In a thoughtful and inspirational Christmas and New Year Message, trade association Visual Connections CEO Peter Harper says that there is 'much cause for optimism' as we approach 2023. As always there will be challenges but the industry is in much better shape than it has been these past three years.
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| July's PacPrint proved to be a watershed event for the industry, with over $50 million invested as covid eased |
It is wonderful to be able to look back on the year and be able to point to so many post-pandemic positives, and proof that we are indeed finally getting back to some semblance of normal.
The shops are getting busy. Holidays are being planned. Office parties are being held in person for the first time in three years. And families are excitedly anticipating getting together again for festive lunches.
At Visual Connections, the contrast between this year and last could not be more apparent. Back then, we were working towards PacPrint in Melbourne, but after a couple of years of hopes being raised and dashed, time and again, we definitely still had our fingers crossed behind our backs!
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| Visual Connections CEO Peter Harper |
Fortunately, our hopes were realised, and 2022 has indeed seen many, if not all, of our activities get back on track.
We had a highly successful PacPrint with some 7,000 visitors and more than $50M in sales, as well several awards nights, golf days and networking functions.
We are still facing many challenges in 2023 and while it might be tempting to look ahead with trepidation, there is also much cause for optimism – just look how far we have come in the past 12 months! – but each of us needs to be prepared to take positive steps to make the most of our opportunities in 2023.
Chief among those will be chances to connect, communicate and collaborate – with colleagues, suppliers and our industry. Visual Connections will provide you with a great opportunity to do that, and we hope to see you at Visual Impact Sydney from 3-5 May.
Most of us started this year feeling like we were running on empty and we’ve spent the last 12 months chasing, catching up, recalibrating and pushing through. It’s tiring. So be kind to yourself and those around you. Allow yourself the time to rest. And give yourself credit, not only for your achievements during 2022, but for surviving the past three years. That’s a huge achievement in itself.
At Visual Connections, we will be closing down for a short break over Christmas and the New Year from December 22nd 2022 to January 16th 2023 We wish you all a Wonderful Christmas with family and friends and we look forward with you, to an exciting year ahead.
Stay safe and healthy,
Merry Christmas
Peter Harper
