49 www.printmonthly.co.uk May / June 2025 - Issue 354 Companies are recognising that generic training isn’t enough. What we’re seeing now is a move toward tailored learning paths – training that’s specific not just to printing, but to each person’s role and goals. Employers want onboarding tools that work, and employees want learning opportunities that are meaningful and lead to something tangible, like a certification.” Marin’s advice for employing new talent is to not assume new hires will pick things up as they go. “Printing has its own language, workflow, and way of doing things – and it can be intimidating for someone coming in from the outside,” says Marin, adding: “Invest in onboarding that introduces not just the ‘how’ but the ‘why.’ Explain what the industry is, how the process works, and how their role fits into the bigger picture. “Also, create opportunities for growth from the start. Let new employees see a future with you. Offering structured training and certifications doesn’t just improve performance – it sends a strong signal that you’re invested in their development, which goes a long way toward keeping them on your team.” Building the Future A company that has recently highlighted its dedication to attracting the next generation of printers is Manroland, a producer of sheetfed offset printing presses, which recently hosted a VIP event at Potts Print in Newcastle. Gitika Hariyan, who works in sales and marketing at Manroland, says: “Today’s youth are more inclined toward careers in tech, digital media, and other fast-moving industries, often overlooking print as an exciting professional pathway. Manroland is focused on changing that perception, demonstrating that print offers both innovation and stability, with a wide array of career opportunities ranging from hands-on technical roles to strategic business positions.” At Manroland Sheetfed UK, Michael Harding, senior sales manager and print demonstrator, plays a “crucial role” in offering hands-on-training and guidance to newcomers, according to Hariyan. “Michael’s interactive demonstrations and in-depth technical insights offer a realworld understanding of the sophisticated technologies that are shaping the future of print. This approach ensures that young professionals are not only trained in the latest equipment but are also equipped with the skills to drive the industry forward.” As Clifford stressed earlier, it is the role of all parts of the industry to come together and showcase the potential of the print industry and develop various entry points and development opportunities. Here, Manroland is doing that by offering lifelong learning for both new and existing employees in order to develop their skills. Hariyan says: “This dedication to continuous professional development guarantees that the workforce remains adaptable, skilled, and ready for the challenges of tomorrow’s print industry. “With the right investment in training and talent, we believe the print industry can become an even more attractive career choice for young individuals seeking meaningful, long-term opportunities, in a dynamic and innovative field.” TRAINING AND ENTRY POINTS ▲Daniel Godbold [far right], speaking to Michael Harding [centre], both from Manroland Sheetfed UK In 2022 the BPIF listed the South East of the UK as having the most print companies with 1,123, followed closely by London with 940 and the East with 822 Factoid ◄Joe Marin, senior vice president of member services at PRINTING United Alliance
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