New year predictions: Charles Jarrold, BPIF

Jarrold: The industry needs to work together to help strengthen its image
Jarrold: The industry needs to work together to help strengthen its image

Standing still will be the biggest threat to printers in the next decade, according to the Feds CEO, but for those willing to take calculated risks, the future will be bright.

What’s at the top of your Christmas wish list this year?
A great family Christmas, enjoyed with a suitable glass (or two) of something suitable!

As the decade draws to a close, what trend (business or technology) do you think the 2010s will be remembered for?
Very much as the decade that the internet, digital and mobile all really took off, changing the way we communicate and discover information.

What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in the next decade and why?
In a sector so large and diverse, almost impossible to pick one, but overall it’ll be about demonstrating how print solves problems and creates opportunities for its users in ways that other media cannot.

What do you think will represent the single biggest threat for printers in the next decade and why?
It’s a very competitive sector, and that will not change, so, standing still, not changing and not taking calculated business risks, hard though that is.

What’s the one thing that the industry should do more of, or do better, in the 2020s?
Work together to help strengthen the perception of the industry as a great place to work in, doing fantastic creative things that deliver great results to its clients.

What was your biggest disappointment in the 2010s?
Sorry to say it, but the world cup rugby final, despite England’s best efforts and some brilliant rugby.

What was your highlight of the decade?
Spending nearly half of it at the BPIF, at the centre of such a great industry with so many great, smart, fun people! That, and Norwich City getting promoted (even if they’re looking a little shaky currently)!

What are your hopes for 2020s?
To see our industry continue to thrive as it shows how brilliant, creative, innovative and engaging it is, and (sorry) but see Brexit sorted out in a way that at the least enables all UK businesses to thrive.

We can't believe we're asking this question for the third year running: what is your one-word view on Brexit?
Endless

What was the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
Two ears, one mouth…

What if anything will you do differently in the new decade?
Enjoy and use the time that we imagine we’ll have now our kids are finished with school.

What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?
What did Cinderella say when her photos didn’t arrive?
One day my prints will come. (Well, at least it’s on topic!)