New year predictions: Mark Sears, Heritage Envelopes

Sears: Credits the efforts of his workforce during the pandemic
Sears: Credits the efforts of his workforce during the pandemic

Heritage Envelopes CEO Mark Sears believes that there is a big post-Brexit opportunity for UK manufacturers and suppliers, with more customers looking to deal with local businesses.

What positives are you able to draw on from the experiences of 2021?
The thing that I feel positive about is how brilliant all the workforce has been in following all of the Covid measures and restrictions we have in place. We were able to stay open the whole time – it is a credit to everyone.

What trend do you think has been accelerated because of the impact of Covid?
Being part of an international group I had to travel to Europe regularly for meetings. The restrictions placed on travel due to Covid meant I could no longer do this, therefore, it has now become the norm for all meetings to be carried out via Teams.

What do you think will represent the single biggest opportunity for printers in 2022?
With Brexit behind us I believe more customers will be looking for UK manufacturers and suppliers. This will give us all a big opportunity going forward.

What are your hopes for 2022?
I hope that the supply chain sorts itself out!

Describe your 'new normal'?
My new normal is testing, sanitising, testing, Teams meeting, sanitising! And where’ve I put my mask!

What piece of advice do you wish you had been given and when?
When I bought my first Tesla S five years ago, I wish the salesperson had told me to buy shares in Tesla at $50 [£38] per share – they are now $950 per share!

What’s your favourite Christmas cracker joke?
Why did Father Christmas take an umbrella to work?
Because it’s going to rain-dear!

Sprouts: yes or no?
Yes please! Cut in half, parboiled for five minutes then pan-fried with slices of chorizo until crispy!

Are you making any New Year's resolutions?
Yes. As a 20 handicap golfer, I am going to avoid the rough, the sand and the water and become a single figure player – we can all dream!