Fespa Christmas party returns, BBQ coming next

After a enforced hiatus, wide format print association Fespa Australia hosted its annual Christmas party, with members enjoying convivial conversation – and sharing Covid war stories – over beers and snacks.

Held at the George Hotel in Melbourne, with drinks and refreshments sponsored by Durst, M-Power and ImageBox, the evening showers did not dampen spirits, as participants swapped war stories from what has been a torrid two years. Major markets for wide format, including retail, travel, tourism, sports, events, concerts, expos and conferences have all been significantly impacted by Covid.

However the vast majority of wide format print businesses have made it through, with one or two notable exceptions such as Magnify Media. The sector has also seen some consolidation at the top end, with both Active Display and AFI Branding now part of IVE, while Southern Impact bought Peak Digital.

New president of Fespa Australia is Matt Ashman, CEO of Durst Australia. The next Fespa Australia event is the “legendary” Fespa Gourmet BBQ, which will take place 16 Feb, also in Melbourne, with a social in Sydney the week after, 23 Feb.