Highlights from Day 2 at PacPrint

The second day of PacPrint 2025 unfolded with dynamic insights into employee wellbeing, next-generation print technologies, and the enduring power of craftsmanship. From seminars on mental health to product launches and artisan showcases, today highlighted the diverse strengths of the print and graphics sector.

Informative seminars

Kicking off the day, Steven Gamble of Anchor Health delivered a powerful seminar on the role of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and Mental Health First Aid in the print and manufacturing industries. He stressed the need for organisations to demystify EAPs and build mental health literacy across all levels.

“Our mission is to break stigma, build literacy, and drive real change through education and access,” Gamble stated. “By fostering a culture where mental health is understood and prioritised, we’re not just supporting individuals—we're creating resilient, high-performing teams.” Gamble praised the Visual Media Association’s initiative to subsidise Mental Health First Aid training for members, calling it “an unprecedented opportunity for our industry to lead on wellbeing.”

This was followed by a session from Christina Bruce from Sellabilities, who not only delivered some practical sales tools and techniques, but a good dose of inspiration to help stand out in a noisy world, create lasting customer relationships and drive loyalty.

Later in the afternoon, Stephanie Gaddin, Chair of Women in Print, hosted a fireside chat with Sara Stuart, a Kamilaroi woman who founded Printing with Purpose, Mob Jobs and Dreamtime Range. A distinguished advocate for women in leadership and entrepreneurship, the chat covered challenges to DEI, and the importance of belonging.

Label and Packaging Day seminar program

It was also Label & Packaging Day, with a full-day program of seminars around this important and dynamic sector. Peter Woods from BOBST shared how to simplify label production, before Paul Sanelli and Adam Todd from Konica Minolta discussed how to leverage the benefits of inkjet in packaging, all with a sustainable focus.

The importance of integration and partnerships – and how they can drive growth and profit – was the topic of an intensive session from Justin Webber from Print IQ and Alex Bowell from Infigo. They were followed by Peter Dhondt from CERM shared his expertise on Automation 2.0 for labels and packaging.

In the day’s final two sessions, the dynamic Lindsay Nutley talked about UN-sustainability, label trends and other ‘hot stuff’, and Mariella Menato from Denomination provided a fascinating insight into the elements needed to achieve brand sustainability- honesty, ingenuity and bravery.

The Inkers: New National Program to Support Emerging Talent and Tackle Industry Skill Gaps

A key development unveiled today at PacPrint 2025 was the launch of The Inkers Emerging Talent Program, by the Visual Media Association (VMA) and proudly supported by Platinum Partner Konica Minolta. With the tagline "Make Your Mark," the program aims to tackle one of the most pressing challenges facing the print and visual media industries—apprenticeship non-completion and generational skills loss. “We realised we need to address the 57% non-completion rate of apprenticeships across our industry. For every apprentice we recruit, we are losing more than half. That is not a tenable solution when we have a skills shortage and an aging workforce,” explained Kellie Northwood, CEO of the Visual Media Association.

The program provides structured support for those in their first five years in the industry, offering clear pathways to connect with their industry, access mentorship and career development tools. “We’re working with the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (MISA) to develop a mentoring program where experienced professionals can guide and support new talent entering the field,” Kellie Northwood continued. The Inkers program is set to become a national benchmark for emerging talent support, encouraging retention, growth, and pride in the print and visual media professions.

Konica Minolta and Officeworks Embrace Embellishment

Innovation was also on display as Konica Minolta and Officeworks announced the installation of the AccurioShine 3600 – technology shown at drupa —a move that marks Officeworks’ first step into the embellishment space.

The two companies celebrated a decade of partnership, with Konica Minolta representatives including Andrew Cocker, Elisabeth Mitchell, Dean Hoskin, and Yohei Konaka joining the Officeworks team for a special session at 1:30pm on the Konica Minolta stand.

Peterkin: Showcasing the Beauty of Traditional Craft

Another highlight of the day was the presence of Peterkin, a premium paper and print studio that has been defining craftsmanship since 1994. Known for their exquisite embossing, foiling, and custom finishes, Peterkin continues to support the industry by training young creatives and female designers in the intricate art of traditional printing.

Founder Jodie Peterkin remarked, “We specialise in high-end gorgeousness. Our team, many of whom are women and young designers, bring a deep love for the craft. They keep the beauty of traditional print alive using beautifully maintained old-school machinery, and it shows in every piece we produce.” Peterkin imports top-tier paper from Germany, Japan, and South Korea, and supplies clients worldwide. Their standout product, Lake Paper—Europe’s most popular digital paper—is gaining traction with commercial printers seeking flawless, high-impact results.

The History of Print and Press on Display

A special highlight at PacPrint 2025 is the Penrith Museum of Printing, which is offering live demonstrations of traditional print techniques. Visitors can witness personalised printing on historic machines including the 1841 Columbian Press, view a stunning facsimile of the Gutenberg Bible, and admire intricate hand-engraved plates. The Museum’s passionate team of traditional printers is on hand to share their craftsmanship and knowledge, proudly preserving the history of print for future generations.

With two days remaining, PacPrint 2025 continues to spark innovation and collaboration. Attendees can expect more inspiring speakers, groundbreaking technology, and opportunities to celebrate excellence across the print and graphic communications landscape.

PacPrint 2025 runs from 20–23 May 2025 at the Sydney Showground, co-located with Visual Impact and Label & Packaging Expo. Register now for PacPrint 2025.