Trading conditions down, business sentiment up, says latest print industry survey

The Printing Industry Trends Survey Report for September 2011, recently released, indicates trading conditions in the industry continue to decline however business sentiment has risen from last quarter’s report.

This is the 15th consecutive quarter where the results have been below expectations indicating a number of interesting trends including decreased sales and net profits, reduced orders, a deterioration in labour availability, difficulty in obtaining finance and an increase in wage cost pressures.

Printing Industries National Manager for Policy and Government Affairs – Hagop Tchamkertenian said of the latest report:

“The Printing Industry Trends Report indicates that cost pressures are once again resurfacing within the industry which will require an appropriate managerial response."

In a reference to the Federal Government’s recently passed Carbon tax bill, Tchamkertenian added:

“The industry now faces ongoing higher energy costs which need to be addressed by both changes to operating processes and consideration being given to adopting cleaner and less energy intensive technology."

Referring to business sentiment, he said:

“Once again the forecasts for a range of key economic indicators remain positive confirming the general level of overall optimism amongst industry participants. Whether the breakthrough will occur during the December quarter and reported outcomes will match expectations remains to bee seen.”

The Printing industries Association of Australia carries put the Industry Trends Survey Report every quarter to help in identifying general trends in the industry. It is the most comprehensive analysis of the printing industry in Australia and printing companies across the country from South Melbourne to South Australia participate each quarter.