Unite Viewpoint

Back from the first two days of Drupa. The opening day was quiet er than other Drupa Day One we have been to. Day two was much busier as it marks the the beginning of a very busy first weekend. Still it was good to see a number of people from the UK industry and a number of colleagues from other unions - we also took time to visit the stand organised by our sister union in Germany ver.di who are sharing a stand with Uni Europa Graphical. Also a visit was made (or trek as I took everyone to the wrong hall) to Print Week's stand to see the editorial team and touch base and find out the latest news.... Of course the big story is the take over of Quebecor in Europe and RSB by a Dutch investment company. All eyes will be on what happens next. The other story circulating is the potential or rumoured merger between two other big print companies. Its all rumours at present, but it looks as though there is going to be more consolidation in across Europe. As for Drupa? Well, as always Heidleberg had a massive presence with two large halls and on the second day it was almost impossible to get a seat to watch their presentations. Komori had a large site and is well worth seeing, but they seemed to be pushing automatic plate changing as though it was something really new. As was Goss and Roland. More Chinese and South Asian companies than ever before - including one demonstrating a letterpress set up! Lead's not dead! What struck us was that there was nothing startlingly new that makes you want to think "Wow" thats going to have a big effect - as CTP did a few years ago. There was little new at the front end and finishing either although Ferags new kit was impressive when it was run. One thing was the continuing rise of digital printing, with faster kit doing more colour. Oce and Kodak's new kit was the most impressive. The Kodak soccer balls were in demand!! Many of the massive halls were packed with more suppliers than normal including one we stumbled on selling what can only be described as mega super glue that didn't stick to your fingers!! Needless to say he was doing brisk business. It's early days but I can't see there being too many big orders placed for new kit.