Spots in the free Future Print business coaching program are filling up fast as printers seek to gain a competitive edge in tough industry conditions.

Only 200 of the 350 places in the year-long program are still up for grabs before it begins on February 10 with a two hour initial session designed to pick the right consultant for each printer.

PIAA member services general manager Peter Mansfield says this is the last chance for businesses to get involved as it is unlikely the government will provide funding at the scale of its $4m commitment again.

“We have convinced the federal government that printing industry is undergoing significant change and it must be supported,” he says.

“It is a bit like a personal trainer for the business, we cannot do the work for them, but we can provide them with advice on how to prepare for change and reformation.”

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To participate in the program, attendees must be trading in the print and communication sectors, or their supply chains, for at least three years, have an Australian Business Number, be solvent, and have a turnover of less than $50m in the previous financial year.

While Mansfield could not provide programs’ success stories because he says it is ‘quite new’, he insists the ‘general feedback has been very good’.

Briefings sessions begin February 10-27 and are held in major cities and towns across Australia, including several in Melbourne and Sydney, as well as Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Bendigo, Hobart and Launceston, with some locations yet to be confirmed.

Contact Future Print for details.

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