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

VMA lobbies to protect print, sign and packaging skills

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

Koenig & Bauer unlocks new opportunities with Bosch

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

First Helio-printed can hits the track

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

Rapid expansion drives new ROQ install for Colour Cartel

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

The Print Files Ep 68: with Leon Wilson and James...

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.

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

StickySheets

stickysheets.com.au

Print is Dead? Long Live Print. on Vimeo

vimeo.com/1123099729

StickySheets: When vision meets technology

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).

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

Coordinator: Grant McHerron

Producer: Steve Visscher

Print21 - © 2025

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

Canon PP appoints Rodden Graphics ANZ agent

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

CS Graphics completes MBO of Aldus Graphics

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

Canon widens UVgel reach with Colorado XL-series

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

Women in Print receives corporate charter approval

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

Record attendance at Labelexpo's Barcelona debut

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

VMA names Markers for The Inkers programme

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).

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

Coordinator: Grant McHerron

Producer: Steve Visscher

Print21 - © 2025

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

In this episode of The Print Files, Lindy Hughson, Managing Editor & Publisher of Print21, sits down with Kellie Northwood, CEO of the Visual Media Association (VMA), to explore the Association’s renewed momentum and bold initiatives shaping the future of the print and visual media industry.

The conversation opens with key takeaways from the VMA’s recent AGM, including a surge in membership, financial strength, and a united sector approach. But the spotlight quickly shifts to the real action: the launch of The Inkers, a dynamic new programme designed to connect and retain emerging talent, and the Buy Australian Print campaign, a high-impact lobbying effort pushing for local procurement commitments across all levels of government.

We also touch on the VMA’s increasing focus on mental health support and environmental certification, before wrapping up with Kellie’s forward-looking vision for the Association and a compelling call to action for industry players to get involved.

This is an episode packed with purpose and practical insight.

Links:

Sponsored by Konica Minolta

www.konicaminolta.com.au

Visual Media Association

visualmediaassociation.org.au

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 names Markers for The Inkers programme

www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-names-markers-for-the-inkers-programme

VMA launches emerging talent programme

www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/vma-launches-emerging-talent-programme1

------------------------------

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

Coordinator: Grant McHerron

Editor: Chris Visscher

Producer: Steve Visscher

Print21 - © 2025

In this episode, Lindy Hughson, Managing Editor & Publisher of Print21, talks with Sonia Shwabsky, CEO of Kwik Kopy Australia, about the impact that AI is having in the print industry.

We begin our discussion by assessing the importance of implementing AI in print businesses, the opportunities it presents in regards to design, print preparation, and customer service, as well as the viability of using it for production. Our discussion also explores how AI can provide clients cost-efficient marketing opportunities, modify existing designs to adjust or improve them, and create digital personas of company identities. We also review whether it will slash staff numbers, the security considerations that need to be made, and how Kwik Kopy will assist their franchisees to address concerns surrounding AI.

We wrap up by looking ahead and getting an overview of where AI and print may be the future.

Links:

KwikKopy

kwikkopy.com.au

------------------------------

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

Coordinator: Grant McHerron

Editor: Chris Visscher

Producer: Steve Visscher

Print21 - © 2025

In the latest episode of print's podcast, It's Been A Big Month in Print, industry insiders Lindy Hughson and Jan Arreza analyse, assess, and interpret the major news, trends, issues and developments from July.

We begin our review of July with an update on Landa’s cashflow crisis and the possible upcoming purchase by HP; we assess how Onpack’s direct-to-can printing expertise has aligned with custom water brand Rippl’s growth strategy, and has boosted Onpack’s revenues significantly; and also commend RollsPack Group’s expansion into the Asia Pacific region, with the flexible packaging specialist having just opened a manufacturing facility called Rolls Technology in Huai’an, China. We go on to discuss New Zealand’s Pride in Print Awards and the upcoming Real Media Awards, and comment on the atmosphere at Lewis Media Group’s golden jubilee celebrating 50 years, and the products seen at Konica Minolta’s UnPacked Sydney show.

We wrap up by getting an insight into the upcoming launch of the HP Indigo 6K+ label press, the sale of Australia’s biggest magazine publisher Are Media, and the The Inkers, an emerging talent program from the VMA.

Links:

Landa secures lifeline, gets six weeks to find buyer

www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/landa-secures-lifeline-gets-six-weeks-to-find-buyer

HP leads race to buy Landa Digital Printing

www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/hp-leads-race-to-buy-landa-digital-printing

Digital can printing fuels Onpack’s growth

www.print21.com.au/packaging/digital-can-printing-fuels-onpack-s-growth

RollsPack launches high-tech facility in China

www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/rollspack-launches-high-tech-facility-in-china

NZ industry gathers for Pride In Print

www.print21.com.au/events/events/nz-industry-gathers-for-pride-in-print

Real Media Awards now open for entries

www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/real-media-awards-now-open-for-entries

Family-run Lewis Media celebrates 50 years

www.print21.com.au/industry/latest/family-run-lewis-media-celebrates-50-years

Konica Minolta UnPacked roadshow hits Sydney

www.print21.com.au/events/events/konica-minolta-unpacked-roadshow-hits-sydney

HP Indigo to launch AI enhanced label press next year

www.print21.com.au/commercial/hp-indigo-to-launch-ai-enhanced-label-press-next-year

Major IVE customer Are Media up for sale