The Kiwis are coming: Print 21 magazine article

PacPrint is a very popular show with New Zealand printers and, for the first time, PrintNZ will have a stand there to welcome them. Joan Grace has some advice on how to tackle the largest local technology exhibition and invites all Kiwi visitors to come along and say hello.

PacPrint ‘09 kicks off in two week’s time, providing an exciting opportunity for businesses on both sides of the Tasman to check out the new developments on offer.

This is truly a Trans-Tasman event, with PrintNZ exhibiting on stand N17 and the NZ Pride In Print Awards Supreme Award finalists featuring alongside the Australian awards – an excellent opportunity to view the best of both countries and compare their design and print quality.

Large crowds are expected despite the tight economic conditions, proving that companies in the print industry are looking to the future with optimism. Contact with our PrintNZ members confirms many are looking forward to attending PacPrint.

As the largest print expo in the Southern Hemisphere, PacPrint provides a unique chance in this part of the world to take a look at new technology which, in many cases, will be making a big impact on the industry over coming years. New developments in the areas of digital, sheetfed and, increasingly, environmentally-sustainable consumables make for an interesting showcase. Suppliers of machinery and consumables alike will be displaying ever-increasing options that minimise waste and maximise efficiencies at all levels.

PacPrint also provides a great learning opportunity through a series of seminars on topics including visions for the future, the environment and future leadership. The PacPrint seminars and vendor presentations feature experienced speakers and industry experts who will provide a wealth of ideas and knowledge for attendees to take away and apply in their own businesses.

Have a plan
Before leaving for PacPrint, business owners need to sit down and look at their business plan and decide if and where investment is needed, how it can be financed and how it fits in with the future direction of the company.

While perusing the PacPrint exhibits, consider how to align yourself with your customers’ business - what new developments could complement the print services that you provide, and how can you move to meet your customers’ future needs and expectations? Go to PacPrint with a plan of attack and consider how new technology could provide innovative new ideas and campaigns for your customers. On your return from PacPrint, go back to your key customers and share any ideas you have and keep them in the loop with any new services that you may be considering.

Of the 300 suppliers exhibiting at PacPrint, PrintNZ will have a stand for the first time. PrintNZ staff will provide information about member and training services, as well as being a few friendly Kiwi faces to touch base with during the show. PrintNZ will run a Kiwi get-together during PacPrint, where people can network and discuss what they have seen on show.

The following are a few ideas on how you can make the most of your time at PacPrint:

* Plan your attack – which exhibitors do you definitely want to visit, what questions do you have for them, what research can you do beforehand?
* Talk to others about what they have seen at the show that you should visit.
* Get educated – attend the PacPrint seminars and learn from industry specialists on a range of important topics.
* Network, network, network – use any opportunities to talk to your industry colleagues and share experiences/ideas.
* Include some ‘play time’ – take the opportunity to experience the vibrant city of Melbourne and all it has to offer.

If you have any feedback on this article please email joan.grace@printnz.co.nz. I look forward to seeing many of you at PacPrint.