Early commitments to substantial stands by the leading supply companies guarantees the industry can look forward to a comprehensive graphic arts exhibition at PrintEx next year.
Brushing off the disastrous failure of the UK-based Ipex trade show in March, the Australian printing industry is stepping up to the crease to make the local four-yearly Sydney exhibition a success. Konica Minolta, Neopost Australia and Bőttcher are among the latest suppliers to sign on for the May show at the new location in Homebush.
According to Phillip Rennell, PrintEx15 Chairman and Currie Group sales director, the early commitment of key players is indicative of the excitement already surrounding the show. He expects PrintEx15 to provide a comprehensive display of the latest technology and equipment for the industry. It will also showcase innovation and educational components, plus the bonus of enabling open access to the wide-format and display technology at the co-located Visual Impact exhibition.
“We know all too well that our industry is still in a time of tremendous transition and challenge,” he says. “The confirmation of these major names so early in the piece demonstrates how important PrintEx15 will be as a source of ideas and information to help businesses in Australia, New Zealand and the wider Asia-Pacific region capitalise on the opportunities that exist and plan for a successful future.”
The latest sign-ons join companies such as Optimus, Tharstern, and DSM Kalker who have already confirmed their bookings. The commitment of the mainly digital suppliers highlights the shift towards digital technology in the industry but it is too early to write off the offset companies. While it is extremely unlikely that anyone will exhibit a large offset press at the show, manroland, KBA and Cyber said they are considering their options. Heidelberg was unavailable for comment.
The digital emphasis of the show will be definitive with David Procter, general manager – production printing for Konica Minolta, confirming he was looking forward to the opportunities provided by Sydney’s major printing communications exhibition.
“Konica Minolta is excited to be on board for PrintEx15 and we are looking forward to the new location at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park,” he said. “Trade shows have always been a wonderful opportunity to present new technology and solutions and we are already planning what we will preview at PrintEx15.”
Mitch Mulligan, managing director of Bőttcher Australia, agreed, saying, “Exhibitions like PrintEx15 form a strong part of our marketing approach because they give us a unique opportunity to engage with our customers face-to-face and to strengthen relationships, both new and old.
"PrintEx is an ideal platform for us to articulate what we are doing, and how we can partner with our customers, in an engaging, entertaining and informative way. Importantly, it does so in an environment that is free from the normal constraints of day-to-day business, where it's easier to step back, get a comprehensive overview, and look at the 'big picture'. We wouldn't miss it."
Neopost Australia (formerly GBC Australia) agrees that the show is a pivotal event on the graphic communications calendar, with Chris Pettitt, marketing manager for Print and Finishing Solutions, saying his company considers it vital to be involved.
“In our view, PrintEx is a must,” he says. “Print businesses today are in the process of transitioning to meet a rapidly changing market. The Neopost mailing, digital finishing and large format print solutions we’ll be demonstrating at PrintEx are exactly the kind of investments that can help businesses add value and provide a more comprehensive offering to their clients. We are looking forward to meeting with key decision makers and demonstrating how we can help them plan for a successful future.”
PrintEx will co-locate with the Visual Impact sign and display exhibition at the Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park from 13-15 May 2015.