Print veteran encourages industry to embrace digital

FESPA UK director Graeme Richardson-Locke has issued a call for members of the industry to continue embrace the changes that digital disruption has brought to the market.

With more than 30 years’ of experience in the print industry, Richardson-Locke is a knowledgeable professional in the market and has seen a lot change during his time working in print.

Having been trained in graphic screen printing, Graeme has worked in various areas of the wider print industry, but now finds himself in textile print – one of the busiest and most buoyant sectors of the market – in his role as sales and operations director at Vektor UK.

Speaking to about his time in the industry, he said that although the market has changed a lot over the past 30 years, print service providers (PSPs) should not necessarily see this as a bad thing and instead use such advancements as an opportunity to expand their horizons.

“Across all these years, I’ve remained interested in process improvement and adapting through a number of phases of digital disruption,” he commented. “Print is still as creative as it ever was; you just need to understand which process best fits the customer’s aims.

“I have a good few years ahead of me in print and would encourage everyone involved to see the changes created by digital to be an opportunity do better for our customers and help them to be more effective. Let’s get beyond the how much is it a square metre and argue for what value we bring.”

Due to his broad knowledge of the market, Graeeme has been happy to be involved with FESPA initiatives such as this year’s FESPA Awards, where he recently helped put together the shortlist of nominees. The winners will be announced at the FESPA Awards Gala Dinner on May 10 at the Grand Elysée Hamburg, Germany, during the main FESPA 2017 exhibition.

Looking ahead to the event, Richardson-Locke said he is pleased to have been so involved with the Awards, as well as various other initiatives with FESPA.

“I’m looking forward to speaking at the conference and to presenting some awards for excellence at the Gala Dinner,” he added. “I will of course enjoy walking the halls to find new technology to improve our printing business."

“I’m very pleased to have been involved in the implementation of NVQ skill standards for screen printing, being one of a talented board of directors of FESPA UK association and judging the FESPA awards. I am working on a colour management workshop for FESPA that may mean my best is yet to come.”

Book your place to attend the FESPA Gala Night

The People’s Choice Award winner, alongside the final winners from all other categories will be announced at the Gala Dinner on Wednesday 10th May at the exclusive Grand Elysée Hotel in Hamburg, Germany. The evening will include a three-course meal and live entertainment.

Fantastic entertainment, great food and an electric atmosphere will combine with black ties to make an unforgettable night celebrating the very best of print.

Earlybird tickets now on sale at €135 until March 17th. Tickets include exclusive access to the venue for a cocktail reception, three-course dinner including drinks, entertainment, and an afterparty with live music.

The Gala Dinner also provides print professionals with the opportunity to meet influential printers, selected VIPs and FESPA associations from around the world. Whether you are with a large group, a solo visitor or here with your partner, don’t miss this prestigious annual event full of live entertainment and surprises.

For more information on the FESPA’s Gala Dinner and to book your ticket to attend please visit www.fespaawards.com. Spaces are limited, so don’t delay!