September 5, 2023 – Semper Workforce Solutions has released the results from their second-quarter survey of the printing and packaging industries. This industry-specific survey feedback reflected a more positive outlook on the economy into the coming months. Hiring has returned as the number one business focus as companies reported sales projections to remain solid and/or grow into the next quarter.
Dave Regan, Semper International Co-Founder, and CEO, shared a larger perspective on staffing trends after digging into broader HR specific reports and forecasts. “There has been a significant change in the labor force and availability of skilled workers, and we are seeing this uptick of ready-to-work talent in the industry segments we serve. Economic factors both for individuals and corporations have shaped a more positive landscape for employers to fill positions across all areas of the U.S. compared to previous years.”
The data collected for each survey represents several industry categories: commercial printing, packaging, display and large format graphics, apparel and decorating, and others. Critical to this report is a commitment from contributors to provide steady, consistent quarterly data. Semper’s objective is to provide information that is a balanced mix of geography, revenue, and company types.
Q2 2023 survey highlights include:
- There was a drop in profitability due to the economic volatility. Semper saw many organizations incorporate short-term cost-saving measures and a focus on increased efficiencies.
- Continued focus on engaging new talent and retention to keep staffing levels on point and be at the ready to accept and deliver on projected upcoming sales.
- Shared optimism and investment into personnel acquisition in tandem with equipment and software improvements will set up a positive platform into 2024.
Our survey results give Semper a unique glimpse into the printing and packaging markets. The Semper Team leverages this data to facilitate the exchange of information and, at times, the exchange of physical items between entities. We honor our industry community with a commitment to maintain confidentiality, thereby earning the trust and confidence of participating businesses.
For those organizations who would like to be included in our Q3 2023 survey, reach out to always@semperllc.com – questions will be available for data collection starting October 16th. Other questions about staffing and hiring can also be submitted via email or on the new Semper website https://semperllc.com/contact-us/.
Survey Participation Is Encouraged. Semper will make a $5.00 contribution for each valid survey to the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF).
PGSF is a not-for-profit, private industry-directed organization that offers technical school, undergraduate, and graduate fellowship assistance to men and women interested in a career in the graphic communications field. As you will see in survey question #9, the shrinking labor pool is the number one industry concern.
Help us help you plan tomorrow’s workforce!
ABOUT SEMPER LLC
Semper was founded and is run by graphic arts and staffing professionals. Since 1994, Semper has provided staffing solutions for flexible, temporary, and permanent employment needs in print, copy, packaging, and prepress. Our efficient, reliable business model has helped transform how a wide range of print and graphics companies fill important roles or stretch production capacity.
Semper also helps clients expand into new areas and meet the demands of the digital age. As the print and graphics industry evolves and diversifies, Semper helps companies face the changes to come.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Jules VanSant, Partner
Bubble & Hatch
Jules@bubblehatch.com
503-267-1905