Explore every episode of the podcast PrintIsBack Podcast

Exploring the Vibrant World of Printing in Austria - mit Peter Sodoma & Christian Handler  (ÖVDM - Verband Druck Medien Österreich)

 - 𝗗𝗶𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲 𝘇𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗡𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗵𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗸𝗲𝗶𝘁 𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗜.

German spoken, translations available in your app of choice - 

Peter Sodoma:

> „Unser Ziel ist es, den österreichischen Verband (ÖVDM) auf eine serviceorientierte Basis zu stellen und als Katalysator für die Branche zu fungieren.“

Christian Handler:

> „Jede Region in Österreich hat ihren ganz eigenen Charakter, und wir müssen auf ihre spezifischen Bedürfnisse eingehen.“

The episode reveals how the printing industry is adapting to modern challenges while maintaining its rich heritage, blending tradition with innovation for a sustainable future.

Peter Sodoma; 

> “We aim to position the Austrian association (ÖVDM) on service-oriented foundations, acting as a catalyst for the industry.”  

Christian Handler;

> “Every region in Austria has its unique flavor, and we must cater to their specific needs.” 

As we reflect on these insights, it’s clear that the printing world in Austria is vibrant and full of potential. To delve deeper into these topics and hear more from our guests, listen to the full episode of Print is Back Podcast.

𝗗𝗶𝗲 𝗗𝗿𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗯𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲 𝘇𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗡𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗵𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗸𝗲𝗶𝘁 𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗞𝗜.

(Exploring the Vibrant World of Printing in Austria ) - mit Peter Sodoma & Christian Handler (ÖVDM).

- German spoken, translations available in your app of choice - 

— Peter Sodoma:

> „Unser Ziel ist es, den österreichischen Verband (ÖVDM) auf eine serviceorientierte Basis zu stellen und als Katalysator für die Branche zu fungieren.“

— Christian Handler:

> „Jede Region in Österreich hat ihren ganz eigenen Charakter, und wir müssen auf ihre spezifischen Bedürfnisse eingehen.“

-- ENG --

The episode reveals how the printing industry is adapting to modern challenges while maintaining its rich heritage, blending tradition with innovation for a sustainable future.

Peter Sodoma; 

> “We aim to position the Austrian association (ÖVDM) on service-oriented foundations, acting as a catalyst for the industry.”  

Christian Handler;

> “Every region in Austria has its unique flavor, and we must cater to their specific needs.” 

As we reflect on these insights, it’s clear that the printing world in Austria is vibrant and full of potential. To delve deeper into these topics and hear more from our guests, listen to the full episode of Print is Back Podcast.

Episode 20b • 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗱 • 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘔𝘝𝘗 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘵 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘈𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵 — 𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘐𝘵 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘴 : 19 min.

Agentic print buying is around the corner. We came back from BOPE26 - the Benelux Online Print Event - inspired. 

To understand what it actually means for our industry, we built a working proof of concept.  Here's what we learned. 

• 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘔𝘝𝘗 𝘗𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘵 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘤𝘦 𝘈𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘵 — 𝘏𝘰𝘸 𝘐𝘵 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘬𝘴

*Disclamer ! - offline Demo pricing only - not indicative of actual market rates.

Key takeaways : The print industry is on the verge of a paradigm shift driven by agentic AI, which will dismantle the "silos" separating it from the integrated digital commerce world. The traditional sales model is set to be replaced by a fully automated marketplace where AI assistants make purchasing decisions, based on TRUST, compliance, and real-time data. 

For print businesses, this is a pivotal moment that demands a strategic commitment to becoming a transparent, trusted, and digitally accessible partner.

Failing to invest in the data structure and API infrastructure to become "queryable" risks obsolescence. 

While challenging, this evolution presents a powerful opportunity to redefine print's value, enhance efficiency, and prove its indispensable role in a digital-first world. 

The time to prepare is now, as this future is expected to materialize within the next 12 to 24 months.

💬 Working on this? Thinking about it? Not convinced yet?  

Tag someone who needs to hear this! - This conversation is just getting started.

© Weber&Michiels

Agentic print buying is around the corner. We came back from BOPE26 - the Benelux Online Print Event - inspired.

To understand what it actually means for our industry, we built a working proof of concept.  Here's what we learned. 

#PRINTisback podcast - Episode 20

• 𝘍𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘥𝘦

*Disclamer ! - offline Demo pricing only - not indicative of actual market rates.

Our Key takeaways : The print industry is on the verge of a paradigm shift driven by agentic AI, which will dismantle the "silos" separating it from the integrated digital commerce world. The traditional sales model is set to be replaced by a fully automated marketplace where AI assistants make purchasing decisions, based on TRUST, compliance, and real-time data.

For print businesses, this is a pivotal moment that demands a strategic commitment to becoming a transparent, trusted, and digitally accessible partner.

Failing to invest in the data structure and API infrastructure to become "queryable" risks obsolescence.

While challenging, this evolution presents a powerful opportunity to redefine print's value, enhance efficiency, and prove its indispensable role in a digital-first world.

The time to prepare is now, as this future is expected to materialize within the next 12 to 24 months.

💬 Working on this? Thinking about it? Not convinced yet? 

Tag someone who needs to hear this! - This conversation is just getting started.

©Weber&Michiels

🎥 The New Print Reality - with Gee Ranasinha on Authenticity, Print Marketing and navigating today’s Challenges.

Most print companies are losing relevance in a digitalized world - but the secret to standing out again isn’t technology, it’s Marketing & Data.

In this eye-opening conversation, Gee Ranasinha, CEO of Kexino Agency, exposes how print businesses are underutilizing their most persuasive, tactile assets and urges a fundamental shift in marketing mindset.

Time is precious - and in a crowded marketplace, failure to adapt can mean extinction. This episode is perfect for print industry leaders, marketing professionals, and anyone eager to unlock print’s true potential amid rapid technological change.

We break down:

• Why print industry marketing is often technology-driven but not customer-driven
• Practical strategies to elevate print from commodity to value-added service
• How to leverage AI intelligently without sabotaging manual workflows
• The importance of understanding your target audience’s fears, motivations, and future needs
• The role of personalized versus individual print in sustainability and differentiation

Most print companies are losing relevance in a digitalized world - but the secret to standing out again isn’t technology, it’s Marketing & Data.

In this eye-opening conversation, Gee Ranasinha, CEO of Kexino Agency, exposes how print businesses are underutilizing their most persuasive, tactile assets and urges a fundamental shift in marketing mindset.

Time is precious - and in a crowded marketplace, failure to adapt can mean extinction. This episode is perfect for print industry leaders, marketing professionals, and anyone eager to unlock print’s true potential amid rapid technological change.

We break down:

• Why print industry marketing is often technology-driven but not customer-driven
• Practical strategies to elevate print from commodity to value-added service
• How to leverage AI intelligently without sabotaging manual workflows
• The importance of understanding your target audience’s fears, motivations, and future needs
• The role of personalized versus individual print in sustainability and differentiation

🎥 Video version

Why Is Katun Betting on (Office) Print — and on a New Breed of Hardware Printers?

In a world quick to label print as a declining or even dying industry, Katun is taking a very different stance. Instead of stepping back, they are doubling down—investing, innovating, and actively shaping the future of office printing.

In episode 18, we explore this strategic direction through insights from Heidi Boller, former GM, and Cinzia Gandini, the new General Manager for EMEA. Together, they outline how Katun is navigating today’s market challenges and turning them into opportunities, guided by a clear focus on innovation, sustainability, total cost of ownership, and strong dealer partnerships.

Katun’s move into the office printing segment is not a gamble - it’s a calculated response to an evolving market. 

They are not simply betting on print; they are positioning themselves as a key force in what comes next for the (office) printing industry.

Hence, print is back - and Katun is proving it.

🎙️- Why Is Katun Betting on (Office) Print — and on a New Breed of Hardware Printers?

In a world quick to label print as a declining or even dying industry, Katun is taking a very different stance. Instead of stepping back, they are doubling down—investing, innovating, and actively shaping the future of office printing.

In episode 18, we explore this strategic direction through insights from Heidi Boller, former GM, and Cinzia Gandini, the new General Manager for EMEA. Together, they outline how Katun is navigating today’s market challenges and turning them into opportunities, guided by a clear focus on innovation, sustainability, total cost of ownership, and strong dealer partnerships.

Katun’s move into the office printing segment is not a gamble - it’s a calculated response to an evolving market. 

They are not simply betting on print; they are positioning themselves as a key force in what comes next for the (office) printing industry.

Hence, print is back - and Katun is proving it.

The Evolution of Printing & Connection.

𝗜𝗻 𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗱𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗯𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘆 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗼 “𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗲” 𝗶𝘁𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳, 𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆, 𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻.

In this episode of the #𝙋𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙄𝙨𝘽𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙥𝙤𝙙𝙘𝙖𝙨𝙩, we speak with Jeroen van Druenen, director of Jubels — a 120‑year‑old SME family printing company with 25 staff in Amsterdam, but with bi‑directional partnerships across the globe. Today, the world has truly become their oyster.

Content & Topics:

1. The Legacy of Jubels

2. Pioneering Smart Printing

3. The Importance of Personal Connections

4. Expanding Global Reach

5. Navigating B2B and B2C Markets

Join us as we explore Jubels' remarkable journey and transformation showcasing the benefits of collaboration in the printing industry today, with innovative ventures like Photoflyer and Instant Celebration.

🎦 Watch the full VIDEO episode, on @Print Island official / https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLPtXHLHFF6h-EFK8nfKItwXhfcbgHhD4F&si=b0Y_OXb5uAhr9LzQ

Episode 16 - Beating Email to the punch with Print!

In this new episode, Andreas and I are joined by Dharminder Biharie, who shows that printed sales letters and introductions don’t have to be boring. With humor, boldness, and creativity, they can become a hidden gem - a printed sales weapon that truly stands out.

Creative print today has the magical power to transform paper into a surprising sales element that grabs attention.

And when you invest in quality materials, you elevate brand perception instantly!

At its core, marketing is about trust. The human touch matters, and PRINT delivers it in a way no algorithm can.

In this episode of the PrintIsBack podcast, Andreas Weber & Jacques Michiels discuss the intersection of technology, creativity, and the future of print. They explore the challenges facing the graphic arts industry, the definition of innovation, the rise of digital printing, the role of robotics, and the transition from offset to digital printing. 

Jacques reports about the Komori EU Crossover Event

(Utrecht - NL).

Creating a new ecosystem for print production is essential for future success.

The B2 format is gaining significant attention in the printing industry.

Offset printing still holds advantages in certain applications, so the transition from offset to digital printing requires careful consideration.

The conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to innovation and the importance of creating a new ecosystem for print production.

Key Takeaways:

• Innovation should be defined as the creation of new combinations of resources.
• B2 format is gaining significant attention in the printing industry.
• Robotics are being integrated into print production to enhance efficiency.
• The graphic arts industry is facing unprecedented challenges.
• Digital printing is evolving with AI-driven quality controls.
• Offset printing still holds advantages in certain applications.
• The transition from offset to digital printing requires careful consideration.
• The printing industry must adapt to changing market demands.
• Creating a new ecosystem for print production is essential for future success.

Engaging conversations are needed to guide printers through technological transitions.

This podcast featuring Hayco van Gaal (ex Canon EMEA - European Sales Director ) reveals that the print industry is far from dying; instead, it is reinventing itself through innovation, creativity, and a strong commitment to sustainability. 

As RPI continues to embrace these changes, it paves the way for a vibrant future in personalized printing. 

The podcast dives deep into how RPI positions itself amidst a rapidly evolving market. Hayco notes, "We bring ideas to life," highlighting the company's commitment to collaborating with a diverse array of clients - from corporate giants to creative individuals - to transform concepts into tangible products. 

This approach not only fosters innovation but also caters to the growing demand for personalized items that consumers crave.  

One of the pivotal points discussed is the integration of AI into the creative process. With platforms like Canva and AI tools becoming increasingly accessible, creativity is being democratized, making it easier for individuals to design personalized products. Hayco explains that the challenge lies in translating these creative ideas into high-quality physical products that meet sustainability standards. 

RPI has invested significantly in their manufacturing capabilities across the US and Europe, ensuring they can deliver high-quality, personalized products most efficiently.  

Understanding the Market Dynamics  

As the conversation shifts to competition within the printing industry, Hayco acknowledges the presence of major players like CEWE, Albelli, Shutterfly, Snapfish and others. However, he believes that RPI's focus on high-value, personalized products sets them apart. "We can do both: produce high-end products and manage operational excellence for standardized items," he explains. This dual capability positions RPI to navigate the complexities of a competitive landscape while delivering exceptional value.  

Key takeaways include:  

- The importance of collaboration in bringing creative ideas to life.  

- The role of AI in democratizing creativity and enhancing the design process.  

- RPI's commitment to sustainability as a fundamental business practice.  

- The competitive landscape of the print industry and RPI's unique positioning within it.

In this new episode taken from the Print Island Studios, Jacques Michiels sits down with 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗼 𝗘𝗶𝗸𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗺, 𝗖𝗘𝗢 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗶 𝗘𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗘𝗣𝗜 (𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝘂𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗻 𝗣𝗮𝗽𝗲𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀). Their conversation offers a sharp perspective on the future of Paper and Print in Europe - touching on innovation, sustainability, and the strategic decisions shaping the Paper industry today. 

From sustainability to the digital transformation - this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Breaking Ink! - LANDA Digital Printing: revival in motion or the end of an era?

In this episode of #Printisback, we confront the turbulent story of Landa Digital Printing - once hailed as the future of print, now fighting for survival. What went wrong? And is there still a path forward for Benny Landa’s bold vision?

Can the company reinvent itself—or is this the final chapter?

Join hosts Jacques Michiels and Andreas Weber in a candid conversation with renowned Belgian industry analyst Eddy Hagen to unpack the company’s financial crisis, explore its strategic pivot, and ask the hard questions.

*VIDEO - Watch the video version in the free Island Studios section of Print Island Official on Patreon.

🎙️ Podcast recorded at Print Island Studios.

All opinions shared are personal and intended for informational purposes within the printing industry and do not constitute legal advice or economic assessments.

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG - Back to the roots or full steam ahead into the future..🚀

In celebration of the 175th anniversary of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG, Jacques Michiels and Andreas Weber had a fascinating discussion. 

A Journey Through Legacy, Presence, and Possibility — As Told by Thomas Fichtl, Head of Global Communications at Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG), with Over 25 Years of “Insight from Inside” the Company.

Give it a listen! 

🌟 #PrintIsBack! More tactile and multi-sensory than ever!  

Our latest podcast episode explores the captivating world of PAPER, featuring special guest Zoe Truchy from Mondi (Mondi Uncoated Fine Paper), a leading innovator in digital and offset printing.  

Discover the premium strategy behind their acclaimed Pergraphica range—celebrated for its versatility and richness in application.  This uncoated paper can be enhanced with a wide range of special effects, enabling visually stunning and truly exceptional printed communication.  

To celebrate the power of tactile and multi-sensory design, Mondi has unveiled “Spectrum of Impressions: THE PRINT BOOK” - a groundbreaking publication that sets new industry standards.

🎙️ Join Jacques Michiels and Andreas Weber as they shine a light on this often-overlooked , yet powerful dimension of the print world.  

We’d love to hear what you think!

👉 Learn more about Mondi’s Spectrum of Impressions: The Print Book campaign here:  

🔗 [Mondi Pergraphica](https://www.mymondi.net/ufp/en/brand-group/pergraphica)

Harrison Bailey, Founder of Smart Elephant and Chris Minn, CEO of Digital Ink, combine their talents, experiences, resources, and skills to make AI utilization in printing, easy and effective.

What’s even more exciting? Both are from the UK but are operating from the Gulf region (GCC), based in the Emirates, with a vision to make a global impact! 

Curious about their insights, motivations and their expectations for the industry? 

Join Jacques Michiels and Andreas Weber in this new episode of #Printisback! – tune in now! 🎧

Guy Bibi has been involved in many standout projects at HP and HP Indigo that showcase the creative and technical potential of digital print. He is now the Global Creative manager at HP Pagewide industrial.

He leads the development of tools like HP SmartStream Designer and Composer, which empower designers and brands to create personalized, high-impact print experiences. His role blends technical expertise with a designer’s mindset, helping bridge the gap between creative vision and digital print execution.

Some of the striking campaigns include ;

1. SmartStream Mosaic & the Coca-Cola Israel Campaign  (2014)

 One of the most iconic uses of HP Indigo’s SmartStream Mosaic software was the Coca-Cola “Share a Coke campaign where over 2 million uniquely designed bottles were produced. This project demonstrated how algorithmic design and variable data printing could create mass personalization at scale.

2. Label & Labeling Magazine Cover Project (2016)

In another creative feat, HP Indigo technology was used to produce 16,000 unique magazine covers for Label & Labeling Magazine. Each cover was generated from just 16 base designs using SmartStream Mosaic, showcasing the power of automated creativity.

3. AI-Powered Print Innovation at Dscoop Edge 15/5/2025

At the Dscoop Edge Long Beach event, Guy co-led a session on AI-powered printing, highlighting how artificial intelligence is transforming creative workflows. He discussed tools that enhance image quality, automate job submission, and generate artwork—pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in print.

and many more...

Frank Siegel - Embracing the Human Element in a Digital World and in PRINT! 

In our increasingly digital landscape, the spotlight is shifting back to what truly matters: the human element. 

A shining example of this is Frank Siegel, Managing Director of Obility GmbH, a leading workflow and MIS specialist in Germany.

Every day, Frank navigates the complexities of digital processes to optimize the production of print products in a consistent, cost-effective, and reliable manner. Yet, he recognizes that the heart of success lies beyond mere efficiency.

It's about cultivating a meaningful approach to our work and fostering a positive mindset that not only enhances our own lives but also inspires those around us.

Podcast Episode06 with Richard Askam, the visionary behind "Share a Coke" campaign (2013) and just refreshed again in 2025, as he dives into a thrilling conversation with us about the future of print, personalisation, and branding innovation.

• Two worlds collide: Creatives say print is outdated - while PSPs argue creatives just don’t get it.

And here we are, caught in the middle as print communication fans, asking: Who’s actually right?

Are agency creatives really that ahead of the game? 🤔

🔥 Most importantly: What does the TikTok generation think about print?

And where is the industry heading next?

🎙️ Don’t miss this electrifying discussion - it’s a must-listen.

From the buzzing halls of FESPA Berlin 2025 • are LATAM’s printing markets navigating the same shifts as Europe, and what about GenerationZ and Print? 🌎🎙️

Exchanging market & business observations and reflecting on the TRANSFORMATION OF PRINT & FESPA. 

Join us in our transatlantic collaboration with Ondas Impressas (Brazil). This digital roundtable features the insights from FESPA’s Executive Alexandre Keese, industry consultant Hamilton Terni Costa and Weber & Michiels both from the PrintIsBack Podcast.

Exciting new podcast episode with our friend Hamilton Costa from Sao Paulo. It's full of interesting insights and current perspectives on the most important #printing industry developments. It's interesting to learn how, and if at all, the situation in Latin America (LATAM) is completely different from that in EUROPE. And where we can learn from each other.

By the way: We'll be speaking with Hamilton again on May 9th, this time from #Berlin at the #FESPA trade fair. It's going to be super cool. Stay tuned.

In this episode we discuss artificial intelligence / "AI in Print".

Listen to our short interview with the AI integrator NXTGN (NXTGN.be),

We talk about our take on 2 major industry Events;

HiD 2025 or the Hunkeler Innovation days (CH)

and

the Benelux Online Print Event (BOPE) in the Netherlands (NL).

Tune in, join the conversation!

In this episode we share a compelling snippet from our interview at the BOPE conference with Christoph Van den Langenbergh⁠, Group Director Antalis, on the shift from offset to digital printing and its impact on paper consumption, a vital indicator of industry transformation.

We, Weber and Michiels engage in thoughtful exploration of pertinent topics within the creative graphic arts and printing industry, so tune in & join the conversation.

Episode 3 - actually our introductory episode which explains how and why we started this podcast series.

Please have a listen, and if you'd like to join in the conversation, please get in touch!

#Print • always worth getting involved!