Top speakers tackle big issues at Stream conference
Lawrence discussed the industry’s poor track record when it comes to the environment and sustainability, claiming that suppliers need to closely examine the link between waste reduction and profitability and urging them address the perception in the wider community that the printing process has an inherently negative impact on the environment.
Following last week’s story of claims from the AMWU that the printing sector will shed 10,000 jobs within the next 15 years, Lawrence believes a massive restructuring of the industry is inevitable.
“I honestly believe our industry is going to face some heavy restructuring in the next 10 to 15 years. We have a bright future, as long as we do it right.”
(Right: Phil Lawrence, Stora Enso with David Crowther, Chromaticity Australia)
The biggest issue emphasised by Lawrence was the fact that a majority of the work is performed by small companies, a situation he claimed does not lend itself to the long-term sustainability of the industry.
“Small companies performing a majority of the print means that many are compelled to take short cuts, there is not enough money for training, their livelihood often relies on one big customer and there is no room for growth. All this contributes to an environment where the prices are driven down.”
Lawrence claims there needs to be higher barriers of entry to the industry, succession plans need to be in place for those wishing to exit the printing sector and he proposed the idea that suppliers destroy their second-hand equipment instead of the traditional practice of selling it to potential competitors, inadvertedly undermining the market in the process.
Coupled with his assertion that the industry needs to place a greater focus on skills and training, Lawrence emphasised the ‘large company approach’ as the key to the long-term success of the printing sector – characterised by employee training, a broader range of professional management skills, structured agreements with suppliers, greater tendency towards innovation in service offerings and increased environmental responsibility.
(Above: Norbert D'Souza from Access Print Solutions with Andrew Siwicki from QLM Label makers, relaxing during a break at the suppliers conference)
“To survive, the industry needs to shift away from its current SME intensive focus. Firms need to think ‘bigger’ and the companies need to grow.”
Colour standards from Chromaticity
David Crowther, director of Chromaticity Australia and one of the country’s most respected names in colour management, was present to speak to suppliers on the importance of the proofing and colour correction process.
Crowther gave the audience through a look at some of the different industry standards and proofing technologies available, his talk carrying the message that an effective use of colour management can lead to increased efficiencies and cost savings in the manufacturing process.
This year’s National Suppliers Conference was also the first time that representatives from Printing Industries were in attendance, signifying the development of stronger links between Stream Solutions and the peak industry body.
Greg Parkes, national director of employee relations for Printing Industries, offered attendees a look at the new WorkChoices legislation and addressed some of the ways it will impact businesses in the printing industry.
(Right: Suppliers live it up at the conference Gala dinner on Saturday night)
Paul Nieuwhof, WA regional manager of Printing Industries, spoke on some the initiatives the organisation has in place to assist its members with achieving an environmentally friendly production process.
“Doing nothing is not a viable option. We know that taking a proactive stance delivers benefits and it is preferable for the printing industry to take these steps ourselves rather than it being made mandatory by government and regulation,” said Nieuwhof.
“I honestly believe our industry is going to face some heavy restructuring in the next 10 to 15 years. We have a bright future, as long as we do it right.”
Coupled with his assertion that the industry needs to place a greater focus on skills and training, Lawrence emphasised the ‘large company approach’ as the key to the long-term success of the printing sector – characterised by employee training, a broader range of professional management skills, structured agreements with suppliers, greater tendency towards innovation in service offerings and increased environmental responsibility. 
Greg Parkes, national director of employee relations for Printing Industries, offered attendees a look at the new WorkChoices legislation and addressed some of the ways it will impact businesses in the printing industry.