New year predictions: Ryan Hennessey, The AA

AA head of marketing services Ryan Hennessey knows that savvy printers can call the tune when it comes to variable digital colour, although he’ll also be hoping to rock the sector with a very special guitar in 2017.

What’s at the top of your Christmas wish list this year?
A Fender Johnny Marr signature Jaguar in limited edition black.

What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2017 and why?
Variable digital colour. It should present forward thinking printers a chance to generate high-margin data services and cement long-term relationships with clients.

What do you think will represent the single biggest threat for printers in 2017 and why?
Postal increases: a 3.5% rise in postage for 2017 will have a significant impact on high-volume users and will lead to a decrease in mailing volumes.

What’s the one thing that the industry should do more of, or do better, in 2017?
Push quality management information at clients with opportunities to revise printed formats and achieve cost reduction.

What was your biggest disappointment in 2016?
Although probably healthy for the print trade in the longer term, the closure of Polestar.

What was your highlight of 2016?
Attending the Singapore Grand Prix.

What are your hopes for 2017?
Attending another Singapore Grand Prix without sunburn…

What was the best piece of advice you have ever been given?
It’s all relative.

What was the most important thing that you learnt in 2016?
That it’s not always about the best price.

What was the best Christmas present you ever received?
A Fender Johnny Marr signature Jaguar in limited edition Sherwood green.

Are you making any New Year's resolutions? If so, what?
Stop smoking... Mrs Hennessey will be very pleased to see this commitment made in print.