Print outlook 'stable', survey finds

Order levels across the print industry have remained stable in Q1 2013, according to the British Printing Industries Federation's (BPIF) latest Printing Outlook survey.

The quarterly report revealed some confidence in the sector, with 58 per cent of the print service providers (PSPs) polled claiming that the orders they had received in Q1 were in line with forecasts from the previous survey. Many also said that their Q2 pre-orders were similarly stable, outputmagazine.com reports. 

What's more, four-fifths of those questioned said that their headcount had remained consistent, with many of the remaining 20 per cent stating that they had taken on more staff. A large number of respondents said that they intended to make an investment into staff training, process innovation and equipment - perhaps purchasing new solvent, wide-format or vinyl printers.

The biggest issue cited by PSPs was pricing below cost; 80 per cent said this was their main concern. Late payments and 'under utilisation of capital equipment' were cited as the second and third worries.

Commenting on the survey to printweek.com, BPIF CEO, Kathy Woodward said: "It is encouraging to note that orders and output have held steady for three consecutive quarters now.

"To offset the impact of price erosion in a tough market, driving down costs and improving productivity has to remain high on everyone's agenda. It is therefore welcome news that printer's plans for investment remain strong, with training and innovation as their main focus."