A week today Northprint will throw open its doors. I see the 10-day weather forecast for Harrogate is sunny intervals, and can but hope the show provides a brighter spot than has been anticipated.

Yes it will be a much smaller event than in previous times, but I'm pleased it's still going ahead. Over the years various London-based print shows have been and gone and their passing hasn't been particularly lamented. There's something different about Northprint, I'd be sad if it disappeared from the calendar and I don't think I'm alone in feeling that way. So well done IIR for sticking this one out despite considerable challenges, and to the exhibitors who've lent their support.

As predicted last year the traditional press manufacturers will indeed be absent from the event, although there will be one litho press on show that is definitely worth a look. Presstek will be exhibiting its 52DI direct imaging press and if, like me, you thought DI printing had had its day, then I suggest you think again. Having viewed the press in action recently the ease-of-use and print quality was extremely impressive, and it really opened my eyes to some new apps for DI in the space betwix digital and traditional offset.

Elsewhere on the show floor Northprint has always been the type of exhibition where you can stumble upon a useful gadget or gizmo that costs pennies but rakes in pounds, and this year that appears more likely than ever given exhibitor focus on credit crunch-busting solutions and services.  Even for business owners who aren't in a position to invest right now, it's still worth keeping abreast of what's what for the future.

And after a bit of light strolling around the halls, why not stop off at the PrintWeek Seminar Theatre for some brain food ahead of that essential trip to Bettys Café Tea Rooms for the other variety.

There are far worse places to be than Harrogate on a sunny spring day, so my message to potential visitors is "use it or lose it".