As part of the Women’s Month interview series, Change 1 Woman (C1W) spoke to female industry trailblazers about industry trends, the key to success, and more. C1W is an initiative dedicated to empowering women in branding, print and signage through connection, conversation and support.
Ilisna O’Reilly, Sales Manager at NUtec Digital Ink
1. What do you love most about working in the printing/signage industry?
New global trends keep things fresh and exciting. Even though the industry is large, it often feels like a close community. It’s great to see the same people grow alongside us over time. The most rewarding part is seeing how customers use our products in creative and exciting ways. Being part of that journey is what makes the work so fulfilling.
2. What are the top three printing/signage industry trends for 2025?
Direct to film printing for garments and UV DTF to create durable, high-quality decals and stickers for decorating hard surfaces like glassware, phone cases, signage, and industrial labels. Dye sublimation is another trend that continues to grow.
3. What is the key to success in this industry?
– Always be open to learn something new.
– Share your experiences with one another.
– Never badmouth a competitor’s product.
– Network, connect, uplift, and inspire your colleagues in the industry.
4. What can be done to attract young female talent into the industry?
This industry is ideal for young entrepreneurs looking to start small businesses in personalised or custom-branded apparel, clothing ranges, and more.
The industry offers a powerful message: if you look closely into many printing and signage businesses in South Africa being run by women, this space is for everyone. Whether you’re a print operator, vinyl applicator, designer, or vehicle wrapper, there’s room to grow and thrive, regardless of gender.
5. What can be done to support women currently in the industry?
Having more females in leadership positions mentoring younger individuals to inspire them to do bigger things. Recent new networking events like C1W, Women in Print and the latest PrintHER mentorship programme are all things that are already being done to support women in the industry. It is up to us to share the word and extend invitations to women to join these networking events.
Liezle Barrie, National Sales Manager Consumables, Intamarket Graphics
1. What do you love most about working in the printing/signage industry?
No two days are ever the same. The signage industry is fast-paced, creative, and practical all at once. It’s about helping businesses be seen, and knowing that what we do makes a direct impact on how brands connect with people. I also love the mix of creativity and problem-solving: one moment it’s about new materials or applications, the next it’s about finding solutions to help customers overcome challenges. And most of all, it’s the people — from customers to colleagues — who make this industry feel like a community.
2. What are the top three printing/signage industry trends for 2025?
Soft signage: There’s a clear trend towards more textile-based solutions, especially in the expo space and for indoor applications.
Technology-driven efficiency: although still in its infancy stages, AI tools are becoming more prevalent, and there is still a lot of debate around using AI, but we are seeing a lot more of it in our everyday lives, also in the way signage is done.
Creative applications and diversification: Customers are looking for more than ‘just signage’. From décor and packaging to promotional products, the boundaries of signage are expanding, and those who think outside the box will lead the way.
3. What is the key to success in this industry?
Adaptability. The market changes quickly — products, technology, and customer needs evolve constantly. Success comes from staying curious, continuously learning, and not being afraid to shift gears when needed. At the heart of it, though, relationships remain the key: customers buy from people they trust. Consistency, follow-up, and delivering real value are what turn one-time sales into long-term partnerships.
4. What can be done to attract young female talent into the industry?
Visibility and mentorship. Young women need to see other women thriving in the industry to imagine themselves here. We need to tell our stories, highlight different career paths (from sales and design to technical and operations), and create entry points through training, internships, and mentorship. Making it clear that this is not just a ‘man’s world’ but a place where women can succeed and shape the future is vital.
5. What can be done to support women currently in the industry?
Support starts with recognition and inclusion. Women in this industry often juggle multiple roles, at work and at home, so having flexibility, mentorship opportunities, and networks where women can share experiences makes a real difference. Companies can also be more intentional about providing leadership opportunities and not overlooking female voices in technical or strategic conversations. At the end of the day, creating a culture of respect, growth, and genuine support will ensure women not only stay in the industry but thrive in it.
Lindy van Moerkerken, Business Manager Graphics and Reflectives, Sub Saharan Africa, AMEA Region, Avery Dennison
1. What do you love most about working in the signage industry?
The creativity and impact of our work: we bring brands, spaces, and messages to life in a way that is both highly visible and long-lasting. The signage industry blends design, technology, and problem-solving, which means every project is unique. I also value the sense of collaboration, from material suppliers to installers, we’re all part of transforming an idea into something tangible that communicates and inspires.
2. What are the top three signage industry trends for 2025?
Sustainable materials and eco-conscious production. Customers are increasingly looking for recyclable, lower-carbon footprint vinyls and printing solutions.
Smart, digitally integrated signage: combining traditional signage with QR codes, and NFC tags. Furthermore, providing a complete signage and branding solution that includes interior design elements, exterior branding and light boxes and fleet branding.
High-performance specialty films: growth in premium wraps (like paint protection films, textured finishes, and high-durability reflective materials) for vehicles, architectural applications, and safety signage.
3. What is the key to success in this industry?
The key is a combination of adaptability, relationship-building, and technical expertise. Markets, trends, and technologies evolve quickly, so staying informed and agile is essential. Building trusted partnerships — both with customers and within the supply chain — creates loyalty and opportunities. And finally, understanding your materials and applications in depth ensures you can offer the right solution, not just a product.
4. What can be done to attract young female talent into the industry?
We need to showcase the industry’s creativity and career diversity. Many people think signage is purely technical or male-dominated, but there’s space for designers, project managers, marketers, and technical specialists. At Avery Dennison, we believe in the empowerment of women and an outreach to schools, design colleges, and women’s tech initiatives, with hands-on demos and mentorship, can help young women see the exciting possibilities and growth paths.
5. What can be done to support women currently in the industry?
Creating networks, mentorship programmes, and visible role models is crucial. Women should have access to training that builds both technical and leadership skills. Flexible working arrangements can also make the industry more inclusive. Recognition programmes, like industry awards that highlight female contributions, also help elevate visibility and inspire others.
Monique Dupont, Branch Director at Graphix Supply World
1. What do you love most about working in the signage and printing industry?
The variety and creativity. I’ve been in the industry for 16 years and no two days are ever the same. I love seeing ideas turn into something tangible — whether it’s a sign, a print, or a big project for a client. It’s fast-paced, innovative, and there’s always something new to learn.
2. What are the top three printing/signage industry trends for 2025?
– Sustainability: more clients are asking for eco-friendly inks and recyclable materials.
– Textile printing is growing fast, from décor to fashion, it’s becoming huge.
– Automation: people want things quicker, easier, and more cost-effective, so software and workflow tools are a big focus.
3. What is the key to success in this industry?
Relationships and adaptability. If you look after your clients, they’ll stick with you. At the same time, the industry changes quickly, so you’ve got to keep learning and stay ahead of the trends.
4. What can be done to attract young female talent into the industry?
It starts with awareness. A lot of young women don’t even know how exciting this industry can be. It’s not just machines: it’s creative, it’s digital, it’s fashion, and it’s branding. If we can show them those sides of it, and give them opportunities to get involved early, I think more young women will be interested. Youth leadership does not happen by accident; it happens when someone opens a door.
5. What can be done to support women currently in the industry?
Support and recognition go a long way. Simple things like mentorship, proper training, and creating opportunities for women to step into leadership roles make a big difference. And it helps to celebrate the women who are already doing amazing work — it encourages others to push forward too. It’s important to advance women in leadership roles and empower the next generation.
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