Digital Image Magazine Dec 2023 by imagemagazine

356

DEC ‘23 JA N ‘2 4

Empowering the Future at ORAFOL Australia Students Day INSIDE COVER STORY ORAFOL Australia’s Creative HUB inspires students to join the industry.

Hayden Cupitt Racing Towards Success in Sign and Display.

FESPA Australia Conference 2023 Unveiling the Future of Print.

Focus on Leadership Jamie Weller and the evolution of Kissel + Wolf.

Denise Kirby How PVC can help sustainability.

page 14

page 12

page 16

page 24

page 38

servicing the signage and graphics market since 1973 For five remarkable decades, Graphic Art Mart has remained steadfast in our mission to deliver the best global brands alongside unwavering local support to the Australian signage and graphics market. With our presence now spanning ten strategic locations, we proudly stand as the premier national supplier of sign, digital and display solutions. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support which has propelled us to achieve this incredible milestone. For a limited time only, get a $50 cash-back on any purchase over $500 at Graphic Art Mart. Only valid online (gamart.com.au). To redeem, please enter the coupon code “GAM50YEARS-IM” at checkout. No rain checks. No further discounts apply. Offer ends Friday 1st of December, 2023.

1300 426 278

sales@gamart.com.au

gamart.com.au

CONTENTS

Wide Format and Signage News

Associations News

Hayden Cupitt: racing towards success in Sign and Display

Cover Story: ORAFOL Australia’s Creative HUB inspires students

FESPA Australia Conference 2023: Unveiling the Future of Print

Servicing Australia comes easy for eurotech

Focus on Leadership

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

Jamie Weller and the evolution of Kissel + Wolf

It’s a wrap : Scooby Doo Approved Mystery Transport

How PVC can help sustainability

Making the Leap into paid social media advertising

contributors

deadlines Next Issue

Cass Theodore Charles Watson

Booking and editorial

Denise Kirby

Vol 36 No 1 Feb/Mar 2024 12 Jan 2023

Sue Hirst Vernon Kingman subscriptions Australia

1 Year $ 66 + GST

2 Year $ 110 + GST

New Zealand

1 Year $ 130 AUD

2 Year $ 200 AUD

Other countries

1 Year $ 200 AUD

2 Year $ 350 AUD

No GST on New Zealand and other countries

disclaimer The opinions expressed in Image magazine are not necessarily the views of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this magazine. No responsibility is accepted by the publisher for any omissions, inaccuracies, typographical errors or printers errors. Nor will responsibility be accepted for any changes to information after publication.

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

Photo Credit: Ian taylor (Unsplash)

EDITOR’S NOTE

Welcome to the December issue of Digital Image Magazine. As the year draws to a close, many people look forward to taking a rest and resetting for the coming new year. While 2022 was a year of “firsts”, 2023 has been a year of “seconds” – the second class of graduates from the FESPA Future Leaders Program. The second series of Women in Print’s Print & Prosecco events was successfully hosted. Visual Impact in Sydney brought us the second major local Trade show post-pandemic, following PacPrint in 2022. This gives me pause to reflect that while we are conditioned to want to be first, sometimes, the second time around is better. We bring lessons learned the second time we do something; we know the pitfalls to avoid. And that is the story of us, our work, our businesses, our communities—a constant evolution of being better, doing better and moving forward. In this issue, in our series on industry apprentices; we turn the spotlight on Hayden Cupitt, an apprentice

in his second year with Tickford Racing. Hayden’s story is an allegory for the industry. Tenacious, tough, goaloriented and resilient. In It’s a Wrap, we showcase an eye-catching Mystery Transport van from Townsville, Queensland. We also spoke to Jamie Weller from Kissel + Wolf about leadership and the company’s evolution as he takes the reins. ORAFOL Australia takes us behind the scenes of their Students Day and how they and other industry partners empower the next generation to join and find a satisfying career in sign and display. As always, we love hearing your stories, so keep in touch and tell us about your exciting 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

9.6

$39

Try the new Cruncher

4.1

$22

4.7

$69

Free unlimited use

tota

Sub

.00

Include your custom products, margins and price lists*

$20 0

0:0

9.4

$69

See your quote and job history

.00

4:3

$15 0

0:1

Recalculate existing quotes

$9. 6

0:0

0 $0. 0

0:0

Paste your pricing direct into your emails

3.7

$74

.46

438

$1,

fit

Pro l

a Tot p% rku Ma 00% 10.

.15

$1,

1.5

0 0.0

7.6

$28

726

$1,

% .00

.31

582

$1,

3.8

$14

.85

$43

$57

00 3 2024 DEC 30. 2023/JAN ,01 $2

.38

SIGNPRICECRUNCHER.COM.AU

WIDE FORMAT & SIGNAGE NEWS

HP Launches Entry-level Latex 630 HP has launched a new printer, expanding the Latex range to offer white ink technology to Print Service Providers (PSPs) of all sizes. The inclusion of white ink allowed users to produce impactful signage and décor with vivid image quality and attention-grabbing colours. The Latex 630 series emphasised sustainability with water-based latex inks, environmental certifications, and eco-friendly cartridge materials. Craig Hardman, ANZ Large Format Country Manager, highlighted the series’ affordability and compact design, enabling small print businesses to deliver high-impact applications. The HP Latex 630 suite provides various options, including models with white ink functionality and printand-cut capabilities, addressing diverse customer needs. Features

like automated front-loading, in-printer storage, and HP Pixel Control Technology enhanced efficiency and image quality. Alongside the hardware launch, HP introduced the HP PrintOS Design & eCommerce, a web-to-print solution streamlining print application design and integrating with existing e-commerce stores. Available to subscribers of the HP Professional Print Service Plan ‘Plus’ tier, this solution met evolving needs by enhancing online shops and automating order processing. The HP Latex 630 series hit major markets globally in September. They became available in the UK, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand in November, offering valuable enhancements for PSPs seeking to optimise their e-commerce capabilities.

are excited about our partnership with eurolaser. By combining their Starleaton partners with eurolaser tech“Weexpertise with our strong local presence, we will provide customers with unmatched laser solutions,” said Dale Hawkins, Industrial Sales at Starleaton.

“As we expand our global footprint, picking the right partners is key. Proximity to the customer is an important factor, and understanding their needs is important, especially for industrial products that require explanation,” added Alexander Wente, Product Manager at eurolaser. “Our partnership with Starleaton, leveraging the expertise of Dale Hawkins, means we can clearly explain and showcase the benefits of our laser tech to businesses in Australia and New Zealand. “ “Dale Hawkins is now the first contact person at Starleaton in the ANZ market for eurolaser, providing personal, competent, and individual advice. Together with him, we look forward to interesting discussions, new customers and challenges,” concluded Wente. Starleaton has partnered with eurolaser, a manufacturer of high-quality laser systems. The partnership will establish Starleaton as the authorised reseller of eurolaser products across Australia and New Zealand.

Starleaton says its decision to partner with eurolaser aligns with its commitment to bringing innovative and reliable solutions to its clientele. Businesses in the ANZ region will now have direct access to the advanced laser technology of eurolaser, in addition to service and support from Starleaton.

Three new colours released in Avery Dennison Celestial Satins Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions in Australia and New Zealand has introduced its 2023 Celestial Satins colour collection, with three new colour additions to the company’s Supreme Wrapping Film ColorFlow series.

and New Zealand. “These new captivating ColorFlow films are poised to inspire wrap designers to craft impactful visual effects that leave a lasting impression.”

The three new colours, Satin Solar Dawn, Satin Moonstone and Satin Frozen Ocean, reveal a celestial light effect in these satin-finished films, with a shifting spectrum of fluid colour. The iridescent shades transform a vehicle into a work of art as light moves around its contours.

The Avery Dennison Supreme Wrapping Film portfolio offers excellent conformability, durability, and performance. It has the innovative Easy Apply RS technology, which allows for rapid installation and easy repositioning, elimination of wrinkles or bubbles for a smooth finish, and damage-free wrap removal.

“The Celestial Satin range is an exceptional addition to our Supreme Wrapping Film colour change portfolio,” said Chris Sherry, Product Manager of Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions Australia

The three new Supreme Wrapping Film ColorFlow Celestial Satin colours are available for purchase via all Avery Dennison authorised distributors in Australia and New Zealand.

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

WIDE FORMAT & SIGNAGE NEWS

Spandex Australia launches new rigid fibre board for displays Spandex Australia has announced the release of SWEDBOARD a new rigid fibre board made by 3A Composites. SWEDBOARD Fibre is a line of paper boards that combines innovation and sustainability offering a wide range of benefits for various applications. SWEDBOARD Fibre board comes in Brown Nature & Premium White paper-based rigid boards with two thicknesses, 10 mm and 16 mm, and are available in widths of up to 2400 mm. The board is crafted from FSC C147499 certified paper. These paper boards have a unique structure, making them ideal as printing substrates. Their stiffness and flatness make them the perfect choice for 3D constructions, lending them to applications in the field of

displays (POS/POP), shop design, shop window decoration, furniture, and exhibition design. Notably, their innovative manufacturing process guarantees dust-free boards, eliminating waste during processing, printing, cutting, and on-site assembly. 3A Composites, the manufacturer has committed to sustainable practices and environmental protection is in its core objectives. The production site in Katrineholm, Sweden, is now FSC DNVCOC-001807 certified. Efforts to reduce CO2 emissions are being actively pursued, using 100 per cent fossil-free electricity in the production process. The modern, energy-efficient production further minimises raw material waste, emphasising the commitment to a greener environment.

New EasyPSV vinyl range from Avery Dennison and Siser Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions has announced a partnership with Siser through their premium heat-transfer products, providing Australia and New Zealand with cutting-edge pressure-sensitive film products. “The partnership between Avery Dennison and Siser is an exciting collaboration,” said Jordan Leach, Business Director, Graphics Solutions, Australia and New Zealand and ASEAN, Avery Dennison. “The combination of Siser’s consumer-focused expertise and our leadership in innovation and material science has created a new set of best-in-class products for the vibrant crafting community. We are proud to see Siser introduce these innovative, high-quality and industry-leading products to creative professionals and crafters across ANZ for the first time.” This partnership is Avery Dennison’s inaugural foray into the crafting industry. The Australia and New Zealand region is the first in the Asia Pacific to offer the new Siser by Avery Dennison brand, which leverages Avery Dennison’s technology leadership in pressure-sensitive vinyl

(PSV) and Siser’s expertise in consumer crafting and heat-transfer vinyl. Product lines under the Siser by Avery Dennison brand include the EasyPSV Starling range and the EasyPSV Glitter collection. The EasyPSV Starling range features fifty-seven solid colours in both gloss and matte finishes, while the EasyPSV Glitter range boasts seventeen glitter colours. These offerings give creative professionals an expansive pallet to manifest artistic visions. The EasyPSV is easy to use, versatile and durabile. The range offers industry-leading ease of weeding and precise conversion on plotters. It will adhere strongly to a wide range of materials, as well as being dishwasher safe for up to 80 washes. This sets an industry standard for resilience even in the face of frequent use. For more product information, please visit https://graphics. a v e r y d e n n i s o n . c o m /e n / h o m e /g r a p h i c s - p r o d u c t s /s i s e r - b y averydennison.html

CPP Australia appoints new Head of Sales & Professional Services Canon Production Printing Australia has announced the appointment of Steven Badger as Canon’s new Head of Sales & Professional Services across both the Large Format Graphics and Technical Document Systems Sector within Oceania. The appointment is effective Monday, 30 October. Badger takes on this position after spending seven years overseas in various positions within the Canon Production Printing Group. “Steven returns to Australia with over 30 years of international and local printing industry experience within the Large Format Digital printing sector, having started his career in Product Marketing, moving to Pre and 6

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

Post-sales support before heading off on his International assignment. I am confident that Steven will have a positive impact on the Oceania Print industry while supporting Canon’s growth strategy,” said Craig Nethercott, Managing Director, Canon Production Printing Oceania As the international Product Manager, Badger supported the launch of the newly developed Colorado UVgel technology, based at Canon Production Printing’s headquarters in Venlo, The Netherlands. In his later years abroad, he was appointed Business Development Director of Large Format Graphics for the APAC region and based in Singapore.

WIDE FORMAT & SIGNAGE NEWS

Roland DG Orange and Green inks now compliant with 3M MCS Warranty program Roland DG has announced the TR2 Orange and Green inks used in the TrueVIS VG3/VG2/ VF2 wide-format eco-solvent printer models are now compliant with the 3M MCS Warranty program. This is in addition to the previously announced CMYKLcLmLk. TR2 inks in CMYKLcLmLk were previously compliant with the 3M MCS Warranty Program; now, the orange and green inks are certified under the same program. Tony Miller, President

of Roland DG’s Global Sales and Marketing Division, says, “The combination of the TrueVIS series, which delivers rich printing expression with the power to excite hearts and minds, and 3M’s highly durable graphic media and laminating films, enables the production of high-quality sign graphics that offer a long-term warranty with greater peace of mind than ever before. I believe the TrueVIS series will help take our customers’ business success to the next level.”

The 3M MCS Warranty provides complete, non-prorated protection for the intended life of each graphic, including fading, cracking, peeling and other aspects of graphic performance. The weathering technology and rigorous testing of ink and printer combinations that 3M stands behind with this warranty assures customers that the quality of their images will be maintained for the life of the graphic.

GJS inks exclusive deal to distribute ROQ products in Australia GJS has announced that it has secured an exclusive arrangement for the distribution of ROQ products in Australia. This new distribution deal means that Australian printers will have access to ROQ’s full range of high-quality, high-production screen printing, hybrid, direct-to-garment (DTG), drying and packaging products. Headquartered in Portugal and with offices in the United States and Brazil, ROQ has more than 40 agents all around the world to ensure distribution and post-sale support and recently employed a local representative, Joel Taylor, to manage its Australian business. “Finding the right, reliable partner was critical to ensure that ROQ’s partnership approach to business and customer success was continued when the brand entered the Australian market. With more than four decades experience in screen printing, textiles, and digital decoration, and the synergies between both brands made GJS a logical choice,” said Taylor. “It was also important to ensure that existing ROQ customers, as new ones would be well supported under this new arrangement. GJS’ existing network of technical support personnel and national sales coverage gives us a single, capable, and experienced team to rely on, and I look forward to working with them to build the ROQ brand in Australia,” Taylor added. The ROQ product portfolio available now to Australian printers includes fully automatic

screen printing equipment, tunnel dryers and flash curers, computer-to-screen, directto-garment (DTG) printers with integrated pre-treatment, folding machines, packaging (bagging) machines and labelling systems. The diversity of the ROQ product range is complimented by its versatility with almost all products possessing the ability to be customised to the requirement of each customer and application. “The Australian garment decoration market is at a crucial stage of maturity and development so our distribution agreement with ROQ comes at an important time,” said Greg Stone, managing director, GJS. “More frequently we are being asked by our customers for high-production, end-toend systems, and integrated workflows. Our customers in the web-to-print space, and those with lucrative supply contracts are looking for the next step up in technology that will enable them to simply print, pack and post and ROQ has user-friendly solutions for each of these steps of the process. “For example, the ROQ NOW features a completely in-line process and takes a garment from pre-treatment to final finishing in one touch and is capable of printing 200 photo-quality prints per hour, with a single operator. Another advantage is that it boasts world leading wash fastness being the only DTG system to pass Nike’s rigorous wash testing benchmark.

“The addition of a ROQ dryer, either gas or electric, and ROQ packaging line enables the production process to be extended to include folding, packing, bagging and labelling. The answer to integrated, high-production, end-toend printing that the market and our customers have been asking for,” Stone concluded. Australian screen printers can also get excited about this new distribution deal with ROQ’s extensive range of automatic presses, hybrid screen/digital system and flash cure units also available under this new arrangement. The market demand for ROQ’s high-production print solutions is evidenced by two existing installations already in place in Queensland and a third installation that took place in Victoria in late September. Sasa Zarkov, export manager for ROQ says that he only expects this market demand in Australia to increase. “The interest that we are currenting seeing in Australia is indicative of a maturing market, so it is perfect timing for ROQ to be partnering with GJS and for us to be working together to bring our innovative, reliable and user-friendly solutions to Australia coupled with GJS’ renowned post-sales support and service.” ROQ’s products are available now exclusively via GJS in Australia. For more information, free call 1800 457 888 or email: sales@gjs.co

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

WIDE FORMAT & SIGNAGE NEWS

Ricoh launches Pro DTF direct-to-film systems Ricoh has announced the launch of the new RICOH Pro DTF direct-to-film solutions. The Ricoh Pro DTF 10 and Ricoh Pro DTF 8 offer expanded application versatility with the ability to achieve outstanding results on classic cotton and mixed materials as well as polyester, nylon, and water-repellant materials such as leather and even wood. “We believe the compelling innovation and performance standards that these systems offer will provide creative garment and industrial decorators with business-transforming capabilities. They will also support the evolution of DTG printers, trade specialists and screen printers. When we previewed the technology at FESPA we were encouraged by the range of challenges that the Pro DTFs respond to, according to exhibition attendees. They included the need to manage a wide range of textile and substrate requests, produce highquality polyester and nylon workwear and sportswear, and be cost efficient when meeting varying on-demand volume requests,” says Axel Stuhlreiter, Head of Textile Solutions, Graphic Communications Group, Ricoh Europe. The Eco Passport by OEKO-TEX certified solutions are the latest additions to Ricoh’s expanding portfolio of industrial systems and further support existing innovative direct-togarment (DTG) decoration technologies.

High colour brilliance is assured by the Pro DTF 8’s eight ink channels and the Pro DTF 10’s expanded colour gamut capabilities made possible by its ten ink channels, including neon pink, neon red, neon yellow, and neon green. Fully automated, the roll-fed systems combine water-based piezo inkjet printing with integrated hot melt adhesive and heating in a single step. They optimise productivity with: • The delivery of excellent results at high process speeds. • The elimination of pre-treatment for textiles and substrates. • Low maintenance due to the automatic cleaning function. • A large selection of optimally matched consumables. • No need for a separate dryer. Powered by ColorGATE’s Productionserver, the Pro DTF 8 and the Pro DTF 10 enable creative operations to process and reproduce complex design files confidently. The modular and scalable workflow aids fast and accurate processing of graphically rich PDF content from creative design and page layout applications. The systems include Ricoh’s end-to-end support covering tailored software, accurate colour profiling, approved consumables, and post-production processing.

Out of Home is number 1 for driving brand awareness and desirability The Outdoor Media Association (OMA) has released the results of the Day in the Life survey conducted by Dynata and Thrive Media for MOVE (Measurement of Outdoor Visibility and Awareness). The survey was completed in November 2022 with a sample size of 2,962 to test the perception and role of all media channels coming out of COVID-19. “We are excited by the results, as they confirm what we know to be true about Out of Home. Creating Brand Awareness and Desirability is really our sweet spot, but Outdoor is also effective for prompting trial. The research complements other studies that have shown that Out of Home, TV, and Online work really well together— with the potential to increase ROI by up to 27 per cent, ” says OMA CEO Elizabeth McIntyre. The highest percentages to come out of the survey were for Driving Awareness, where Out of Home (OOH) was strongest across all demographics but particularly with Gen X and Millennials. Social Media took the top spot for Prompting Trial, with Outdoor and TV channels tied. For more information: Day in the Life Study - OMA including Traditional Signwriting, Traditional Gold Leaf, Pinstriping, Ticket Writing, and Airbrushing. Attendees came from across Australia and also from New Zealand and the USA.

The 28th Australian Letterheads:

Celebrating the Art of Hand-Crafted Signs The 28th Australian Letterheads, took place at RETROLINE, hosted by Roger & Felicity Warsop in Girraween, Sydney, NSW. The event, which drew together sign enthusiasts from across the globe, unfolded over three 8

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

days, from the 13th to the 15th of October 2023. During the three-day event, attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in various traditional sign-making skills,

Organisers have extended gratitude to the international guests and tutors, including Gustavo Ferrari from Argentina, David Kynaston from Wales, Todd Hanson from Ohio, Jasper Andries from the Netherlands, and Adrian Marchio from Sydney. Their presence and expertise enriched the event and furthered the craft. The success and longevity of the meets would not be possible without the support of valued sponsors, including Andrew Mack Brush Company, Anest Iwata Australia, Airbrush Megastore, ASGA, Butterfly Gold, Colourmaker Industries, Hare & Forbes Machinery House, and Signrite Online.

WIDE FORMAT & SIGNAGE NEWS

Women in Print : Print & Prosecco events Women in Print’s nationwide networking series, Print & Prosecco, has created a buzz. The Sydney event in September, considered a success, featured a presentation by NSW Patron Debbie Burgess, Managing Director of Bright Print Group. The theme was Networking, and Burgess emphasised the social and professional benefits. Attendees enjoyed a lively night of networking activities, including a session with networking cards. Door prizes, courtesy of Bright Print Group and Media Super, added to the event’s vibrancy. Acknowledging the support from Ball & Doggett and Böettcher, Burgess expressed gratitude for their contributions to the event’s success. The Tasmanian events in Launceston and Hobart were on October 10th and 11th, respectively. The Melbourne event on

October 27th was sponsored by Ball & Doggett, and attendees left with custom-labelled Prosecco bottles, adding a delightful touch to the networking experience. The Adelaide event was another success, with a lucky draw offering prizes of Prosecco pyjamas. Each event had its main sponsors, with Ball & Doggett in Melbourne and Spicers in Tasmania playing key roles. Women in Print extends appreciation to all partners and supporters, including Inclusive Creatives, IVE Group, Media Super, Rocking Rose, Mercury Walch, and the Print & Visual Communication Association, serving as the Secretariat supporter. These collaborative efforts reflect the commitment to creating valuable networking opportunities for women in the printing and signage industry nationwide.

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

ASGA

Positive Progress the Hallmark of 2023 for ASGA

It hardly seems possible, but the end of another year is upon us. It has been a busy one for us at ASGA, with several key initiatives and outcomes that bode well for another productive year ahead in 2024. A highlight of the year was unquestionably the three-day Visual Impact Sydney expo in May, which brought the national industry together to experience the latest innovations, promote investment, deliver learning and create plenty of opportunities to catch up with industry colleagues and friends. The show was a hugely positive shot in the arm for the sector, and we are looking forward to the next iteration in Brisbane in July next year.

(L to R) Chris Hudson, Industry Engagement Partner - MISA , Phillip Clark, Special Advisor MISA and Mick Harrold - ASGA President.

Sydney Industry Taster Day - 2023

At the show, we launched the 2023 Visual Connections/ASGA Education Initiative. With recruiting new talent still one of the most pressing issues for industry businesses, this initiative has been a massive focus for us this year. Years 10, 11 and 12 students visited the show to experience the depth and diversity of the sector, ‘Try a Trade’ at a dedicated booth staffed by TAFE NSW, and meet with careers advisors from Australian Schools Industry Partnership (AusSIP) and industry experts. Mid-year, we participated in Careers Expos around the country and, more recently, hosted Industry Taster Days to give students a ‘real life’ experience of what an industry career might involve. Well over 100 students expressed an interest in apprenticeships at Visual Impact, and many more of the thousands we connected with at Careers Expos added their names to the list. A subsequent callout to prospective employers has seen a list of over 130 express their interest in putting on one of these bright and motivated young people. This support for new talent is vitally important, and I urge all of you to consider whether you can provide an opportunity for an apprentice in your business next year. With the success of this initiative now well established, we are excited that it will next year be expanded to include the entire print and graphic communications sector, with the cooperation of our fellow industry associations FESPA Australia, the FPLMA, the LIA and Visual Media Association (formerly PVCA).

Team Signarama - ASGA Golf Day Brisbane

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

In June, Damian Nielsen, former ASGA President Julie Rochester and I were pleased to meet with Advisors to Hon Brendan O’Connor MP, Minister for Skills, Education & Training, and the Hon Tony Burke MP, Minister for Employment & Workplace relations. This meeting enabled us to provide important information about the sign, display and wider graphics industry and has set strong foundations for an ongoing conversation about industry recognition, training and qualifications.

This initial meeting was followed by a more in-depth meeting with Philip Clark, Special Advisor, and Chris Hudson, Industry Engagement Partner, from the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (MISA) – the Jobs & Skills Council (JSC) for the manufacturing sector. We were able to make a strong case for the sign and graphics sector to be considered part of that sector, and enjoyed a productive and positive discussion around skills shortages, training and other key issues. An industry fact sheet, prepared for these meetings, has proven a valuable resource for industry businesses – you can download it at signs.org.au Networking has also continued to be a very important part of the ASGA agenda. Golf days were held in Sydney, Perth, Brisbane and Melbourne, with the Adelaide contingent opting for a fun game of Bowls to be held just as this issue goes to press. We also joined with Women in Print for their Breakfast Series. This year has also seen an expansion to ASGA Member Benefits, with the announcement of a new Workplace Advice Line. This gives ASGA Members free access to the workplace and legal experts at Australian Business Lawyers & Advisors (ABLA) for advice on everything from changes to the law, to employee entitlements, contractual matters and dispute resolution. Along with discounts, special offers, business and technical resources and a range of other benefits, there are plenty of great reasons to be an ASGA Member. On that topic – and on a great note to finish this wrap of the year – it’s great to report that we have significantly grown our membership over the past 12 months, including about 75 franchise businesses from the Signwave, Signarama and Kwik Kopy groups, who have been underrepresented in our membership previously – it’s great to have this important group on board, and it has been great to hear from many of our new members with feedback and suggestions during the year. Finally, as we reflect on a positive and productive year, we are also busy making plans for 2024 and beyond. With a calendar of events and webinars taking shape, and the biennial Sign Awards slated for later in the year, as well as Visual Impact Brisbane in July, it’s sure to be another great year. We look forward to what is ahead! Mick Harrold President - ASGA

FESPA

Welcoming New Members: FESPA Australia Community Grows in 2023 As we usher in the new year, the FESPA community continues to expand, with a wave of new members joining the ranks in 2023. This surge in membership highlights the ever-growing recognition of the importance of networking within the print and signage industry. EMBRACING GROWTH AND CONNECTIVITY In an era characterised by rapid technological advancements and shifting industry dynamics, staying connected is more crucial than ever. The FESPA community provides a vibrant platform for professionals, businesses, and enthusiasts to unite, share knowledge, and forge meaningful connections. This thriving ecosystem not only fosters innovation but also supports the growth and sustainability of the industry. NEW FACES, FRESH PERSPECTIVES Let’s take a moment to welcome the new members who have joined us in 2023: ADS

Canon Production Printing

Corrective Services Industries

Coleman Group

Graphic Art Mart

Hunter Signs

Inkifingus

Lamont Graphics

Omnigraphics

Rhino Thermex

Rolls Liner Supplies

Spartan School Supplies

Stormlink Group

Wazzup Screen Printing

Zalte Design EVENTS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN 2024 Building on the spirit of connectivity, FESPA has an exciting lineup of events planned for 2024. These gatherings provide unparalleled opportunities for members to network, learn, and grow together. FESPA BBQ: Melbourne 15 Feb 2024. Kicking off the year in style, the legendary FESPA BBQ in Melbourne promises a relaxed and friendly atmosphere for members to connect. It is held at the Richmond Rowing Club on the Yarra, which offers skyline views of Melbourne CBD. Come along and enjoy delicious food and refreshments while catching up with friends, colleagues and peers in the vibrant print community,

where you’ll have a chance to forge meaningful relationships. FESPA SYDNEY SOCIAL: Sydney 29 February 2024. Closely following the Melbourne BBQ, the Sydney Social allows our Sydney members to engage in fruitful discussions and explore potential collaborations—an excellent opportunity to network with peers while enjoying the beautiful views from the Sydney Rowing Club. FESPA GLOBAL PRINT EXPO 2024: 19 - 22 March, Amsterdam The pinnacle event of the year, the FESPA Annual Global Print Expo, is set to take place in the picturesque city of Amsterdam in March. Drawing attendees and exhibitors worldwide, this expo is a melting pot of innovation, showcasing the latest technologies, products, and services in the screen and digital, wide format printing and textile printing industry. With a rich tapestry of cultures and ideas, Amsterdam provides the perfect backdrop for a global exchange of knowledge and expertise. Hundreds of exhibitors will showcase their latest innovations and product launches across graphics, décor, packaging, industrial and textile applications. Scheduled Features include: • World Wrap Masters Europe 2024 and World Wrap Masters Final 2024: this feature will include training workshops, industry expert demonstrations and competitions. • Sustainability Spotlight: will provide helpful, informative and actionable advice to address the needs of People, Planet and Profit. • FESPA Party: The FESPA Party Night is not to be missed! It is the ultimate industry networking opportunity, surrounded by live entertainment, music, drinks and great company! Other activities planned are a series of Youth Engagement Roadshows, Member Open Houses and intensive Colour Management Training courses. As we move forward into 2024, the FESPA community is poised to continue its trajectory of growth, innovation, and collaboration. With new members on board and exciting events on the horizon, the stage is set for another year of dynamic progress in print and signage. Together, we look forward to shaping the future of our industry.

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

APPRENTICE PROFILE

Hayden Cupitt:

Racing Towards Success in Sign & Display At seventeen, Hayden Cupitt left home in Bathurst to study and work in Melbourne. Joining the signage department of Tickford Racing, Cupitt’s journey is a testament to the young apprentices’ determination. Cupitt first became interested in Sign and Graphics during his school years, taking Graphic Design as one of his subjects. His work experience at a Sign Shop in Bathurst cemented his interest in the industry. When he heard about an apprentice position at Tickford Racing during the Bathurst 1000, he successfully applied for the role and relocated to Melbourne.

Regarding inspiration and mentorship, the young apprentice speaks of his mother and her unwavering support and encouragement in his career. Additionally, he notes Kate Harrington, the logistics manager at Tickford Racing, whose guidance and support were instrumental when he moved to Melbourne as a 17-year-old. He affectionately refers to her as his “Work Mum”.

One of the aspects of the work that Cupitt finds most enjoyable is the art of making things look appealing and attentiongrabbing. He notes that the power to transform an ordinary surface into something that stands out is what fuels his passion.

For her part, Harrington says, “Hayden’s dedication and ability to handle pressure is truly commendable. He is an integral part of our team and always delivers under challenging circumstances.”

For its part, Tickford Racing is one of the most successful teams in the history of Australian motorsport, with over 70 Supercar wins and nearly 300 podium finishes in its history. Established in late 2002 through collaboration between Ford Australia and UKbased engineering firm Prodrive, the team was founded as Ford Performance Racing and made its competitive debut in 2003. Among its accolades are wins in the 2013 and 2014 Bathurst 1000, Mark Winterbottom’s 2015 Supercars title, and triumphs at other iconic Australian races, including the Sandown 500, Adelaide 500, and Gold Coast 600. Cupitt travels with the team and Head Signwriter Tom Gill. This arrangement takes him across the country every month to various racing events. His role involves working with the mechanics when vehicles need to be wrapped so that the panels can be completed without interfering with the technical work on the supercars. At the track, he is responsible for sticker applications in the event of contact or wall damage, “I work with boxes of spare vinyl, stickering over the scrapes and dents to ensure that the car remains visually pristine,” says Cupitt, adding “The environment is very dynamic and this presents its own set of challenges, from ensuring a consistent colour match to coming up with creative solutions under pressure.” 12

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

A critical factor that has helped his career progression is the flexibility and support he receives from Victoria University Polytechnic Signs and Graphics. He notes that his teacher, Chloe Quilty, has been most accommodating of his demanding racing schedule, ensuring that he can balance his studies with his responsibilities at Tickford Racing. Quilty is another fan of the young apprentice, saying “Hayden is an absolute pleasure to teach and a wonderful co-worker to his fellow students. Hayden is on an altered schedule due to his travelling for work and so comes to school whenever he can, with no set group. Due to this he has met EVERY group and year level of my students, and every group raves about Hayden, how lovely he is, how brave he is for following his dreams and moving from Bathurst to Melbourne alone, and how talented he is. He’s an absolute dream, and I’m so proud of Hayden!” Cupitt’s journey from a 17-year-old with a dream to a second-year apprentice with one of the country’s leading racing teams shows his perseverance. His story exemplifies the exciting opportunities of pursuing a career in Signs and Graphics. With unwavering support from his work colleagues, mentors, family, and teachers, Hayden is racing full throttle towards a long and successful career in the Australian signage industry.

Empowering the Future: ORAFOL Australia Students Day – Insights into the Graphics Industry In today’s rapidly evolving world, the field of graphics and design plays a pivotal role in shaping our visual landscape. Whether it’s the billboards that line our streets, the logos that represent our favourite brands or even vehicle branding, from sole traders and small business owners to large scale corporate businesses, the graphics industry is at the forefront of creativity and innovation. At the heart of this industry, students hold the power to become the visionaries of tomorrow. To ignite their creative sparks and provide them with a glimpse into this dynamic world, ORAFOL Australia, in partnership with the ASGA and AusSIP, recently hosted a Students Day – Insights into the Graphics Industry in the ORAFOL Creative HUB, at the ORAFOL Australia Head office, welcoming ten enthusiastic students from Parramatta Marist High School. “By inviting students to the ORAFOL Creative HUB, we expose them to the tools and techniques that power the graphics industry. We demonstrate how creativity and technology come together to produce visually stunning results. Beyond that, we aim to instil in them a sense of possibility and the belief that their ideas can leave a lasting mark on the world,” says Trent Byrnes, ORAFOL Creative HUB Education Manager. Alex McClelland, Managing Director, ORAFOL Australia, agrees, adding, “Events like the Students Day serve as a bridge between the classroom and the real world. They offer young minds the opportunity to experience firsthand what a career in the graphics industry entails. It’s a chance for students to be inspired to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.” With the ORAFOL Creative HUB filled with eager students, their teachers and associations aligned with the high school, the day stretched ahead of the group, a blank canvas ready for creation, fun and inspiration. 14

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

The program for the day consisted of three sessions that aimed to introduce the students to the various facets of the industry. The first session was dedicated to providing the students with an understanding of ORAFOL Australia, the industry as a whole and the graphics segments we operate in. The second session allowed the students to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on experience with sign making, creating their unique signs in a 45-minute long workshop. “The hands-on sign-making session was a highlight of the day. It provided a creative outlet for the students to express themselves while offering a taste of the meticulous craftsmanship required in the industry. Watching their faces light up as they brought their visions to life was a truly heartwarming experience,” says Tina Mavris of AusSIP. Finally, the last 15 minutes delved into the equipment that makes the magic happen – printers, cutters, laminators, and more. Mavris adds, “The session on sign-making equipment was equally enlightening. It showcased the advanced technology that drives the graphics industry. Students saw the sophisticated printers, cutters, and laminators that turn concepts into reality. It’s a vital step in understanding the tools of the trade and appreciating the precision and attention to detail that goes into producing high-quality graphics.” The success of the event was genuinely heartwarming. The students’ energy was palpable, and their curiosity was infectious. ORAFOL Creative HUB is a trademark of ORAFOL Australia

“In the ever-evolving graphics industry, innovation is the key to staying relevant. The fresh perspectives and creativity that these students bring to the table can be a driving force for innovation in the years to come. By investing in their education and exposing them to the world of graphics, we not only benefit these individuals but also the industry as a whole,” says Byrnes. The involvement of teachers from the school and representatives from industry associations added an extra layer of authenticity to the event. It reinforced the idea that the graphics industry is not an isolated field but thrives on collaboration and interconnectedness. By bridging the gap between education and industry, we help students envision a path that can lead to fulfilling careers. What made the event truly special was the students themselves. Their attentiveness, polite demeanour, and curiosity made the day more enjoyable. They asked numerous questions, showing genuine

interest in the subject matter, and were keen to dive headfirst into the hands-on exercises. It was evident that they were eager to explore their creative potential and gain insights into a career path that can be both rewarding and impactful. The graphics industry is not just about creating images; it’s about shaping how we see and experience the world. By nurturing the talent and creativity of our youth, we are ensuring a brighter, more visually stimulating future for all. McClelland concludes, “ORAFOL Australia is committed to supporting the youth in shaping their careers and empowering them to make the right decisions, whether within or outside our industry. This event is just one example of our dedication to this cause. We believe investing in the next generation is an investment in a brighter, more innovative future for all of us.”

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

FESPA Australia Conference Unveils the Future of Print Building on the momentum of the highly successful inaugural event in 2022, the second annual FESPA Australia Conference was conducted on Fri Nov 3, 2023, bringing together over 100 print service providers and suppliers to hear the latest in thought leadership for our industry, with the key themes for the conference focused on “People, Planet, Profit”. The day began with a presentation of global trends by FESPA CEO Neil Felton, who travelled from the UK to present the findings of the FESPA Global Census. First conducted in 2015, the 2023 census involved 1700 respondents from 121 countries with business profiles including graphics (61%), signage (26%), textile (24%) and industrial (14%). Key findings from the FESPA 2023 Global census include: Market size by segment – • Digital Print Market €24.3 Billion 6.8% growth next seven years (0.9% pa) • Screen Print Market €3.5 Billion 15.6% growth next seven years (2.2% pa) • Custom Print Market €31 Billion 10.2% growth next seven years (1.45% pa) • Digital Textile Market €2.7 Billion 14.4% growth next seven years (2.05% pa)

(L to R) Adam Parnell, Director, Easy Signs ; Matt Aitken, CEO, IVE Group ; Keith Ferrell, General Manager Operations, Cactus Imaging

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

• Car vehicle wrapping market €5.9 Billion 26.1% growth next seven years (3.72% pa) • Digital Signage €24.8 Billion 8% growth next seven years (.66% pa) Key findings – • Overall revenue has increased 6 per cent from 2018 to 2023 • Employee numbers are decreasing – printers are employing fewer people but are becoming much more efficient • Sustainability is a key focus, with 75% of customers demanding sustainable products. The demand for sustainable products is higher in the APAC region (7%) compared to Europe (2%) and MEA (5%). While 82% demanded sustainable products in 2018, it decreased to 75% in 2023, likely due to the impact of COVID and a focus on cost. 70% of print service providers were able to maintain pricing while satisfying sustainability demands. • When it came to investment in new equipment, the top three planned purchases are UV curable hybrid or flatbed 27%, Ecosolvent 18%, Finishing - CNC cutting 17%

Rob Brussolo - General Manager Sign Display & Digital - Ball & Doggett

Neil Felton, FESPA CEO

A complete copy of the 92-page report is available to FESPA members, email membership@fespaaustralia.org.au Neil concluded by explaining that “FESPA reinvests every single cent and dollar back into the industry. Since 2015, we’ve reinvested 7 million Euros, and we have 14,400 printer members worldwide – if you want to meet a printer, you can meet them at FESPA in some shape or form. We have 500,000 people around the world that regularly engage with FESPA on an annual basis.” The FESPA Global Print Expo will be held in Amsterdam March 19 – 22, 2024.

IVE Group; Keith Ferrel, Cactus Imaging; and Andy Parnell, Easy Signs, shared their thoughts on what they have done and continue to do in terms of developing people in their organisations. This discussion was followed by a session focused on youth engagement hosted by Troy Cavanagh, FESPA Future Leader 2022 and Bianca Martin, FESPA Future Leaders Program Graduate 2022. The team from FESPA UK joined via video to highlight youth engagement initiatives with which they were having success. Emphasis was placed on altering the perception of the industry amongst young people, promoting diversity, and showcasing opportunities. The panel discussed strategies for attracting and retaining young talent, including education programs and embracing technology. With content designed to share best practices and provoke thought, the event created many opportunities for discussion and networking and was heralded by those who attended as an unequivocal success.

On the theme of sustainability, a panel of leading industry experts discussed impending trends impacting our industry, such as scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions and how suppliers of print and signage can align their business towards more sustainable practices. Other highlights of the day were the presentations by two independent experts in AI who discussed the impact of AI in workplace automation and OHS in production environments. Also, a presentation on opportunities for workflow automation by Frederik von Ehrenstein, Business Development Manager Durst. Attracting, recruiting and training people in our industry is a recurring theme and a panel of industry leaders, including Matt Aitken,

Pamela Mannell - CEO T1-Print

Leishman voted the 2023 FESPA Australia Future Leader Twelve talented individuals graduated from the second annual FESPA Future Leaders program. Over two days, FESPA Australia hosted a diverse group of emerging leaders from all parts of our industry, from garment decoration and signage to commercial print and suppliers.

Sponsors Ball & Doggett, Durst, Visual Connections, Silver Sponsors Kissel + Wolf, and Cactus Imaging, and Bronze Sponsors HVG.

The Glen Crerar Memorial Training Scholarship will support the FESPA Future Leader to represent FESPA Australia in Europe in 2024.

The event concluded with a drinks function attended by participants, sponsors and last year’s graduates. President of FESPA Australia, Nigel Davies, welcomed the guests, saying, “We are building an army of young talent that is going to help us solve the great challenges and problems of the future.” Davies then announced the 2023 Future Leader. Mary Leishman – General Manager, DRK LBL, was voted the 2023 FESPA Future Leader by her colleagues in the Future Leaders Program, winning an allexpense-paid trip to FESPA Amsterdam to act as spokesperson for the group to the 37 National Associations that make up the FESPA Community. The FESPA Future Leaders program was made possible through the generous support of Diamond Sponsor Orafol, Gold

L-R Troy Cavanagh ImageBox 2022 FESPA Future Leader, Mary Leishman DRK LBL 2023 FESPA Future Leader, Nigel Davies President FESPA Australia

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

Nationwide Commitment The industry’s trusted partner for quality hardware and accessories has been servicing 6000 sign shops nationwide for over 15 years. HOW EASY IS IT TO PARTNER WITH EUROTECH? Eurotech understands the critical role of prompt delivery in the signage industry. Eurotech’s delivery commitment ensures that products reach customers in a timely manner. The simplicity of our delivery promise can be viewed at www.eurotech.com.au Join 5815 other signmakers, and create your online account with us at w w w.eurotech.com.au/register WHAT DO WE OFFER THAT OTHER SUPPLIERS DON’T? Eurotech has earned its reputation as the print and signware supplier of reference in Australia for more than luck.

HOW DO WE COMPARE WITH THE MARKET, PRICE-WISE? We maintain and constantly increase one of Australia’s largest stock holdings and the highest stock rate in the country. This allows us to keep our pricing competitive and minimise price increases. In 2023, while many industry suppliers have had multiple double-digit price hikes, Eurotech has only increased prices once by a modest 4% average across our range. Eurotech offers free delivery on orders over $98, saving you money and worrying about what shipping fees might be. Additionally, by sourcing most, if not all, of your print and signware needs from one single supplier, you save valuable time and minimise variation in shipping ETAs.

To begin with, we do not print. That means that you won’t find us in the marketplace competing against you or your business. Our pay later credit account allows you to manage your finances and budget confidently, leaving more time and less stress to tackle other parts of your business. On top of that, we offer a comprehensive range of over 2000 products, making Eurotech your one-stop destination for all your hardware and accessory needs. This eliminates the hassle of dealing with multiple suppliers - streamlining your purchasing experience. This, paired with our bulk pricing, means you always have enough stock for all your projects.

HOW DO WE DELIVER 16,000 ORDERS IN 12 MONTHS? Consistency. Eurotech has been successfully serving sign shops nationwide for over 15 years. With us walking the talk, you can have peace of mind in planning and production. In 2023 alone, we completed over 16,000 successful deliveries, whether to inner Sydney or Yackandandah. You don’t have to take our word for it; ask your neighbouring sign shop about their experience with Eurotech. We’ve built our reputation on our track record of reliable service and support.

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

id Val

rde on o

rs over $98. O ne u

se pe ra cc

IMAGE 5% OFF CO ou

. nt

EXCLUS

IVE DIS

COUNT

UPON C

IMAGEM

ODE

Make it

easy.

Shaking the Australian HTV Market with POLI-TAPE In the vibrant and ever-evolving world of fashion, textiles, and creative expression, innovation is the driving force, and now a groundbreaking development will reshape the Australian heat transfer market. That is the introduction of POLI-TAPE Heat Transfer Vinyl. This monumental leap in heat transfer technology is not just about product excellence; it’s about accessibility and collaboration. Ball & Doggett are proud to bring this innovation to you through our esteemed network of authorised resellers, forging a new era of possibilities for designers, businesses, and enthusiasts nationwide. POLI-TAPE is a leader in heat transfer solutions, and the quality range is coming to Australia. POLI-TAPE heat transfer vinyl is a testament to innovation, quality, and versatility. Designed to empower designers, entrepreneurs, and artists alike, it opens a world of creative possibilities. With this vinyl is your canvas, the design possibilities are limitless. From intricate graphics to bold patterns, the stunning colours and finishes (standard, metallic, bright, and neon) ensure your creative vision finds its perfect expression. It’s the tool you need to turn your imagination into reality. What sets POLI-TAPE apart is its unwavering commitment to quality. The transfers are not only vibrant but also long-lasting. You can trust them to withstand the test of time, whether the rigours of daily wear or repeated wash cycles. Furthermore, POLI-TAPE material is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, assuring you that it’s

free from harmful substances, making it safe for all kinds of garments, including those for children. POLI-FLEX TURBO: THE SPEED OF INNOVATION Complementing our heat transfer vinyl is POLI-FLEX Turbo, a true game-changer in the heat transfer market. Speed, quality, and adaptability converge in this remarkable product, igniting the creativity of designers, textile producers, and enthusiasts. At the heart of POLI-FLEX Turbo is its incredible speed. With a press time of just 5 seconds, it is one of the fastest heat transfer materials available in the market. This means more efficiency, quicker production, and rapid turnarounds – all invaluable to businesses that value quality and time. Speed doesn’t come at the expense of quality. POLI-FLEX Turbo ensures your

designs are fast and of the highest quality. They’re vivid, durable, and capable of withstanding the test of time. With this product, you don’t have to compromise between speed and excellence. Innovation is at its best when it is accessible. “We are excited to unveil our distribution network through authorised resellers who will be the pillars of this transformative journey. POLI-TAPE’s commitment to quality, performance, and the pursuit of excellence extends to every corner of Australia, thanks to our valued resellers”. Said Renee Kruit, Business Unit Manager from POLI-TAPE Group. Authorised POLI-TAPE Resellers are not just distributors; they are partners in your creative journey. Their dedication to providing toptier products and exceptional service drives the success of POLI-TAPE’s revolutionary products in Australia. POLI-TAPE’s mission is to empower your creativity and make it accessible. With the POLITAPE HTV range, including POLI-FLEX Turbo, we invite you to join us on this extraordinary journey of innovation and artistry. Together with Authorized POLI-TAPE Resellers, we are not just launching products; we are launching a new era of possibilities. Get ready to transform your creative vision into reality, embrace speed without sacrificing quality, and bring your imagination to life on every canvas. For more information and to find your nearest authorised reseller, visit the POLITAPE website. The future of heat transfer technology in Australia is here, and we can’t wait to embark on this transformative journey with you.

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

Poli the parrot recommends

Available through the following authorised resellers:

5 SEC. LOW TEMPERATURE 130° C

FAST TRANSFER

OVER 55 COLORS AND EFFECTS POLI-FLEX ® TURBO in the color of your choice

THE DIGITAL PRINT SOLUTION

TURBO PRINT 4036 and TURBO PRINT 4037 UV with POLI-TACK 870 transfer tape

IDEAL FOR Decorating AND Craft MARKETs Easy to cut and weed, fast transfer, warm peel

SUITABLE FOR ALMOST ALL TEXTILES

Cotton, polyester, polyester/cotton, most acrylic, performance polyester blends, most nylon and sublimated textiles

Protects TEXTILES

Prevents transfer press marks

for sublimated garments

Low temperature application may provide option for sublimated garments

Easy to Cut

Easy to Weed

130°C 160°C

5 Sec 3 Sec

44 PSI

Warm Luke Warm

Hot Wash 60°C

good Stretch properties

certified by OEKO-TEX ® Standard 100 Class I (CPSIA compliant)

500mm x 25M DIN A4 Sheets

tumble dry Dry Cleaning

Medium pressure

Better Together In September of 2023, Currie Group and Canon Production Printing Australia announced a strategic partnership. The partnership saw Currie Group add the Canon Arizona and Colorado M-Series printer ranges to its portfolio of commercial print, sign, and display solutions. Digital Image Magazine speaks to Currie Group to see how the partnership is tracking four months in. While improving access to market-leading products was the ultimate purpose of the partnership, the fundamentals behind the match actually go deeper, with both organisations noting that they share the same philosophy and principles when it comes to delivering exceptional service to customers. “Both Currie Group and Canon Production Printing have enviable relationships with our customers, based on product innovation and excellence, and a real commitment to strong services support. That shared ethos and approach provides a strong foundation for our partnership going forward,” says Rob Mesaros CEO of Currie Group. “This partnership with Canon Production Printing adds value to both our businesses and gives our customers even greater confidence in the ability of our people and our products to help them drive success as the market continues to evolve.” For Canon Production Printing, the partnership extended the company’s reach in the market, keeping up with demand for the popular printers while complementing Currie Group’s range of products for these sectors. “Currie Group has a long history of transformation, which has kept us one step ahead of market trends, and we’ve continued to transition in recent times based on the same principles that have served the company so well over more than 70 years – agility and an appetite for pragmatic risk-taking, based 22

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

on strong market knowledge and careful planning,” comments Mesaros, adding that the partnership was the next step in the company’s ongoing process of modernisation. Craig Nethercott, Managing Director, Canon Production Printing Oceania, adds, “Currie Group is a recognised leader across the print industry, and we were excited to welcome them onboard as our latest strategic partner in the region.’’ “The award-winning Canon Arizona flatbed and Colorado M-Series product ranges have been hugely successful in global and local markets. The innovative technology incorporated into the Canon Large Format Graphics product portfolio has enabled Currie Group to offer a diverse range of application possibilities to their customers,” adds Nethercott. Paul Whitehead, Business Unit Manager – Sign & Display for Currie Group, says his company is in a unique position in the market, with strong reach not only into the large format sign and display sector but also into general commercial print. The Canon additions to the company’s product range, he says, have benefited both companies. Whitehead confirms that within days of the announcement, interest was high, and Currie Group received orders for two machines, a Canon Colorado M5W for Fleetmark and a Canon Arizona 135GT for Tango Visuals. The sales were announced at the booked-out

“Sign & Display... By Appointment” event held in Sydney from 14 to 16 November. “Market demand across both those sectors is constantly evolving, with diversification driving new applications for print service providers of all kinds. With the addition of the Canon Production Printing products to our portfolio, we are well-placed to meet all those requirements,” he points out. “The market reception thus far has been incredibly positive, strong and sustained,” says Whitehead, adding, “Our By-Appointment event, which showcased the Canon machines in our Sydney Centre, was booked out within days.” “The new Colorado M-series opens up the 1.6m space for roll-to-roll applications, providing segment-leading productivity thanks to its market-leading UVgel technology, and the award-winning Arizona family, which is the most sold range of mid-volume UV flatbed printers – adds dedicated solutions for rigid media to our portfolio.” “Currie Group now has the broadest, most complete portfolio of large format solutions for the production and industrial space in the market – backed, of course, by the expertise from both the Canon team and our own product specialists and our extensive national service and support network,” concludes Whitehead.

Focus on Leadership Jamie Weller and the evolution of Kissel + Wolf

With a heritage spanning more than 35 years, Kissel + Wolf is one of Australia’s oldest, most trusted and diversified print suppliers. Founded by John Wood (Senior) in 1985 as Sias Screen Printing Products, which then became lntergraphic Technologies, sons John Wood (Junior), Peter and Greig, who worked in the business, took the reigns in 2000. When the company was sold in 2004, Greig and John stayed on, with Greig assuming the role of Managing Director. After twenty-three years at the helm, Greig recently stepped back to a part-time role as General Manager of Metal Decoration, appointing Jamie Weller as Managing Director. In this exclusive interview, Digital Image Magazine sat down with Jamie to learn more about his thoughts on leadership and what the future holds for Kissel + Wolf. Digital Image: Jamie, you have been in your current role as Managing Director for a couple of months now, transitioning from the position of Business Development Director ANZ - Industrial Print & Packaging. What has been the immediate focus for you since assuming this new role? My first priority was getting out and connecting with our exceptional team across our Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne offices. I wanted to allow everyone the space to express their opinions regarding our strengths and areas for improvement. This was an important part of the process of gaining a comprehensive understanding of 24

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

the entire business. Similarly, I spent time visiting key customers in all of our vertical segments. Immersing myself in the financials and setting clear goals for the business have also been immediate priorities.

an environment where every individual’s opinion is valued. It is essential to ensure that every team member feels encouraged to share their ideas, regardless of their size or potential impact on the business.

Digital Image: Greig Wood, who has done an exceptional job as Managing Director, recently stepped back to a part-time role as General Manager of Metal Decoration. How do you step up and lead a business that, whilst it hasn›t been family-owned since 2004, still has a strong culture and heritage of being run as a family-owned business?

Our culture does reflect aspects of a family-run business, and I believe that we need to continue to preserve these values and that we are close enough and connected enough to show that we care for each and every member of our team. The same ‘care factor’ and focus exist for every one of our customers, no matter how big or small they are. They are all important to us, and we value their business.

I firmly believe in the power of open and proactive communication and creating

VIC • NSW • QLD

Digital Image: As part of the Kissel + Wolf transition, a newly formed leadership team was recently announced. From your perspective, what do you believe are the key factors contributing to the success of a leadership team? And how do you plan to build and nurture such a team in your new role? As a leadership team, we need to lead by example and effectively communicate our vision and values to the company. Our vision needs to be one that everyone can understand and wants to align with and embrace. Then it’s about empowering, trusting and supporting the line management so they can, in turn, do the same with their teams, so that everyone has the confidence to excel in their roles, knowing they have the backing and support of management, and are all highly valued members of the K + W team. I am fortunate to have the support of experienced individuals like Vanessa King, our CFO, and Jon Field, the Executive Director of Sales and Service, both of whom have extensive tenure with K+W. Their expertise greatly facilitates my transition into this new role. In summary, a successful leadership team is built upon three core elements: “Shared Vision and Values, “Effective Communication and Collaboration”, and a culture of “Trust and Respect”. Digital Image: In the industry, Kissel + Wolf is widely recognised for its exceptional

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

technical expertise in screen and digital printing in a variety of specialty categories. How will you build expertise to enable Kissel + Wolf’s technical leadership to continue? Becoming the best business advisors and technical partners to our customers and their businesses is a critical part of our product and service offering. This can only be achieved through the exchange of knowledge across our teams and the continuous training of our entire staff, whether they are located locally or overseas, in collaboration with our supplier partners. We are committed to bringing the very best people from around the world to Australia whenever we embrace new technologies and installations. A great example of this commitment is the recent arrival of a factory-trained service technician from overseas. This technician is currently involved in installing a new digital printer in the short-run corrugated board industry. Not only will he oversee the completion of the installation, but he will also train our service technicians to ensure they meet the highest factory standards. More than 90% of our staff comprises people with technical expertise across various roles and sectors. We are committed to nurturing the development of our existing staff while recruiting additional technical professionals as we expand into new areas. In response to the growth of the

digital printing segment, we have recently added two highly experienced Field Technicians to our team. Digital Image: As the new Managing Director of Kissel + Wolf, you bring fresh skills and ideas to the organisation. What will Kissel and Wolf look like in two years? While certain aspects, such as our business values and dedication to our customers, will remain unchanged, in other ways, we will be a different organisation, including expanding our service offerings and suite of capabilities designed to add value to our customers. We are open to forming new strategic partnerships and collaborations, particularly when these alliances bring added value to our customers and are a natural extension of areas in which we are already involved. That said, Jon Field and I are actively exploring new verticals where we can make significant inroads and provide strong and sustainable growth opportunities for ourselves and our customers. This could include the implementation of more automated workflows, or the introduction of new business development services aimed at supporting our customers in adopting best practices. We are also considering offering even more flexible and tailored financing options for capital purchases and leveraging AI technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity for our customers.

A unicorn in fabric and merchandise production

76 INCH WIDE, UP TO 255 M2/HR

STUNN ING FABRIC & MERCHAND I SE PRODUCTION MADE SIMPLE

DYE-SUB

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

21 SEC PER SHIRT

• 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*

DTG

• Remote monitoring and diagnostics for pro-active service and support* • On-site CoverPlus service packages up to 5 years

64 INCH

*Model dependent

DYE SUBLIMATION

44 INCH

24 INCH

For more information visit: www.epson.com.au/fabric

DIRECT-TO-GARMENT NEW

HEXIS Decoration Challenge Taken Up with OCX! As part of the renovation project for a high-end hotel in Poland, the HEXIS films provided by the distributor OCX were able to highlight and personalise the different spaces. Located in Zielona Góra, in Polish Lower Silesia, the Grape Town Hotel was given a second life this summer following a partial renovation. Thanks to HEXIS and its Polish distributor OCX, the result is stunning, and the new setting of the hotel will not fail to appeal to a demanding clientele of business people and tourists, offering them a luxurious stay, excellent service and various possibilities for relaxation and entertainment. Particular emphasis was placed on the design and interior decoration of the Grape Town hotel, renamed Park79 (4 stars), its Wino i Grono restaurant, the Spa, the conference rooms, the Hades bowling alley and its sporty pub. The establishment has been redesigned to combine modern architecture and centuries-old wine tradition, creating a unique and original atmosphere. “On the advice of the company OCX, which supported and advised us throughout this renovation, we selected HEXIS films to provide non-slip protection, floor and window decorations, and magnetic prints,” specifies the manager. The project indeed had different dimensions. It was necessary to create a system of pictograms inspired by the hotel logo and position them strategically to help customers easily navigate the establishment, indicating the different locations and facilities. Of course, the texts have been printed in two languages ( Polish and English) to ensure the best understanding of the orientation indications. Likewise, the signage had to be clear and intuitive to guide customers. “Despite a specific approach to each of the zones, we placed a lot of importance on maintaining an overall consistency of colours in order to guarantee a harmonious transition between different activity zones to ultimately create a pleasant overall atmosphere and a Grape Town identifiable brand. CREATE AN EXPERIENCE FOR CUSTOMERS There was no shortage of challenges, linked as much to the diversity of the types of spaces to be renovated as to their destination (rooms, lobby, staircases, training rooms, conference rooms, relaxation areas, seats, bars, children’s corners, etc.) and the desire to create well-identified atmospheres but also the imperatives of safety and security, and deadlines. Success required careful planning, coordination and flexibility, as well as extreme quality and reliability of the adhesive supports chosen.

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

“The project team – very committed – consisted of architects and interior designers who developed the concept, including the layout of the space and the selection of appropriate materials, particularly the films of the HEXIS brand. The OCX company was responsible for printing, cutting and installing the films in collaboration with a team operating under the HEXIS Polska and OCX Design labels. For the Grape Town Hotel, benefiting from professional services from an experienced team with perfect knowledge of HEXIS products and their technical characteristics has proven to be a real asset. One of the reasons for the success of the hotel renovation is therefore also linked to the close collaboration between the stakeholders. “This close collaboration between OCX and HEXIS Polska (currently: OCX Distributor HEXIS Sp. z o.o.) has enabled Grape Town to use the best decoration solutions. Thanks to the technical quality of the films, their perfect printing and installation, and in-depth expertise, we have obtained complete, high-quality solutions. The result fully complies with our requirements and especially those of our customers!” LANDMARKS AND HEXIS SAV USED: Walls:

VCSR300WG1 High Tack Monomeric Media + V700B Monomeric Laminate

Floors:

VCSR201WG High Tack Polymeric Media + GFLI170 Anti-Slip Laminate

Reception counter: STENCIL Masking Film Elevator doors:

HX30SCH03B Super Chrome Titanium Gloss Cast Wrapping Film + BODYFENCE Paint Protection Film Gloss

HEXIS encourages all customers to send any HEXIS projects and work to us at sales.au@hexisgroup.com and we will be happy to share the information and promote your work on our platforms. Find us on Instagram (@hexis_australia), Facebook (@hexisaustralia) and Tiktok (@hexis_australia).

Evolution in Grip - Versatile adhesive and film-based visual communication products adapted for any surface.

Spicers has you covered In the fast-paced world of visual communication, where innovation is the key to staying ahead, Spicers has once again emerged as a trailblazer with its latest offering: Evolution In Grip. This promotion heralds a new era of possibilities, introducing a diverse range of versatile adhesive and film-based visual communication products meticulously designed to adhere to every conceivable surface flawlessly. At the core of this revolutionary series lies an unparalleled dedication to adaptability. Evolution In Grip is not merely a collection of products; it is a comprehensive solution perfectly adapted for every surface. Whether you’re seeking solutions for windows, walls, or floors, Spicers’ new range has you covered. The series offers printed samples of solutions for these specific applications, showcasing outstanding durability, precise ink compatibility, and a steadfast commitment to sustainable options. Spicers understands the importance of these features in the modern context, where businesses and individuals alike are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint. “Due to the success of the first edition of Evolution In Grip, which was released in 2017 and was based on our Digitac range, we decided to create a new addition that included all the great brands from our Visual Communications portfolio which were suitable for window, wall and floor applications. Just in the last couple of years, our range has expanded and included more sustainable solutions to meet market demand. The packs now include brands such as 3M, General Formulations, Phototex, Kavalan, Bauhaus, Rocal, Yupo and Digitac,” says Wayne Hood, Spicers Visual Communications Portfolio Manager. What sets Evolution In Grip apart from the rest is not just the quality of the products but the customer experience it delivers. The promotion includes meticulously crafted product inserts accompanied by reference guides, elegantly assembled within a presentation folder. These guides not only highlight the versatility inherent in the Spicers portfolio but also serve as an invaluable resource for customers, guiding them through the myriad options available. “Evolution In Grip is not just a product range; it’s a testament to our A handy guide and resource for specifiers and installers.

Spicers Evolution in Grip series is adaptable for any surface.

commitment to empowering creativity. We understand the challenges faced by businesses and artists in finding solutions that are not only high-quality but also environmentally responsible. This promotion is our way of addressing these needs comprehensively,’ says Hood. A notable feature of this series is the prominent presence of the General Formulations brand throughout the 3-pack collection. General Formulations is a name synonymous with trust and reliability, particularly in the realm of solutions for window, wall, and floor surfaces. By incorporating this trusted brand, Spicers ensures that its customers receive superior quality and the assurance of proven solutions. Moreover, the packs within the series proudly feature sustainable options, aligning perfectly with the growing global emphasis on eco-friendly practices. In a world where technology continually evolves, Spicers remains at the forefront by providing media compatible with a spectrum of ink technologies: aqueous, eco-solvent, UV curable, Latex, and LED. This adaptability ensures that Spicers not only caters to the essentials of traditional printing but also embraces the future with cutting-edge technologies. Spicers’ Evolution In Grip is not just a product launch; it’s a testament to their commitment to empowering businesses, designers, and innovators. Spicers has your visual communications covered. Evolution In Grip isn’t just a range; it’s a promise of endless possibilities. For samples of the Evolution in Grip packs, don’t hesitate to contact your local Spicers representative 1300 132 644 spicers.com.au

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

Tapping into road safety the 3M way Retroreflective tapes are an essential tool in increasing the visibility of heavy vehicles and improving road safety. 3M Diamond Grade reflective tapes are highly durable and deliver outstanding vehicle visibility that allows heavy vehicles to be seen earlier than unmarked vehicles, resulting in giving other drivers more time to react and manoeuvre safely in traffic. The Australian Government has a long-term road safety vision of reducing road crash fatalities, however, most of our past road safety efforts in Australia have focused on countering illegal behaviours and imposing vehicle safety standards. While road safety can be achieved through focus on safer drivers and safer vehicles, the other equally crucial parameter is safer road infrastructure. Among the many infrastructure challenges that exist to reduce the number of crashes and fatalities, special emphasis should be given to heavy vehicles. The governments, authorities, industry members and safety solution providers all need to work together to help Australia

reduce death and serious injury on our roads because road safety is a shared responsibility. Data suggests heavy trucks and buses make up only 3.7 per cent of the vehicle fleet, yet they are involved in 16 per cent of all road fatalities, with around 39 per cent of fatal incidents occurring at night. Visibility of heavy vehicles is exacerbated at night especially in poor visibility conditions including rain, fog, dawn and dusk. However, some simple interventions can have a significant impact on road safety, particularly in relation to crashes involving heavy vehicles. Studies conducted in recent times have concluded that the usage of retroreflective tapes on trucks can be effective in avoiding collisions, with significant reductions achieved in side and rear truck impacts. Data collected during one such study shows that the use of retroreflective tape under poor visibility conditions reduced overall rear collisions by 41 per cent and 37 per cent for side collisions. When trucks, trailers and other large commercial vehicles are more reflective, they’re easier for other drivers to see at a distance, particularly at night and in inclement weather, thereby reducing the risk of accidents. A truck with outline reflective markings is recognised earlier than an unmarked truck because they help to define the total size of the truck to other road users. This gives other drivers more time to react and manoeuvre safely in traffic. As a result, these retroreflective vehicle safety markings are a requirement in many countries around the world since the early 1990s. Conspicuity markings (aka contour markings) are also an economical way to introduce improved reflectivity on vehicles. The right product, along with the right application, can help a heavy

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

vehicle really stand out at a relatively low cost. Multinational conglomerate corporation 3M has designed road safety solutions to fit all transport needs. Whether you need to add visibility to emergency vehicles, trucks and trailers, buses or rail cars, there’s a 3M product to meet those demands – all backed by local technical support and certified applicators helping you to comply with regulations and guidelines. 3M’s range of high-performance reflective tapes allows heavy vehicles to be seen earlier than unmarked vehicles. In addition, they are highly durable, easy to apply, and meet or exceed regulations and guidelines set out in the United Nations standards of conduct. The application cost of even such a high standard conspicuity marking is low, while the safety improvements can be significant. Today, standards for retroreflective truck visibility are specified but not mandated in Australia. The ADRs and the National Regulation currently only accepts the UN standard for conspicuity. The Australian Trucking Association (ATA) has produced a technical advisory procedure for heavy vehicle visibility (available on the ATA website) to help operators understand the requirements set out in the UN Economic Commission for Europe Regulation 48. About 3M 3M is dedicated to improving traffic safety and mobility on a global level by offering a portfolio of solutions to help families get home safely. For over 75 years, 3M has made roadways safer and protected drivers through its trademarked range of 3M Diamond Grade reflective tapes that allow heavy vehicles to be seen earlier than unmarked heavy vehicles, considerably reducing the risk of accidents and collision. Ever since the inception of its reflective signage technology, 3M has worked with government agencies globally to help many governments realise their long-term road safety visions. To learn more scan here to request an eBook:

3M Australia Pty Ltd Web: www.3M.com.au/roadsafety Ph: 136 136

US (DOT) FMVSS 108

UN ECE R104

IT’S A WRAP

Scooby-Approved:

Mystery Transport’s New Design! When Mystery Transport opened its doors providing transport for clients with accessibility needs, John Luyt from Townsville, Queensland, had a specific vision of the livery he wanted. The design process took eight months, culminating in a remarkable vehicle wrap brought to life by Jay Macaskill, owner of Master Wraps. In May 2023, Luyt turned to Master Wraps after searching for an aligned partner to work with. The project was no easy feat; Luyt knew it would be challenging, and he and Macaskill were determined to see it through. While the design process was underway, the small, seemingly simple details required close attention, from testing different colours to perfecting the logo placement on the van’s door. Every aspect was meticulously crafted to meet Luyt’s exacting standards. One of the design’s standout features is the ghost reaching out to grab the wheel arches, creating a dynamic and eye-catching visual, coupled with the placement of the window film with the Scooby Crew looking back in terror.” The alignment of this artwork and the overall design proved to be a challenge, but Master Wraps persisted, and with some minor adjustments, the final result proved to be a hit with Luyts clients. Luyt is delighted with the outcome, taking his newly transformed van to car shows, in addition to the airport pickups and disability transport services it is primarily used for. The eye-catching design engenders recognition and appreciation wherever it goes. The key to the success of this project lies in the materials and technologies used. The vehicle wrap was printed on Arlon SLX+

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

on an HP latex 315 printer, known for its quick-drying properties. Macaskill says the choice of top-quality materials ensures a vibrant and durable wrap ready to stand the test of time on the road. The wrap was installed with an overlaminate for extra protection. Regarding communication and service, Luyt was full of praise, saying, “Working with Macaskill from Master Wraps, I’m delighted with the outcome. He even suggested some small changes that make it even better.” Of course, no project is without issues, but what truly matters is how those issues are handled. In this case, any hiccups at the end of the job were promptly noted and addressed by Master Wraps, ensuring that Luyt received top-notch service, “There were some minor issues, but Jay addressed them immediately, and I could not be more satisfied with the outcome,” finishes Luyt. Mystery Transport’s journey, from concept to realisation, exemplifies that a small business can still have a significant impact with thoughtful branding. The dedication and expertise of Macaskill from Master Wraps, combined with Luyt’s unwavering commitment to his vision, have resulted in an eye-catching and memorable design. Scooby would approve!

SIZE

MATTERS.. Selected Arlon Monomeric and Polymeric Digital Print Films with Matching Overlaminates, Now Available in 1.6m Graphic Art Mart, in partnership with Arlon, is thrilled to introduce your favorite digital print films, tailored to perfectly suit the Australian market. This means that our valued customers can now enjoy easy access to the Arlon Series DPF 510, available in a diverse range of finishes and adhesives, along with the complementary Arlon Series 3510 overlaminate, now available in a generous 1.6m size. Furthermore, we’re excited to offer the brand-new Arlon DPF 4650GLX high-performance digital film, which boasts X-Scape Technology®, accompanied by the matching Arlon Series 3460 overlaminate, also conveniently available in the 1.6m size format.

SHOP THE RANGE AT GRAPHIC ART MART

1300 426 278

sales@gamart.com.au

gamart.com.au

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

When personal relationships and working relationships conflict by Charles Watson In the business world, the concept of married couples owning and operating businesses together can be inspiring and challenging. The prospect of building a thriving business while sharing the joys and burdens of work with a life partner is undeniably appealing. However, beneath the surface lies a complex terrain where things can take unforeseen turns, particularly when couples’ relationships break down. In a recent decision, the Fair Work Commission had to deal with an application by an ex-wife (F) who claimed to have been unfairly dismissed by her ex-husband (N). This article speaks to a cautionary tale of what can happen when a relationship sours and its effect on a business. After an irrevocable breakdown in their marriage, both parties entered into a binding financial agreement under the Family Law Act. That agreement contained various provisions, including that F would resign her directorship with the company and transfer her shares to N. Additionally, N would indemnify F against all liability in the business. Further, F would continue in her employment with the business. Both parties approached this agreement with the best intentions and to continue working in a cooperative manner.

ongoing conduct, and after being instructed to cease such behaviour, F’s employment was terminated for failing to comply with lawful and reasonable directions. After considering each of the matters specified in the Fair Work Act, her Honour determined the dismissal of F was not harsh, unjust or unreasonable in all the circumstances. In dismissing the application, her Honour noted the company had a valid reason and that F’s ongoing employment was untenable. Although F was not afforded procedural fairness in the process and had made a valuable contribution to the business over many years, that was outweighed by the reason for the dismissal. A CAUTIONARY TALE

However, a month later, that goodwill appears to have disintegrated. The evidence before the Commission established that F refused to cooperate in work-related tasks, unreasonably withheld crucial business information and refused to share banking and other passwords, which was detrimental to the business.

When it comes to conflicts in the workplace, the age-old wisdom of addressing issues early and seeking amicable compromises holds true. Whether through informal or formal processes, the goal is to find common ground that benefits everyone involved. Unfortunately, the window for resolving the workplace conflict had passed in this case.

Although the Commission had no jurisdiction to determine any claim relating to the personal financial agreement the parties entered, it held that F’s conduct was in breach of the relationship-related financial agreement. As a result of that

Given the breakdown of the marital relationship between F and N, it’s hardly surprising that their ability to work cooperatively suffered. Interpersonal conflict, especially in a small workplace, typically yields unfavourable consequences

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

for the business itself and its employees. Ordinarily, a business owner or manager can step in to navigate and resolve conflicts. However, when spouses, especially ex-spouses, find themselves locked in a dispute within the confines of a shared business, the situation becomes infinitely more complex. As we’ve seen in the discussed case, when a conflict escalates to a point where resolution is impossible, and one party’s behaviour becomes unacceptable, it may indeed justify the difficult decision to terminate their employment. The intricate dynamics of working alongside a spouse can be highly rewarding but equally challenging. The breakdown of a personal and professional relationship can lead to significant repercussions for the individuals involved and the business and its workforce. It underscores the importance of proactive conflict resolution, effective management, and the readiness to take necessary actions when interpersonal issues threaten the business. Charles Watson GM – IR, Policy and Governance Visual Media Association

This article is of a general nature and guidance only and does not constitute legal advice.

UPCOMING EVENTS

IMPRESSIONS EXPO: LONG BEACH https://impressionsexpo.com/ 19-21 January 2024 Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center Long Beach, California, USA

FESPA ANNUAL BBQ https://fespaaustralia.org.au/events/ 15 February 2024 Richmond Rowing Club, Melbourne

FESPA SYDNEY SOCIAL https://fespaaustralia.org.au/events/ 29 February 2024 Sydney Rowing Club, Abbotsford

FESPA GLOBAL https://www.fespaglobalprintexpo.com/ 19-22 March 2024 Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Trade Shows Events Seminars Exhibitions Open Days Conferences Training

IMPRESSIONS EXPO: ATLANTIC CITY https://impressionsexpo.com/ 21 – 23 March 2024 Atlantic City Convention Center, New Jersey, USA

ISA SIGN EXPO 2024 https://www.signexpo.org/ 10-12 April 2024 Orange County Convention Center Orlando, USA

WOMEN IN PRINT BREAKFAST SERIES 2024 www.womeninprint.com.au May 2024 Adelaide, Brisbane, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney

DRUPA 2024 https://www.drupa.com/ 28 May – 7 June 2024 Düsseldorf, Germany

VISUAL IMPACT BRISBANE visualimpact.org.au 17 - 19 July 2024 Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Photo Credit: Jonny Gios (Unsplash)

Brisbane, Queensland WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

How PVC can help sustainability

Photo Credit: Christian Mackie (Unsplash)

DENISE KIRBY

For this reason, there is an increasing shift to PVC-free films and other alternatives as companies and brands who care about the environment look for less impactful solutions for their sign and print needs. Today, there are many applications where we don’t need to use PVC, especially in the short-term promotional advertising market. However, when it comes to applications requiring long-term durability, chemical resistance, fire retardancy and 3D conformability, PVC film still reigns supreme in performance and price. Measuring the impact a product has on the environment is complex. Every product has a life cycle, starting with the sourcing of raw materials through to end-of-life disposal. Some materials, like PVC, while not environmentally friendly in composition, can still produce sustainable benefits when used for certain applications because they contribute to a better overall environmental outcome than when they are not used. 38

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

Photo Credit: Callum Hill (Unsplash)

When we think about being more sustainable in our industry, we focus very much on the types of products and substates we use. As an industry, we process a lot of plastic, which ends up in landfill. Out of all the types of plastics we use, from an environmental perspective, PVC self-adhesive film is the worst due to its composition and the types of additives used to make it durable and flexible. Vinyl chloride, the PVC building block, is a potent carcinogen that must be carefully managed during manufacturing. This and the other additives used to make PVC functional create an enduring toxic waste problem in landfills at the end of their life.

DENISE KIRBY

One such application where PVC can provide this kind of ecological advantage is in the interior architectural space to breathe new life into existing surfaces. Today, several brands are offering a vast range of colours, textures and finishes that look and feel like traditional architectural substrates. From woodgrain, marble, metal, leather, fabric and stone, these films can instantly transform and revitalise home, commercial, retail, and hospitality surfaces. Using vinyl to refurbish surfaces and fixtures is sustainable as it reduces waste, as outdated materials and finishes can be recycled. Consider the difference between upgrading a kitchen with vinyl wrap versus sending a whole kitchen to a landfill and replacing it with a new kitchen. Not only are you reducing waste, but you are also saving on CO2 emissions required for a renovation or complete rebuild.

From a functional perspective, PVC is tough and resilient and can handle the rigours of everyday wear and tear, making it ideal for home and commercial environments. PVC is resistant to water, dirt, chemicals and mould, making it easy to clean and maintain. PVC

architectural

films

offer

excellent

long-term

resistance, colour fastness and durability with premium brands lasting up to 12 years. PVC is soft, flexible, and can conform around 3D services, creating seamless applications for cabinetry, furniture and other irregular surfaces. Thanks to its high chlorine content and other additives, PVC conforms to fire-resistant certifications, often required for internal fit-outs. Using quality long-life architectural films, the amount of PVC film waste going to landfills is very small compared to the waste generated by new fit-outs. PVC films can also help reduce natural resource depletion and save on CO2 emissions. As a material in its own right, PVC is not an environmentally friendly plastic, but when used responsibly and for the correct

Photo Credit: Point3d Commercial Imaging Ltd (Unsplash)

Photo Credit: Sven Brandsma (Unsplash)

application, it can still contribute to sustainability.

Many architectural and interior decorative surfaces are sourced from mining raw materials. Mining impacts the environment significantly, causing land degradation, contributing to water pollution, and emitting high levels of carbon to create these substrates. Some of these materials are also made from nonrenewable resources. All of this can be reduced using vinyl wraps instead of new materials.

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.

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

It’s a tough gig

It can be any or all of the above, plus more you’ve already thought of as you read the opening lines. Talk to anyone who has run their own business for any length of time; we all face many challenges. What about your managers? Do they face the same or similar challenges as us business owners? The answer is a resounding yes if you’ve got the right people in the right job. But perhaps without the same stress and financial commitment that all owners endure. One of the most challenging aspects I found was managing people. It was a neverending parade of problems and challenges ranging from mundane and trivial issues to life-challenging confrontations. The reality is you never know what you’re going to get when someone asks for a one-on-one chat. It sounds like a line from Forrest Gump. And it sometimes resembles his chaotic, erratic life at times. Keeping people motivated is another challenge. Keeping them interested, motivated and engaged is an ongoing, never-ending pursuit to keep your best people satisfied in what they do. It isn’t always about money. Most staff will state job satisfaction as a high priority in choosing an employer. This means we must put time and effort into ensuring our people are fully engaged.

Photo Credit: Joel Jasmin (Unsplash)

Sport makes a great juxtaposition when looking at how to achieve goals; they are similar but without the big shiny cup at the end of the season. I was a major sponsor of the Perth Wildcats for several seasons and was lucky to see how large professional coaches worked with elite sports stars. It is very similar to business goals. I also donated a sign to the Perth-based navy ship HMAS Perth. They wanted a sign that identified their helicopter hanger as T5, relating to the terminals at Perth Airport. Their rationale was that it meant another comfort point for the crew in farflung destinations and sometimes hostile environments. These reminders of home were precious and helped maintain crew morale.

What’s the most challenging aspect of running your business? Making money? More profit? Any profit? Achieving quality standards? Creating a safe workplace for your people? Finding the right work/life balance? 40

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

The Navy was so impressed to receive a donation of the sign, a 3,000 x 1,200mm ACM panel, that they invited me to inspect the ship and meet the Captain. I was never going to pass up that invitation. Once I passed the significant security protocols, I was invited on board and given a comprehensive inspection of the entire

Photo Credit: Louis Hansel (Unsplash)

VERNON KINGMAN

55 National ASGA Awards Learn from someone who turned a one man business into one of Australia’s most successful sign Companies • Identify your goals • Find the right balance • Inspire your team to greatness • Take control of your business & succeed • Attract & retain quality staff

Vernon now offers coaching and mentoring to others who want to emulate this success.

vernonjkingman@gmail.com

0418 924 224

Photo Credit: Fitsum Admasu (Unsplash)

VERNON KINGMAN

ship: the War room and all. I felt privileged and humbled to see how our people worked to allow us to sleep easily in our beds at night. They put on a morning tea, and I was thanked in front of the crew and then got to sit down with the captain on the bridge. During this time, we talked about motivating his crew, and I related stories of how I did the same with my team. The captain was astounded at the similarities between business and the armed forces.

realities of life, let alone business ownership. Congratulations, Bobby; your business failed, and you lost the family home, but you did participate; well done. Business is most certainly about winning and winning the quote. Winning that top sign maker, you’ve been trying to get from Blog Signs for two years. Winning the biggest tender you’ve ever submitted. Don’t kid yourself; business is most definitely about winning.

When you break it down, all we are doing is motivating people. Be it sports stars, armed forces or sign makers, the end goal is similar. Perhaps without people shooting at us, but I’m sure you get my drift.

If you aren’t a sports participant, how about fitness? I played squash for many years, but I felt it was too hard on my aging frame as the years advanced. However, I found the pool was a great second option. A bit like squash, it’s a one-person endeavour; however, I found doing lap after lap allowed me to switch off mentally and focus on the sunrise and the environment around me. I always felt terrific after a good swim and noticed on the days I didn’t exercise.

So you’re doing a great job of motivating everyone, but it does pull you down. It does get heavy. “Billy” has been in three times this week complaining someone keeps moving his lunch from the fridge’s top shelf, and he doesn’t like it. It takes all your willpower to avoid the eye roll or tell him to be grateful no one ate his lunch. Which brings me to the core of this article. How do we keep ourselves motivated? Forever. Most business owners are in it for the long haul. 15 and 20 years is average. I owned my business for 38 years. How do we keep self-motivated for such a protracted time?

Photo Credit: Clark Tibbs (Unsplash)

I alluded to sport earlier, and that’s a great segue again. Sport is a great fitness tool that keeps us physically and mentally attuned to what we must do. Winning is the nature of the sport. Apologies if the following statement cuts a bit deep, but giving everyone a ribbon for participating really doesn’t prepare anyone for the

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

Sport and fitness assist us in running our business and maintaining our mental strength. You will struggle to deal with Billy and his missing lunch if you don’t look after the most crucial person in your business. You. I’m now in my post-work life and still begin each day with a trip to the gym. It invigorates me, and I’m a cranky bugger if I don’t get to go. So, find what makes you feel fabulous every morning and make that part of your ritual. It might be yoga; it might be coffee at that great little café on the way to work where you can read the paper in peace and focus your mind on the day ahead. But find it, and you will be a better employer, partner, and person.

Making the Leap When to Begin Paid Social Ads

The average length of a marketing campaign is three months, which is why most marketers recommend a marketing strategy review be done quarterly. For a small to medium-sized business, a great rule of thumb for businesses without a large marketing department is to review at least every six months. This article will help you to identify key indicators as to whether your business is in a position to run social media ads. True business transformation is possible when you commit to regularly revisiting your marketing strategy and scrutinising your metrics regardless of the timing of the checks.

your marketing strategy; ask yourself how you work towards them before commencing ads. Do you want to increase brand awareness, drive website traffic, generate leads, or boost sales? Your objectives will shape your ad strategy.

Before diving into social advertising, you should review several key steps and milestones. Here’s what you should consider and a review of the metrics you should have in place before investing financially in social media ads.

Understanding the importance of audience targeting is critical. Ensure you define your target audience, including demographics, interests, and behaviours. By having a detailed Audience Profile within your Marketing Strategy, taking the next step into Ad segmentation will be a lot easier as you will have a clear idea of your audience’s interests, motives, job titles, and all the things you can use to trial and test for the best campaign results.

DEFINED GOALS AND OBJECTIVES: Start with clear and specific goals and outline them within 44

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

UNDERSTANDING YOUR AUDIENCE:

Photo Credit: John Schnobrich (Unsplash)

CASS THEODORE

QUALITY CONTENT:

THE GO/NO-GO DECISION:

High-quality content is crucial; this in no way means you need professional videography before you can run social ads; however, it does mean you need to ensure photos and videos are of high resolution, content that includes graphics and text and should be on brand using brand elements and fonts. Ensure your current audience can recognise your brand by the visual content used in the campaign, which brings us to the following key areas. Ensure you have a consistent social media presence on the platform you intend to advertise. Test your marketing strategy and your campaigns with an organic audience. Keep content relevant to the Ad campaign or critical message you are speaking about and ensure content is consistently posted to reinforce reliability and safety that you are an actual company.

With these metrics and milestones in mind, it’s time to make an informed decision:

WEBSITE READINESS: Your website should be ready to handle an influx of traffic and conversions. Optimise it for user experience and load times. Ensure you have lead generation points or conversion ability before directing traffic there. Then, remember to double-check once more before it all goes live.

GO AHEAD IF: • Your goals and objectives are clear, and you deeply understand your target audience. • Your website is ready to handle increased traffic and conversions. • You’ve established a consistent and engaging social media presence. • Conversion tracking is set up, and you’re well-versed in using these metrics for optimisation. • You can integrate email marketing with social advertising effectively. • You’ve allocated a reasonable budget for ad campaigns. • You have the knowledge and tools to effectively create and manage social ad campaigns. HOLD OFF IF: • Your organic growth is stagnant or declining. • You lack the necessary tracking and analytics tools.

EMAIL MARKETING STRATEGY: Leverage your email list. A well-structured email strategy will complement your social ad campaigns, and if you are running a lead generation campaign or collecting leads from your website through this campaign, set up some email automation to help reduce any bottlenecks in your workflow or to continue building a relationship with clients. You may need automatic processes to support your new customers if the campaign succeeds. SUFFICIENT ORGANIC GROWTH: Before investing in ads, ensure your organic social media following grows steadily. Steady growth is a good indicator of interest in your brand. Remember, organic growth is slow for everyone. We are looking for signs your marketing is communicating your offer and message well so that new potential customers hang around after learning about you. CONVERSION TRACKING:

• Engagement on your organic content is low. • Your social following is minimal – as this will limit your targeting capabilities. • Your budget is too limited to run effective ad campaigns. • You’re not well-versed in the strategies required for successful social ads. THE IMPORTANCE OF TESTING: Regardless of your decision, it’s crucial to start with testing. A/B testing your ad campaigns allows you to fine-tune your approach and optimise for better results; when compiling target segments, it is best to group to smaller segments and begin with more segment groups to measure how effective each variable is. Continuously monitor, remove and adjust your ads based on your collected data. SCALING YOUR EFFORTS:

BUDGET ALLOCATION:

As you gain experience and see positive results, consider scaling your social ad efforts. This might involve increasing your budget, expanding to other platforms, or diversifying your ad formats. For example, the average CPC (Cost per click) on Meta is considered good if it is under $0.94; if you have a figure well below this, you may decide to scale the budget up as the ROI is likely also to increase.

Determine how much of your marketing budget you will allocate to social ads. Ensure it’s a sustainable and scalable amount. Remember, the bigger the asking result is of the audience, the more it will cost to achieve it, meaning your daily budget for a Conversions campaign will need to be higher than a daily Traffic campaign.

Timing is crucial for social advertising; ensuring you have a solid goal, strategy, budget, and omnichannel approach to support your ads campaign will ultimately determine if the campaign is a success. Ads do not need to run all year round, as some agencies will have you believe. Proper preparation will do much more for campaign success than ongoing months of machine learning.

Implement tracking tools like Facebook Pixel and Google Analytics. It’s a business imperative to use these to measure the effectiveness of your ad campaigns. Having both these set up correctly will also aid in future Audience Profiling as you will now have insights into demographics and their behaviours.

CASS THEODORE is a Digital Marketer and Founding Director of That Mrkg agency. She specialises in strategic performance marketing with over ten years of experience. She is a highly creative marketer who creates targeted and effective marketing campaigns, with expertise in strategic marketing and social ads. Cass has a proven track record of driving significant increases in website traffic, lead generation, and revenue growth for her clients. Cass is the ideal partner for businesses looking to thrive in the digital landscape, offering expertise in strategic marketing planning, social media ads, email marketing, and invaluable marketing consulting services. www.thatmrkg.com

WWW.IMAGEMAGAZINE.COM.AU DEC 2023/JAN 2024

5 Ways to Maximise Cash Flow in Your Business Managing cash flow in your business is one of the most vital aspects of business financial control. If your business runs out of cash regularly, it can be very stressful and make it difficult to grow a business sustainably. How can a business improve cash flow? Here are some tips to help you with how to maximise cash flow and overcome and preferably avoid cash flow problems: 1. UNDERSTAND YOUR CURRENT CASH FLOW POSITION The best way to understand your current cash flow position is to plot it in black and white as a Cash Flow Forecast. It can be a straightforward spreadsheet that records your opening bank balance, the money coming in and going out each day, week or month… with a closing balance at the end of each period. You may need more sophistication if you have customers who take time to pay and suppliers who give you terms. The critical point is that you can see very clearly what your position will be going forward. You can see where the ‘peaks and troughs’ will be and when you need to work on the ‘troughs’. For example, you may need to ramp up customer payment collections, reduce some spending, inject some funds yourself, or borrow or seek longer terms from suppliers. 2. UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PROFIT AND CASH FLOW One of the biggest myths about improving cash flow is that you only need to sell more stuff. People sometimes forget that for every sale, there are costs associated, and customers take time to pay. So, between you selling something and getting paid… you’ve got to pay suppliers or staff/labour for the costs associated with the sale. Selling more can sometimes worsen cash flow problems if you don’t consider this situation. Calculating profit is quite different from the timing related to cash flow. Profit is measured when the sale is made, and the costs are matched against it. Cash flow moves quite differently because customers don’t always pay immediately when the sale is made, and suppliers must be paid often before customers pay you… Hence, the cash flow squeeze is usually caused by sales growth. Understanding your business numbers helps to avoid cash flow squeeze. 46

DEC 2023/JAN 2024

3. FIGURE OUT WHAT IMPACTS CASH FLOW THE MOST Some of the most significant impactors of cash flow are costs, overheads and timing of income and payments. Costs and overheads can quickly eat up all the cash made from sales, so anything you can do to reduce them or find more efficient ways to get things done positively impacts cash flow. I see it so often that businesses get all ‘gung ho’ at the start and load themselves up with way too many overheads, then sales don’t quite match up to expectations, and they end up struggling to pay bills. The timing of income is essential. The faster you can get paid, i.e. invoicing and collecting payment ASAP, getting deposits or progress payments, the better your cash flow will be. Conversely, the better terms you can get from suppliers, the tax office, lenders and investors, the better your cash flow will fare. 4. WORK OUT A PLAN TO MEASURE AND MANAGE YOUR CASH FLOW As mentioned in point 1, once you’ve got a cash flow forecast in place, it will serve you to monitor what happens compared to what you envisage. If you forecasted for a certain level of sales and collections, but it didn’t occur as planned, you should get plenty of notice that you need to change things to suit. If you can minimise fixed overheads as much as possible and allow yourself to ramp costs up and down in line with income, this will help immensely. Organising a source of funds before you need it will give you peace of mind when calling upon it. If you can avoid running to the bank ‘cap in hand’ at the last minute, that will significantly enhance your chances of getting the required funds. 5. DETERMINE WAYS TO MAKE CASH FLOW A ‘NON-ISSUE’ FOR THE FUTURE Once you’ve worked out how to manage your cash flow proactively, it becomes a non-issue.

Photo Credit: Micheile Henderson (Unsplash)

SUE HIRST

Photo Credit: Mathieu Stern (Unsplash)

SUE HIRST

The keys to achieving this are:

• Put in place sources of funds when you don’t need them… not

• Constantly run a Cash Flow Forecast (even when times are good). Things can turn around quickly, and you don’t want to be caught short. • Proactively manage the factors impacting cash flow, i.e. funds coming in and going out. Constantly speeding up customer payments and analysing spending and supplier terms is vital to avoiding waste.

SUE HIRST CF0-ON-CALL

when a crisis hits. When times are good, it’s much easier to present an attractive proposition to a lender/investor. For more information about maximising cash flow and cash flow projection, visit https://cfooncall.com.au/cashflow-forecasting/ Also, download the eBook Seven Steps to Stop Cash Flow Chaos Forever at https://cfooncall.com.au/downloads/stop-cash-flow-chaos/

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 Without the hassle of doing an accounting degree!

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!

Free for business owners and key staff.

Request by email to: info@businessfinancialtoolkit.com Include your name and business email address please.