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Melbourne printer PMI has been awarded a $2.6m grant towards its $6.1m digital investment – which the government claims will result in 110 new jobs being created
(l-r) Chris Zapris, managing director of PMI; David Hodgett MP; and Denis Napthine, Victorian Premier
With a mission to be Australia’s most technologically advanced commercial printer in the short-run digital space, the Victorian outfit is already running multiple HP Indigo presses including its original Indigo 5000, a 7000 and a 7500, purchased through Currie Group.
The investment project aims to increase the company’s share in the digital to-consumer products market with a new division called PMI ImageWorks, and will drive an expansion from its current 30-staff operation at its Moreland site in Melbourne’s north.
Chris Zapris, managing director of PMI Corporation, tells AP, “We are humbled to be recognised for the hard work in establishing our new division, PMI ImageWorks. Our growth will now be accelerated to create additional capacity and sustainable jobs in Melbourne northern suburbs.”
As well as general digital printing, the company is interested in capturing high-value applications such as on demand marketing collateral, one to one direct mail, photo specialty and mixed colour books and manuals. It also offers large format printing.
(l-r) Craig Ondarchie MP; David Hodgett MP; Bridget McKenzie, Nationals Senator for Victoria; Denis Napthine, Victorian Premier; and Chris Zapris of PMI
Since its 1998 start-up PMI has steadily added new Indigos to its stable, began taking on trade work from offset printers and funnelling in pre-paid business through its custom-designed workflow and MIS.
Denis Napthine, Victorian Premier, says, “PMI is a leader in this hi-tech industry and a company with a lean structure and flexible production techniques to enable tight turnaround times.
“These new investments in manufacturing show just how capable Victoria is when it comes to driving innovation in advanced manufacturing and services.”
Touring PMI’s Moreland site
The project is the second to be funded under Melbourne’s North Innovation and Investment Fund (MNIIF), a $24.5m grants programme supported by the federal and Victorian governments and Ford Australia.
The grants were established after Ford announced it would scrap its Australian manufacturing operations.
As the mining boom phases out and the Australian economy shifts its focus, other industries are called to fill the void.
Ian Macfarlane, federal minister for industry, says, “The PMI project is an example of the type of innovative and high-tech investment in equipment that will allow Australian industry to transition into the advanced manufacturing sector.”
PMI was also a beneficiary of the federal government’s $220m print procurement strategy in 2009, which appointed 79 print suppliers for 12 government agencies over five years.
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