October was a Big Month In Print

October was a Big Month In Print

In this episode of The Print Files: A Big Month in Print, Lindy Hughson and Jan Arreza analyse the major news and trends shaping the Australasian print industry in October. We begin our discussion by reviewing Visual Media Association’s recent advocacy efforts, launching the 2025 Industry Metrics Survey with Ricoh Australia and lobbying for the industry to be recognised as critical sovereign manufacturing sectors. We also explore major technology showcases from IVE Group with new Koenig & Bauer presses, Orora’s open day for brands featuring Velox’s direct-to-can digital print system, and Roland DG’s Dimense DA-640 bringing texture to wide-format printing. We discuss business developments with Colour Cartel’s rapid expansion and installation of ROQ, Revolution Print’s StickySheets.com.au automation breakthrough, Coopers Brewery’s Bolte Bridge billboard campaign, and new VistaPrint research on branded merchandise. We also touch on ongoing M&A momentum with Kwik Kopy joining the Fortidia Group, Rawson acquiring IntoPrint, and Print ePS merging with CAI Software.  We wrap up with people moves across Currie Group, Jet Technologies, and Women in Print, plus new equipment releases from Canon, Konica Minolta and HP pointing to another strong quarter of innovation in print. Links: VMA releases 2025 Industry Metrics Survey www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-releases-2025-industry-metrics-survey [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-releases-2025-industry-metrics-survey] VMA lobbies to protect print, sign and packaging skills www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-lobbies-to-protect-print-sign-and-packaging-skills [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-lobbies-to-protect-print-sign-and-packaging-skills] IVE opens doors to Braeside facility for tech showcase www.print21.com.au/commercial/ive-opens-doors-to-braeside-facility-for-tech-showcase [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/ive-opens-doors-to-braeside-facility-for-tech-showcase] Koenig & Bauer unlocks new opportunities with Bosch www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/koenig-and-bauer-unlocks-new-opportunities-with-bosch [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/koenig-and-bauer-unlocks-new-opportunities-with-bosch] Orora brings Helio to the brands www.print21.com.au/packaging/orora-brings-helio-to-the-brands [https://www.print21.com.au/packaging/orora-brings-helio-to-the-brands] First Helio-printed can hits the track www.print21.com.au/packaging/first-helio-printed-can-hits-the-track [https://www.print21.com.au/packaging/first-helio-printed-can-hits-the-track] Roland DG opens new markets with Dimense DA-640 www.print21.com.au/commercial/roland-dg-opens-new-markets-with-dimense-da-640 [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/roland-dg-opens-new-markets-with-dimense-da-640] Rapid expansion drives new ROQ install for Colour Cartel www.print21.com.au/commercial/rapid-expansion-drives-new-roq-install-for-colour-cartel [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/rapid-expansion-drives-new-roq-install-for-colour-cartel] StickySheets: When vision meets technology www.print21.com.au/commercial/stickysheets-when-vision-meets-technology [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/stickysheets-when-vision-meets-technology] The Print Files Ep 68: with Leon Wilson and James Rolland www.print21.com.au/the-print-files/the-print-files-ep-68-with-leon-wilson-and-james-rolland [https://www.print21.com.au/the-print-files/the-print-files-ep-68-with-leon-wilson-and-james-rolland] Coopers billboards take over Melbourne’s Bolte Bridge www.print21.com.au/commercial/coopers-billboards-take-over-melbourne-s-bolte-bridge [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/coopers-billboards-take-over-melbourne-s-bolte-bridge] VistaPrint reveals missed opportunity in Aussie SMB branding www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vistaprint-reveals-missed-opportunity-in-aussie-smb-branding [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vistaprint-reveals-missed-opportunity-in-aussie-smb-branding] Kwik Kopy Australia joins Fortidia in acquisition www.print21.com.au/commercial/kwik-kopy-australia-joins-fortidia-in-acquisition [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/kwik-kopy-australia-joins-fortidia-in-acquisition] Rawson expands with IntoPrint acquisition www.print21.com.au/commercial/rawson-expands-with-intoprint-acquisition [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/rawson-expands-with-intoprint-acquisition] Print EPS merges with CAI Software www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/print-eps-merges-with-cai-software [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/print-eps-merges-with-cai-software] Adam Todd joins Currie Group as NSW BDM www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/adam-todd-joins-currie-group-as-nsw-bdm [https://www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/adam-todd-joins-currie-group-as-nsw-bdm] Jet names Andrew Falkam technical account manager www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/jet-names-andrew-falkam-technical-account-manager [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/jet-names-andrew-falkam-technical-account-manager] Women in Print appoints new secretary www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/women-in-print-appoints-new-secretary [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/women-in-print-appoints-new-secretary] Canon widens UVgel reach with Colorado XL-series www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/canon-widens-uvgel-reach-with-colorado-xl-series [https://www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/canon-widens-uvgel-reach-with-colorado-xl-series] Konica Minolta launches next-gen AccurioPress range www.print21.com.au/commercial/konica-minolta-launches-next-gen-accuriopress-range [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/konica-minolta-launches-next-gen-accuriopress-range] HP levels up large format printing with new releases www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/hp-levels-up-large-format-printing-with-new-releases [https://www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/hp-levels-up-large-format-printing-with-new-releases] ---------------------------- The Print Files Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Print21, owned and published by Yaffa Media (www.print21.com.au [https://www.print21.com.au]). The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Print21, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media. If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact Print21 via their website www.print21.com.au or send an email to editor@print21.com.au [editor@print21.com.au] Host: Lindy Hughson with Jan Arreza Facilitator: Grant McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Print21 - © 2025

When Vision Meets Technology: Revolution Print’s Blueprint for the Future

In this episode of The Print Files, Print21 managing editor & publisher Lindy Hughson chats with Leon Wilson, director of Revolution Print, and James Rolland from Konica Minolta Australia, about how regional printer Revolution Print has turned its vision into a national, automated e-commerce success story through StickySheets.com.au [http://stickysheets.com.au]. We begin our discussion by exploring the origins of StickySheets, how it supplies customers with short-run customer sticker printing, and we review the order process with strong automation practices which results in a relatively hands free process. We dive into the technologies and data involved in choosing substrates, maintaining stocks, choosing hardware, and how it combines with building a strong workforce which facilitates a culture for collaboration. The discussion also examines lessons that can be learnt from the Konica-Revolution partnership and how AI will be further integrated into businesses in the future. We wrap up by getting some practical advice for other print businesses, which focuses on the need for vision, technology, and partnerships to transform print into a connected and scalable industry. Links: Sponsored by Konica Minolta www.konicaminolta.com.au [https://www.konicaminolta.com.au/] StickySheets stickysheets.com.au [https://stickysheets.com.au/] Print is Dead? Long Live Print. on Vimeo vimeo.com/1123099729 [https://vimeo.com/1123099729] StickySheets: When vision meets technology www.print21.com.au/commercial/stickysheets-when-vision-meets-technology [https://www.print21.com.au/commercial/stickysheets-when-vision-meets-technology] ------------------------------ The Print Files Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Print21, owned and published by Yaffa Media (www.print21.com.au [https://www.print21.com.au]). The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Print21, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media. If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact Print21 via their website www.print21.com.au or send an email to editor@print21.com.au [editor@print21.com.au] Host: Lindy Hughson Coordinator: Grant McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Print21 - © 2025

September was a Big Month In Print

In this episode of The Print Files: A Big Month in Print, Lindy Hughson and Jan Arreza analyse the major news and trends shaping the Australasian print industry in September. We begin this month’s review with major distribution moves, as EFI appoints Currie Group as its exclusive Sign & Display distributor across Australia and New Zealand, and Canon partners with Rodden Graphics to expand into packaging and labels via Edale flexo systems. We also cover Rawson’s acquisition of IntoPrint following its Megacolour purchase, CS Graphics’ management buyout of Aldus Graphics’ distribution arm, and the US$80 million acquisition of Landa by private equity firm FIMI. The discussion continues with Canon’s new Colorado XL series, marking its entry into the 3.4-metre super-wide format market, and Neon Packaging’s Australian first installation of Mimaki’s UV-DTF printer, expanding its capability to curved and irregular surfaces. We also highlight Women in Print’s new incorporation framework, and review the record turnout at Labelexpo Europe now rebranded as Loupe showcasing major innovations and global engagement. We wrap up with people moves, including Adrian Fleming’s return to PrintIQ as ANZ general manager, and John Wall’s retirement after more than 40 years at Roland DG Australia, with Jessie Parker stepping into the managing director role. Links: P21 Mag: Currie Group leads EFI in ANZ www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/p21-mag-currie-group-leads-efi-in-anz [http://www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/p21-mag-currie-group-leads-efi-in-anz] Canon PP appoints Rodden Graphics ANZ agent www.print21.com.au/labels/canon-pp-appoints-rodden-graphics-anz-agent [http://www.print21.com.au/labels/canon-pp-appoints-rodden-graphics-anz-agent] Rawson expands with IntoPrint acquisition www.print21.com.au/commercial/rawson-expands-with-intoprint-acquisition [http://www.print21.com.au/commercial/rawson-expands-with-intoprint-acquisition] CS Graphics completes MBO of Aldus Graphics www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/cs-graphics-completes-mbo-of-aldus-graphics [http://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/cs-graphics-completes-mbo-of-aldus-graphics] Landa acquired by FIMI for $80m www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/landa-acquired-by-fimi-for-80m [http://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/landa-acquired-by-fimi-for-80m] Canon widens UVgel reach with Colorado XL-series www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/canon-widens-uvgel-reach-with-colorado-xl-series [http://www.print21.com.au/sign-and-display/canon-widens-uvgel-reach-with-colorado-xl-series] Neon Packaging installs Aus-first Mimaki UV-DTF www.print21.com.au/packaging/neon-packaging-installs-aus-first-mimaki-uv-dtf [http://www.print21.com.au/packaging/neon-packaging-installs-aus-first-mimaki-uv-dtf] Women in Print receives corporate charter approval www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/women-in-print-receives-corporate-charter-approval [http://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/women-in-print-receives-corporate-charter-approval] Labelexpo Europe: Bigger, bolder, broader https://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/labelexpo-europe-bigger-bolder-broader [https://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/labelexpo-europe-bigger-bolder-broader] Record attendance at Labelexpo's Barcelona debut www.print21.com.au/events/events/record-attendance-at-labelexpo-s-barcelona-debut [http://www.print21.com.au/events/events/record-attendance-at-labelexpo-s-barcelona-debut] Ultra Labels secures first HP Indigo V12 in AP www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/ultra-labels-secures-first-hp-indigo-v12-in-ap [http://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/ultra-labels-secures-first-hp-indigo-v12-in-ap] Screen to preview aqueous inkjet breakthrough www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/screen-to-preview-aqueous-inkjet-breakthrough [http://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/screen-to-preview-aqueous-inkjet-breakthrough] Epson launches next-gen SurePress www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/epson-launches-next-gen-surepress [http://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/epson-launches-next-gen-surepress] Konica Minolta spices up labels at Labelexpo www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/konica-minolta-spices-up-labels-at-labelexpo [http://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/konica-minolta-spices-up-labels-at-labelexpo] ABG DigiLase Duo turns heads at Labelexpo www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/abg-digilase-duo-turns-heads-at-labelexpo [http://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/abg-digilase-duo-turns-heads-at-labelexpo] Omet to launch new print and convert platform www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/omet-to-launch-new-print-and-convert-platform [http://www.print21.com.au/labelexpo/omet-to-launch-new-print-and-convert-platform] printIQ appoints Adrian Fleming as GM for ANZ www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/printiq-appoints-adrian-fleming-as-gm-for-anz [http://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/printiq-appoints-adrian-fleming-as-gm-for-anz] John Wall calls time on decades of service to print www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/john-wall-calls-time-on-decades-of-service-to-print [https://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/john-wall-calls-time-on-decades-of-service-to-print] ---------------------------- The Print Files Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Print21, owned and published by Yaffa Media (www.print21.com.au [https://www.print21.com.au]). The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Print21, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media. If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact Print21 via their website www.print21.com.au or send an email to editor@print21.com.au [editor@print21.com.au] Host: Lindy Hughson with Jan Arreza Facilitator: Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Print21 - © 2025

Emerging Talent in Print: Isobel Clark on Leadership & Advocacy

In this episode of The Print Files – Leadership in Print series, Lindy Hughson, Managing Editor & Publisher of Print21, talks with Isobel Clark, Director of Client Services & Marketing at Flying Colours Group and winner of the 2025 National Print Awards’ Best Emerging Talent. Isobel reflects on her award win, the achievements that have shaped her career, and the unique role Tasmania plays in Australia’s print industry. She also shares her passion for supporting the next generation, discussing her new appointment as Tasmanian Marker for The Inkers – Make Your Mark programme. The discussion explores why nurturing apprentices and early-career professionals is vital for the future of print and visual media in Australia, and how programs like The Inkers are building stronger industry connections nationwide. We close with Isobel’s advice for those starting their journey in print today – practical insights from one of the industry’s rising leaders. Links: Sponsored by Konica Minolta www.konicaminolta.com.au [https://www.konicaminolta.com.au/] VMA names Markers for The Inkers programme www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-names-markers-for-the-inkers-programme [http://www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-names-markers-for-the-inkers-programme] ------------------------------ The Print Files Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Print21, owned and published by Yaffa Media (www.print21.com.au [https://www.print21.com.au]). The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Print21, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media. If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact Print21 via their website www.print21.com.au or send an email to editor@print21.com.au [editor@print21.com.au] Host: Lindy Hughson Coordinator: Grant McHerron Producer: Steve Visscher Print21 - © 2025

August was a Big Month In Print

In this episode of The Print Files: A Big Month in Print, Lindy Hughson and Jan Arreza analyse the major news and trends shaping the Australasian print industry in August. The discussion begins with the sudden closure of Melbourne’s Ezprint, unpacking the fallout for staff and customers, and the role of Precision Group, which acquired the customer list, offered jobs to some employees, and separately, has also expanded with its acquisition of JP Printing. The discussion then turns to Orora’s launch of Helio, the world’s first integrated high-speed digital direct-to-can printing system, followed by a review of IVE Group’s strong FY25 profit growth despite softer revenue. Next, attention shifts to technology and investment, with Xclusive Printing Solutions moving into a new Ingleburn facility equipped with Horizon systems from Currie Group, and Brougham Press boosting its finishing capability with a Horizon MiniCABS Binding System. The episode wraps up with a look at the Visual Media Association’s AGM, which reported strong growth in membership and sponsorship, increased investment in initiatives like The Inkers and Buy Australian Print campaigns, and a firm stance on the Victorian government’s proposed work-from-home mandate. Links: Melbourne-based Ezprint closes its doors [UPDATED] www.print21.com.au/commercial/melbourne-based-ezprint-closes-its-doors-updated Precision Group supports Ezprint customers, staff www.print21.com.au/commercial/precision-group-supports-ezprint-customers-staff Precision Group acquires JP Printing www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/precision-group-acquires-jp-printing Orora direct-to-can digital press comes onstream www.print21.com.au/packaging/orora-direct-to-can-digital-press-comes-onstream Orora lifts can volumes as demand fuels FY25 growth www.print21.com.au/packaging/orora-lifts-can-volumes-as-demand-fuels-fy25-growth IVE delivers strong FY25, sets up for expansion www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/ive-delivers-strong-fy25-sets-up-for-expansion XPS pushing to go full trade with Horizon www.print21.com.au/commercial/xps-pushing-to-go-full-trade-with-horizon Brougham Press boosts bindery with Horizon MiniCABS www.print21.com.au/commercial/brougham-press-boosts-bindery-with-horizon-minicabs Strong year for VMA led by member engagement boost www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/strong-year-for-vma-led-by-member-engagement-boost VMA launches emerging talent programme www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-launches-emerging-talent-programme1 VMA names Markers for The Inkers programme www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-names-markers-for-the-inkers-programme Victoria’s WFH mandate raises concerns: VMA www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/victoria-s-wfh-mandate-raises-concerns-vma ------------------------------ The Print Files Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of Print21, owned and published by Yaffa Media (www.print21.com.au). The views of the people featured on this podcast do not necessarily represent the views of Print21, Yaffa Media, or the guest’s employer. The contents are copyright by Yaffa Media. If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact Print21 via their website www.print21.com.au or send an email to editor@print21.com.au Host: Lindy Hughson with Jan Arreza Coordinator: Grant McHerron Editor: Chris Visscher Producer: Steve Visscher Print21 - © 2025