Recent findings from the latest BPIF (British Printing Industries Federation) Printing Outlook survey reveals a mixed bag for the sector.

Focusing on the final quarter (Q4) of 2018, it showed the strongest seasonal boost in three years with many printers experiencing growth. Although it predicts fewer printers are expected to see growth in Q1 2019, listing the three top concerns for the coming months as:

  1. Competitors pricing below cost.
  2. Uncertainty surrounding Brexit.
  3. Paper and board prices continuing to rise.

On a more positive note, the following trends were highlighted:

  • Investment intentions for plant and machinery in 2019 have picked-up following a period of curtailed expenditure.
  • Training and retraining plans have also been boosted.
  • Product and process innovation intentions remain positive.

There were, however, some causes for concern:

  • Brexit barometers – deemed very negative with maintaining a reliable and secure supply chain being a top concern.
  • Finance – access to finance has generally improved in the last 12 months but an increase in the level of bad debt is worrying.
  • Payment terms – printers are under pressure to accept longer payment terms by some customers.

Many printing businesses remain cautious in these current uncertain times, but a positive forward-looking business as usual approach is also essential.

Here at Stag Print, 2019 has started strongly. We have already secured three new customers; one of which moved their print from Poland back to the UK citing quality and service levels as the main reasons. We are also very well positioned to maintain our supply to customers in the event of a disorderly Brexit. And while competitors’ pricing below cost remains a concern as it is not sustainable in the long term, like many business issues, it is one to watch and work through as the year progresses.

See the BPIF website for more information on its February 2019 BPIF Printing Outlook survey.