later as an open edition.

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

012_IP_2024_Issue 6_ National Print Museum_FINAL.indd 12

17/12/2025 15:59

13

them, I instinctively picked up the H, O, P and E. They fit together so naturally that the design seemed to form itself. In that moment, the idea came together “Collaborations with creatives offer fresh perspectives on the National Print Museum’s historic collection and reveal the power it has to connect with people in meaningful ways today. Recent collaborations have included projects with Irish artist Maser, writer Roddy Doyle and musician and poet Imelda May, and working with Anthony Burrill has been on our wish list for quite some time. This project demonstrates the enduring power of the printed word and reflects the Museum’s vision of a future in which the beauty and impact of printing continue to transform and enrich our world,” said Carla Marrinan Funder.

About the Print

beautifully. I love how the individual letters lock into

Seeing a new print come off the press is always a thrill, but the 80-line type on the Wharfedale was something else!

place – their serifs almost touching – to create a layout that feels both harmonious and slightly abstract. We need to be reminded of the positive power of hope as the world goes through difficult times and this print aims to capture that enduring spirit,” said Anthony Burrill.

Speaking about the sheer scale of the print, Plunkett said: “Seeing a new print come off the press is always a thrill, but the 80-line type on the Wharfedale was something else!”

The work is printed letterpress on a 200gsm recycled Shiro Echo paper (20 x 30 inches) in a limited edition of 100 signed, numbered and hand embellished by the

“The ‘HOPE’ print was created in direct response to the

artist. An unsigned open edition is anticipated to follow,

collection of wooden letter type at the National Print

printed on a 120gsm Shiro Echo paper.

Museum. During her research for this project, Mary

To mark the launch, Anthony Burrill returned to the

Plunkett uncovered a large 80-line type from the dusty

Museum during Irish Design Week for a Q&A-style

recesses of the Museum’s collection. “As soon as I saw

talk. For the opening night, Dublin-based print firm

the letters, I knew we had to use them to make a print.

Doggett Group very kindly enlarged the prints for

When we began taking out the letters and arranging

display all over the Museum.

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

012_IP_2024_Issue 6_ National Print Museum_FINAL.indd 13

17/12/2025 14:44

2026

CALL FOR

ENTRIES The Irish Print Awards aim to recognise the country’s best companies in the print and press sector, with over 400 professionals from across the print industry celebrating the best in their industry.

10TH APRIL 2026

VISIT

DATE

www.irishprinter.ie/ awards for more information #PRINTAWARDS26

@PrintAwards

Clontarf Castle Hotel Clontarf, Dublin 3

@IrishPrinterMagazine

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

@IrishPrinterMagazine

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

Irish Printing Federation

IPA 2026_Full_Enter Now_V4.indd 1

17/12/2025 15:33

15 O P I N I O N

THE

FUTURE OF PRINT Andy Clarke gives his take on the trends he sees shaping the future of the print industry

LABEL and package printing is defined by innovation and dynamism. This is realised

supporting the industry is best exemplified by our reputation as the world’s largest supplier of tesa plate mounting tapes.

For printers diversifying into new markets and using technology to print a variety of packaging types, plate mounting tapes increase in importance. Tapes have a pronounced impact on print quality, with hardness, thickness and adhesives all needing to be considered, alongside the substrate being printed on, whether it’s a label paper, a flexible film or cartonboard. In turn, this impacts print

through investment in the latest and greatest

machinery output and business throughput,

quality, waste generated and production

machinery which is used to convert reels and

resulting in an improvement in performance

optimisation.

sheets into high-value products; the adoption

and an increase in revenue generating

With our in-house expertise, slitting

of future-forward processes and business

potential, as well as cutting excess waste out

capability and express shipping service, we

models, in line with the constantly evolving

of supply chains. This is an important step in

are able to guide and advise printers on the

consumer and regulatory landscape; and

the packaging industry’s sustainability

right tape for the press and/or application,

efforts to engage and attract the next

journey.

then have it with them the next day so that

generation of employees into the sector. At

Sustainability is mission-critical for any

the same time, specific micro trends of

business and must be viewed holistically. Every

convergence, efficiency and sustainability are

part of the supply chain is now under scrutiny

The obvious benefit of this is increased

impacting the immediate future of the

and needs to show how it is contributing to

machine uptime and enhanced productivity,

industry.

sustainability initiatives and the

but when viewed through the

The convergence trend is a longstanding

transformation of end products into

broader lens of efficiency and

background consideration in packaging, with

recyclable packaging solutions

sustainability, the role of

label printers successfully adding flexible

that feed the circular economy.

equipment,

packaging formats to their offer for many

As the leading supplier of

consumables in helping

years, such as shrink sleeves and pouches. Just

equipment, parts and consumables

packaging printers deliver on

as sheet-fed printers have been turning their

to label and packaging printers, we

their sustainability and ESG

hand to any number of jobs that see sheets

are acutely aware of our role in the

goals must not be overlooked.

converted into POS and POP displays,

ecosystem

corrugated trays and folding cartons.

responsibilities very seriously.

and

take

they can continue producing high-quality work without delay.

parts

and

our Andy Clarke is European

Convergence was accelerated by the

Whilst we offer a comprehensive

Operations Director at Mark

Covid-19 global health crisis and facilitated by

portfolio of solutions that help

Andy Print Products (MAPP)

advances in technology that allow handling

printers manage the micro trends

of a wider range of materials and production

shaping their future, from plate

of a broader scope of work. This ties into the

mounting and curing to die-cutting

need for greater efficiency to improve

and anilox roll cleaning, our role in

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

015_IP_2024_Issue 6_Think B2B Marketing_FINAL.indd 15

17/12/2025 14:45

16

16

COVER STORY

INK in his veins JOHN PURCELL on a lifetime in print

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

17

AT

the 2015 Irish Print Awards, John Purcell was honoured w it h

t he

L i fe t i me

Achievement award. It was a much-deserved accolade for a man that has spent over 50 years in the print industry, honing his craft and providing guidance and mentorship to the generation of printers coming behind him. In a career spanning five decades that saw the decline of letterpress and the advent of litho, John has witnessed transformative changes in the sector.

It all started in 1964 when John took up a print apprenticeship at The Sign of the Three Candles print firm, just off Aston Quay in Dublin. He had just finished his Inter Cert and his father, also named John, had arranged an interview for him at the print firm where he worked. “My father, who

I had two choices – I could take the apprenticeship where my dad worked or I could go with the job at The Sign of the Three Candles

was also a printer, had set up an interview at Wood Printing Works on Wolfe Tone Street. I went for

to Wood Printcraft, they had bought some litho

the interview and two days later, I got the job. In

machines so I retrained and became a litho printer.”

the meantime I had registered with the union,

Although he was the youngest in a team of about

which was something you had to do in those days.

12, John was promoted to Print Manager. It was

I was given a list of apprenticeships and decided to

around this time that Wood Printcraft expanded

apply to The Sign of the Three Candles separately.

into the computer manual market. To facilitate the

When I was offered that job as well, I had two

extra workload, a new facility opened, called

choices – take the apprenticeship where my dad

Printcraft Computer Print. “I was asked to take on

worked or go with the job at The Sign of the Three

the General Manager role at the new facility and

Candles.” John opted for the latter. “I was only 15

ended up working there for about 20 years. I then

and at the time, I thought if I went working with

became a director and shareholder of the company

my dad, there would be a perception that he got

and was there for 35 years altogether. It was an

me the job. It probably turned out to be the right

unbelievable experience – I learned a huge amount.

decision in the end and so on the 4th of August,

I thought I’d be there to the end of my days, but

1964, I started my apprenticeship.” When he

then I got a call from Colorman.”

finished, he once again applied for a role at Wood

John knew Derek Geelon, the manager at

Printing Works and again, got the job. “This time,

Colorman. Derek had held the manager role at

I got it on my own. I was on a bigger machine and

Wood Printcraft before moving to Colorman. Now,

earning more money.” In 1972, a fire razed the print

John was taking up Derek’s manager role at

firm to the ground. A merger with Printcraft meant

Colorman. “How often does something like that

a move to Coolock and a name change to Wood

happen? I took the job and worked at Colorman for

Printcraft.

12 years until I retired. I’ve only had three jobs

John learned his craft at the print firm. “I was a

throughout my career – I spent six years in The

letterpress printer for about 10 years. I’m probably

Three Candles, 35 years at Wood Printcraft and 11

one of the very few letterpress printers left that

years at Colorman. They were eventful years –

would have printed four-colour process from copper

I saw huge changes in the trade from the time I went

plates, which was a real art in itself. When I went

into it as a young printer, to when I retired in 2015.

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

18 In those years, I witnessed lithographic printing absolutely wiping out letterpress printing and later, digital printing had the same effect on litho.”

But change must take place and industries must evolve. “They absolutely must. A good example of the change I experienced was at Wood Printcraft.

We used to print a book every year called the Shannon Mail Order Catalogue. It was an A5 48page catalogue for the American market and had a run of a quarter of a million. We printed it on letterpress on copper plates, on Heidelberg letterpress machines. Believe it or not, we used to start the job on the 1st of April every year. Delivery was for the following February, 10 months later. It took three letterpress machines and nine months to print it, one colour at a time.” A huge amount of machinery and staff went into producing the

people, you need to be cool, calm and collected.

catalogue, says John. “Then, the company decided

Your management skills have to be good and you

to buy a Honcho colour web press. That same job

must be observant. I learned all that in refereeing

was produced in just four days. That’s probably the

and brought those skills into my print career. I

best example of the change I saw when we moved

don’t think I would have done as well in either

from letterpress to litho.”

without the other.”

The fading out of copper plate heralded the

Two years after being recognised at the Irish

decline of the printing craft, he says. “It was a

Print Awards in 2015, John was awarded the

wonderful skill and I absolutely loved it. Litho was

Lifetime Achievement Award from his referee

a different ballgame, but it also required a high

colleagues in the League of Ireland and FAI. “I

level of skill. When I worked on that big colour web,

don’t think there are many people with two Lifetime

I was running it at 35,000 units per hour, both sides

Achievement Awards in two different areas!” John

together. You had to be quick and clever, otherwise

has two stand-out moments from his days on the

you were losing money. I got the buzz from the

pitch – one was refereeing a World Cup match in

craft of letterpress and then when I moved to litho,

Saarbrücken in Germany between Portugal and

the buzz was all about how quick I could be.”

Luxembourg in 1989. “It was in the Italia 90

John’s success in print was matched by his second

qualifying group and it was the last game in the

career off the production floor – his role as an

group. That was definitely a highlight of my

international football referee with FIFA and UEFA.

international career. In my domestic career, a match

As a side job, it’s an impressive one. “I refereed in

I’ll always remember was when I refereed the FAI

the World Cup and did big matches for over 20

Cup Final in the Aviva Stadium in 1991 between

years. I was also about 17 years with the League of

Galway United and Shamrock Rovers, with Galway

Ireland. I got to travel the world and the more I

Utd winning 1-0.”

progressed as a referee, the more my career in print

On the print side, John says he enjoyed moving

advanced. I think each fed off the other – the more

from one print form to the next. “I loved the

confidence I got from refereeing something like a

transition and the retraining to become as proficient

big Champions League match, the more confidence

as possible. Being made a director and part owner

I got at work. When you’re walking out with the

at Wood Printcraft was another highlight. You get

ball under your arm, in a stadium filled with 50,000

what you put into a career and I worked hard.

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

Copper plate was a wonderful skill and I absolutely loved it. Litho was a different ballgame, but it also required a high level of skill

19 You get what you put into a career and I worked hard. I was able to buy a house at just 21 years of age, something that’s virtually unheard of today. My father always said to me, you get nothing for nothing.

Whatever you get out, that’s what you put in

didn’t take it on board and it was to their detriment.”

For any aspiring print firms looking to expand, the label sector is a good option, says John. “Every I was able to buy a house at just 21 years of age,

single commodity has a label. It’s a huge segment

something that’s virtually unheard of today. My

and it’s expanding all the time. I would say it’s a

father always said that to me, you get nothing for

sure winner. Cartons also offer print firms an

nothing. Whatever you get out, that’s what you put

excellent revenue stream, although it’s a costly

in.”

market to break into.”

The biggest lesson he learned throughout his

Although he’s happy to be retired, John misses

career was around the importance of moving with

the print world. The legacy lives on in his son, also

the times. “I think a lot of print firm owners failed

called John, who’s following in his father’s footsteps.

to adapt. They were stuck in a kind of time warp

“He’s in Anglo Printers in Drogheda and he loves

and many went by the wayside. When litho overtook

it. He’s the fourth John Purcell to work in the

letterpress, a lot of print firms didn’t see it coming,

industry. I think printing is in our veins.”

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

2026

SAVE THE VISIT

DATE 10TH APRIL 2026

@PrintAwards

DATE

www.irishprinter.ie/ awards for more information #PRINTAWARDS26

@IrishPrinterMagazine

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

IPA 2026_Full_Save the Date_V3.indd 1

Clontarf Castle Hotel Clontarf, Dublin 3

@IrishPrinterMagazine

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

18/12/2025 09:05

21

21

Diarmuid Dawson, Irish Printing Federation President and MD at Innovation Print Solutions, talks about the future of the industry and why print firms should engage with the Print Media Technician Programme

I N T E R V I E W

“ Print is such a buoyant industry” How is business at Innovation Print Solutions?

The business changed somewhat in 2025. One of our main segments dropped away slightly, but we’re pulling in new business across other areas. Like other print firms, we’re evolving to ensure we stay profitable and competitive. We do a lot of security print and our work is about adding value to the paper, like for example barcodes and holograms, alongside names and addresses. So in that way, we’re differentiating ourselves.

Is the Print Media Technician Programme living up to expectations?

Absolutely. We launched the course two years ago and so far, 17 students have completed it and got their certification. Each year interest is growing and we’re taking on more and more students. We’re doing it in conjunction with the training arm of the British Printing Federation, but we’ve customised it to our

We do a lot of security print and our work is about adding value to the paper, like for example barcodes and holograms, alongside names and addresses. So in that way, we’re differentiating ourselves

own requirements. Our main trainer, Adam, told me he couldn’t get over the enthusiasm of the class that just qualified. One guy

recruit young people into the industry; there’s a

even dialled in from his holidays in Spain – the interest and the

lot of people exiting through retirement.

commitment has been great. So it’s being well received by the

Printers will often say how difficult it is to find

industry and they’re engaging with it, but we need that interest

staff that are trained to a high level. Thankfully,

to increase. I think more print firms would engage with the

the Design Print & Packaging Skillnet is

course if we had an official apprenticeship body. It’s so hard to

fulfilling that role as much as it can.

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

021_IP_2024_Issue 6_Diarmuid Dawson_FINAL2.indd 21

18/12/2025 11:13

22 Print Media Technician Programme graduate Ciaran Brady Print Media Technician Programme graduate William Ward

Graduates from the Diploma in Packaging Technology

DPP Skillnet has a reason to celebrate in 2026 I always knew the skill and innovation were there, but I don’t think I actually realised the level of intricacy that Irish printers are capable of

Print Media Technician Programme graduate Danny Rowe

Yes, they’re celebrating their 20th year in operation. The late

commented that the print industry is on its

Lorcán Ó hÓbáin was the first Network Manager while myself,

knees. That perception that print is dead still

Joe O’Callaghan and Diarmuid Everard were on the steering

persists, but it’s just not the case. I asked the

committee from the start. We’ve had great success with the

person who made the comment to take a look

Skillnet and it’s really given the print industry a boost. The

around the room we were in – everything was

Diploma in Packaging is still attracting a lot of interest, while

printed, whether it was the walls, the glass, the

the Masters programme is scheduled to continue in 2026. As I

brochures, everything. I even took my 3D printed

mentioned, the Print Media Technician Programme is also

glasses off to show him! Printing has changed,

capturing the attention of the industry, but we think there’s

it’s constantly evolving and adapting and will

scope for it to grow.

continue to do so. Commercial print has definitely suffered and some of those printers

Who is taking up the course?

Quite a few younger people, but also people who have been working in the industry for a few years and want to progress their

have sadly closed their doors. But others have reinvented themselves and are thriving.

– this course isn’t just for young people. We’ve had older

It’s an industry defined by innovation isn’t it?

participants in middle management take it up who’ll then maybe

It is. As a judge for the Irish Print Awards, the

move up to the Masters. So really, it’s for anyone interested in

quality of entries was really eye-opening. I

pursuing a career in print. There are so many opportunities in

always knew the skill and innovation were there,

this industry; people that aren’t part of it often don’t seem to be

but I don’t think I actually realised the level of

aware of that fact. I was at a conference recently where someone

intricacy that Irish printers are capable of.

career. I think that’s something that maybe people don’t realise

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

021_IP_2024_Issue 6_Diarmuid Dawson_FINAL2.indd 22

18/12/2025 11:13

23 Print Media Technician Programme graduate Stephen Crawley

Diarmuid Dawson, IPF President; Chantelle Lamont, Skillnet Ireland; Mary McCabe, DPP Skillnet; Joe O’Callaghan, DPP Skillnet; Fergus Flanagan, Fineprint

Print Media Technician Programme graduates Carl Porritt and Craig Casey

Print Media Technician Programme graduate Goran Brajkovic

Alison Malone Print Media Technician Programme graduate Alison Malone Print Media Technician Programme graduate Ciara Moore

What are some of the other challenges facing print firms at the moment?

What’s the main message you’d like to get across to print firms?

If you can engage with the pathway, then do.

Postage is still very high, as is the cost of materials. Labour costs

Also, try and become a member of the Irish

have also gone up. There’s a lot of greenwashing going on, which

Printing Federation. It’s not huge money and

is having a negative impact on the industry. No-one talks about

the subsidised training is well worth it. We need

all the data centres being built that run on unsustainable power

to get the message out there that this is a

and are so bad for the environment. Everything we use in the

buoyant industry and one where career

print industry is now sustainable – when paper mills knock a tree,

progression is encouraged. It’s such a great

they plant three more, materials are recyclable and the inks we

option for young people – we need to work

use are sustainable. We need to shout about that a bit more.

harder at getting the message out there.

ISSUE 6 2025 IRISH PRINTER

021_IP_2024_Issue 6_Diarmuid Dawson_FINAL2.indd 23

18/12/2025 11:13

24

24

C A R E E R S

WHERE IT ALL At just 12 years of age, Killian Kierans learned that every detail matters on the production floor

STARTED MY FIRST JOB in print was on the production floor

was playing commentary from the World Cup and every

in Anglo Printers in 2010. I was on summer break from

few minutes, the lads on the machine would shout for

school and my Mam didn’t want me or my brother

David Villa to score so their bet would land.

hanging around the house! I was just looking to earn

Those summer weeks gave me more than a paycheck.

a bit of money and had no idea how much that experience

They gave me an appreciation for the craft behind every

would shape my career. The production floor seemed

finished product. I saw how folding and stitching weren’t

chaotic to me – all kinds of machines humming and

just mechanical steps – they were the final touches that

stacks of paper everywhere waiting to become

turned print into product. I remember the attention to

something more.

detail from the operators on the stitching lines, as this

My role was assistant print finisher, which meant

was the last process for a lot of the work we did and

spending my time doing what I was told, whether that

no-one wanted to make a mess of the hard work that

be on the end of folding machines, feeding hoppers on

had come before! That experience shaped how I see

a stitching line, banding, shrink wrapping or just

our industry today. In my current role as a sales

sweeping the floors. The

manager, I’m extremely grateful for my time on the

MBO folding machine was

floor which provided me with the knowledge of our

my first real test. It didn’t

product range.

care that I was new – it spat

Looking back, I feel lucky. Lucky to have started around

out folded sections at a pace

people who were patient and supportive. Lucky to have

that felt impossible for my 12-year-old hands to keep

learned that in print, every detail matters, from the

up with. At first I was scrambling, trying to stack

first sheet off the press to the last racecard packed for

sections neatly without causing a jam that would result

delivery.

Looking back, I feel lucky. Lucky to have started around people who were patient and supportive

in a frustrated shake of the operator’s head.

One memory that will never leave me is the night we had

Killian Kierans is Account Manager at

two racecards to finish for delivery the next morning.

Anglo Printers Ltd

The clock was ticking and the pressure was on. The radio

IRISH PRINTER ISSUE 6 2025

024_IP_2024_Issue 6_Careers_FINAL.indd 24

17/12/2025 14:49

Bring Your Brand to Life with Premium Packaging Solutions.

Currently, most print packaging is still produced using

→ Amazing results on coated, uncoated and

traditional methods, such as solvent-based inks and

recycled materials → Eco friendly production → 98% Water based inks

varnishes, printing plates, foil blocks, and large print runs. At McGowan’s Packaging, we’ve revolutionized this process. With our advanced Landa B1 printing press, we can produce all the packaging you need, from as few as one unit to over 300k, tailored to meet your company’s specific requirements.

→ Can print on materials 80gm up to 800mic → Brilliant vibrant colours

→ Superb foil and spot uv finishes → All materials and finishes are fully recyclable

Order what you need, when you need it.

Visit us today at mcgowansprint.com and see how we can bring your ideas to life.

000000 McGowans Irish Printer Advert 01.25.indd 1 1 255523_McGowans_Irish PrinterA4 Issue 1 2025_V2.indd

30/01/2025 12/02/2025 15:13 17:58

Did you know we supply packaging too?

Packaging made simple, from experts you can count on.

No matter the size, we offer a versatile range of standard (and custom) packaging solutions designed to protect finished pieces and keep them looking their best.

Options include bubble wrap, foam protection, edge guards, tapes, boxes and more

Ideal for goods of all shapes and sizes High quality packaging materials across a broad por tfolio

Contact your local team to explore the right options for you.

Scan here to request our free packaging brochure.

gpmi.ie

255651_GPMI_Irish Printer Nov:Dec 2025_V1.indd 1

14/11/2025 12:06