New year predictions: Jacky Sidebottom, Glossop Cartons

Jacky Sidebottom, sales director at Glossop Cartons, warns that being busy is not the same as being profitable and encourages more print businesses to shout about the quality of their work in the new year.

What are your new year’s resolutions for your business next year?

To run with the challenges presented to the business, embracing them. And for me to stop moaning!

 What’s at the top of your Christmas wish list?

A new horse for me. But for work: customers to order in a nice methodical order, to suit me (I wish!)

What business or technology trend do you think 2013 will remembered for?

The year that the first Highcon Euclid was sold (and contributed to production at Glossop), and the development and anticipation of digital carton presses.

What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2014 and why?

Themselves. Over the Christmas break I think printers should take a good hard look at their companies, thinking about what they are good at and what they could we improve. Then they should go for their goals, striving to be different and original.  

What do you think will represent the single biggest threat for printers in 2014 and why?

I think the threat is from under pricing. I do understand the pressures but, guys, don't be 'busy fools'. Look for added value. And make sure the credit rating is good on your clients.

What’s the one thing that the industry should do more of, or do better, in 2014?

I think the print industry, whether you are in the BPIF or not should be loud and proud. Shout about your USP, bang the drum, tell you’re clients why you are so good. 

What was your highlight of 2013?

The packaging innovation show in February 2013. We had a blast – it was so good. An awesome experience.   

What are your hopes for 2014?

That my company can carry on innovating and that we get the opportunity of a suitable digital carton press.  

 

What was the most important thing that you learned in 2013?

Even though we are a medium size business, it does not stop us being a world leader.

 

What will you do differently in 2014?

I will try to relax more, and to take my holiday entitlement. Being a workaholic is not good!

What does the industry need to do differently in 2014?

The print Industry in UK needs to believe in itself more and communicate to clients that hard copy is good, exciting and does have a place in this digital world – print is here to stay!   

What will you be having for Christmas dinner?

Nut roast, spicy tomato dressing with chestnut sprouts, carrots and parsnips baked in honey dressing with a parmesan drizzle and crispy roast spuds. Washed down with a good red wine. Yummy. We were away last Christmas so are really looking forward to staying at home and doing nothing. I became a granny this year am really so looking forward to spoiling little Lucas! I cannot pass a baby shop at the moment!