Suppliers throw their support behind PacPrint

Suppliers and organisers speak back to suggestions that PacPrint 09 be closed down.

With the growing financial crisis taking its toll on businesses worldwide, some members of the printing industry began to question the relevance of holding or attending the five-day trade show next year.

PacPrint 09 chairman, Alastair Hadley, acknowledged that there had been questions directed to him about where the show was going. "People are looking at their costs and how they can do things better," he said.

For some, this has meant cutting back the size of their stands, while others intend on increasing their presence at the show. One supplier remained optimistic and considers the show valuable to its longevity.

"We don't expect too many sales to be signed at the show, but it is important to maintain confidence in the industry and prepare for when the cycle turns," he said.

Hadley said there was no intention of cancelling PacPrint or shortening the duration of the show.

"We've got more exhibitors than in 2005 which is interesting considering the amount of mergers and acquisitions in the industry," he said. Last week it was announced that 300 exhibitors are expected to take part in the show.

Hadley noted that the industry's larges players such as Heidelberg, Fuji Xerox, Currie Group, Muller Martini and GBC were among the first to finalise their involvement in the show, later followed by a flurry of smaller companies and newcomers keen to get onboard.

"PacPrint will happen and it will be a good show regardless," Hadley said.