Mirela Marica · Director Executive · Asociatia Tipografilor
At Intergraf Print Matters in Budapest, Morten Reitoft speaks with Mirela Marica, Director Executive of the Romanian printing industry association, about the importance of attracting young talent, strengthening industry education, and building a stronger voice for the printing sector in Romania.
The conversation begins with the success of Romanian designer Irena Pinta, winner of the Intergraf Young Talent Award. Mirela explains how challenging it was at first to identify and encourage young candidates to participate, and how the award has already begun to create positive momentum within the Romanian industry. From helping raise awareness among younger professionals to inspiring new career opportunities, the recognition has become a valuable tool for promoting print and design to the next generation.
Morten and Mirela discuss the role industry associations can play in supporting emerging talent. Following Irena’s success, plans are already underway to use her story and achievements to encourage more young people to engage with the printing and graphic communications sector. The goal is not only to celebrate success but also to demonstrate that print remains a modern, innovative, and attractive career path.
The interview also explores the development of the Romanian printing industry over the past 25 years. Having been involved with the association since its early years, Mirela reflects on the transformation of the sector, the growth of digital printing, packaging, and graphic communications, and the ongoing effort to ensure that policymakers understand the importance of the industry.
Education remains a central theme throughout the discussion. Mirela explains how the industry has worked for years to rebuild educational pathways for future printing professionals, including specialized master’s programs and efforts to establish full university-level printing education. Close cooperation between industry and educational institutions is viewed as essential to ensuring the sector has access to skilled professionals in the future.
The conversation concludes with a discussion about Romania’s membership in Intergraf and the value of participating in a broader European network. For Mirela and her colleagues, access to knowledge, collaboration, and best practices from across Europe helps strengthen the Romanian industry while ensuring that important ideas and lessons are shared with local members.
A warm and inspiring conversation about education, young talent, industry development, and the role associations play in shaping the future of print.
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Fri June 5th
Gabriel Petrea · CEO · Imprimeria Arta Gr...
At Intergraf Print Matters in Budapest, Morten Reitoft speaks with Gabriel Petrea following a panel discussion focused on sustainability, CO₂ reduction, and the practical realities facing the printing industry. The conversation explores how sustainability has evolved from a niche concern into a core business issue for printers, suppliers, and brand owners alike. Drawing on insights from the panel discussion, Gabriel reflects on the challenges of balancing environmental ambitions with commercial realities, highlighting the need for solutions that are both sustainable and economically viable. Morten and Gabriel discuss the role of legislation, customer expectations, and market forces in driving environmental initiatives throughout the print value chain. While regulatory requirements continue to influence decision-making, the discussion also emphasizes the growing recognition that sustainability is increasingly becoming an essential part of running a competitive and efficient business. The interview examines topics such as packaging, waste reduction, resource efficiency, recycling, and the broader environmental impact of print products. Particular attention is given to the importance of understanding sustainability holistically, recognizing that environmental performance often requires balancing multiple factors rather than pursuing simple, one-dimensional solutions. The discussion also touches on the role of suppliers, manufacturers, printers, and industry organizations in helping the sector adapt to changing expectations. Collaboration across the value chain is presented as a critical element for achieving meaningful environmental progress while maintaining the industry's commercial strength. A thoughtful conversation about sustainability, environmental responsibility, legislation, and the opportunities available to printers as they navigate an increasingly complex business and regulatory landscape.