PRINTING United's third-ever Media Day was, once again, an unequivocal success. The energy, ideas, and information flowing through the room gave those of us in the media a roadmap for the three days ahead, providing background information and 1:1 interviews before the busyness of the show floor took over our schedules on Wednesday.
The morning opened up with insights into research conducted by Alliance Insights (formerly NAPCO Research). Andrew Paparozzi, Chief Economist at Alliance Insights, and Amy Servi-Bonner, Vice President, PRINTING AI gave a wonderful presentation regarding the change the printing industry is going through and how businesses can come out on top. As Paparozzi explained, the leaders of the future will have 6 traits in common. They will be:
1. “Ruthlessly efficient”
2. Creators of profitable growth
3. Agile, innovative, and receptive to change
4. AI empowered
5. Superior managers of risk and uncertainty
6. Willing to move ahead even during periods of extreme uncertainty
This may sound like a tall order given the uncertainty the industry is currently experiencing. Real sales are flat, and cost inflation has outpaced price increases, leaving profitability flat or down for 70% of the survey respondents referenced. But opportunities do exist, as evidenced by the exciting solutions and offerings showcased here at PRINTING United. Paparozzi referred to the revolution that the industry is currently experiencing, noting that, "Artificial intelligence, big data, the Internet of Things, cloud computing, smart robotics, and quantum computing are driving an economic revolution that is redefining what’s possible."
He went on to note that this revolution will exempt no one. There are only two choices: get better or get left behind. I'm thankful to be here at a show that is dedicated to helping the print industry not only survive, but thrive. I look forward to the next three days of exploring the possibilities out there for printers and mailers. Look for a full recap of my show experience in our November/December issue.
