Semper Workforce Solutions has released the results of the 2023 first quarter survey of the printing and packaging industries. The survey results reflect a marked slowdown and increased concern for new sales. The start of the banking crisis and the steady increase of interest rates is causing industry economic pain.

Dave Regan, Semper International Co-Founder, and CEO, shared, “For the first time since we restarted the survey, the need for sales appeared to increase, second only to issues around the economy. When you take the weakness of the economy coupled with the need for sales, 75% of our respondents expressed increased concern for business development and the lack of demand, we have the mixings for a possible recession.” 

After an initial review of second-quarter engagements and activity, Regan added, “We are really seeing increased availability of skilled talent across the board and within all regions of the U.S.”

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 data that is a balanced mix of geography, revenue, and company types.

Q1 2023 survey highlights include:

• There was an increased number of firms showing a loss in sales and fewer firms showing an increase versus past quarters – resulting in a potential negative impact on the job market.
• Data reflected an increase in companies that have reduced hiring and plan to maintain their current workforce levels. 
• A significant increase in firms expressing concern for the 2023 economic and sales outlook, while a decrease in apprehension around inflation and supply chain issues.

DOWNLOAD THE SURVEY RESULTS HERE

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 Q2 2023 survey, reach out to [email protected] – questions will be available for data collection starting July 17th. 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. 

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