Printing has never been part of the biennial event, which typically focuses on craft trades, from building and plumbing to hairdressing. However, similar competitions have taken place on a national level, including the Heidelberg-sponsored national skills festival in Birmingham in 2000.

PEF chief executive Richard Beamish said he was still in early talks, but would be meeting with training providers and employers in January to discuss how it could benefit UK print. We are asking that question, but if it can improve recruitment and skill levels, as well as the consumers perception of UK print, then its worth it.

If it goes ahead, then PEF and other print bodies will organise national heats, culminating in a final in September/October 2004. But the problem lies in finding sponsorship of the global event, which means supplying a press and staff for the duration of the championship, added Beamish.

Story by Rachel Barnes