New Productivity Fund set to boost printing sector

New Productivity Fund set to boost printing sector

An innovative approach to help printing companies fight the impacts of the recession has been introduced by PrintNZ Training, the Industry Training Organisation for the printing and packaging sector.

The PrintNZ Training Productivity Fund has been established to help lift the performance of companies in the sector by matching firms with consultants who can suggest ways of improving productivity while continuing with normal day-to-day operations.

PrintNZ Training chief executive Joan Grace says the current economic climate is the ideal time for companies to focus on productivity improvement, training and development.

``We are encouraging our member companies to make good use of the current downturn by investing in their businesses and preparing for the inevitable recovery,’’ she says. ``Small changes in workplace culture can in turn lead to increased productivity through savings, higher turnover and a more motivated workforce. The PrintNZ Training Fund is our way of helping kickstart that process for our members.

``It is easy for a company to look at their balance sheet and decide the only way to cut costs is to introduce redundancies,’’ she adds. ``Instead, we’re helping our member companies access professional and innovative advice which opens new areas for consideration.’’

A set of criteria has been developed to help select companies to participate in the project. Those chosen will be matched with consultants who will be available to each company over the course of the project, which runs from April-December 2009. The consultants will provide a thorough analysis of each company, suggest ways to improve performance and assist with the implementation of revised practices.

Companies most likely to be selected are those who are seeking ways to become more competitive and innovative. Firms that recognise good business performance and provide a positive work experience for staff also stand in good stead. The final selection of participating companies will occur in April.

The PrintNZ Training Productivity Fund has emerged from a pilot programme to encourage ITO involvement in productivity, initiated by the Department of Labour and the Industry Training Federation.

ENDS

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