FLEXO: How do you see FTA guiding the industry forward? How critical a role will members’ volunteer spirit—the strength of FTA for 60+ years—play in making it and everything else we’ve talked about, a reality? Do you have any predictions on most likely evolutions we’ll see?
FRIMMING: I do see some trends developing. As a whole, customer buying behavior will drive innovation and direction. The trend of expecting quality without sacrificing expectations will continue. Brands will sell experiences and stories, and some will introduce lower-priced options to round out the market.
In terms of how we interact with each other, you will see the expansion of AI and VR in all aspects of the development and delivery process. Closely related to this is e-commerce. You will see an evolution of a more exacting representation of on-shelf products in the electronic spaces, where more will migrate to for shopping.
As we invest in new technology to manage our businesses, ROI will still be paramount. I do see the metrics changing for ROI though. Softer concepts like OEE, compliance, quality, security and others will be added to speed to market and traditional profit and loss. Sustainability will continue to evolve its definition and we will see many moving traditionally outsourced services in-house.
Industry will continue to invest in complementary solutions, like digital and flexo-hybrid printing. This will allow brand owners and printer/converters to increase capacity on their flexographic equipment. Additionally, new substrates, expanded product offerings, embellishments and deeper inline integration with multiple print technologies continue to expand. Brands will continue to localize offerings, essentially continuing to shorten pressrun length.
As an association, we will lean on membership to bring these products to life and provide the leadership needed for the industry. FTA is prepared to embrace and promote emerging leaders, but we need the member companies to support the effort as well.
FLEXO: Finally, and in a similar vein, how to you intend to lead the professional staff in carrying FTA and its look, structure and focus from where it is today to where it needs to be? How will you chart progress and report it to the membership?
FRIMMING: FTA has a seasoned staff and exceptional guidance from its Board of Directors. FTA leadership is planning to adjust the culture to focus on how the team interacts with each other. Understanding personality types and how to make adjustments will help with the overall team approach that is needed to operate effectively.
We are making technology investments that will put information at our fingertips, essentially improving our effectiveness and efficiencies. We will revamp our web and marketing approach with a focus on the member interaction, with the plan to increase member engagement.
Professional development is another investment we plan to make. We have started the process on all fronts. We will call out specific changes to membership, while other changes will enhance the process naturally.
Most importantly, we need to hear from our membership, so you will see Voice of the Customer interactions to help us prioritize new solutions. As we say, “At FTA, our members make the difference.”