FESPA Australia 2023 Conference: Unveiling the Future of Printing

Last Friday, FESPA Australia hosted the second FESPA Conference, which brought together leaders in the printing industry from around the country and the world. The conference started with a warm welcome from FESPA Australia President Nigel Davies, who introduced the central themes of sustainability, leadership, and technology.

Sustainability remained at the forefront of the day’s conversations, with Neil Felton, FESPA Global CEO, discussing the results of the FESPA Global Print Survey, revealing the industry's resilience in the face of COVID-19 challenges. Notably, sustainability is a top priority for brands, with 75% of customers demanding eco-friendly products. Moreover, the APAC region exhibited a higher demand for sustainable products.

The future of the printing industry emerged as a critical topic. Felton highlighted the growth potential of the custom print market, which is expected to reach $31 billion with a 10.2% growth rate. Digital textile printing, vehicle wrapping, and digital signage markets were also explored as areas with considerable expansion opportunities.

Amid these discussions, the importance of personalisation and customisation in the printing industry took centre stage. Felton emphasised their significance and gave insight into some of the FESPA initiatives such as Wrap Fest, World Wrap Masters and Sportswear Pro.

Aaron Wood's and Jason McCartney’s keynote addresses provided insight into the intersections of sustainability, business growth, mental health, and resilience.  Wood's journey and commitment to sustainability resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of environmental responsibility, while McCartney’s journey to recovery inspired many in the audience.

In addition to these critical discussions, the FESPA 2023 conference featured an empowering youth panel dedicated to engaging and inspiring the younger generation to join the industry. Bianca Martin, FESPA Board member and IVE Brand Activations commercial member led a panel discussion with FESPA UK guests via video chat. The panel covered the details of how a committee that organised events and programs focused on young people's career growth and self-worth. One notable event from March featured guest speakers, including the UK's Apprentice winner and a networking coach. Organisers discussed plans for roadshow events to attract and retain young talent in the industry by utilising social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to make the sector more accessible and exciting to the next generation. These endeavours highlight a commitment to ensuring the future success of the printing industry by welcoming and nurturing young talent.

This year's FESPA conference highlighted the industry's determination to embrace sustainability, harness growth opportunities, and adapt to changing market dynamics. With leaders, experts, and innovators sharing their insights, it promises to shape the printing industry's future sustainably and dynamically.

Nigel Davies, President of Fespa Australia, expressed his gratitude to all sponsors for their invaluable support; Diamond Sponsor – Orafol; Gold Sponsors - Ball & Doggett, Durst, and Visual Connections; Silver sponsors - Kissel + Wolf, Cactus Imaging and HVG Graphics. Davies emphasized the importance of events like the People Planet Conference to collaborate, exchange ideas, and shape the future of the printing industry in Australia and beyond.