pushes succession into the spotlight

Printing Industries wants the Federal Government to finance a two-year succession-planning program for the printing industry, and is seeking funds from the Small Business Entrepreneurship Program – Succession Planning.

The proposed program would target small business owners approaching retirement age, and would look at ways for them to profitably exit the industry. Its main objective would be to reduce the likelihood of business shutting up shop either when the business owner exits, or shortly after.

According to Hagop Tchamkertenian, manager of industry and commercial policy at Printing Industries, the project would develop the skills of printing business owners to operate their businesses at an optimal level that would increase business value and attract potential purchasers.

“The proposed project will establish an ongoing national program that printing business owners can access to assist them to plan and profitably manage their exit strategies from the industry,” he said.

“It comprises four stages – briefing sessions, seminars, workshops and mentoring. It also advocates the establishment of a business succession planning hot line for members.”

The deadline for funding applications closed on 31 January 2006. A decision from the government is expected by end of March 2006.

Read more of this week's news stories here … www.print21.com.au