unmasks China with new training initiative

Printing Industries is seeking with the new initiative to guide companies in developing and executing practical strategies that minimise risk, and identify opportunities in the face of low-cost Chinese imports.

Robert Fuller, NSW general manager of Printing Industries, says the three-stage program will be held in Sydney during September and November, and if demand is sufficient then a tour to China will be arranged for printing companies wishing to pursue strategic relationships.

“The threat posed by low cost imports from China is a hot topic in our industry,” says Fuller.

“As an industry we must do more than just talk about it, so Printing Industries NSW is taking the industry leadership role of providing the necessary direction and strategic information to assist management develop the plans that best suite their business,” he says.

Fuller says the program will guide companies in taking the first step to understand the threats and opportunities, helping them best decide how to minimise risk to their businesses. It is designed to challenge firms on whether their current model still works for them or is past its use by date.

“In the face of increasing free trade agreements and globalisation of the market, the way we are being forced to do business in our industry requires a new paradigm not for tomorrow, but for today,” he says.

“This may involve businesses competing or partnering, either way the program will provide the necessary knowledge to help companies achieve this.”

Printing Industries has partnered with NCLT, an Australian Government funded initiative, to run the program. The Federal Government is providing support through NCLT to help businesses adjust and better equip themselves in the transition from insular to global trading conditions.

Key presenters will include Dr Ian Lin, a strategic futurist who consults and advises enterprises and organisations about the future. Lin will offer his advice on future trends and ideas in order to help develop the innovation, foresight and wisdom needed for success in in a rapidly changing world.

Mark Reid will also be a key presenter for the program. Up until 1997 he was the CEO of a large Hong Kong printing group that exported across the world, including Australia. In his current role as part owner of Melbourne's SEP Sprint, he exports print from Australia.

Further information is available from all Printing Industries office or by visiting www.printnet.com.au.