Day Three at PacPrint 2025 opened with a powerful focus on the future of the print and signage workforce, as the Manufacturing Industry Skills Alliance (MISA) took to the stage at 10:15am to spotlight national training and development initiatives. Representatives from MISA shared insights into emerging industry skill demands and introduced a suite of practical training and mentoring solutions aimed at addressing current workforce challenges.

Their strategic partnership with the Visual Media Association drew particular attention, showcasing joint efforts to combat the aging workforce and attract a new generation of talent. This collaboration includes an expanded apprenticeship pathway, and a mentoring program designed to guide young professionals and newcomers into the print sector. The session strongly complemented The Inkers Emerging Talent Program, launched on Day Two in collaboration with Konica Minolta.

“This alignment of government, industry, and employers is exactly what our sector needs to ensure a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals,” said Kirsten Taylor, Chair of PacPrint 2025. “The excitement and support around emerging talent at this year’s event is unlike anything we’ve seen before.”

Compliance took centre stage later in the morning with the Signage Licensing Panel, where Damian Nielsen (ASGA), Mick Harrold (ASGA President), and Charly Taylor (CI-Advantage), facilitated by Janet Maitland (Image Magazine), unpacked the critical licensing requirements that businesses must meet to stay compliant and competitive.

At midday, the Industry Associations Panel, facilitated by Lindy Hughson (Print 21), brought together industry leaders Ruth Cobb (PrintNZ), Kellie Northwood (Visual Media Association), Karren Challoner-Miles (Visual Connections), and Mick Harrold to examine policy, innovation, and workforce strategies guiding the sector’s future.

Sustainability returned to the spotlight at 1:15pm with the Label & Packaging Compliance Panel, followed by a 3:00pm session from Stephanie Strassberger, Vice President Asia & Pacific at Gmund Paper. Stephanie delivered a comprehensive forum on global sustainability trends in paper and packaging, spotlighting recyclable and biodegradable materials, shifting consumer expectations, and upcoming regulatory frameworks. Her expertise and real-world case studies inspired businesses to innovate their practices while aligning with environmental goals.

The Fireside Chat with Matt Aitken, Managing Director of IVE Group, provided a high-impact discussion on leadership in the evolving print landscape. Facilitated by Kellie Northwood, Aitken offered insights on strategic growth, building effective teams, and integrating print and digital operations.

The day concluded with the electrifying session “Be the Interruption!” by Ciaran McGuigan of Strike Force Sales, energising the audience with actionable strategies to lead rather than react in an ever-changing business world.

Beyond the seminar rooms, the show floor buzzed with activity as exhibitors reported strong sales momentum including Trimatt who confirmed the sale of its ColourStar AQV versatile printer on Day One, with installation for their new client scheduled within the week. “Selling an order in the first four hours of the show, that's our purpose for coming to the show,” said Matt Johnson, Founder of Trimatt. “We’ve had a great response from the New South Wales market, and we’re really pleased with how many local people have come to PacPrint 2025 in Sydney this year.”

Ron King, Owner of Rollover echoed the success, reporting multiple sales and highlighting the value of face-to-face engagement. “The shows always deliver direct contact with potential customers, high-quality leads, visits from existing clients, and a fantastic platform to demonstrate our products,” Ron King said.

“Day Three captured the heart of what PacPrint 2025 is all about—future talent, sustainable practices, strong leadership, and real-world outcomes,” concluded Taylor. “The positive energy and commercial success we’re seeing reaffirm the essential role of PacPrint for our industry.”

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.

For more information about PacPrint 2025, contact the PacPrint 2025 events team at exhibitions@visualconnections.org.au or call +61 2 9868 1577. Information about the show and all the latest news is available on the PacPrint 2025 website.