Offset still produces the highest volumes of print of all the processes - digital is still not yet even five percent of total world volumes - but with just seven months to go to PrintEx, only Cyber with Ryobi/RMGT have reserved stand space to represent offset suppliers, writes Andy McCourt.
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| Andy McCourt |
Admittedly, it's tough for offset press suppliers. Sales in the West are down and their equipment is built to last many years and not be 'rolled-over' every 3-5 years on all-inclusive lease deals, as is digital. On top of this, offset presses are so incredibly automated and productive, fewer are needed in the press halls. Nevertheless, offset still produces the highest volumes of print of all the processes - digital is still not yet even 5% of total world volumes - but is around 17% of the monetary value (source: Smithers Pira). With just seven months to go to our quadrennial PrintEx trade fair & conference, only Cyber with Ryobi/RMGT have reserved stand space to represent the offset suppliers. Missing in action are Heidelberg, Komori, KBA and manroland. The show is looking more and more like a Visual Impact - wide format sign & display event.
Labels & Packaging has been added via the FPLMA and I would have thought this growth area alone would have been enough to lure the offset press players in but, as of now, only RMGT/Cyber. Printing trade fairs today are not just about showing your 'kit' and taking orders - few would expect to see 40 tonne working presses on the floor. Networking, mingling, meeting with customers both existing and prospective, educating, informing and waving the flag are all part of modern trade fairs for the 'big iron' equipment; and this can be accomplished on smaller, less expensive presentation and hospitality booths.
It takes a village to print
Industries like ours are communities - villages if you like. You are either there chatting at the 'well' or on the outer. PrintEx has proven to be a very successful and popular event, drawing crowds comparable to PacPrint. Apart from the presses themselves, some suppliers also offer finishing, prepress and even digital...why exclude yourselves and deprive visitors of a complete picture of our industry?
Of course, exhibitors with ancillaries to offset are there at PrintEx already, workflows from PrintIQ, Tharstern, Optimus2020, EFI, Screen, Fujifilm, Kodak; Agfa, CtP, plates and finishing from Currie Group and so on - but press manufacturers? MIA apart from Cyber.
I have heard it said, 'If we are going in to a show, we do it properly.' What's properly? The old days of giant double-decker offset supplier stands are no longer expected, but someone to talk to from offset suppliers is. An LED screen presentation and one-on-one meeting area can be achieved on a 3 x 6 metre stand and I am sure customers would flock to the friendly faces they spend millions with on presses, parts and service.
So come on offset press people - get into PrintEx and at least show how all-encompassing and dynamic our industry really is. Who knows, you might just meet that customer you never knew was looking at upgrading!
