Digital Image Magazine August 2023

CURVED WOOD-FINISH LININGS

Uplift your installations and spaces with cost-effective linings, made simply and quickly with pre-finished solid aluminium

Ai Panel Wood Grain

Pre-finished Solid Aluminium

Wood Colours - warm & inviting

Curvable Structure & Surface - acoustics management for echo reduction

Solid Aluminium - non-combustible, light-weight, simple & fast bending & fixing

SAS products, materials & services for signages and fitouts :

Pre-Finished Solid Aluminium Ai Panels

ACP Aluminium Composite Panels

Display equipment

Acrylic Sheets

LED Lightings & More

1300 727 118

publisher Image Publications Pty Ltd ACN 056 489 699

PO BOX 613, Brighton South Australia 5048

T > +61 1300 001 393

E > info@imagemagazine.com.au

W> www.imagemagazine.com.au

editor Stephanie Gaddin

T > +61 449 775 494

E > editor@imagemagazine.com.au

advertising Janet Maitland (Publisher)

T > +61 1300 001 393

E > info@imagemagazine.com.au

Welcome to the August Issue of Digital Image Magazine. The United Nations International Youth Day falls on 12 August, and this year the theme is Green Skills for Youth: Towards a Sustainable Future – a timeous reminder of the two significant challenges in our industry. Attracting enough youth into the workforce and transitioning as rapidly and safely as possible into a renewable, sustainable future.

In this issue the industry associations give us the latest updates on lobbying and the discussions that are ongoing with the Federal Government, and how we can attract, nurture and retain young talent in our industry. We discuss the latest industry trends in vinyl graphics and showcase a giant Matildas jersey printed on fabric and mounted at Marvel Stadium ahead of the Women’s World Cup.

Also, in this issue, the award-winning, innovative QBE signage project that won Gold and Silver medals at the 2022 National Sign and Graphic Awards, and we travel into Goulburn to check out the Flower Power Van that’s causing a stir among the locals.

As always, we love hearing your stories, so keep in touch and tell us about your interesting and challenging projects. You can also follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook for the latest news in signage and wideformat printing.

Stephanie Gaddin  Editor Digital Image Magazine

UK company launches banner rental service

UK Company Macro Art has launched a banner rental service for live events, aiming to drive sustainability in the trade show sector.

The rental scheme provides designers and exhibitors with access to a range of premium banners and fixings and comes with full reuse and recycling at the end of the event.

Macro Art uses independent analysis from Green Circle Solutions to demonstrate the rental solution’s benefits. “Taking the Total

Embodied Carbon for a 10m x 4m x 1.5m hanging box frame banner, clients who opt for the rental scheme can reduce their overall carbon footprint by approximately 33 per cent compared to a traditional purchased system which is used twice.”

The service is described as a full turnkey offering from graphics, framing, installation and recycling.

Matt Guise, Sales Director for Macro Art,

sees great opportunities for clients, saying, “Contemporary, modular build banners which are user-friendly, innovative, quick to assemble and fully flexible are ideal for rental and deliver significant costs and sustainability benefits when compared with purchased systems. Created by industry professionals, for industry professionals, our new rental banner service maximises exhibition budgets for clients whilst minimising the environmental impact.”

Canon develops world-first perovskite quantum-dot inks for use in next-generation displays

Canon has announced that the company has developed a quantum-dot ink with a perovskite structure (perovskite quantum-dot ink) as a material for next-generation quantum-dot displays. It has successfully demonstrated its practical durability for the first time in the world.

Quantum dots are semiconductor nanocrystals that measure only a few nanometres in diameter and emit light with high brightness and colour purity. Displays with quantum-dot technology are attracting growing attention due to their wide colour gamut that makes high visual expressiveness possible. Therefore, quantum dots are sought for display in order to achieve higher colour purity and higher light utilisation efficiency. In addition, though cadmium (Cd) has thus far been the preferred material for quantum dots, due to environmental concerns, there is a growing interest in Cd-free materials.

With these requirements in mind, Canon has focused on the development of perovskite quantum-dot inks. Perovskite quantum dots are considered an effective Cd-free approach other

than InP (indium phosphide) quantum dots. In terms of colour purity and light efficiency, perovskite quantum dots are widely seen as a promising material capable of contributing to high brightness, a wider colour gamut and high resolution. Compositions and particle sizes of perovskite quantum dots can control the wavelength (colour) of emitted light.

A perovskite structure is a type of crystalline structure. By changing the elements that compose a perovskite structure, a variety of properties can be manifested, including superconductivity, ferroelectricity, fluorescence and photoelectric conversion. Due to this versatility, a perovskite structure holds great potential for use as a functional material. In recent years, perovskite solar cells have attracted attention thanks to their low cost and versatility, which enables them to be used anywhere.

The poor durability of perovskite quantum dots has thus far been a barrier to practical use.

To address the durability issue, Canon has leveraged its proprietary technologies to develop

ink and toner for printers. The company has established a unique method to form a protective shell on quantum dots, thereby achieving practically durable perovskite-dot ink with retained colour purity and light usage efficiency.

InP quantum-dot ink covers 88 per cent of the colour gamut based on the ITU-R BT. 2020 recommendation, while Canon’s perovskite quantum-dot inks can cover 94 per cent of the gamut. In addition, the high efficiency of light use is expected to reduce the power consumption of quantum dots by approximately 20 per cent compared to conventional technology.

Canon’s quantum-dot inks have the potential to help realise next-generation OLED displays with ultra-high definition, such as quantum-dot 8K displays, a technology that thus far has been unachievable.

The results of the technological development of the ink and the technology for mass production of high-quality perovskite quantum dots were announced in May 2023 at SID Display Week 2023 in Los Angeles, USA.

Spandex Australia launches

Omega Skinz self-adhesive cast films

Spandex Australia announced the launch of the European-produced automotive film Omega Skinz, now available from Spandex Asia Pacific.

Known as the best skin you can drive in, the product is a transformational car-wrapping film with unmatched flexibility and superior quality.

Omega Skinz offers a soft and flexible selfadhesive cast film that provides conformability, along with its multi-layered construction and unparalleled depth of colour that provides an auto-like paint finish.

“To me, it represents what the wrap industry is all about; wrapping for me is the “funnest” job in the world, and it’s gotten so big now, it’s grown, you can actually do what you love, find your niche and make money on it and really showcase your personality and just have fun and there’s no better example than Omega Skinz,” said says Justin Pate, an Industry wrap expert from The Wrap Institute. Omega Skinz is proudly manufactured

by Grafityp Self-adhesive Products N.V (est. 1945). and SOTT International B.V. at the state-of-the-art Grafityp factory in Houthalen, Belgium. The collaborative efforts of these two industry-leading companies have resulted in a product that combines Grafityp’s manufacturing expertise and quality control with SOTT’s innovation, marketing skills, and trend-setting creativity, Omega Skinz was born.

Omega Skinz film becomes incredibly pliable when heated to temperatures between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius. This malleability enables effortless application and outstanding stability. Omega Skinz is engineered to deliver optimum performance even in the most demanding outdoor conditions.

The colours are divided into three unique categories: Uni, Extraordinary & Sophisticated. Some of the exotic names include Angel Dust, Vortex Orange, Toxic Swamp, Mean Green Racing Machine and Moon Halo.

“The automotive category has become one of the most rewarding for our customers in the last decade, particularly the re-styling segment, as it has grown faster than any other segment. On this journey, many of us have learnt together, bringing the global automotive innovations and expertise to the Australian market, that have enabled personalisation, branding and re-styling to reach all parts of Australia. We are excited to bring this amazing offering to our customers and continue our path in leading our local industry, through the highest quality products that complement the wrapping craftsmanship,” says Ben McCauley, Spandex Australia Managing Director.

Omega Skinz offers coloured film and printable film options. The specially developed printable films present a unique ink absorption for enhanced colour depth and a captivating “wow” factor. The metallic pigments remain visible through the print, elevating the design work with a high-class finish.

HEXIS launches PVC recycling program in France

HEXIS SAS has unveiled its new solution for recovering self-adhesive film and liners.

The new programme covers the recovery of Kraft liners, Kraft PE liners and PVC films (coloured, printed or laminated ) from converting, weeding, removal and other scraps. It is being implemented with their network of partners and clients in France.

Similarly to the company’s launch of the roll end piece recovery programme last year, current and future customers such as converters, printers and processors can now recycle PVC waste with HEXIS.

The QHSE team at HEXIS has established a partnership with three organisations that facilitate the industrial reuse of materials across a network

of partners and clients in France.

Every year more than 400,000 tonnes of paper liner are consumed in Europe, and in France alone, almost 2 million tonnes of PVC. Making both financial and ecological savings, the new collection programme offers clients new possibilities for recycling in a sustainable way.

For participating partners in the network, HEXIS says that recycling liners reduces waste, increases savings, and reduces their carbon footprint.

To become a collector in the network, businesses need to register in a CSR process and recover their waste. The network and programme are currently only available in France.

The objective of this approach is to limit the

environmental impact of operations. HEXIS says it is looking to reduce waste at source while seeking innovative solutions to increase recycling, with the aim of taking sustainable action to reduce the amount of waste produced.

The HEXIS CSR policy on waste recycling is centred primarily on four strategic lines:

1. Constantly reduce released atmospheric emissions

2. Reduce the amount of waste we generate while prioritising the recycling of materials

3. Propose solutions to optimise the end-of-life of our products

4. Reduce our energy impact by using the right and sufficient amount of energy

Auto Artisan’s Sena wins ASGA/NZSDA Hexis Trans-Tasman Wrap Battle

ITMA Milan - Mimaki launches gamechanging technology - Reprint and reuse polyester textiles

The final of the ASGA/NZSDA HEXIS TransTasman Wrap Battle was held in April at the NZ Sign and Print Expo, Auckland, NZ, with Auto Artisan’s Rafael Sena winning the championship event.

Sena, and Hayden Bryant, Attention Signs and Embroidery Mittagong, travelled to Auckland having won the Australian Wrap Battle at Visual Impact in Sydney in May. The Australians went head-to-head with NZ wrap specialists Bruno Miranda from Speedy Signs Tauranga and Aaron Joines, Alternative Graphics and Design Tauranga, in a 15-minute battle that took into consideration the overall time and quality of the wrap.

Andy Lowe judged the event from the

NZSDA, and Clayton Whitney from Gold Coast Wraps, who is also a HEXIS Australia trainer. Sena was announced the overall winner with few penalties combined with an impressive time of 9 minutes 58 seconds.

Ian Parsonson, Managing Director of HEXIS Australia, thanked the NZSDA, ASGA and Visual Impact for making the competition possible, saying, “The Trans-Tasman Competition began in 2012 and is always fiercely contested. The quality of the wrapping we saw here today was absolutely fantastic.”

The winner of this year’s competition will hold the title for the next 12 months until the next trade show in 2024.

OMA and oOh!media founder Brendon Cook awarded OAM

Brendon Cook has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) as part of The King’s birthday honours for services to the advertising industry.

The industry stalwart, oOh!media and OMA founder, since retiring in 2020, has made a significant mark in the industry.

Cook was instrumental in evolving Out of Home measurement as a founding member of MOVE (Measurement of Outdoor Visibility and

Exposure). At the time, a world-first audience measurement platform, it allowed for improved accuracy in reporting measurable outcomes to advertisers.

Cook was the first Australian to sit on the Board of the World Out of Home Organization (WOO), previously named Federation European Publicite Exterieur (FEPE). In 2022, he was awarded the WOO Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to their work and the industry overall.

Mimaki launched a world-first new, unique NeoChromato Process, which revolutionises the reuse of coloured polyester textiles, at ITMA Milan earlier this year.

By decolourising polyester textiles that have been dyed using dye sublimation technologies, this innovative process allows materials to be reprinted or dyed immediately, contributing to a smaller circular economy. There is no limit to how many times reused polyester can be treated with the Neo-Chromato Process. The process minimises water usage and pollution by enabling the disposal of absorbent paper and decolouring solvents used in the process as burnable waste. While the technology is still in the concept stage, Mimaki will be working to create a workflow to commercialise this technology.

Arjen Evertse, General Manager of Sales, Mimaki Europe, says, “The increasing awareness of sustainability has led to a significant disposal issue within the textile industry, with polyester textiles accounting for approximately 60 per cent of 92 million tonnes of wasted textile materials worldwide. Of this enormous amount of polyester waste, approximately 15 per cent is currently recycled. Mimaki’s Neo-Chromato Process tackles this issue head-on by utilising a discolouring technology for dye sublimation inks. This process eliminates the need for polyester waste incineration and reduces the energy consumption associated with textile recycling.”

“It is the responsibility of everyone here at ITMA and within the wider textile industry to enable a more sustainable future. Mimaki is actively collaborating with retail and apparel brands to explore the full potential of our latest sustainable technologies. While these latest innovations will enable significant steps forward in sustainable textile production, we also continue to focus on bringing new innovations to market that support the pressing needs of our customers, designers, brands, and, importantly, the planet,” concludes Arjen

Tint Design acquired in a management buyout

Paul Coniglio and his management team have acquired Bayswater-based Tint Design in a management buyout.

Coniglio joined Tint Design in March 2022 as General Manager and Account Director. The company was founded by Shane and Anne Golding thirty-six years ago. The business focused on solar films and internal glazing of office windows with frost and warning bands and has expanded over the last three years to become a provider of architectural signage solutions for the built environment, also creating a supply-only

division for custom braille and print solutions.

The new leadership team will consist of Paul Coniglio as the Managing Director and Julia Slussareff as Financial Director. Tyler Golding and Robert Batty will take up the roles of Account Directors in the business focusing on the strategic growth of key sectors.

“It is an exciting day today for the four of us to announce this acquisition,” says Coniglio, adding, “I have had the pleasure of knowing Shane for 20 years through my career in the sign industry. I am so thankful that he gave me the

opportunity to lead the business over 12 months ago and to be able to continue his great legacy. The opportunity to work with Tyler and Julia together to build Tint Design into something special is something I am very excited about.”

The change of ownership took place on July 1, 2023and the new business trades as 2NDGEN Pty Ltd, trading as Tint Design – paying homage to both Paul & Tyler’s long-term careers working underneath their parents. Tyler for over 20 years at Tint Design and Paul as General Manager of Conect Enterprises for 15 years.

Epson signs exclusive partnership with the Australian Fashion Council

Epson and the Australian Fashion Council (AFC) have signed an official partnership cementing Epson as the AFC’s exclusive Digital Print and Projection Partner. They have also jointly commissioned a study that

explores manufacturing for Victoria’s clothing and textiles industry; to build a business case for increased investment.

“Epson prides itself on being an innovative technology leader and a champion of sustainable practices. Our commitment to innovation, quality and sustainability are in perfect alignment with the AFC’s values –which is why this partnership is good news for the Australian fashion and textiles industry,” says Craig Heckenberg, Managing Director, Epson Australia.

The partnership with Epson supports the AFC in delivering its goals to help build future onshore manufacturing capability, develop future skills and career pathways to boost economic security and transition the industry to a sustainable, circular economy by 2030.

“The AFC seeks collaborative valuesaligned partnerships to help us in our mission to guide the just transformation of Australia’s fashion and textile industry to a thriving circular economy by 2030. Epson’s strong commitment and proven capabilities at unlocking innovative technology that advances sustainable practice make them a perfect partner for the AFC and our industry. Their digital textile printing and projection technology, which has been proven to be transformational in other global markets, has the potential to provide significant learnings

and benefits to the Australian industry,” says Leila Naja Hibri, Chief Executive Officer of Australian Fashion Council.

Epson’s Monna Lisa direct-to-fabric textile printer series allows shorter runs within made-to-order workflows, combining performance and usability to meet the need for flexibility and sustainability.

Hibri comments, “As the Australian fashion and textile industry transitions to a circular economy, Epson’s innovative fabric printing technology will greatly enable smaller batch and on-demand manufacturing. Due to growing demand for ethically manufactured fashion as well as global trends and regulations requiring the same, new approaches like these are critical to the success of our industry’s national clothing product stewardship scheme, Seamless, which aims to change the way Australians design, consume and recycle clothing.”

“Epson offers proven technology and solutions designed and developed specifically for local, onshore manufacturing and textile printing. Epson is also fully committed to collaborative partnerships that embrace sustainability across the Australian fashion and textile industry, and this new partnership with the AFC is an excellent example of that commitment in practice,” concludes Heckenberg.

Neon Signs Australia is closing after thirty-three years

Neon Signs Australia of East Brisbane will close its roller door at the end of September after 33 years of making neon signs and installing them throughout the country. Partners Duncan Read and Michael Blazek are retiring but have indicated they will dabble in the craft they love.

Neon Signs has won many awards for their work through the years; Blazek notes one of the most difficult installations they have done was a commissioned piece for an art installation. The fabricators had to attach 112 neon tubes of various colours and shapes to aluminium armatures suspended between two circles three metres in diameter. The first 100 tubes were installed in the warehouse, and the sculpture was freighted to Sydney and then suspended for the final installation; it was then hoisted to full height. The work won Gold at the Australian Sign and Graphics Awards in 2020 in the Illumination Category.

For the last fifteen years, Blazek has salvaged over one hundred

neon signs from businesses that have closed, relocated or upgraded their signage. These signs have become collectibles and, in some cases are antiques. They harken back to a time before LED modules and moving message signs dominated the market when neon signs were the best option for attracting customers.

Blazek is seeking support or an opportunity to exhibit the Australian neon sign industry pieces from the past 60 years. He notes the enduring tourism value of spaces such as the Neon Museum in Las Vegas or the Museum of Neon Art (MONA) in Los Angeles. Ideally, he’d like it to be close to home, in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, although, in his own words, he says, “Have Neon, will travel!” and is happy to enter discussions with any suitable space, venue or interested party.

If you would like to be part of this new adventure, Blazek can be contacted at 0407 890 757 or michael@neonsign.com.au

ASGA tackles vital issues with Government

The Australian Sign &

Association (ASGA) has taken vital industry issues to the Federal Government through successful meetings with advisors to key Ministers over the past few weeks. The meetings provided a positive first chance to convey important information about the sign, display and wider graphics industry. They set strong foundations for future industry recognition, training and qualifications discussions.

ASGA President Mick Harrold, Vice President Damian Nielsen and former President Julie Rochester met with advisors to the Hon. Brendan O’Connor MP, Minister for Skills, Education & Training, and the Hon Tony Burke MP, Minister for Employment & Workplace Relations.

The first meeting discussed the industry’s requirements for skilled workers and training support for the next generation and requested that the Sign & Graphics qualifications be reinstated on the National Skills Priority List. The second meeting was primarily to discuss the classification of the industry - currently listed only under Construction - and make an argument to consider also including it as part of the Manufacturing sector.

“The omission of the Sign & Graphics qualifications in the latest version of the National Skills Priority List was clearly a significant oversight, and we believe due largely to a lack of understanding by the government of the size and significance of the sector,” Harrold explains.

“The classification of signage as solely part of the Construction sector, while partly correct, also illustrates a general unfamiliarity with the scope and diversity of our sector. In fact, figures suggest that more than 60% of the work done by businesses in the sector relates to manufactured or printed signage. The meetings gave us an opportunity to explain just how vital and irreplaceable our sector is, describe its scope and diversity more fully, and explain why we need a voice in these and other important matters.”

The delegation provided the advisors with an information sheet outlining the range

of products the sign and graphics sector is responsible for producing, together with some key industry facts gathered from recent sector surveys run by ASGA and supplier association Visual Connections. You can download the fact sheet prepared for the meeting on the ASGA website.

“The figures illustrated quite clearly that the sector is a huge contributor to the industry, with an estimated 10,000 businesses employing nearly 80,000 people

future matters of significance to the sector.

“The meetings represent a significant first step in promoting the significance and importance of the sign and graphics sector, and we hope will be the start of closer collaboration with government on issues which impact our industry and ASGA members,” Harrold adds.

“During both meetings, we were able to demonstrate that we are a much bigger and more significant industry than Government realises. Not only do we employ many people, including other trades, but we support many industries with our diverse range of products and services.

“Perhaps most importantly, we had the opportunity to show that our industry is growing and, as an advanced ‘Industry 4.0’ sector, we can also help bring manufacturing jobs back to Australia.”

The delegation reports that advisors at both meetings were genuinely surprised and impressed with the size and significance of our industry and not only committed to further engagement but encouraged the industry to ‘walk the corridors’ and put our case to others in Canberra.

and conservatively contributing $15 billion to the Australian economy,” Harrold says, noting that these figures did not include OOH nor the many related organisations which rely on the sector for their own business.

Harrold reports that both meetings were very positive, with advisors open to ongoing dialogue to further their understanding, progress ASGA’s current requests, and ensure the voice of our industry is heard on

“Through these meetings, we are already in touch with Jobs & Skills Australia (JSA) to work with them on attracting and retaining staff, including initiatives to further improve the number of women in our industry – and will be pursuing several other significant leads and connections to ensure our voice is heard.

“While the wheels of government can move slowly, we anticipate further dialogue and hope to have some positive outcomes to report over the coming months,” concludes Harrold.

Graphics

Mick Harrold

Future Leaders of Printing

What ideas/skills/benefits can young people bring to the industry?

Young people are quick to embrace technology, and the future of our industry will depend on adapting quickly to the generational changes we will see through automation and artificial intelligence. The work environment needs to change to accommodate young people’s needs more, and we need to empower them in a way that allows them to make a difference.

What disadvantages does a lack of young people mean for the industry?

There is a lack of young people in the industry, underscored by the lack of labour (skilled and unskilled). I would argue that there has always been a preference for trained labour over those that are not prepared, and if companies could not find qualified staff, they would recruit and train young people.

In my experience, young people enjoy working with other young people – you need a critical mass of young people to create the vibrancy they need and to sustain a culture that supports them. It is hard to retain them if there are few young people, and they feel isolated.

Which is more critical – apprenticeships or on-the-job training?

External formal training leading to a

recognised industry qualification is essential. The format might be a traditional apprenticeship or a hybrid model. Still, few companies can expose a trainee to the full scope of experience, knowledge and expertise that gives a proper foundation in a diverse industry such as ours. Trainees must have exposure to more than ‘what is done’ in their work environment. They need qualifications that are recognised across the industry.

What is preventing young people from entering the print industry?

We should be the most attractive industry to work in – we are fashion, brands, car wrapping and colour.

Firstly, parents don’t understand that there is a career path in the industry and what career options are available – are they going to prevent their child from going into an industry where they have no idea what they will do or become? Secondly, the first touch point might be a çareers expo – the young person has to have a positive view of the industry before they arrive at an expo. The only scalable way to sell the industry to young people is by using the mediums they learn from – social media and from people like themselves.

There is a lack of research about what young people think – perhaps they believe printing is ‘dirty’, but I am sure they have

no idea – it’s just not on their radar. We need research to confirm these beliefs before we act/invest.

What is FESPA Australia doing to recruit and retain younger people? Are you offering training courses, for example?

We believe it is just as important to develop and retain young people as it is to recruit them. In 2022, we started a Future Leaders programme, where our goal is to attract a diverse group of future leaders. The selection procedure is rigorous, but we want to reflect a cross-section of the industry truly. These future leaders are now developing a mentoring framework where we can empower young people through the same networks that a person like me thrives on. Having these ambassadors for youth engagement, the FESPA network can foster and develop communities of young people across and between our associations internationally.

Call For Applicants for the FESPA Future Leaders Program 2023 is now open, and we encourage you to share the details with prospective applicants for this year’s intake. Selected candidates will attend the Future Leaders workshop over two days in Sydney from 1-2 November 2023. For further information, email membership@fespaaustralia.org.au

Nigel Davies, President of FESPA Australia, discusses recruiting and retaining young people in the print industry.

Industry trends in self-adhesive vinyl

Alex McClelland, Managing Director, ORAFOL Australia, has recently returned from visiting FESPA, Munich and spending time at ORAFOL Headquarters in Oranienburg, Germany. Digital Image Magazine sat down with Alex to discuss current trends in the self-adhesive graphics industry and the opportunities it creates for sign and graphics businesses in Australia and New Zealand.

“In terms of the latest trends, we’ve seen enormous growth in the area of paint protection film (PPF). Technology has developed such that we now have self-healing vinyl that addresses minor damages on the surface of the vinyl. These damages, such as scratches or scuffs, can automatically repair themselves over time. Self-healing vinyl utilises innovative materials or coatings that have the ability to reform or regenerate, minimising the appearance of surface imperfections. PPF films can be printed on directly for a branded wrap. They are also highly transparent and can be applied over a branded wrap for longevity. The coating on the surface stops the migration of dirt and offers excellent UV resistance.

PPF is a relatively easy product to “add on” to a new car sale as it adds tangible benefits in terms of protecting the new car. Historically most paint protection products have been sprayed on, but we are seeing real growth in film applications in this segment.

There is a lot of opportunity for companies currently doing vehicle wraps to partner with new car dealerships to offer this product. We recommend specialised application training for anyone seeking to move into this space, as PPF products are not as “soft” as some films making them more challenging to work with.

Another area in which we see significant development is in the architectural and interior design space. Self-adhesive vinyl has become popular due to its versatility, ease of application, and aesthetic appeal. It offers numerous advantages in terms of functionality, cost-effectiveness, and design possibilities. The combination of application knowledge and design capabilities means it is less price sensitive and provides opportunities to work with new types of customers, such as architects, builders, interior designers and shop fitting companies where the space transformation is as important as the price.

Self-adhesive vinyl is available in various colours, patterns, textures and finishes, including wood grain, stone texture and metallics, suitable for use in residential and commercial applications. They are being applied to walls, flooring, and even furniture and cabinetry to update the appearance. In addition to traditional way finding signage and branding signage, we are seeing vinyl used to create decorative accents within a space, including applications on columns, glass and ceilings.

In the future, we expect to see more technological advancement in coatings on self-adhesive vinyl to enhance its performance and durability. We also expect to see ongoing development in adhesive technology, resulting in an even wider range of tack levels, higher shear strength, and increased resistance to environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and UV exposure. Low-tack adhesives are designed for temporary applications or easy repositioning, while high-tack adhesives offer strong initial adhesion for permanent installations. These advancements allow for greater flexibility in choosing the right adhesive for specific applications and surfaces.

One of our responsibilities as a supplier is to actively train and encourage the development of practical skills in our industry, which is why we’ve invested significantly in the ORAFOL Creative HUB, which offers tailored programs in each of these applications.

For more information, visit  https://www. orafol.com/en/australia/creative-hub

A new luxury Paint Protection Film is just the ticket for

vehicle owners

Avery Dennison Graphic Solutions launched the new Supreme PPF Xtreme Satin, a groundbreaking solution that sets a new standard for both aesthetics and practicality for vehicle owners.

The new solution combines exquisite style and unparalleled environmental protection for satin, matte, magno, and frozen OEM vehicle finishes. With its luxurious satin finish, this highly functional polyurethane film with anti-stain and self-healing properties preserves the original textured look. It offers a unique opportunity to transform gloss vehicles into a distinctive satin matte finish.

One of the standout features of the Supreme PPF Xtreme Satin is its RAPID EDGE technology, a feature of all of Avery Dennison’s Supreme PPF Xtreme series films. This advanced technology delivers enhanced speed and precision during installation. With remarkable application performance, the film can wrap seamlessly around edges and adhere quickly, significantly reducing installation times.

“To achieve the ultimate protection for vehicles requires that you wrap the paint protection film around panel edges, which can be quite challenging,” says Chris Sherry, Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions, Australia and New Zealand. “Traditionally, installers use an alcohol-based tack solution or wait for the adhesive tack on the film to build, which adds time to the installation and post-application checking process. But Avery Dennison’s RAPID EDGE technology addresses these challenges. Once our highly functional film is activated with just warm water, it easily wraps around edges and adheres quickly, greatly improving the efficiency and quality of the install.”

The film’s RAPID EDGE technology is showcased in a Youtube video which can be watched at https://bit.ly/rapid-edge. Additionally, the company invites installers and printers to request a Supreme PPF Xtreme Satin film sample on the Avery Dennison website.

Installers can also contact the authorised Avery Dennison distributors, Graphic Art Mart in Australia and Total Supply and Decrastrip in New Zealand.

With a stunning blend of refined aesthetics, superb environmental protection and enhanced RAPID EDGE technology, the new film is aimed squarely at the luxury car market.

discerning

Experience the Vibrancy of 3M Cut Colour Vinyl with Spicers’ Exciting Competition

When it comes to 3M Cut Colour Vinyl, the benefits are truly unmatched. Our extensive range of products ensures that you can find the perfect vinyl for any application you need, whether it’s for traffic signage, commercial advertising, stickers, labels, or any situation where high visibility is a must. These vinyls are designed to withstand various weather conditions and maintain their vibrant colours, ensuring your message remains eye-catching and visible in any setting.

Eligible 3M Series includes:

• Vehicle Wrap Colours (1080 and 2080 series)

• Premium Signage Colours (180mC and 7725 series)

• Intermediate Signage Colours (SC50 series)

• Translucent Colours (3630 and 3635 series)

• Reflective Range (780mC, 4000, 3900, 3800, 3300, 3200, 7310, 7610 and IJ680 series)

• Architectural Range (Dinoc and Fasara)

• Paint Protection Films (100 and 200 series)

Let’s talk about the incredible colour range available with 3M Cut Colour Vinyl. From vivid reds to striking blues, vibrant yellows to captivating greens, our collection boasts an array of shades that will truly bring your designs to life. The wide spectrum of colours allows you to create visually stunning graphics that grab attention and leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re looking for a bold statement or subtle elegance, 3M Cut Colour Vinyl has the perfect shade to meet your needs.

‘Spicers and 3M have always been synonymous with quality and innovation. The Cut Colour Competition is a fantastic initiative that rewards customers and showcases the immense potential of 3M Cut Colour Vinyl,’ says Wayne Hood, Spicers Visual Communications Portfolio Manager. The competition also includes films from the Architectural portfolio, Dinoc and Fasara. Dinoc has over 1000 Architectural finishes for interior applications, of which Spicers has stocked an Australian range of 74 finishes. The Spicers range is not limited

to interior wall finishes; it also offers Fasara Glass Finishes, which have over 100 unique designs, patterns and textures.

In addition to the standard 3M Colour ranges Spicers has included the newly launched 3M Paint Protection Films series, Series 100 Gloss and Series 200 Gloss. Rocks, bugs, sand, keys, salt and even the sun’s rays can damage your car’s paint. Get it professionally applied to high-impact, vulnerable areas of your vehicle.

You can also order your favourite products online at spicers.com.au, search by material numbers, applications and brands.

So why wait? Embrace the world of vibrant colours and superior quality with Spicers and 3M Cut Colour Competition. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a creative enthusiast, 3M vinyls will elevate your projects to new heights. Remember, every purchase during the competition period automatically enters you into the monthly prize draw.

As the saying goes, “You have to be in it to win it!”

When you choose to buy your vinyls from Spicers between the 1st of July and the 31st of December 2023, you gain access to a vast range of 3M Cut Colour Vinyl products and become a contender for the monthly prize draw.

Turbocharge your performance with the 3M Print Wrap Film IJ180mC wrap film series that installs faster and looks even better.

3M FASARA Glass Finishes are decorative glass and window films available in over 100+ unique designs, patterns, and textures.

Setting the right atmosphere and cost-effectively transforming space with 3M Fasara Glass Finishes

Experience a remarkable transformation for any building, whether your customers desire a fresh appearance or a complete ambience overhaul; with the power of 3M FASARA Glass Finishes, you can effortlessly give their surroundings a facelift. By using 3M FASARA Glass Finishes, you will help your customers achieve an enduring and trendy finish that is swiftly installed, all while significantly reducing both costs and environmental impact compared to traditional replacements. Upgrade any place confidently, and making a lasting impression will level up your business.

ACHIEVING LIGHT AND PRIVACY FUSED WITH CUTTING-EDGE DESIGN

With large areas of glass initially built into the architecture of the building, Innova Kitchens wanted to use this as a focal point. They required a product to enhance their existing space without compromising the natural light. The objective was to keep an open feel environment, with light filled spaces. To help find a solution and bring their vision to life, 3M Fasara Stone and Travertine finishes have been chosen to fill up the open-space with an element of design and privacy while allowing natural light to come through, The Mist centre gradation provides spatial definition while enhancing the visual effects of the floor aperture. 3M FASARA Glass Finishes has created a perfect opportunity to utilise the existing architecture of the space in a new meaningful way.

Furthermore, FASARA Glass Finishes are constructed from durable, flexible polyester materials and can be installed quickly and easily. Leading to less downtime and disruption to daily business operations.

With an advanced collection, 3M FASARA Glass Finishes allows you to create a space that captures the world’s beauty while maintaining a practical application. The new on-trend gradation and natural finishes deliver a beautiful balance between practicality and creativity by tailoring light and shadow, forming a diffusion of light or creating privacy. With a variety of configurations to capture your privacy and design needs, the new range of patterns delivers simple elegance while enhancing space and natural light in your built environment.

“The broad range of finishes has allowed us to call upon a palette inspired by nature, to deliver a truly groundbreaking design.”

Rob Hoar | Senior Designer

A BEAUTIFUL BALANCE BETWEEN PRACTICALITY AND CREATIVITY

The range of 3M FASARA Glass Finishes offers you a new visual dimension with no limits or boundaries. Whether for decor or privacy, this growing portfolio of solutions considers the needs of various spaces while leveraging the latest in global trends.

Explore the New FASARA Designs at 3m.com.au/fasara

Paint protection for the pros

Scotchgard™ Paint Protection Film Pro Series 200 Gloss is a new installer friendly paint protection film with optimised adhesive for repositioning, minimising lift lines and adhesive marks. Also available in 72” (1830mm) width for a seamless installation on larger panel areas on vehicles, like full bonnet coverage.

Our Paint Protection Films are designed to protect automotive paint and other vulnerable surfaces from stone chips, scratches, bug damage, road tar, stains, automotive fluid stains and punishing outdoor weathering including harsh ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

To find out more about 3MTM Paint Protection Series visit 3m.com.au/PPF

Ball & Doggett Building successful teams to support successful print businesses

The first half of 2023 has been a busy and exciting period of growth for the Sign, Display & Digital team at Ball & Doggett. The company first acquired Conect Enterprises and then added new resources to support business growth.

Major integration projects for the team has included moving the Conect warehouses and products in Victoria and New South Wales; and physically relocating the Conect staff into Ball & Doggett offices. Whilst not without some challenges, both were completed with minimal disruption to customers and staff. The team has continued throughout to support the market with a wide range of services and products.

“The two teams have come together to form a stronger business, better able to support our customers,” says Rob Brussolo, General Manager for Sign, Display & Digital at Ball & Doggett. “We are now able to offer our customers end-to-end wide format solutions that include consumables, ink, wide format equipment and, importantly, service and support”, adds Brussolo.

New team members have been added, including Tatjana Ferguson, who joined the business in mid-January in the role of Brand Manager supporting the equipment team. Ferguson moved into the role of National Manager – Equipment & Service in July 2023. “My almost 30 years of print industry experience, in different roles for very different supplier businesses, have armed me with a good understanding of what a customer expects from a supply partner,” said Ferguson, “Part of my job is to ensure we provide our customers with the best possible equipment solutions and best customer pre and post-sales experience.”

Jeffrey Kline is another recent addition to the team. Kline supports the equipment sales and service team and Ball & Doggett customers in the role of Service & Sales Coordinator. An experienced print industry veteran, Kline, says, “The level of service and support we provide to our customers reflects our dedication to their satisfaction and success. Through our commitment to going above and beyond, we forge lasting relationships, earn trust, and become the go-to choice for those seeking unparalleled care and support.”

The Visual Impact show in Sydney in late May was the first opportunity for the combined Ball & Doggett and former Conect team to reconnect with the market and customers. This was also the first opportunity for the Ball & Doggett team to showcase the

comprehensive range of wide-format solutions available from the supplier. The enthusiasm of the team on-stand was infectious, and the feedback from the customers was excellent.

The company launched the new MetaCast MCX film at Visual Impact from UK manufacturer, Metamark, known for exceptional service and innovative products.

MetaCast MCX is a premium cast automotive colour change film, offering wrap professionals the ultimate performance for full vehicle wraps. MetaCast MCX has a range specified to include contemporary and brand colours and several Metamark Inspire Colours designed to reproduce some of the most desirable OEM paint colours in a wrap film. MetaCast MCX is backed by the MetaSure warranty, offering up to 12 years of durability.

To help customers navigate product options, the marketing team at Ball & Doggett have compiled the latest in tools, information, and advice, making it easier to select the right media for print technology and ink types. Four media guides are now available: Latex Printable Media Guide, EcoSolvent & Solvent Printable Media Guide, UV Inkjet Printable Guide, and Aqueous Printable Media Guide. The Guides provide valuable insights into the diverse media options and their compatibility with printing options.

The Ball & Doggett Sign, Display & Digital Media Sample Kit Box is another tool available to customers and includes flexible and rigid media samples.

New equipment launched into the market and available from Ball & Doggett include Roland DG’s first resin printer, the TrueVis AP-640 is a 1625mm 4-colour printer. With dual staggered printheads producing high colour saturation on a wide range of materials from uncoated PVC to non-PVC media. It features new TrueVIS resin ink and advanced machine features to optimise colour reproduction on vinyl, paper, film, and specially formulated fabrics, including flags, roll-up screens, textiles, and wallpapers.

Another addition to the Roland DG range is the Roland VersaStudio BN-20D Desktop Direct-to-Film system. The BN-20D DTF system makes enhancing apparel with eye-catching detailed graphics, images and text a simple, trouble-free process. The system creates durable custom apparel in four easy steps, requiring no weeding or masking.

Avinash Rajah, National Service Manager, Ball & Doggett, and his

service team have focussed on the demand for installation and support whilst continuing to upskill staff. Three new installs of HP Latex R series flatbed printers, and installation and training, for both existing and new customers on the roll-to-roll wide format and printers and cutters have resulted in the busiest period experienced by the service department to date. “Our aim is to provide the best level of service and support whilst embracing and managing customer expectations. Our success is reflected in the positive feedback from our customers,” says Rajah. New equipment installs for Ball & Doggett include:

ULTRASIGNS

The business was established in 1989 in Melbourne. The team offers full-service signage consultancy and sign production with over 110 years of experience in designing, producing, and installing high-quality signage. Director Paul Rice, recently ordered a new Roland VG3-640, 64” printer from Ball & Doggett and is remodelling to add a new print room to his business.

“The printer has been in for a couple of weeks, and we are thrilled with the quality improvements and punchiness of colour we are seeing come off the VG3-640,” said Rice.

IMAGES TO GO

Daniel Peterson, from Images to Go, in Victoria, has invested in a new printer with Ball & Doggett. Images To Go prints large format paper posters and high-end artistic canvas. Purchasing an HP Latex 700W, the new printer is a replacement for an aqueous indoor-only printer.

BN-20D Sample Products

Paul Rice, Ultrasigns (right) and Glenn Gittus, Project Manager in front of the new Roland VG3-640

Daniel Peterson, Images to Go (right) with Ball & Doggett Sales Executive Matt Newton, alongside his new HP Latex 700W printer.

Michael KKennedy, Apple Graphics (right) with Matt Murphy, Sales Executive, Ball & Doggett

The Latex 700W delivers outstanding image quality on a wide range of media with water-based HP Latex ink, helping customers meet their sustainability goals.

APPLE GRAPHICS

Apple Graphics in Campbellfield, Victoria, was the first install of the new Roland TrueVis AP-640 Resin Printer for Ball & Doggett. Apple Graphics specialises in printing caravan decals and supplying them to most major customers in the caravan market. Owner Michael Kennedy and his team are familiar with Roland technology. They have been running a Roland EJ-640 bulk eco-solvent solution for several years. Kennedy says he loves Roland and his history with the company and was quick to invest when a Resin solution was offered. The new printer has allowed the Apple team to become more sustainable and efficient in their work processes.

Kennedy and his father have a wonderful relationship with Conect and now with Ball & Doggett, built over many years. Matthew Murphy, Sales Executive for B&D, has worked with the Apple team to ensure they have the right products for their needs; including the Metamark products, which they have used for many years and will continue to use on the AP-640.

MORNINGTON SIGNS

Established in 2009, Rich Jenner from Mornington Signs has enjoyed producing a variety of signs for local businesses on the peninsula.

Having recently upgraded from a solvent ink printer, he’s finding the HP Latex to be a real game changer. “The instant curing, next to no odour and scratch-resistant printing has improved workflow, lowered turnaround times, and it has become a workhorse to rely on. The print-and-cut barcode system is just superb,” says Jenner. BURABADOO

In Queensland, Kyara Doreen Beaton and Nicole Matic, co-owners of Burabado, recently invested in an HP Latex 365 and HP 64” Cutter. Burabado’s tagline is they “don’t just offer a large range of apparel options but just about everything you can think of to make your business stand out.”

BEYOND SOLUTION

In a recent move to bolster printing capabilities, Beyond Solution, a well-known print shop in WA, installed the state-of-the-art Roland TrueVis AP640 printer. Vincent Liem, the owner of Beyond Solution, expressed his excitement, emphasising the impressive quality and speed of the new machine.

“Integrating the Roland AP640 into our print arsenal has been a game-changer for us,” says Liem, “The machine’s remarkable print quality and lightning-fast speed have truly exceeded our expectations.”

The Ball & Doggett team are pumped for the second half of 2023. With plans for more growth, new products and many more tools to drive customer success. Watch this space.

Rich Jenner from Mornington Signs with new HP Latex 335 Print & Cut Solution

Vincent Liem, Beyond Solution (left) with production team (L to R) Christal, Shaun Dowling (Sales Executive at B&D) & production team member Jason with new AP-640

Nicole Matic, co-owner of Burabado with their new HP Latex 700W and 64” Cutter

A unicorn in fabric and merchandise production

STUNNING FABRIC & MERCHANDISE PRODUCTION MADE SIMPLE

With unprecedented productivity and image quality, these advanced new models give you the power to say ‘yes’ to more work.

• Outstanding print speed with exceptional image quality

• Vibrant and consistent colour, job after job

• Industrial strength, user replaceable print heads*

• High capacity ink supplies with heavy duty media support

• Cloud-based production tool for managing your print business*

• Remote monitoring and diagnostics for pro-active service and support*

• On-site CoverPlus service packages up to 5 years

A Bigger Warehouse and Office for HEXIS Australia in Victoria

“The move to Keysborough will cement our position in the southern regions of Australia and allow expansion of our HEXIS range and services,” says HEXIS Managing Director Ian Parsonson.

The new warehouse boasts a 1081 square metre space allowing for greater stock holding, which allows up to 99% of orders to be shipped on the same day. Strategically located in Keysborough, the warehouse serves all customers across Victoria, Tasmania, ACT and South Australia.

Parsonson highlights that the team put together for Victoria is strong and, with the support of the head office team based in Brisbane, will be able to support all customer’s enquiries, orders and questions.

MEET THE HEXIS TEAM IN MELBOURNE

Rob Skene has over 26 years of experience in the print industry. He is the Operations Manager for the Victoria branch and a Business Development Manager looking after Melbourne East and South Australia.

Darren Mussared, taking on Business Development Manager role, will service clients from central Melbourne to the west. Mussared is a seasoned sign writer and is familiar with everything sign and wrap, with long-term experience in HEXIS products and their installation!

Scott Niven, the previous owner of Stickittome, has now taken on the Business Development Manager role; he supports customers in the South-East region and Tasmania.

In the Keysborough office, you will meet the friendly faces of Anastasia and Arishma, both in sales support; the ladies manage the day-to-day orders, walk-ins and calls.

Les Enniss manages the Warehouse and Logistics and brings a wealth of industry experience to support the in-house team.

EXPANDING PRODUCT LINES

Further expanding the HEXIS range of products, the Keysborough facility holds the full range of HEXIS printable solutions:

• Premium Cast HX190/THE190EVO Wrap Kit Series

• Cast PVC Truck Banner

• Polymeric HX/V200 & 240 Multi-Purpose Kit Series

• Short Term Monomeric HX/V300 & 3000 Series

• PVC-Free Premium HX500 Series

• Cast, Polymeric & Monomeric VCSR/VCXR

High Tack Series

• Polymeric Translucent & Transparent Series

• Anti-Slip Floor Graphics & Anti-Graffiti

Laminate Series

• One-Way Vision Kit for Cars & Shops Front

• Extreme Sports Decoration Kit Series

• Wallpapers & Textured Laminates for Interior Decoration

The company has also boosted its stock holding of popular wraps and sign vinyl in all ranges, with additional ranges previously not held in Melbourne. Some examples now available are:

• Cast Skintac HX20000 & HX30000 Wraps

• Cast KG8000 Cut Vinyl

• Polymeric S5000 & HXS5000 Cut Vinyl

• TB9000S Truck Banner Plotter Series

• P6000 Polyester Chrome Series

• F610 Fluoro Polymeric Series

• Cast Photoluminescent Series

• Polymeric Cristal C4000 Series

• Etched Glass & Frosted Vinyl Series

• Translucent T5000 Polymeric Series

• Block-out Opacifying Vinyl Series

The new warehouse also stocks speciality items like app tapes, reflective vinyl, heatpress vinyl and all accessories.

HEXIS has invited all to pop by the Keysborough office at 27 Naxos Way and check out their full range of SAV and accessories.

Orders or queries can be put through to sales-vic.au@hexisgroup.com or contact the team at 03 9532 5933; the full product catalogue is also available through the HEXIS website at https://catalogues.hexisgraphics.com/c/au-catalogue-hexis

Since the recent acquisition of Melbourne-based distributor Stickittome by HEXIS in March 2023, the company has now moved their second branch from Cheltenham into a larger, more modern facility in Keysborough, Victoria.

HEXIS Australia Keysborough Warehouse

Arishma , HEXIS Australia Sales Support.

Anastasia , HEXIS Australia Sales Support.

The Print Bar Bigger, Faster, Stronger

Andrew Ross, along with Jared Fullinfaw, are the Directors of The Print Bar, one of Australia’s leading on-demand apparel decoration companies. They have experienced unprecedented demand throughout COVID and beyond and have chosen to scale the business rapidly to take advantage of the opportunities, despite the changing economic outlook. Digital Image Magazine caught up with Andrew Ross to learn more about their journey in taking the business to the next level.

DIM: In a tougher business environment, when some companies are taking a cautious and conservative approach, The Print Bar is continuing to expand. What is the catalyst that is fuelling this growth?

AR: COVID triggered an increase in the onshoring of production and shorter production runs, which has resulted in a huge increase in demand for locally printed apparel products with a short turnaround time. There are a number of key areas which drive growth for us. We invest in integrated, interactive, effective marketing campaigns across various platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Google. We work hard to keep our prices as competitive as possible. Finally, we have built a reputation for excellent customer service, which is efficient and friendly, ensuring we don’t over-promise. Customers are much more appreciative of realistic expectations and timeframes. Our customer service is underpinned by our ability to be flexible and provide quick turnaround times for customised products through our direct to garment printing capabilities.

DIM: You’ve been at the Print Bar for almost three years now with your business partner Jared Fullinfaw, and it seems to work well. What’s been the recipe for your success, and what makes for a successful business partnership?

AR: Clear and open communication is essential in any successful partnership. Jared and I make sure to communicate effectively, regularly discussing business decisions, goals, and any challenges we may be facing. This helps ensure we are on the same page and working towards a common vision.

We also have complimentary skills and recognise and appreciate each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Jared focuses on the website and marketing, while I focus on managing the team and production. Having such different skill sets allows us to divide

responsibilities based on our areas of expertise and ensures that we are both able to contribute effectively to the business.

Building trust and respect is crucial in a partnership. We trust each other to make decisions that are in the best interest of the business and respect each other’s opinions and ideas. This creates a positive and supportive work environment where both partners feel valued and heard.

Jared and I also have shared values and goals for the business. We both have a passion for providing high-quality custom printing services and prioritise customer satisfaction. This alignment allows us to work towards a common vision and make decisions that align with our values.

We also strive to be extremely flexible and adaptable. The business landscape is constantly changing, so having regular discussions to ensure we can adapt the business to ensure we are providing the products and service our customers want and expect is crucial, especially when you are working in two different states.

DIM: The Print Bar started in a garage in Brisbane, moved to Teneriffe and expanded, and has now expanded to having a production facility in Melbourne. Why was this necessary, and has this been successful?

AR: It has been hugely successful. Our Brisbane facility was at capacity space-wise; we contemplated moving to a larger building in Brisbane but decided to take a risk and open in Melbourne. It was during COVID when demand was skyrocketing, and Jared was keen to live in Melbourne longer term, so it felt like a relatively easy decision.

Having multiple locations has enhanced The Print Bar’s brand recognition and reputation, establishing it as a trusted and

reputable provider of custom printing services in different cities. Having a Melbourne facility means shipping time was halved for orders coming from Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia, which is a huge plus for our customers.

Since opening in Melbourne, we have outgrown our Teneriffe facility and are currently moving into a new warehouse. We are working hard on the layout of the warehouse and production areas to ensure we can work as efficiently as possible.

DIM: One of The Print Bar’s greatest strengths has been to stay at the forefront of technology and to constantly invest. Why is this so important, and what advantages has your investment in technology provided your business and your customers?

AR: Staying at the forefront of technology allows us to produce the highest quality prints with vibrant colours and intricate details. This ensures customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Investing in the newest and best printing technology has increased the efficiency of our production process, allowing for faster turnaround times. This is especially important for time-sensitive orders or when customers need their products quickly.

Investment in website technology has enabled us to develop user-friendly online ordering systems and design tools. Customers can easily upload their custom designs, choose from a wide range of product options, and see a visual representation of their design before placing an order. This simplifies the ordering process and gives customers control over their customisations.

DIM: How important are the partnerships you’ve built with your team members and suppliers in getting to this stage of the journey?

AR: So important! Having staff who are passionate, hardworking and who work as a team is crucial. Every team member and their role is important; they all play a part in the production, and staff need to have a good understanding of their tasks and responsibilities. Having strong supplier partnerships is as equally as important. Knowing we can reach out for advice or support at any time is absolutely critical. For example, we print 24 hours a day during the week; with the support of Kissel and Wolf Australia, we have the peace of mind that our operators can get the support they need to keep production moving efficiently and with the best quality.

DIM: After you’ve bedded down these new production facilities, what’s next for The Print Bar?

AR: We are heavily focused on sustainability, which is becoming more of a requirement from our customers. Our current sustainability goals include:

• Moving the business to be 100% electric by the end of 2023

• Transferring to water-based inks

• Partnering with suppliers based on certifications and environmental efforts

• Fostering partnerships to create a circular solution for garments All while continuing to build on our reputation for strong customer service and quality.

Kicking World Cup Goals with the New EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340i+

Visual Solutions Australia made a big impression at the Women’s World Cup; Managing Director Marshal Beaumont explains how things are going with their new

Based in Moorabbin, Victoria, Visual Solutions has a strong presence in the events and exhibitions sector, producing fabric banners and backlit signs. They also do a range of POS and retail signage and offer project management and installation services.

One of the first production jobs run on their new EFI printer, installed in June 2023, has made an impact in the lead-up to the Women’s World Cup in Melbourne. The company printed a 6 metre by 7 metre Matildas jersey for client Art vs Commerce, working to create an activation for Qantas. The jersey was initially placed at Federation Square, flat on a stage, allowing fans to write messages of support across the massive display; it was then moved to Marvel Stadium to support the Matildas at their warm-up match against France, where it was displayed at the stadium entrance. Luke Killingly, the owner of Art vs Commerce, says

the installation started on the Friday before the game, but they had to roll the giant jersey up and secure it due to high winds and concerns that the activation wouldn’t hold up overnight. The fabric was attached to the frame using white socks and steel wires that stretched the fabric taut and displayed the jersey upright.

Printed in two parts and joined down the middle, Beaumont notes that the lines of the diagonal uniform design match up perfectly on the enormous, finished piece. He also noted the incredible colour depth and precision in this and other jobs, adding that Visual Solutions have moved all the printing of their backlit fabrics to the new EFI printer, “On the older printers, sometimes the blacks would show up as green when lit up. With this new printer, the blacks are black, and when you light it up, the quality of the black is just amazing. We’re moving much of the work we would have done on the flatbed to VUTEk FabriVU 340i+.”

Beaumont is also delighted with the speed of printing, saying that the new EFI is three times faster than his previous machine and can print an entire roll within 20 minutes. Official production speed for the printer is up to 250 sqm per hour.

Paul Whitehead, Business Unit Manager – Sign & Display at Currie Group, said, “We were delighted to work with Visual Solutions installing their third EFI machine.  The EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340i+, with its incredible speed and unmatched colour depth, has enabled the company to produce a brilliant campaign in support of the Matildas for the Women’s World Cup at a blistering speed, and I can’t wait to see the future campaigns that the company will produce.”

Beaumont has nothing but praise for Currie Group, saying the EFI was up and running within five days. After a week of training, Visual Solutions was printing production jobs, and it hasn’t stopped since, “The machine hasn’t stopped; it’s been running every day since installation. Alex Bloch, the Sign & Display Specialist from Currie Group, came in and did all the calibrations and colour management and got everything looking good. He was good to deal with,” concludes Beaumont.

EFI VUTEk FabriVU 340i+ printer.

Be.tex Eco Display

Designed and produced in Europe, Be.tex Eco Display is a knitted polyester intended for wide-format digital printing projects, such as frame display systems, pop-up displays, roll-up displays, x-kite displays, and banners. This treated, heatset material provides high-quality printing abilities when using UV, latex, and dye sublimation printers.

Be.tex Eco Display is crease-resistant, which is excellent for storing and transporting between locations, as it will not show folds and lines, ultimately leading to an improved appearance and quality

Silicon Profile

Silicone profile is a flat tape-like product that is sewn into the edge of fabrics to make the sides and corners firmer, allowing easy installation into lightbox and display frame systems. This silicone product is easier to fold than conventional PVC profile counterparts and is highly elastic, making it a more usable and efficient product to include in projects.

when on display. It is also non-fraying, which means it can be cold-cut. The cold-cutting procedure is more affordable and is the safest way to cut materials to size. And finally, it is fire retardant; it can slow or even halt the spread of flames, a desirable feature when discussing displays in commercial buildings.

Available in a roll width of 260cm or 320cm and a length of 100m, Be.tex Eco Display has a stretch capability of up to 3 per cent, allowing this material to be placed easily into a frame system.

Available in 14mm (wide) x 3mm (thickness) and a roll width of 100m.

For more information about Be.tex Eco Display, Silicone Profile, or any of the ranges available at Ricky, contact our textile experts today at 02 9735 3333 or visit www.rickyrichards.com.au .

Eco Display

Silicon Profile

BETTER PRINTS WITH BERGER

Ricky Richards proudly represents Berger Textiles within Australia. Whether you’re after textiles for retail environments, knockout exhibitions or impressive displays, Berger and Ricky have you covered.

Engineered in Germany with over 170 years of experience, Berger Textiles continues to lead the way in sustainable printable textiles and accessories, with consistent quality and care for the end customer’s outcomes.

Cunneen Signs creates award winning QBE colour changing sign

Taking home a Gold for Fabrication – large Pylons and Sky signs, and a Silver medal for Illumination -LEDs at the 2022 Australian National Sign and Graphics Awards finished the journey that Nick March started with the Cunneen team and QBE many months before.

March, the Managing Director of the NSW-based Cunneen Signs, says two different building companies approached the company to work with Diadem, to fabricate and install the new signage for QBE, beginning a process that would combine the best problem-solving, innovation and lateral thinking in his team, and resulting in the aforementioned awards.

The brief was that the sign had to be programmable, allowing different colour configurations to be lit up at night at different times of the year. This included the rainbow flag for Pride, a solid purple colour, and the Sydney Swans colours. The colours had to change according to a predefined timeline.

There were also two sites, the QBE building in Sydney CBD and satellite offices in Paramatta.

Technical specifications required the sign to be durable and weatherproof. It had to be able to light up at night in a range of colours, and there were to be no combustible materials in it or on it.

The team at Cunneen approached the project from multiple perspectives. The team tried a variety of methods and fabrication techniques collaborating with multiple stakeholders. Drilling

different-sized holes into the front and trialling different spacing for the holes in the mesh to show the colours of the lights and varying light across different test versions. March says the final product was very different from the client’s initial concepts. However, all changes were communicated throughout the process, and the client was very happy with the result.

Life-size R&D prototypes were suspended on a crane and viewed from multiple angles at different heights and times of day and night in different light and weather conditions. March says that the team worked diligently through many variations to find the perfect balance of visuals for day and night viewing.

All the effort paid off as the final design was fine-tuned for both daytime and night-time viewing and met the requirements for programmable colour changes.

The installation presented challenges; with over 200 moving parts in each sign, the signs had to be installed on high-rise buildings in wind-prone areas. March explains that they had six elevations up at the same time, splitting the teams to do different sections of the installation at the same time to make the most of the time available

when the weather was good, as it was too dangerous for the teams to work on windy days, or in the rain.

The care and precision in the Diadem design and execution of this project paid off, as March says there have been no glitches in the lighting programme and no failures or issues with the signage to date. Further, Cunneen has an ongoing positive relationship with the client, who periodically requests lighting changes.

March finishes by saying, “It was a big project; and a new innovative concept; we had a large team, designers, engineers, and lighting consultants, who worked with the builders, the installers, and the client solving the problems together. Team cohesion was high; everyone enjoyed working together, and we all took enormous pride in delivering this project.”

The Power of Integrated Signage Fit-out and Architectural Products

When space is used inventively, this creates an activation that resonates with visitors; it can trigger spontaneous emotional reactions that propel visitors to share their thoughts through a range of digital channels. And in an age that is increasingly augmented by AI technologies, these user-generated posts can go viral very quickly. With a purposeful market positioning strategy, ingenious methodology, some congruent planning aligned with execution, and a little bit of luck, the activation and space can become the story, bringing attention to the brand and increasing organic reach across social platforms and channels.

Creatives who are capable of shaping a generative physical, emotional and digital presence for their customers and their consumers inspire and lead their peers and influence those around them.

So, is this all down to luck? The answer is a bit more nuanced because, as the old saying goes, “luck favours the prepared”.

HOW SHOULD YOU PREPARE?

Let’s work backwards and reverse engineer an activation, a large public space such as a showroom, shopping centre, or exhibition arena.

The viral product is photographs of that physical space, circulating through both the traditional and digital channels by the visitors and their connections.

Before that can happen, the key is to consider all the senses and experiences in that space. In order to create an emotional appreciation, connection, resonance and the impulse to share, the space should align the visual (eye), audio (ear), perhaps even aromatic (nose), touch (skin) and experiential (sub-consciousness).

Fortunately for signwriters, fit-out specialists and architects, a visual experience can trigger emotions. A photograph may pull on hearts and

recreate fond memories. Visitors may envision an entire environment inside their minds. They may want to revisit that space with their family or friends to share the joy or emotion of that connection.

Designers and fit-out teams should consider the integrated aesthetics of the whole activation. The centrepiece must be supported by other components that add to the visual effect and layer over other sensory enhancements to create a whole experience.

A curved architectural attachment, or lining, or sign, made of cold-workable, reusable, commonly fixable, non-combustible, waterproof, mould-free, tough, endurant and light-weight prefinished solid aluminium panel can change an environment from modern, contemporary, cool and sleek, to warm, and inviting. Adding 3D shapes and colours could change the experience further. Panels can also be used to manage and shape the acoustics of the space, changing the experience from a loud, noisy environment to one that is more subtle and inviting.

Physically, emotionally and digitally powerful outcomes of balanced capability and practicality aren’t a pipe dream when you start with SAS products, materials and services. Many products fulfil the requirements for a balance between practicality and aesthetics.

Aluminium Innovation – Ai Panel – may be the start you need to create physically, emotionally and digitally powerful and integrated signage, fit-out and architectural spaces for your clients.

For more information, contact SAS national customer service line on 1300 727 118 or visit the SAS website at https://www.sassignage. com.au/ and https://www.aipanel.com.au/

Balancing practicality and adequacy. For the signage, fit-out and architectural industries, inspiring and clever use of physical space is of paramount importance.

NOW

With a history that spans over 45 years, Siser ®️ is one of the world’s leading brands in the production of heat-transfer materials for applications on fabrics. Today Siser ®️ is projecting itself into the future with over 40 different products in a vast range of colours, built on quality transformed into the freedom to create.

Flower Power in the NSW Tablelands

When Kristan Cox drove his VW Kombi van into Studio 4 Signs & Design in Goulburn, NSW, he had already stripped most of it down, and it had been sanded down and prepared for painting. When Cox discovered he could get the same artwork printed and wrapped onto his beloved Kombi for a fraction of the price, he decided to have a custom wrap instead.

With a specific Mandala in mind as the centrepiece of the front, and the flowing “Flower Power” themed artwork wrapping around the van, Cox worked with Liz Townsend and Wayne Croker, Directors of Studio 4, to design and fine-tune the artwork so that every square inch of the van would match his vision.

In Goulburn, NSW, Croker and Townsend describe the business as a typical small-town regional printer. That modest description notwithstanding, Townsend readily admits that working on the van, a statement piece and passion project for the owner, with no branding, or business edge, was “an absolute joy”.

She adds that even after eight years in business, it’s still rare and fun to work on jobs such as this one.

The work was printed on their Mimaki semi-solvent CJV-160 300, using Avery 1105 and the 1460 DL that goes with it; Croker says, “Because it’s the best! We tried other films, and they just don’t compare. We have no failures, it prints nicely, and we know it will work and will stay there, so we can confidently use it for our clients”.

Croker says the wrapping did have one hurdle because Cox wanted a specific Mandala at the front of the van; the challenge in lining up the panels with the design meant they had to work carefully around the van and to get the pattern to line up around some of the corners required overprinting, with additional panels added.

Croker also adds that they used STEK Formula primer into the recesses of the handles to ensure a powerful bond on the contours of the deep recesses.

Townsend comments that Cox was a dream to work with, very easygoing, and had a clear vision of his design, which was bright and cheerful. Cox’s Flower Power van is photographed and admired wherever he goes. He is often stopped and asked where he had the work done, leading to multiple referrals for additional work, including their first motorhome wrap.

Townsend says the feedback from Cox was excellent; he noted how easy it was to work with the team and his delight at getting exactly what he wanted.

How Generative AI will likely impact the Signage Industry

by Charles Watson

Generative AI has made significant breakthroughs with its capabilities. Over the last couple of years, these AI generator tools have rapidly transformed how businesses approach various tasks. These tools have the potential to enhance productivity and efficiency but also carry a range of risks that must be managed, particularly in the areas of data security and content creation. In this article, I review several of the most relevant concerns for businesses in our industry and how you should address them in your business.

OUTPUT RISKS

Of particular relevance in our industry is that creative AI can generate graphic outputs. Businesses that utilise AI generators for related purposes need to be mindful of various intellectual property issues. AI generators are effectively trained on a large amount of internet-sourced data. Therefore, the sourced data used by the generator to create the graphic, text or other outputs may potentially infringe copyrighted material.

Consider the following scenarios and questions. If your business uses an AI generator for graphic creation, is the resulting output owned by your business or the AI generator? If the results are stylistically identical to an established artist’s work, will they have a basis for legal action against your business? Conversely, given the limited human involvement in creating the output, whether you will ultimately ‘own’ copyright in the creative outputs is questionable. The answers can be somewhat complicated due to the various copyright implications and legal concepts, both domestically and internationally. Given the rapid growth of AI generators, the law is playing catch up. My guess is that a licencing model of some form, similar to that used in the music industry, will ultimately be implemented.

Another consideration is the quality of the outputs. Many examples exist of AI generators throwing up errors in their results which makes reliance on those outputs questionable and needs verification. Reliance by employees on erroneous outcomes could do your business reputational damage. By way of example, a

US attorney used AI-generated submissions that included references to various court decisions that didn’t exist. The court and his client were not amused.

INPUT RISKS

The corollary to the risks associated with the outputs are those relating to the inputs. Inputs made over AI generators generally carry the same risks and liabilities as sharing information with any third party or the public. Those data inputs are shared with the company that operates the generator and are often added to the data to train the generator. This creates a risk that sensitive company and client data may be exposed to other generator users.

Additionally, in this day and age of scammers and hackers, those data inputs could compromise your business’s digital security. As a result, any data input into an AI generator should be treated as an external disclosure and, as such, fall under your business’s data confidentiality and security policy.

WORKPLACE CONSIDERATIONS

Businesses should establish an internal compliance framework and workplace policy to manage these issues and associated risks effectively. These should encompass guidelines and practices for your business and employees on the acceptable use of AI generators. Such a policy should include positioning and processes for:

• Data security, including prohibiting entering sensitive organisational or personal data into an AI generator.

• The validation of any outputs.

• Ethical and compliance issues.

• Disclosure requirements. This might include the need to notify clients that an AI generator has been used to create client work.

• Employee authorisation or approval requirements for using AI generators for work-related purposes.

• Outcomes for failing to adhere to the policy and related framework.

Additionally, suppose you are going to allow employees to use AI generators. In that case, appropriate training should be implemented rather than letting employees use these generators in a way that may cause risk to your business.

The rapid rise of this technology has led numerous AI labs to call for a pause on further training of AI generator systems until they are confident their effects will be positive and the risks will be manageable. However, they are here to stay, evolving and improving and opening new business opportunities. By implementing appropriate measures, your business can proactively manage the risks and confidently ride the wave of this transformative technology.

Charles Watson GM – IR, Policy and Governance Printing and Visual Communications Association

Photo Credit: Joshua Hoehne (Unsplash)

Selling in the Sign Industry A Complex Business Model

The sign industry operates on a unique and intricate business model, requiring diverse trades and sub-trades to meet the extensive skill set necessary for sign production.

A sign typically involves the expertise of a graphic designer, industrial designer, sheet metal fabricator, digital printer, vinyl cutting specialist, LED specialist/assembler, spray painter, factory hand, OHS specialist, installer, project manager, electrician, accountant/ administration professional, and manager. Furthermore, roles such as truck drivers, forklift drivers, Hiab and crane operators, rope access technicians, and structural engineers also play a crucial part.

While smaller sign shops may have multi-skilled individuals or outsource specific tasks due to the nature of their operations, one essential role that often emerges is the person responsible for taking orders. In smaller establishments, the business owner commonly takes on the responsibilities of both the salesperson and project manager, juggling numerous other roles.

However, the need for a dedicated salesperson arises as your business expands. The question arises: is it a salesperson or project manager you truly need? Like many other manufacturing business models, the sign industry employs terminologies that may appear as distinct job roles. In reality, the person directly interacting with clients during sign production also deals with inquiries or contract variations. Therefore, the project manager assumes the role of a salesperson to handle such variations, as it would be cumbersome to pass them on to a separate salesperson.

Do salespeople also possess project management skills? Absolutely yes, especially in small to medium-sized businesses. In organisations with up to 50 staff members, salespeople are expected to have high project management competence. This does not negate the requirement for a separate project manager. Instead, it signifies that a competent salesperson will effectively manage their responsibilities, regardless of whether they also fulfil the role of the project manager or oversee one.

The sign industry often encounters confusion between actual salespeople and the term “Business Development.” It is a combination of both. Over the years, I have employed individuals who firmly believed they were not salespeople, which may be true in the strictest sense of the term. Many individuals need to be more comfortable with the demanding skill of cold-calling prospective clients. Cold-calling requires a level of expertise that is not easily mastered and can make individuals uneasy.

However, my experience has shown that the most successful salespeople possess exceptional industry knowledge, surpassing all other areas of expertise. No smooth-talking salesperson can substitute for genuine product knowledge. Consider this: would you rather deal with a salesperson who pressures you to make a quick decision or someone who provides comprehensive information about the product you are interested in? The answer is clear.

Photo Credit: Ami Hirshi (Unsplash)

Recently, my wife ordered a new car. The salesperson’s command of the English language was not exceptional, and some words needed clarification. However, what impressed us was his unparalleled knowledge of vehicles. He did not need to consult any reference materials; he knew every detail, including the cargo area dimensions. This expertise instilled confidence in the car and the salesperson, ultimately leading to the purchase. Although my wife is still awaiting the delivery of her car, it exemplifies the importance of product knowledge in building trust.

In my experience, the best salespeople are individuals within the industry who want to transition into sales or project management. They may have backgrounds as assemblers, signwriters, or installers. It does not matter if they possess a decade or more of industry knowledge, which is an excellent foundation for success in sales or project management. Referring to my analogy of the car salesman, extensive product knowledge instils confidence in clients. Sales techniques, closing strategies, and follow-ups can be taught, but industry knowledge takes years to accumulate.

However, only some people with signage experience successfully transition from a production role to a sales or project management position. It is a more challenging undertaking than it appears. Ironically, many individuals working “on the tools” took pleasure in criticising salespeople over the years, believing that arranging a job is a straightforward task. But as with any role, one only truly comprehends its complexities upon personal experience. Consequently, many individuals fall short when faced with the realities of sales or project management.

Ultimately, “Selling Ice to Eskimos”, to quote the idiom associated with pushy sales, is not the essence of success in the sign industry. Instead, success in signage revolves around understanding and addressing your client’s needs with integrity and providing them with tailored solutions.

Photo Credit: John Schnobrich (Unsplash)

Photo Credit: Austin Kehmeier (Unsplash)

Trade Shows

ASGA QLD GOLF DAY

https://signs.org.au/events-and-news/current-events

22 August 2023

Brisbane, QLD

INTEGRATE: DIGITAL SIGN AND ENGAGEMENT EXPO

https://integrate-expo.com

30 August to 1 September 2023

ICC Sydney, NSW

APPA PROMO SHOW 2023

https://appa.com.au

31 August to 1 September 2023

Sydney Olympic Park, NSW

IMPRESSIONS EXPO: FORTH WORTH

https://impressionsexpo.com

14 – 16 September 2023

Forth Worth Convention Center, Forth Worth

Texas, USA

WOMEN IN PRINT - PRINT & PROSECCO NETWORKING SERIES

https://womeninprint.com.au

September and October 2023

Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Adelaide, Perth

NZ PROMO SHOW

https://appa.com.au

20 September 2023

Alexandra Park

Auckland, New Zealand

ASGA VIC GOLF DAY

https://signs.org.au/events-and-news/current-events

4 October 2023

Melbourne, VIC

PRINTING UNITED

https://www.printingunited.com

18 – 20 October 2023

Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta

Georgia, USA

IMPRESSIONS EXPO: LONG BEACH

https://impressionsexpo.com

19 – 21 January 2024

Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, Long Beach California, USA

IMPRESSIONS EXPO: ATLANTIC CITY

https://impressionsexpo.com

21 – 23 March 2024

Atlantic City Convention Center

New Jersey, USA

Photo Credit: Jonny Gios (Unsplash)

Are single-use plastic bans a problem for our industry?

From July 2023, the New Zealand government is phasing out hard-to-recycle and many singleuse plastics. The majority of Australian states and territories have also committed to similar bans. While this doesn’t impact our industry directly, it does once again put plastic in the spotlight with the message that plastic is bad for the environment and it is a material that is best avoided. With the backlash against plastic and the fact that the sign and print industry are significant users of plastic, how people feel about plastic will invariably impact us.

The New Zealand ban followed a consultation period based on submissions, of which 97% supported more action against plastic. This confirms that the mindset of many people is that we need to find alternatives to plastic. Brands and businesses want to connect with consumers and show them that they align with their values. I have talked to several print buyers, and increasingly they are motivated to use more sustainable materials. With limited knowledge about our substrates, many think going green in print is moving from plastic to paper, fibreboards, textiles or digital screens. It is no surprise as the media bombards us with emotive imagery of pollution and entangled marine creatures every time the word plastic is mentioned.

While the concern about plastic, particularly plastic waste, is valid, what is often not highlighted is that plastic isn’t just one evil giant. There are seven different types of plastic, each with varying degrees of functionality and environmental impact. Environmental impact isn’t just based on the material either. Every product has a life cycle from the cradle to the grave, and each step needs to be considered to appreciate its overall impact. Saying let’s stop using plastic is futile. What is more productive is to differentiate between plastics and their uses along with the benefits they provide.

We have our own “single-use plastic” materials that are used for seasonal sales, tradeshows, events, real estate signs and other short-term advertising. These applications create high

Photo Credit: Volodymyr Hryshchenko (Unsplash)

volumes of waste for very short one-off promotional events. Here we can mitigate the environmental impact by using more readily recyclable plastics or at least ones that are less durable and toxic so they don’t create an enduring burden in a landfill. Traditionally for these applications, we use PVC, which brings very little to the table other than being a material people are used to using. Today monomeric PVC films and other PVC substrates can easily be replaced for many applications with less impactful plastics without compromising print quality or performance. PVC being cheap is another drawcard, but the PVC-free materials available today have become much more cost-effective. Not only that, sustainable solutions have value to many customers, so you can charge more and increase your margins.

For long-term outdoor applications, it is a little different. Here PVC is needed for its durability. For car wraps, you need both durability and conformability, something many other plastics struggle to do or do so at a reasonable price. Putting things into context, a medium-sized car wrap uses around 4kg of plastics over several years. The average Australian is throwing away more than double that amount of plastic monthly. The materials you choose and their environmental impact is relative to the application and the value they provide when in use.

The problem with single-use plastics is that they pollute our environment unnecessarily and create vast volumes of waste, adding little value beyond convenience. While the materials we use aren’t going to end up around a turtle or washed up on a beach, they, too, create vast amounts of waste in landfill, and when that waste is PVC, it is never really going to go away. The value of using a PVC film for a one-week sale decal is extremely disproportionate to the problem it creates for generations to come.

While there are no regulations in Australia and NZ around the plastics we use, we should be more mindful about what we offer and take steps where reasonable to reduce the toxicity and burden of the waste we generate. Many companies are becoming more conscious not only about their products or services but the goods and services they, in turn, use. As significant users of plastic, we are, in fact, selling plastic goods. It’s in our best interests to be knowledgeable about plastic and to have these conversations with our clients so they in turn can make more informed decisions on what materials suit their campaigns and environmental goals.

DENISE KIRBY has over 27 years’ experience supplying self-adhesive media to the sign and print industry. Initially starting out in the family business as a distributor, she went on to work for leading self-adhesive manufacturers in marketing, business development and product management roles across Australia and New Zealand. She now has her own business, Kirbyco, which develops and supplies eco-friendly, recyclable and sustainable print media, and created ZERO, a product stewardship scheme which recycles end of life printed media. Denise is highly passionate about the industry and enjoys writing about applications, opportunities and new developments in print and signage. Her goal is to inspire people to explore new creative, functional and sustainable opportunities in print as well as educating the industry on products, trends and innovations.

Photo Credit: Jon Tyson (Unsplash)

The Importance of Reviewing Business Strategic Plans

Reviewing strategic plans cannot be overstated in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. As an entrepreneur, business owner or manager, you’re undoubtedly aware that a wellformulated strategic plan is the lifeblood of your organisation. But have you ever considered how crucial it is to regularly evaluate and optimise this plan? In this article, we’ll delve into the necessity of conducting a thorough business strategy review, shedding light on the key aspects that must be considered and their incredible impact on your organisation’s long-term success.

An effective strategic plan review is more than just a box-ticking exercise — it’s an opportunity to reassess your organisation’s direction, recalibrate your goals and ensure your business remains agile in the face of change. As you join us in exploring this critical process, you’ll gain valuable insights into why a regular review of your strategic plan is integral to driving growth and maintaining a competitive edge. So here are compelling reasons to conduct a business strategy review ASAP:

ADAPT TO MARKET CHANGES AND STAY COMPETITIVE

Market trends, consumer behaviour and technological advancements can rapidly transform the landscape, and businesses that fail to keep up are often left behind. Conducting a business strategy review allows you to identify and respond to these changes proactively. By reassessing your organisation’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis), you can pivot your strategy to capitalise on emerging opportunities and mitigate potential risks. This ensures your business

remains agile, competitive and ready to seize new growth prospects in an everevolving marketplace.

objectives and identify any areas that need adjustment. This strategic plan review process enables you to reallocate resources, refine your goals, and clearly focus on your organisation’s ultimate mission. Staying true to your vision creates a strong foundation for sustainable growth and long-term success.

RECOGNISE SUCCESSES AND DETECT FAILURES

REALIGN WITH YOUR ORGANISATION’S VISION AND GOALS

As your business evolves, it’s crucial to ensure that your strategic plan remains aligned with your organisation’s overarching vision and objectives. Reviewing your strategic plan lies in its ability to help you reassess and reaffirm your company’s purpose, ensuring that all team members work towards common goals. During a business strategy review, you can evaluate the progress towards your existing

A comprehensive business strategy review offers the invaluable opportunity to take stock of your organisation’s performance. By examining your strategic plan, you can identify areas where your business has excelled and celebrate those

Photo Credit: Alvaro Reyes (Unsplash)

Photo Credit: Isaac Smith (Unsplash)

Photo Credit: Fotos Cmig (Unsplash)

accomplishments. Recognising successes boosts team morale and provides insight into what strategies work well and can be replicated or scaled up.

Conversely, a strategic plan review also helps you detect failures or underperformance, allowing you to address potential issues before they escalate. Uncovering shortcomings in your current strategy enables you to take corrective action, learn from past mistakes and implement more effective solutions moving forward. This constant improvement process is critical for fostering a resilient and adaptable business ready to thrive in a dynamic marketplace.

ENHANCE EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT AND COLLABORATION

A business strategy review isn’t just about the numbers and market analysis — it’s also about your people. Involving your team in the review process can foster a sense of ownership and commitment, driving employee engagement and enhancing collaboration. When employees

understand how their roles contribute to the organisation’s broader goals, they are more likely to be motivated and invested in its success.

Furthermore, your team members may possess unique insights and perspectives that can significantly inform and improve your strategic plan. By encouraging open communication and feedback, you create an environment where innovative ideas can flourish, enabling your business to stay ahead of the curve and tackle challenges more effectively. A well-executed business strategy review can ultimately unite your team around a shared vision and empower them to drive your organisation’s success.

REINVIGORATE YOUR BUSINESS STRATEGY WITH AN ‘ADVISOR’

Trying to develop and implement a Strategic Plan yourself while handling ‘Business As Usual’ can be difficult and probably won’t succeed.

A good Advisor can provide a transformative solution to elevate your financial strategy and drive business

growth in today’s competitive market.

Someone who is ‘Arm’s Length’ can be a breath of fresh air to help you and your team to leverage internal knowledge and experience. At the same time, they can facilitate an environment where innovation can thrive. Often it’s not easy for a business owner to achieve this without outside help.

Once the Strategic Plan is set, a good Advisor can ensure it gets implemented promptly and on budget. This ensures your team is accountable for the Strategic Plan and you achieve the outcomes you desire.

CFO-ON-CALL is a team of Financial and Business Advisors who work with open-minded people committed to business growth and achieving success. For a no obligation FREE chat about your profit growth opportunities please call us on 1300 36 24 36 or visit www.CFOonCall.com.au

The EASY way to make your business Financially Fit

Order

this FREE ‘super-sized’ eBook for Business Owners …

Packed with pages of helpful – easy to read financial tips – all in plain English.

The Financial Fitness Plan – An amazing resource for businesses who want to boost in-house financial performance – no expensive accountants fees.

You’ll learn small ‘tweaks’ that make a BIG Difference to Sales, Profit and Cash-flow.

This book explains – Profit & Cash-flow tips, Budgeting & Costing, Pricing, Overheads management, Stock & Supplier issues, Quoting-Tendering, Staff Productivity, Smart Systems, KPIs (Key Performance Indicators), Growth, Business and Exit Planning.

It’s a 1 hour read – but could be the most valuable time you’ll ever spend on your business!

Photo Credit: Kobu Agency (Unsplash)