An Intro to Island Print Group

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For this week's Printer Profile, Chelsea had the opportunity to chat with Nikki Thibodeau from Island Print Group. Here is a closer look at this Canadian company.

So, looking over your LinkedIn profile, it looks like Island Print Group is your first introduction to the print world. Did something specifically draw you to the print industry?

You hit the nail on the head! At the time I had seen the job opening at Island Print Group I had been on a long time run of retail. Shoes, Clothes and Jewelry had been my world for 7 years and I was looking to get out of retail and into an office environment. The job at Island seemed very interesting with much to learn. I was very fortunate to have been given the opportunity at Island. Since then, my eyes have been opened to the world of print, promotional products, graphic design…etc. where I have found new passions I never could have dreamed of four years ago.

What all is involved in your role at Island Print Group?

We are a small company where I have the opportunity to serve many roles. My main responsibilities are in administration, but lately I have been able to put my graphics skills to use as well. I like to call my position the “If you need it done, I can do it” position.

We have the privilege of working with start-ups, small and medium sized businesses, corporations, hotels, municipalities (Did you know there is a Municipality of Wood Buffalo?)…the list goes on! We do business mostly nationally; however, we are more than able to help anyone in North America.

What are you most excited about right now in print? Where do you see print headed?

Actually, there are quite a few things about print that excite me! I love how technology is changing the industry, bringing variety to print in ways that ten years ago were unimaginable. I love how the relationships between printers, designers and different technologies are closer than ever, maximizing the potential of all the printing equipment out there!

Print is headed down a very exciting path. I mean, have you SEEN Augmented Reality?

One specific thing I could mention is Full Colour Print. It has evolved SO MUCH! You can now do full colour on ANY material, ANY surface for any use. How cool is that!?!

Are there any misconceptions about print that you'd like to clear up?

"Print is on its way OUT.” I actually find this statement to be naïve. I really don’t think people realize how much print is all around them. Let’s take an example of one place we all need to go to: the grocery store. Before you walk in the door, you’ve received a flyer or perused a coupon book. You get into the store and there are shelf labels, signs, product packaging, paper bags, your receipt… Need I go on?

Yes, the print industry is changing. However, I think things like mobile and social technologies will affect every industry in some way.

What is your favorite part of print?

Hands Down: Helping people. Coming up with something original, to help the customer fill a need or solve a problem. I love how it is tangible, and the smell of different paper and inks. Print is a very sustainable industry and I can’t wait to see how it evolves over the next few years!