PRINT, MFP, SOFTWARE, SERVICES, DOCUMENT & CLOUD NEWS & INFORMATION FOR VARS, CONVERGED RESELLERS & MFP DEALERS www.printitreseller.uk ISSUE 132 · 2025 PRINT IT RESELLER MAGAZINE IN PRINT & ONLINE SINCE 2011 A DECADE IN PRINT Sian Thurston, Selectec PAGE 20 VOX POP Print’s cloudy future: part two PAGE 39 Making Digital Transformation attainable for everyone Visit vasion.com to learn more... RESEARCH State of the industry 2025 PAGE 34 See page 32
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04 Bulletin News from the channel 12 Bulletin Where do you take yours? 16 People A round-up of new hires 18 I couldn’t do my job without... Gerard Rudolph picks his favourite work tools 20 A decade in print Sian Thurston shares her print experiences over the past decade 22 One-to-one Deborah Hawkins, Group Director Workplace Team, Keypoint Intelligence 24 Interview Phil Jones talks about Brother UK’s channel recruitment drive 26 Focus on: What’s New A round-up of recent product launches 29 PrintIT Awards We’ll shortly announce the shortlists 30 Workflow Automation is the first step to more efficient document management 32 Cover Story Vasion gears up for a channel-led future 34 Research Findings from Quocirca’s State of the Industry 2025 study 36 Partner Programme Toshiba doubles down on partner commitment 39 VOX POP Print’s cloudy future – part two 46 Industry Insight Shaun Wilkinson, Managing Director, UTAX (UK) 48 View from the Channel Mike Trotter, Director, Office Technology Corporation 50 60 seconds with… Alex Jordan, Sales Development Representative, Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) COMMENT At the time of going to press, judging for the 2025 PrintIT Awards was in full swing. We will announce the shortlists on September 15. Tables for the PrintIT Awards 2025 are in high demand, and spaces are filling fast. To secure your place at the industry’s most prestigious gathering, please contact one of the team. We look forward to celebrating your success at the Royal Lancaster London on December 2. This month, Lee Parker, Solutions Architect at UTAX UK explains how partners can add value and help customers achieve end-to-end workflow efficiency with UTAX document management solutions (page 30). LeAnne Foley, Head of Indirect Sales at Toshiba speaks to PITR about the company’s all-new partner programme that’s built on the principles of adding value, strategic engagement, and shared success (page 36). And on page 24, find out more about Brother UK’s strategy to onboard 100 new partners in the office automation (OA) channel from Managing Director Phil Jones. Also in this issue, Gerard Rudolph, Marketing Manager at CO3 Technologies picks the work tools he uses every day and couldn’t do his job without (page 18). This month’s Q&A is with Mike Trotter, Director, Office Technology Corporation, and PITR spent 60 seconds with Alex Jordan, Sales Development Representative, Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK). If you’ve got any news about your business to share, would like to be included on our monthly VOX POP panel, have a compelling business success story or simply wish to comment on any industry issues, please get in touch with me at: [email protected] Michelle Ryder, Editor Editor’s Comment Register online To receive your regular FREE printed copy of PrintIT Reseller Magazine simply fill in our online registration form at www.printitreseller.uk/register Read PrintIT Reseller online at: www.printitreseller.uk Join us : Follow us @print-it-reseller-magazine PRINT IT RESELLER MAGAZINE IN PRINT & ONLINE SINCE 2011 PrintIT Reseller is published by Kingswood Media Ltd., 7 Amherst House, 22 London Road, Sevenoaks TN13 2BT • Tel: 01732 759725 Email: [email protected] www.printitreseller.uk No part of PrintIT Reseller can be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. ©2025 Kingswood Media Ltd. 2025 ISSUE 132 printitreseller.uk If you no longer wish to receive PrintIT Reseller magazine please email your details to [email protected] Group Editor: James Goulding 07803 087228 · [email protected] Editor: Michelle Ryder 01732 759725 · [email protected] Publishing Director, Social Media and Web Editor: Neil Trim 01732 759725 · [email protected] Advertising Director: Ethan White 01732 759725 · [email protected] Account Manager: Jeff Root 07976 950285 · [email protected] Designer: Brian Cloke 07484 288189 · [email protected] Issue 132 ISSN 2055-3110 (Print) ISSN 2055-3129 (Online) PRINTITRESELLER.UK 3
01732 759725 4 BULLETIN GPMA research proves print’s strategic role Earlier this year, the Graphic and Print Media Alliance (GPMA) launched a major national survey to uncover the true role that the UK’s print, paper, packaging, labelling, and graphics sectors play within the country’s industrial ecosystem. The message was clear: while often operating behind the scenes, the print industry is far from peripheral. It is a strategic enabler of productivity, compliance, innovation and economic resilience across some of the UK’s most vital manufacturing and strategic sectors. The research reveals that print businesses are intricately embedded in the UK’s industrial supply chains, serving sectors as diverse as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, consumer goods, automotive, aerospace and defence. Marketing materials remain the most supplied application (64%), closely followed by packaging and labelling (56%), technical documentation, safety signage, and increasingly – functional print solutions like printed electronics and anti‑counterfeit technologies. More than half of all respondents stated that their print solutions were ‘extremely critical’ to the sectors they serve – with a further 38% describing them as ‘very important’, often underpinning compliance, branding, and traceability functions. This aligns with a broader finding: many manufacturers simply could not operate without the products and services supplied by the print industry. www.gpma.org.uk AI saves Brits 5+ hours per week at work AI is delivering real impact for British workers and businesses alike. According to surveys commissioned by HP and carried out by YouGov, 72% of employees surveyed who are using AI say it saves them time each week, with one in ten saving more than five hours. For many, this means spending less time on repetitive tasks and more time on higher‑value work. One in three business leaders whose organisations use AI report that it has already delivered more than 11% in cost savings, while almost half say it helps reduce time spent on admin tasks, and 34% say it has improved decision making and strategic planning. Despite these early wins, not all businesses are keeping pace. While 44% of senior decision-makers surveyed expect AI to be fully embedded by 2027, over a quarter admit their business currently has no formal AI strategy in place. Common barriers include concerns over data security, a lack of internal expertise, and difficulty proving return on investment. “AI is no longer a ‘nice to have’ – it’s a business imperative,” said Neil Sawyer, HP’s Managing Director for Northwest Europe. “Companies that fail to act now risk falling behind their competitors, losing productivity, and missing out on the efficiency gains AI is already delivering. By embedding AI directly into secure, familiar devices, organisations can overcome trust and usability challenges – and scale adoption with confidence.” www.hp.com Cyber leading cause of downtime and data loss Organisations across the UK are under more pressure than ever to adapt and respond to growing IT and cyber threats, according to the newly published Databarracks Data Health Check. Now in its 18th year, the Data Health Check surveys 500 IT professionals across a range of industries. This year’s report reveals that while overall preparedness is improving, organisations face a rapidly evolving landscape – particularly when it comes to cyber threats and AI risks. Key findings include: For the third year running, cyber is the leading cause of downtime and data loss: 71% of organisations experienced a cyberattack in the past year. Testing has become the gold standard: 9 in 10 organisations tested elements of their recovery capabilities in the last 12 months, up significantly from previous years. AI threats top the agenda: AI-driven cyberattacks, including deepfakes, are seen as the biggest IT resilience challenge over the next five years. Ransomware recoveries improve: Just 17% of organisations paid the ransom following a ransomware attack, with most recovering from backups. www.databarracks.com The IPIA asks print to look beyond the margin The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) set out to tackle a critical issue for the print industry at its Annual Conference which was held at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry on August 28 – how to achieve business growth, seize opportunity and overcome an array of market challenges. Alasdair Browne, Chair of the IPIA, said: “This year’s theme reflects a pressing need for our industry to look past the immediate pressures of day to day operation, fighting to protect profit margins on existing work, and consider where future growth will come from. The conference brings together in-depth research, practical case studies and expert perspectives to help print businesses navigate those wider opportunities.” This year’s conference included a packed programme of expert talks and debates that reflect the theme of venturing ‘beyond the margin’. Delegates heard from leaders across the print, mail, finance, economics and sustainability sectors – each sharing business intelligence and analysis that reveal routes to adaptation and commercial success. www.ipia.org.uk BULLETIN
KYOCERA Document Solutions (UK) Limited Award winning Kyocera Cloud Print and Scan. Kyocera’s cloud based solution empowers agile workplaces and hybrid workers to print from multiple locations using Print&Follow™ and scan directly to the cloud. As well as reducing obstacles to productivity, Kyocera Cloud Print and Scan helps businesses control their print costs by eliminating the costs and hassle of managing your on-premises print servers while allowing you to assign group print policies to company users, improving their print behaviour and better managing print costs. Learn more online with the QR code or by visiting kyoceradocumentsolutions.co.uk/kcps DISCOVER MORE
01732 759725 6 BULLETIN Five years of Parallel In August 2020, right in the middle of the pandemic, most businesses were battening down the hatches, but Parallel Managing Director Gavin Auckland, was doing the opposite - launching his own managed print business from what he calls ‘a rabbit hutch of an office’. Five years later, Parallel has evolved into a thriving group of companies, with new ventures like Parallel Logistics, a full board of directors, comprising sales, logistics, service, operations, and finance – all experts in their respective areas, and a growing reputation for doing things differently. “The print industry hasn’t changed much over the years, and that can make it stagnant. One of the biggest lessons for me was to embrace doing things differently. Different is better, and that’s something we’ve built the business on,” Auckland said. One of the big changes came in in September 2024 with the launch of Parallel Logistics. “I wanted complete control of the process from warehouse to installation, so we created a logistics business that now also works with other managed print providers. It means we control quality from start to finish and give no opportunity to pass the buck. “Most of the industry is used to installations taking days, with issues cropping up and things not working right away. We average about 20 minutes per device. Everything is set up exactly as promised, and it’s right the first time, every time,” he added. Looking ahead to the next five years, Auckland says that the biggest opportunities will be in technology, such as AI, automation, and IT services. “We’re positioning Parallel to be a one-stop shop - covering print, IT, communications, security, workflow solutions, and more.” As the industry evolves, Auckland and the team aren’t just prepared for change; they are actively building for it. With a new head office on the horizon, expanding services, and a close eye on emerging technologies, Parallel is positioned to not only meet the next five years head-on but smash expectations all over again. https://parallel-group.co.uk Partnership success PBS Communications is celebrating over a third of a century of partnership success with Konica Minolta. Reflecting on its long-standing partnership with Konica Minolta, PBS Communications’ Managing Director and owner Jonathan Pool said: “We launched in 1990, becoming a Minolta dealer a year later and have been a sole brand dealer ever since, with the only change being that we became a Konica Minolta dealer when the companies merged in 2003. There are considerable benefits to working exclusively with Konica Minolta, such as holding stock, sales expertise, product support and training, and service expertise, and these are amplified by the brand’s excellent reliability, quality, and performance of its products.” Cameron Mitchell, Business Leader for Indirect Channel at Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) added: “We are incredibly proud of our long-standing partnership with PBS and the individual contribution that Jonathan has made in championing our products. His unwavering commitment to excellence and passion for customer service have played a pivotal role in helping us reach new heights. We are excited about the future of this collaboration as we continue to bring value to our customers and continue Konica Minolta’s journey alongside PBS Communications.” www.pbscomms.com KRL Group recognised for sustainability KRL Group has achieved the Oh Yes Net Zero Gold Award. The award recognises its ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, operating more sustainably, and aligning projects with its sustainability goals. In a statement the company said: “From reducing waste during installations to choosing sustainable suppliers and improving energy efficiency across our operations, every step we take is part of building a healthier future for our community and planet.” www.krlgroup.net Local sponsorship Highland Copiers has announced it is sponsoring Scotland’s leading youth shinty development performance camp to help nurture the next generation of players over the next three years. The camp brings together the nation’s most promising young players for an intensive programme focusing on the technical, tactical, physical and psychological aspects of the game. Highland Copiers said: “Shinty is such an important part of Highland life and culture, and we’re delighted to play a part in its future.” Ronald Ross, National Development Manager at the Camanachd Association, said: “The Performance Camp remains a cornerstone of our player development pathway. It’s always inspiring to see so many talented young players come together to learn, challenge themselves, and forge lasting friendships. We’re grateful to Highland Copiers for their support, which helps us make this experience possible.” www.highlandcopiers.co.uk Oyster named diamond partner Oyster has received the iTS Diamond Partner Award for its outstanding sales and continued support of PaperCut software. The award itself is crafted from responsibly sourced wood, aligning perfectly with both Oyster’s and PaperCut’s shared commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting sustainable solutions. www.oystermps.co.uk Gavin Auckland
7 PRINTITRESELLER.UK BULLETIN Four Digital support Harpenden school Four Digital Solutions and Konica Minolta sponsored a 13-day North America sports tour for 75 senior students from St George’s School in Harpenden. Girls and boys lacrosse and rugby teams played games in Toronto, Ottawa, Buffalo, and Montreal, as well as competing in a tournament at the Olympic Park in Lake Placid. The tour is partially funded by parents and student-led fundraising efforts, with a target of £50,000 to support travel, extra activities, and inclusive access for all interested students. Corporate support from businesses like Konica Minolta and Four Digital Solutions has been instrumental in making the initiative a reality. Charlie Rickett, Founder of Harpendenbased Four Digital Solutions and a long-time parent volunteer said: “I started coaching the rugby team because of my son and now, nine years later, I’m still helping out because of what sport gives back. Lacrosse has become something my daughters love too, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see all these young people come together and grow through shared experiences.” www.4-ds.co.uk Abergower selects scanners from Kodak Alaris Abergower Ltd., an innovator in digitisation and digital transformation solutions, has selected KODAK S3000 Series high speed document scanners to streamline its document management capabilities. Abergower provides cutting-edge digital transformation services that enable organisations to transition from paper-based workflows to efficient digital environments. The integration of over 40 KODAK S3000 Series Scanners is part of its ongoing efforts to support clients in automating their document workflows, reducing operational costs, and increasing productivity. “The KODAK S3000 Series Scanners stood out to us because of their exceptional usability, speed and durability,” said Robin Prior, CEO at Abergower Ltd. “Perfect Page technology in particular, is ideal for our needs, as it ensures consistently high-quality images, even for very challenging documents and mixed document batches. This is crucial for us and our clients in maintaining accuracy and integrity throughout the digitisation process.” “Working with a forward-thinking partner like Abergower is a fantastic opportunity,” said Mark Davies, Cluster Sales Manager at Kodak Alaris. “This new partnership embodies our joint focus on helping businesses to transform paper-based information into intelligent, actionable digital data that can be searched for and accessed anytime, anywhere from any device.” https://abergower.co.uk Dufeu partners with Zeendoc Dufeu Managed Print Solutions has announced a new partnership with Zeendoc. Zeendoc is a cloud-based document management system that combines ease of use, powerful search capabilities, and a strong focus on sustainability. It’s designed for businesses of all sizes, particularly SMEs, to manage documents digitally, save costs, and simplify processes. Key benefits include efficient document retrieval, secure storage, and a positive environmental impact. https://dufeu-mps.co.uk
01732 759725 8 BULLETIN Kyocera strengthens Westcoast relationship Kyocera has named Westcoast as its new distributor for its ECOSYS devices. This represents an extension of the existing partnership between the two companies, with Westcoast now becoming a one-stop shop selling Kyocera’s A4 ECOSYS range of hardware and spare parts, alongside wholesale and fulfilment toner. The expansion of the relationship will help further growth for both companies. Westcoast’s experienced sales teams will now have a wider choice of printers, with the knowledge that their resellers have a perfect solution for any environment. Overlay this with their comprehensive service offering for a frictionless order to install process. Kyocera and Westcoast will operate as a single, integrated team as part of the new partnership, with account managers at Kyocera working closely with channel managers at Westcoast in order to identify, pursue and close new business opportunities. After‑sales customer care will also be managed in a coordinated fashion. Ryan Mitchell, Print Director at Westcoast said: “This partnership marks a significant step forward for both parties. Our Nottingham print team has the infrastructure and expertise to meet demand for Kyocera’s ECOSYS range. By combining Kyocera’s product excellence with Westcoast’s distribution scale, stock depth and expert service, we’re delivering real value to our partners and end customers. For many years we have partnered with Kyocera on supplies, so we understand the needs of their customers. Expanding this to hardware makes perfect sense.” www.westcoast.co.uk TD SYNNEX announces availability of HP Renew Solutions TD SYNNEX has announced the availability of HP Certified Refurbished laptops and desktop PCs. All HP Renew Solutions products are fully certified by the vendor and partners can order them in exactly the same way. They can also benefit from TD SYNNEX’s logistics, shipping, financial and value-added services, including business development, enablement, pre-sales technical expertise and training. Additionally, through TD SYNNEX, HP partners can take full advantage of relevant HP programmes and promotions and apply for special bids with HP Renew Solutions products. James Reed, Managing Director – Endpoint Solutions, UK and Ireland, TD SYNNEX, said: “SMBs want to embrace the circular economy just as much as enterprises and the availability of HP Renew Solutions from TD SYNNEX enables partners to meet all their customer’s demands for more sustainable IT products that will help them to run their business efficiently. Having the backing of a one-year manufacturer’s warranty makes all the difference. It means that partners can offer – and end-user customers can buy – refurbished HP laptops and PCs with complete confidence.” https://uk.tdsynnex.com Exertis Cybersecurity partners with ShelterZoom Exertis Cybersecurity has partnered with ShelterZoom, a global pioneer in document-level cybersecurity and digital ownership. The collaboration brings ShelterZoom’s innovative technologies, Document GPS, into the Exertis Cybersecurity portfolio, providing partners with powerful tools to enhance document security, visibility, and control. The partnership empowers organisations to better secure, manage, and govern sensitive documents with precision, extending protection and compliance well beyond the traditional network perimeter. “We’re thrilled to welcome ShelterZoom to the Exertis Cybersecurity family,” said Dominic Ryles, Sales & Alliance Director, Exertis Cybersecurity. “Document GPS is exactly what organisations across EMEA need right now: a simple yet powerful plug-and-play solution that puts security and control back in the hands of users. It’s a game-changer for digital ownership, secure file sharing, and the prevention of data loss and email compromise, particularly in today’s compliance-driven landscape.” www.exertisenterprise.com New team to focus on mobile specialists TD SYNNEX is putting additional resources in place to provide focus and support for partners that specialise in providing smartphones and airtime contracts to businesses and consumers. The distie has underlined its commitment to supporting mobile partners by bringing experienced heads into the team from day one. The new team includes internal promotions that bring significant experience in business development, account management and mobile solutions. They will be working with mobile specialists to ensure that they can make the most of everything TD SYNNEX has to offer. https://uk.tdsynnex.com Exertis joins forces with Jabra Exertis has announced a new strategic partnership with Jabra. The launch marks a significant milestone in Exertis’s commitment to offering best-in-class technology to partners across the UK. Jamie Brothwell, Managing Director – Exertis Business said: “By adding Jabra to our leading vendor portfolio, we’re empowering our resellers with access to an innovative range of professional headsets, video conferencing, and intelligent communication devices that support the modern workplace and hybrid environments. Jabra perfectly complements our growing UC & AV portfolio. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to providing partners with premium products that meet the demands of a modern workforce, enabling seamless communication and collaboration.” www.exertis.co.uk James Reed Dominic Ryles
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01732 759725 10 Strategic partnership Assured Data Protection, an IT managed services provider for cloud data protection solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with technology services distributor AVANT. The partnership will see AVANT offer Assured’s managed data backup and disaster recovery and cyber resiliency services, creating new growth opportunities for both companies. For Assured, the strategic partnership offers access to untapped markets, providing Rubrik and Nutanix technologies as-a-service. For AVANT, the agreement expands the technology choices it can offer customers, through its trusted advisor network. It will mean that AVANT can offer Rubrik’s backup and DR technology to customers for the first time with Nutanix technology also being available, depending on needs. Drew Lydecker, Co-founder and President of AVANT said: “Partnering with Assured to help our end customers become more cyber resilient through leading-edge technologies delivered as a managed service enhances our global capabilities significantly. In effect, it helps us become an extension of clients’ IT teams. It also aligns with the mission of our trusted advisors, who educate customers on world class technologies that can meet their requirements.” https://assured-dp.com Katun EMEA releases 2025 ESG report Katun, provider of Arivia multifunction printers and supplier of OEM-equivalent imaging supplies for printers, copiers, and MFPs has released its 2025 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Overview Report for the EMEA region. The report highlights Katun’s continued dedication to the circular economy, ethical operations, and providing exceptional products and services. It outlines the company’s strategy, goals and progress across key ESG areas, including waste reduction, employee well‑being and development, and innovation in sustainable product design. “We are proud to share our 2025 EMEA ESG Overview Report,” said Heidi Boller, General Manager, Katun EMEA. “This report reflects our dedication to making a positive impact on the environment and society while maintaining strong governance practices. We are committed to embedding ESG principles into our core business strategies and advancing towards our goals to support a more sustainable future and increase value for our customers.” www.katun.com Xerox enters into agreement with Kyocera Xerox has entered into an agreement with Kyocera Document Solutions Inc. to source Kyocera’s high-speed cut-sheet inkjet production presses. This collaboration marks the company’s re-entry into the fast-growing cut-sheet inkjet (CSIJ) market and significantly broadens its production print portfolio. Building upon its reinvention, Xerox is realigning its production print business toward higher-value, growth segments. Through this partnership, it will offer clients high-performance, cost-effective colour inkjet presses integrated with the Xerox Production Ecosystem - including Xerox FreeFlow workflow automation software, finishing, and remote service. The new platform will deliver an end-to-end solution tailored to the evolving needs of modern print providers. “This is a pivotal moment for our production print business,” said Terry Antinora, Senior Vice President and Head of Product and Engineering at Xerox. “Our re‑entry into the cut-sheet inkjet market allows us to diversify our portfolio, meet growing client demand for speed and efficiency, and reinforce our commitment to leadership in digital production.” This agreement underscores the company’s strategy to deliver differentiated, ecosystem-enabled offerings that help clients scale profitably, streamline operations, and reduce total cost of ownership. The new presses, sold and serviced by Xerox, will be branded under the Xerox name and enhanced with Xerox-developed software, integration and service capabilities. Availability and model-specific details will be announced later this year. www.xerox.com Zyxel achieves SBTi approval for carbon reduction targets The Zyxel Group’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets have been officially validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). This approval confirms that Zyxel’s decarbonisation pathway aligns with the 1.5°C target of the Paris Agreement, reinforcing its commitment to climate action and environmental sustainability. Zyxel’s validated near-term targets are to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions by 42% by 2030 from a 2021 base year; and reduce absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions by 58.8% by 2034 from a 2023 base year. Its longterm targets are to reduce absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions 90% by 2050 from a 2021 base year; and reduce absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions 90% by 2050 from a 2023 base year. To reach these targets, Zyxel has launched a comprehensive low-carbon transformation strategy. Key initiatives include installing solar power systems to increase the use of renewable energy, implementing a digital carbon management platform to track and manage emissions data, and replacing outdated equipment with high-efficiency production technologies to enhance energy and operational efficiency. www.zyxel.com Konica Minolta retains leader status Konica Minolta has retained its position as a leader in Quocirca’s 2025 assessment of the print security market, for a fourth consecutive year. The global market insight and research firm, which specialises in the convergence of print and digital technologies in the future workplace, recognises how Konica Minolta retains a keen focus on enhancing print and endpoint security across three pillars – device-level resilience, managed security services, and workflow automation – aligned to support zero trust environments and evolving compliance demands. www.konicaminolta.co.uk Drew Lydecker BULLETIN
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01732 759725 12 BULLETIN We’re all about championing print at PrintIT Reseller, so why not join in the ‘Where do you take yours’ challenge? Simply snap a photo of yourself reading the latest issue in the most unexpected spot you can find - whether that’s atop a mountain trail, tucked into a hidden café corner, or even mid–air on your next flight. Send me your pix for a chance to see your face (and your favourite pages) featured in our next edition. Here’s a selection of the shots we received this month. Andrew Cowling, Channel Marketing Manager at PFU (EMEA) Limited – a RICOH Company Where do you take yours? Riley Faulkner, Account Director, EBM Office Centre Emma Filmer, Business Development Manager at PFU (EMEA) Limited - a RICOH Company took her copy up to the roof at the company’s HQ!
PRINTITRESELLER.UK 13 BULLETIN Maria Selecka, Production QA Manager, BISK PrintIT Reseller enjoyed an exclusive behind the scenes visit to Brother’s remanufacturing facility in the Slovakian town of Krupina, and naturally, the magazine took centre stage. We want to see where you take your issue and where our magazine travels with YOU! Please send your pix to me at [email protected] Norbert Retsan, General Manager BISK Dave Lawrence, BISK (Brother industries Slovakia), Factory Director
35 Years +
01732 759725 16 BULLETIN : PEOPLE Xerox announces leadership updates Xerox President and Chief Operating Officer John Bruno has accepted a CEO role outside the company. Louie Pastor who currently serves as Chief Administrative Officer and Global Head of Operations, where he leads the Xerox reinvention office and the global business services organisation will succeed him as the new President and Chief Operating Officer, effective September 1. Jacques-Edouard Gueden, a 30-year Xerox veteran who currently serves as Chief Channel and Partner Officer, has been named Chief Revenue Officer, leading the company’s direct and indirect print go‑to‑market units. Bruno will continue as a member of the Xerox board of directors and will chair the newly formed integration committee, overseeing the combination of Xerox and Lexmark. “Leading reinvention has been one of the most rewarding chapters of my career, and I’m deeply proud of all we’ve accomplished,” said Bruno. “As I transition out of day-to-day operations, I have complete confidence in Louie’s leadership. I remain fully committed to the future of Xerox and look forward to supporting the leadership team and board as we enter this exciting next phase of growth and transformation.” www.xerox.com ITS appoints COO ITS has appointed Charlie Versi as its Chief Operating Officer, marking the next stage of growth and transformation for the business. In this newly created role, Versi will lead ITS’s end-to-end operational delivery, with a focus on service excellence and delivering an outstanding experience for both partners and their business customers. Daren Baythorpe, CEO of ITS, said: “Charlie’s appointment marks a significant milestone for ITS as we continue to evolve and grow at pace. We’re strengthening the foundations of our business to deliver consistently, reliably, and with excellence – no matter the scale or complexity of the challenge. Charlie brings the operational leadership, strategic mindset, and values-driven approach that will be instrumental in this next phase. We’re delighted to welcome him to the team.” www.itstechnologygroup.com NETGEAR advances B2B evolution NETGEAR has named Massimo Mazzeo Ocello as VP of Global Systems Engineering Customer Support and Services. Reporting to NETGEAR for Business President and GM Pramod Badjate, he will help to bring the business unit’s previously announced objective to life – to strip away complexity, remove friction and deliver powerful solutions that are right sized, easy to purchase and simple to deploy. www.netgear.com/business Lenovo expands UKI business Lenovo has announced a significant addition to its UKI business, appointing Tikiri Wanduragala as its new UKI ISG Technology Leader. Wanduragala takes on this position following a successful stint leading Lenovo ISG technology initiatives across EMEA and brings an extensive portfolio of experience, particularly in personal systems and server technologies. In his new role, he will spearhead and manage pre-sales technology teams, champion product advocacy across the UKI region, and offer channel technology leadership. He said: “I am delighted to be working more closely with the UKI team in my new role. This is a region full of opportunity, innovation, and varied customer needs – and I’m excited to continue building momentum and delivering innovative solutions across the region.” www.lenovo.com Charlie Versi ePS hires chief customer officer eProductivity Software (ePS) has hired Micky Abhold as Chief Customer Officer. In this new executive leadership role, Abhold will oversee global professional services and support services, with a focus on delivering faster time-to-value, expanding knowledge across teams, and ensuring consistent, measurable outcomes for customers worldwide. Abhold’s appointment reflects the company’s continued investment in its customers and a strategic focus on enabling long-term success across its ERP, MES, and process control deployments. www.epackagingsw.com Micky Abhold Massimo Mazzeo Ocello Organisational changes at Assured Data Protection IT managed services provider Assured Data Protection has made changes to its organisational structure. Stacy Hayes, EVP Americas has been appointed Chief Strategy Officer – a newly created global role. Brian Dutton, Chief Revenue Officer Americas, will take on greater leadership responsibilities across the region and Rob Mackle, currently Managing Director, EMEA, will become CRO, EMEA, as Assured continues to expand its customer base and operations. The creation of the CSO role is important for Assured and will see Hayes chart the future of the company, alongside CEO, Simon Chappell. https://assured-dp.com Stacy Hayes Rob Mackle Louie Pastor
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01732 759725 18 Our leadership doesn’t just point fingers when things go wrong, they focus on solutions and growth. Mistakes happen; what matters is learning from them. At CO3, leaders support you to fix issues and prevent repeats, creating a safe space to take risks and innovate. I’m proud to work at CO3 Technologies, where autonomy, trust, and open communication aren’t just buzzwords, they’re how we operate every day. My faith guides me to value these principles, and I see them reflected in CO3’s culture. It’s a place where people come first, and that makes all the difference. The canteen With about 40 of us in the office daily, our kitchen is a gem. Free tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and Milo keep us going. I once asked my boss about the cost of all that milk and sugar, and he laughed, saying it’s peanuts compared to other expenses. Having worked somewhere that made me bring my own milk, I can tell you, CO3’s generosity stands out. And after 3.30 pm on Fridays, our display fridge offers cold drinks, from soft drinks to some home-brewed specials. It’s a small perk that says a lot about how CO3 values its team. www.co3technologies.com Seeing the big picture I thrive when I understand how my work fits into CO3’s broader goals. Knowing I’m pulling in the same direction as the team keeps me motivated and helps me pivot when plans go sideways. Sure, my habit of thinking outside the box has occasionally landed me in the ‘naughty corner’ for stepping out of my lane. But that same creative spark caught the eye of our leadership team. Instead of outsourcing marketing, they trusted me to step into this role – a decision that’s saved costs and brought fresh ideas to the table. At CO3, innovation isn’t just welcomed; it’s rewarded. Freedom to work my way As someone with a bit of experience (okay, I’ll say it – age!), I value autonomy. Tell me what needs doing and when, then let me run with it. CO3 gets this. They set clear goals but give me the space to make things happen. This freedom ties directly to understanding the company’s vision and builds trust and communication across the team. Clear, honest communication Good communication is everything. Whether it’s a quick chat or a tough conversation, I believe in being clear and respectful. At CO3, we live by ‘correct in private, praise in public’. Face-toface talks are key to ensuring everyone’s on the same page – emails and WhatsApp can’t show you if your message truly lands. We take the time to understand each other’s perspectives, considering age, culture, and communication styles. This open dialogue creates a collaborative vibe where ideas flow freely and everyone feels heard. Trust that builds success Trust is the backbone of any great workplace, and CO3 nails it. I need to know my team and leaders have my back, and I strive to return that trust. My gear I rely on a trusty laptop, an external monitor, and a keyboard. Working in an open-plan office, I also keep in-ear earphones handy, usually playing white noise or instrumental tunes to stay focused. The second monitor is a lifesaver for comparing data side-byside, like tracking sent and received info. But aligning it with my laptop pushes the built-in keyboard too far out, so the external keyboard keeps things comfortable and efficient. WORKPLACE Gerard Rudolph, Marketing Manager at CO3 Technologies, picks the tools he uses every day and couldn’t do his job without I couldn’t do my job without… Gerard Rudolph
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01732 759725 20 ST: The ‘what’ would be changes in technology, and the ‘who’ (within the software side of the industry) I would have to say is PaperCut. The software is massively different now from what it was when I worked at Midwich. It’s evolved so much and significantly changed how people work, it speaks to the sustainability piece, helps streamline workflows and obviously it supports customer demand for cloud solutions. PITR: If you could change one thing about the last decade, what would it be? ST: At Selectec we have started using some of the products we provide in our own business. In particular we now use the Foldr content management and Square 9 information management platforms. The one thing I’d change is that we adopted them years ago, because they have massively changed the way I work and made me much more efficient. PITR: What has been your proudest moment of the past 10 years? ST: Getting a 2:1 in my psychology degree. That was a personal goal of mine, and I combined full-time work with studying. Most importantly though, I showed my daughter that you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. PITR: Sum up the decade in three words. ST: Evolving. Challenging, Rewarding. PITR: What was your first job? ST: I had a couple of weekend jobs growing up. I worked in a pub as a waitress and in the kitchen, I also worked in a nursing home, also in the kitchen. PITR: What has been the high point of the decade? ST: It has to be being invited to the PaperCut ASC global conference in Melbourne in 2017. The best bit was that I was able to take my daughter, who was seven at the time, with me. It was such an amazing experience, I got to meet Chris Dance and Matt Doran and PaperCut’s global partners. My daughter was taken out each day by a member of the PaperCut team and their family, she got to see so much of Australia and she also joined in the conference activities. It was such an overwhelming experience for me and for her. PITR: And the low point? ST: COVID, the uncertainty, the impact it had on our customers and our customers’ customers, and how it impacted people losing loved ones. But equally, while COVID was a low point, I think it gave us all time to reset and reassess, and I think we needed that, we all needed to slow down. I try not to focus on negativity and instead switch things into a positive. PITR: What (or who) has had the greatest impact in the sector in the last 10 years? PrintIT Reseller (PITR): You’ve been working in the print and IT industry for more than ten years. What led you to enter the sector? Sian Thurston (ST): I dabbled in the print industry, working with commercial litho printers back in 2002 at Antalis. I then went into the swimming pool industry – but actually, swimming pool dealers are very similar to copier dealers! I was made redundant and then fell back into print. I joined Midwich in 2009 as the Lexmark funded head, I held a few roles there which led to me working with PaperCut, and then ten years ago I joined Selectec. A decade in print INTERVIEW Sian Thurston Sian Thurston, Head of Channel Operations, Selectec, shares her experiences over the past decade, what she’s learned, and the highs and the lows of our unique and challenging industry
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01732 759725 22 dependent on manufacturing out of Asia and out of China in particular. Vendors have already spread their manufacturing plants into other areas of Asia, but it’s almost entirely coming from Asia right now, and that’s of course, the region that would be hardest hit by tariffs. So, really looking at what can I do locally in future, rather than relying entirely on Asia. MR: Declining print volumes and the accelerating shift toward digital transformation have forced print vendors to radically change their go‑to‑market approach, and many are now integrating AI into their operations. Keypoint Intelligence has been actively researching AI’s impact on the print sector, perhaps you could run through some of the key findings? DH: Part of our role as analysts is to bring some clarity around, is it truly AI? We see some ‘AI-washing’, very similar to ‘greenwashing’, and we do look very diligently at things that are called AI, and try to sort through the weeds and see, is it really AI, or is it just an algorithm, or is it just a large learning model, for example. Right now, in our industry, we see good examples of AI being used in software processes, particularly around capture and workflow. They really are enhancing the whole extraction process, which makes scanning and data capture much faster and also much more efficient, because it can be indexed at much higher speed. But true AI on an MFP has not been seen yet, and that is probably because it’s still quite expensive and it’s also very much in the infancy stage. We expect with new product series, so in three to four years, we might see the first AI processes actually on the MFP. Now there’s always a question, is that of any use? Do we really need that on an MFP? We said a similar thing 10 the vendor side or from the reseller side, is using daily. That’s part of my remit as well. We are also the industry’s largest testing house we test hardware and we test software. So, there’s quite a bit of variety, not just that analyst role. Buyer’s Lab (BLI) joined forces with Keypoint about seven or eight years ago. There are still some people that want to remain in the Buyer’s Lab house or in the InfoTrends house, but we are very squarely Keypoint Intelligence and a really strong team. MR: To what extent do you see tariffs impacting the print industry, particularly in terms of supply chain, rising costs, and pricing decisions? What can vendors do to mitigate the effects? DH: There’s a lot of uncertainty out there in the marketplace today. Nobody knows exactly where it’s going to go. But obviously, we’re seeing that investments are not being made, they’re being held back. That causes a lot of uncertainty for our industry. It’s a very difficult thing to navigate because we don’t know exactly where it’s going to go, so our short-term recommendation is to sit and wait and see what happens. Don’t rush into things. MR: And what can vendors do to mitigate the effects in the longer-term? DH: There are certainly things that they can do. After the pandemic and the whole supply chain issues, there was lots of discussion around shifting manufacturing to different regions of the world, bringing it into local regions. And that’s still a thing as we move more down the sustainability ladder, many vendors are considering localising production. That’s one of the big things that you could do long-term as a vendor to protect yourself from any tariffs. Obviously, our industry is very Michelle Ryder (MR): Deborah, you head up the workplace team at Keypoint Intelligence. What are your key areas of focus? Deborah Hawkins (DH): I’ve been an analyst for more than 20 years now, and before that, I was on the vendor side. But there are many other things that Keypoint does that I also get involved with, for example, bliQ, the hardware database is something that almost everybody in our industry, whether from One-to-one with Deborah Hawkins Keypoint Intelligence has been actively researching AI’s impact on the print sector, in this exclusive interview with PrintIT Reseller, Deborah Hawkins, Group Director Workplace Team explains how artificial intelligence is already impacting every link in the print value chain. Deborah also explores the impact of tariffs on the sector and what vendors can do to mitigate the effects, both in the short- and long-term ONE-TO-ONE Deborah Hawkins
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