New year predictions: Patrick Headley, GI Solutions

GI Solutions managing director Patrick Headley says 2015 will be remembered for the resurgence of mail but postage price increases represent a threat for printers in 2016.

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

Good economic conditions in 2016.

What trend (business or technology) do you think 2015 will be remembered for?

The resurgence of mail.

What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2016 and why?

Helping customers grow their businesses.

What do you think will represent the single biggest threat for printers in 2016 and why?

Postage price increases and permissions legislation changing.

What’s the one thing that the industry should do more of, or do better, in 2016?

Training and bringing new people into the industry.

What was your biggest disappointment in 2015?

Not making the Glastonbury line-up.

What was your highlight of 2015?

130 customers attending our 22nd birthday party at The Brewery in London celebrating the power of mail.

What are your hopes for 2016?

For customers to see us as a true marketing services business with the amalgamation of GI Insight, GI Red and GI Solutions.

What was the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

“Mind the gap.” 

What was the most important thing that you learnt in 2015?

Mail has a long-term future.

What if anything will you do differently in 2016?

Network more.

If you’re thinking of going to Drupa next year, what are you keen to see?

Digital development. 

What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?

Q: What do you call Santa in the desert?

A: Sandy Claus.

What was the best Christmas present you ever received?

Scalextric.

Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?

I don’t wait until New Year. There is no time like the present!