Our industry is typified by globalised manufacturing and marketing but possesses a localised print production base. Hundreds of years of print specification, print production and print consumption have resulted in an industry which is able to act globally but functions locally and regionally.

Using the themes which are currently being promoted by Print 2013 i.e. Innovate (technologies) Integrate (solutions) and Communicate (across channels), our research will examine the ways that  the GlobalPrint MediaChannel will both develop, function  and prosper in the future. This research program of original academic and commercial enquiry will;

Consider, comment and analyse the impacts of structural, economic and technological change on the GlobalPrintMediaChannel.

Consider, comment and analyse the changing value chain of;

1) Production and market distribution opportunities for manufacturers.

2) Product and marketing margins for distributor/dealers and

3) Production and marketing integration solutions which both create and build capacities, capabilities and competences within the print market.

4) Examine the place, purpose and future of channel support groups such as print associations i.e. NPES, PICON, and VDMA etc and print event organisers such PRINT, IPEX and DRUPA and FESPA etc.

Consider, comment and analyse on the dynamics of the GlobalPrint MediaChannel in an era of universal ‘accessible’ logistics.

Consider, comment and analyse on the impact on the GlobalPrintMedia Channel of the new ‘virtual everything, everywhere, all of the time’ distribution paradigm.

Consider, comment and develop a platform for the future direction of the tri-relationships of and for GlobalPrintMediaChannelPartners.

Consideration will be given to the whole channel of manufacturers, distributors / dealers and print producers including print Influencers, print specifiers, print buyers, print producers and print consumers (the tri-relationship). Print trade associations and print trade events (including exhibitions, seminars), which help to form and maintain a vibrant channel will be included in this study; as they remain fundamental to the channels’ very purpose and existence. In addition, a review will be made of available global trade & market data as well as of the wide range of printmedia education / research facilities which exist within the printworld