Tomorrow’s Printing for Today’s Print Buyer
On the 25th January 2018, Vpress and Precision Printing held a Masterclass for a range of printing professionals. The event took part at Precision Printing’s brand new production site in Dagenham. The aim of the class was to introduce, elaborate and discuss processes within printing and print procurement. Automation is not just machines; it is also systems, and we wanted to demonstrate that to the audience. The technology mentioned isn’t just speculation. It is already in use globally.
Attendees enjoyed a warm welcome and introduction from Precision Printing’s CEO Gary Peeling. Using an interactive approach with roleplay, he determined how our industry works from the printer, to the buyer.
Taking a change in direction, we saw BPIF’s Marcus Clifford deliver the latest figures from the printing industry. There was some incredibly encouraging figures for the industry to take heed of.
We next saw Vpress MD Tim Cox discuss software and technology that is at the front of developer’s minds at the moment. Tim then offered some advice on some correct business practises that are needed in its adoption.
Next, we moved onto Vpress’ Sales Director, Kelvin Bell and his introduction as to how print buying has changed. He demonstrated the needs within an organisation regarding their procurement and how this could be solved by the printer. This talk was borne of many years of experience – and conversations with Print Buyers, confirmed by the latest BPIF statistics.
Automation is Our Friend
After the talks, we took a tour of Precision’s fantastic new facility. It is a huge undertaking – the production site is 55,000 square feet. Gary then took a moment to explain how automation changed his business. He discussed how it can deliver higher margins, growth and scalability. Gary could relate this to the journey that Precision had taken to get to where they are now.
The event was a big success, with some great feedback afterwards.
It ties into our belief that smaller, more intimate events are becoming more effective than the larger trade shows which were greatly disappointing in 2018. While we most likely will still hold a presence at these events, we believe that more intimate surroundings and longer, more involved conversations where all parties can learn a lot from one another will be a key part at least in 2018.
