UK printers may need to adapt to technological changes

Printing firms need to understand how the internet has changed the way people connect with the world, it has been suggested.

UK printing companies might wish to take the advice of one industry figure, who stated printers need to take advantage of new opportunities.

According to PrintWeek, Neil Falconer - a print strategy consultant at Pira International - said data is "the new oil".

Speaking at the firm's Global Print Markets conference, he stated organisations ought to make sure they understand the connected world in order to profit from changes in the media landscape.

"Printers have a great opportunity in managing data and content. There are major opportunities ahead in leveraging the power of communities," Mr Falconer remarked.

As internet advertising increases, it becomes more and more vital to prove print's return on investment, he continued.

Dr Sean Smyth, author of a report named Global Print Markets to 2015 - which was presented at the event - observed the industry is changing and products need to be made "in a more efficient and effective way".

Sustainability may also be an issue that UK printers need to consider in the near future, as Phil Carter - Asia-Pacific research director for analysis firm IDC - recently told ARN many companies are yet to realise the importance of a green approach.