CDS Print Services is proud to announce that it has been named as the provided for the Accessible Print basket—Lot 5: All Accessible Letters—on the latest NHS Notify tender.

The award will enable CDS Print Services to provide accessible patient correspondence for NHS trusts and healthcare organisations as they onboard to the NHS Notify service.

Supporting print for patient communication

Under the contract, CDS Print Services will support the production and delivery of patient correspondence in a range of accessible formats, including:

• Braille
• Large print
• Easy Read
• Audio formats

Accessible communication is essential to ensuring that every patient can receive, understand and act upon important information about their care.

For CDS Print Services, this work goes beyond document production. It is about helping NHS organisations provide a more inclusive patient experience and ensuring that communication barriers do not prevent people from accessing vital healthcare information.

The future of NHS patient correspondence

NHS Notify represents the future of digital and printed patient communications.

The service brings together multiple communication channels, enabling NHS organisations to deliver correspondence through digital routes such as the NHS App, SMS and email, alongside printed letters and accessible alternatives.

This coordinated approach gives NHS trusts greater flexibility in how they communicate with patients while helping to create a more consistent and efficient experience.

However, digital-first must not mean digital-only.

Patients have different needs, preferences and levels of access to digital services. Printed and accessible formats will therefore continue to play a vital role in ensuring that NHS communications reach everyone.

By combining digital delivery with high-quality print, Braille, large print, Easy Read and audio formats, NHS Notify can support a more inclusive approach to patient correspondence.

Supporting NHS trusts through onboarding

As NHS trusts begin or continue their NHS Notify onboarding, CDS Print Services is ready to support the delivery of accessible patient communications.

Our team can work with NHS organisations to help them understand how accessible print and alternative formats can be incorporated into their NHS Notify implementation.

This award is an important milestone for CDS Print Services and reflects our continued commitment to accessible, inclusive and effective patient communication.

Speak to our NHS Notify team about accessible print

To discuss accessible patient correspondence as part of your NHS Notify onboarding, contact CDS Print Services at:

nhs.notify@cds-print.co.uk

If you are in another key sector and wish to have a fresh pair of eyes of looking at your print requirements, please visit https://cds-print.co.uk/contact-us/ to arrange a review of your needs.

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A New Approach To Gain CDS Print Services New Clients

This year marked an important milestone in delivering CDS Print Services new clients. We took the proactive step of promoting our business directly to potential customers outside of the traditional tender process for the first time.

By arranging the Aylesbury Open Day and Supplier Day North, we showcased our innovative print solutions, engaged with new organisations. Introducing the CDS Print Services brand to a much wider audience.

Building New Client Relationships

Both events provided an excellent opportunity to meet decision-makers, discuss upcoming challenges, and demonstrate how our print and communications expertise can support organisations across a range of sectors.

The face-to-face conversations helped us build valuable new relationships. It also generated strong interest in our services, leading directly to new opportunities and projects.

Turning Conversations into New CDS Print Services Clients

The success of these events has already resulted in new client partnerships. Demonstrating the value of engaging directly with the market and building awareness beyond traditional procurement routes.

One organisation we connected with was Hurayra Pet Foods, where a conversation at the event quickly developed into a project.

Demonstrating Innovation

Events such as Aylesbury Open Day and Supplier Day North give us the opportunity to showcase the creativity, quality, and responsiveness that define CDS Print Services to potential new clients.

From specialist print applications to innovative display solutions, visitors were able to see first-hand how we help customers bring their ideas to life.

Looking Ahead

The positive response from both events has reinforced the benefits of taking a more proactive approach to business development. The new relationships and clients gained are a strong indication of the opportunities that exist beyond traditional tendering activity.

We would like to thank everyone who visited our events. For sharing their insights, and taking the time to learn more about CDS Print Services. We look forward to building on these new connections and continuing our growth journey in the months ahead.

Could Your Organisation Reduce Print Costs?

If you’d like to identify potential savings, streamline processes, and uncover efficiencies within your print and communications spend, CDS Print Services would be delighted to carry out a complimentary Print Cost Audit.

Our experienced team can review your current print requirements, highlight areas for improvement, and recommend practical solutions that could deliver both cost and operational benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Print Cost Audit?

A Print Cost Audit is a detailed review of your current print, mailing, and document management activities. It helps identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve efficiency, eliminate waste, and optimise existing processes.

How can CDS Print Services help reduce print costs?

CDS Print Services works with organisations to analyse print volumes, specifications, suppliers, and production methods. We then recommend smarter, more cost-effective solutions that maintain quality while delivering measurable savings.

What types of organisations does CDS Print Services work with?

We support organisations across the public, private, and third sectors, providing print management, direct mail, fulfilment, creative print solutions, and specialist communications services.

What are the benefits of outsourced print management?

Outsourced print management can help organisations reduce costs, improve supplier performance, increase efficiency, enhance quality control, and simplify the procurement process. It also allows businesses to focus on core activities while experts manage their print requirements.

How can sustainable printing support ESG goals?

Sustainable printing helps organisations reduce waste, improve resource efficiency, lower environmental impact, and support wider Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) objectives. CDS Print Services offers environmentally responsible print solutions designed to support sustainability targets.

What benefits do supplier engagement events provide?

Supplier events allow organisations to discover innovative solutions, meet trusted partners, discuss upcoming requirements, and build relationships before procurement processes formally begin.

How do I book a complimentary Print Cost Audit?

Booking is simple. Just click the link below and arrange a convenient time to speak with one of our experienced consultants. We’ll discuss your current challenges and identify opportunities for savings and efficiency improvements.

The post Opening New Doors and Clients appeared first on CDS Print Services.

Our recent Supplier Day brought together colleagues and supply chain partners for a focused and energising event, centred on working collaboratively towards shared goals that deliver lasting results. Chief among these goals were providing innovative solutions and driving sustainability across our supply chain. Judging by the level of conversation and engagement seen on LinkedIn in the days following the event, these messages landed clearly – and resonated strongly.

From the feedback we have received from our clients and supply chain partners, a consistent theme emerged: strong supplier relationships are no longer optional. They are fundamental to delivering consistency, innovation and sustainable growth. This belief sat at the very heart of our Supplier Day.

A Shared Focus on Strategic Collaboration

A common theme from the feedback was the importance of moving beyond transactional relationships and embedding more strategic thinking. Our clients highlighted the need for alignment, openness and clarity of expectations. Not just around cost, but also around performance, innovation and shared success.

Our Supplier Day reflected this shift. Discussions explored how we can work more collaboratively, plan further ahead and build partnerships that deliver tangible outcomes for both sides. The day created space for honest dialogue, shared learning and practical discussion on what “good collaboration” really looks like in practice.

Sustainability Moving from Commitment to Action

Sustainability was another dominant theme throughout the day, reflecting a desire from stakeholders to move from ambition to action. Conversations covered carbon reporting, responsible sourcing and transparency across the supply chain.

Our supplier partners are increasingly challenged on how they can deliver more sustainable outcomes. As a result CDS Print Services has partnered with CarbonCo to provide a clear solution. This partnership enables our clients to print on Carbon Balanced Paper or via a Carbon Balanced Printer. Supporting measurable progress towards sustainability goals.

As a result, sustainability was positioned not as a standalone topic, but as a shared responsibility embedded into how we work together. The focus was firmly placed on practical steps, measurable impact and how strong supplier partnerships can accelerate progress far more effectively than working in isolation.

Creating Momentum Beyond the Event

A successful Supplier Day is not a one‑off event – it is a catalyst. We are already working through a wide range of enquiries and opportunities created from the day. Thus demonstrating the value of meaningful engagement.

We are committed to maintaining the momentum generated by the event and sharing these ideas with our wider client base. Supplier Day was designed to strengthen relationships, align priorities and create clarity on next steps. Now we are ensuring the conversations sparked on the day continue well beyond the event itself.

Looking Ahead

For CDS Print Services, Supplier Day reaffirmed something we firmly believe. When organisations and suppliers work together with clear intent and shared objectives, everyone benefits. The conversations sparked on the day – and continued across LinkedIn – provide a strong foundation on which to build.

Looking ahead, our intention is to host further Supplier Day events around the country throughout the remainder of 2026. This will allow us to engage with our current and future client base more widely.

For now, we would like to thank everyone who attended, contributed and shared their reflections. We look forward to continuing the dialogue and turning insight into action as we strengthen our partnerships for the future.

The post Supplier Day | Building Strategic & Sustainable Partnerships appeared first on CDS Print Services.

Today we highlight Lucy Langmead of Aura Brand Solutions and Ann Hall of Allsopp Bookbinders—two women whose journeys demonstrate how opportunity, resilience and representation continue to transform the print industry.

Building Expertise Across Industries: Lucy Langmead, Aura Brand Solutions

Lucy’s entry into print was anything but traditional. After completing a degree in French and European Studies, she joined 3M and began her career in the automotive sector before transferring into Commercial Graphics. There she managed major accounts and worked directly with fleet end users and London-based global creative agencies, specifying 3M films for leading brands including British Gas, The AA, Royal Mail, Hilton and McDonald’s.

Her journey echoes the experiences shared by women across CDS:

Like Claire Brown, who described how skills from other sectors strengthened her print career, Lucy’s background outside of print demonstrates how transferable experience can elevate the impact women have across the industry.

Her progression into technical and advisory roles mirrors the experiences of Michelle Watkins, who spoke about building deep technical knowledge to gain credibility in what was once a male-dominated field.

Lucy’s career exemplifies the breadth of opportunities available to women in print today—far beyond traditional pathways and increasingly central to brand, production and technical decision-making.

From Office Junior to Co‑Owner: Ann Hall, Allsopp Bookbinders

Ann Hall’s story is a powerful reminder of how supportive workplaces and personal resilience can shape long and fulfilling careers. She entered the industry “largely by chance” as an office junior, but a company culture that encouraged curiosity, initiative and learning helped her build a 37‑year career culminating in co-ownership of the business.

Her reflections—and her evolution from junior to business leader—align strongly with themes highlighted by CDS contributors:

Like Katie Tillotson, who described how every challenge became a learning curve, Ann attributes her success to resilience and embracing the opportunities presented to her.

She recalls entering a male-dominated industry in 1989, a landscape similar to what Michelle Watkins and Claire Blythe experienced during the early stages of their own careers.

Her journey also reflects Sian Buckland’s belief in the importance of visibility, particularly for women in technical or traditionally male roles. As Ann notes, she has seen the industry shift from a predominantly male environment to a far more balanced one.

Ann’s progression, supported by strong mentorship from the company’s former owner, mirrors the emphasis on leadership support discussed across CDS interviews—from Nicole Fletcher’s “pivotal” manager to the broader encouragement many women described throughout their careers.

Shared Perspectives Across CDS and Our Suppliers

Although Lucy and Ann’s paths are distinct, their experiences echo the same themes expressed across CDS Print Services:

1. Representation and visibility continue to matter

Whether working with clients, specifying materials or leading businesses, women in print repeatedly emphasise that seeing other women succeed helps change perceptions—something voiced strongly by Sian Buckland, Kirsty Colley and many others.

2. Resilience remains a defining strength

Ann cites resilience as a career-shaping skill, Lucy built confidence navigating new industries, and CDS contributors like Katie and Claire describe strengthening through challenges. The message is universal: print is fast-paced and demanding—but deeply rewarding for those who persevere.

3. Mentorship and leadership support transform careers

Ann’s trajectory was shaped by a leader who believed in her potential. CDS contributors such as Nicole Fletcher and Claire Brown shared similar stories of managers who opened doors, encouraged development and built confidence through trust.

4. The industry is changing—and women are driving that change

From digital workflows and automation to evolving customer expectations and more inclusive workplaces, both suppliers and CDS team members agree: print has changed dramatically in recent decades, and women are increasingly central to shaping its future.

A Powerful Collective Story

As we close this year’s Women in Print series, one message rings louder than any other: our industry is stronger because of the women within it.

Across CDS Print Services and throughout our supply chain, the stories shared by our colleagues — from early challenges and steep learning curves to leadership journeys and technical mastery — reveal an industry transformed by perseverance, curiosity and collaboration. These women have navigated male-dominated environments, embraced new technologies, challenged expectations and proven time and again that print thrives when diverse voices are heard and valued.

The experiences of partners like Lucy Langmead and Ann Hall show that this progress extends far beyond our own walls. Their careers — from global brand consultancy to co-owning a historic bookbinding business — mirror the resilience, confidence-building and innovation championed by the women of CDS.

Together, these stories paint a future that is bright, balanced and full of opportunity. A future where representation continues to grow, where more women step into technical, creative and leadership roles, and where the path into print is clearer, more welcoming and more inspiring than ever before.

To every woman who shared her voice in this series — and to every woman shaping the print industry today — thank you. Your expertise, your perspective and your leadership are not just valued; they are vital to the future of our sector.

Here’s to visibility.

Here’s to progress.

And here’s to the women who continue to lead the way in print.

The post Women in Print: Stories From Our Supply Chain appeared first on CDS Print Services.

At CDS Print Services, we asked women across the business to share the success and challenges they have faced. Reflecting on their own careers as women in print. Their stories reveal resilience, adaptability, and a shared determination to build a more inclusive industry for future generations.

Learning on the Job and Building Confidence Early in Their Careers

For Kirsty Colley, entering print at a young age meant being “thrust into management positions really early on”. Often without the benefit of strong role models or formal training. She describes having to learn quickly, sometimes through mistakes, because “there was no training at the time”. How expectations were high in fast‑moving operations environments.

Similarly, Claire Blythe recalls starting out as a young woman in a highly technical environment. She described that “there weren’t many women on the print side of things”. She often felt she had to prove herself to be taken seriously, especially when handling major accounts that required both technical expertise and calm under pressure.

These shared experiences paint a picture familiar to many women in print. Stepping into demanding roles early, navigating expectations, and learning through necessity.

Building Careers in a Changing Industry

Several contributors reflected on how the industry has evolved over time.

Michelle Watkins, who entered print 25 years ago, remembers it as “a very male‑dominant industry, particularly on the technical side”. Building respect meant developing a strong technical knowledge base so she could hold her own in conversations and decisions traditionally dominated by men.

Carrera McGrath also noticed the disparity. Particularly during her time in business development, where she often saw “a lot of men as salespeople”. She rarely encountered women in similarly senior or client‑facing roles.

Kirsty Colley observes that even today, women are still concentrated in administrative functions rather than in production, warehouse, or dispatch roles. She notes:

“It would be really good to see more women in some of the predominantly male‑dominated roles… you see a lot of women in admin or HR, but rarely in print, dispatch or warehouse roles.”

Despite differing personal experiences of gender bias, all agree that representation remains uneven—and that visibility has a direct impact on equality.

Developing Technical Confidence

Women across the team highlighted the pressure to build technical knowledge quickly to be taken seriously.

For Sian Buckland, gaining confidence with specialist equipment, workflows and software was a major challenge early on. Particularly while working in high‑pressure scanning and production environments. Delivering accuracy under tight deadlines meant she needed to: “build confidence in my technical knowledge while navigating fast‑paced deadlines and complex client expectations.” Her willingness to ask questions and invest time in learning helped her overcome these barriers.

Claire Brown also emphasised the challenge of communicating technical detail to clients, especially early in her career. She found confidence grew only through “always asking questions, always learning”. Leaning on supportive colleagues across production and client services.

Adapting to Industry Change and External Pressures

Many challenges weren’t just gender‑related—they were tied to the rapid evolution of print itself.

Nicole Fletcher described navigating a hybrid print–digital environment and the complexity of public‑sector bidding. She had to build confidence in rooms where she was often one of few women present. She also noted the challenge of “crosstalk in meetings”, where young women can feel overshadowed, especially in male‑dominated spaces.

Claire Brown reflected on the upheaval caused by the COVID‑19 pandemic, which forced a complete shift in workflows—from manual print planning to fully digital systems—almost overnight. This sudden change created new pressures and increased the learning curve during an already stressful period.

The Importance of Representation

Whilst not facing direct discrimination, many women described the emotional labour involved in “representing” women in print.

Sian Buckland shared that in technical environments, she sometimes felt she needed to prove her competence simply because women were less visible in those roles. Building credibility required consistent delivery, resilience, and a willingness to challenge outdated assumptions.

Carrera McGrath echoed this, noting that seeing women in senior leadership roles are still uncommon. Making it harder for younger women to imagine themselves progressing. More visible female role models, she believes, would make a meaningful difference to both aspiration and retention.

Resilience Through Community, Mentorship, and Support

Despite the challenges, a unifying theme across every story is resilience—shaped by supportive colleagues, mentors, managers, and team cultures.

Katie Tillotson recalls the early years of print being tough, building “a thicker skin” while navigating male‑dominated production environments. Yet she credits colleagues who offered guidance and encouragement as instrumental to her success.

Michelle Watkins, too, is clear that strong support networks and mentorship have been vital throughout her 25‑year journey. A career across purchasing, sales, technical roles, and leadership.

Nicole Fletcher describes a former female manager as “pivotal” in shaping her confidence and approach to bid management. Reinforcing the need for senior figures and role models who champion women actively.

Across every interview, mentorship isn’t a ‘nice‑to‑have’. It is the difference between merely surviving and genuinely thriving.

Building a Future Where These Challenges Are Removed

Together, the experiences shared by the women of CDS Print Services paint a picture of an industry that is evolving. Driven forward by resilience, curiosity, collaboration and a passion for continuous learning.

While each contributor has faced their own challenges, every story also reflects progress. Stronger mentorship, growing representation, more inclusive cultures, expanding technical opportunities. An industry that is becoming more dynamic, diverse and future‑focused.

Their journeys show that print offers rewarding, multi‑pathway careers where hard work is recognised, skills are valued, and women are increasingly seen, heard and celebrated. With more women entering technical, creative, operational and leadership roles than ever before, the future of print is not only brighter — it’s more balanced, more vibrant and full of possibility.

If you too are a “Woman in Print”, we’d love to hear your stories and reflections on your career. Please do drop a note through to info@cds-print.co.uk or use our Contact Us function.

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International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global opportunity to celebrate the achievements and impact of women across all sectors. At CDS Print Services, it also provides a meaningful moment to champion the women who are shaping the future of print, challenging long‑standing norms, and driving representation within a traditionally male‑dominated industry.

This year, we asked women across CDS what IWD means to them — and their reflections highlight a shared belief in visibility, progress, and empowerment.

Visibility: Changing Perceptions and Opening Doors

For Sian Buckland, visibility isn’t optional — it’s vital for unlocking opportunity:

“International Women’s Day is a reminder to recognise the contribution women make across all industries, especially in sectors where they may not always be highly visible. Visibility matters because representation changes perceptions. When women see others succeeding in technical and production roles, it makes those paths feel accessible and achievable.”

Her insight captures a central theme echoed across the business: representation inspires confidence and creates new possibilities.

A Celebration of Unity and Progress

Katie Tillotson sees International Women’s Day as a moment for collective empowerment:

“International Women’s Day is a celebration of, and for all women! It’s about all the women who have, are and will stand together to make a positive difference. It’s important that our contributions are seen, recognised and celebrated… to ensure equality continues to improve.”

Recognising Achievement, Resilience, and Leadership

Many contributors reflected on progress already made, and the work still ahead.

Claire Blythe, Michelle Watkins and Claire Brown emphasised the importance of celebrating resilience and women’s leadership in industries where they have long been under‑represented.

Claire Brown noted that visibility

“…inspires younger generations to take that step into print, feel confident in their abilities, and see real opportunities for growth and leadership.”

Driving Equality Through Opportunity

Nicole Fletcher spoke passionately about promoting equal opportunity in print, regardless of gender:

She believes in equality “based on merit and skills,” emphasising that women make up 50% of the population — and therefore 50% of the audience that print serves. She encourages women to be “tenacious” and to drive change where they see it’s needed.

Kirsty Colley reinforced this with her point around seeing “more women in some of the predominantly male‑dominated roles within the print industry”.

Women Supporting Women in the Industry

Carrera McGrath highlighted the influential role women can play in encouraging others into print:

She noted that the voice of a woman reaching out to another can often be “more persuasive,” helping attract more women into the industry.

Her insight captures the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and shared experience.

A Future Built on Representation, Inclusion & Recognition

Across every voice in our team, one message is clear:

“International Women’s Day is both a celebration of women’s impact and a call to keep pushing for progress.”

At CDS Print Services, we remain committed to:

• Elevating the visibility of women in all areas of print
• Encouraging women to explore roles where representation is still growing
• Creating a culture where everyone feels empowered, valued, and heard
• Building pathways for leadership and long‑term career development

The insights from our team remind us that change happens when visibility, opportunity, and support come together.

Watch Our International Women’s Day Video

We’ve captured these powerful messages in a dedicated IWD video — celebrating the women of CDS, their achievements, and their vision for the future of print.

Look out for more content from the CDS Print Services team over the course of the week, as we continue our focus celebrating Women in Print over the course of the next week.

If you are keen to find out more about working with CDS Print Services, please email on info@cds-print.co.uk or send your enquiry through our Contact Us page.

With our focus this week being on celebrating Women In Print, we also recommend the following site for their vision in providing a platform for women working in the design and print industry to showcase the wealth of creative talent we have in the north of England. Link

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As National Apprenticeship Week comes to a close, we’re proud to shine a spotlight on two talented individuals shaping the future of CDS Print Services: Oisin Foot and Parker Churchill. Their journeys capture exactly why apprenticeships are so essential to our industry — they build skills, confidence, and long-term careers.

Oisin Foot: Growing Skills and Confidence in Print Finishing

Now having completed his apprenticeship, in association with BPIF, Oisin has developed a wide range of technical skills — from guillotines and folding machines to drilling, binding, and more. His day-to-day work involves managing production jobs, preparing finished work for dispatch, and ensuring deadlines are met with precision.

For Oisin, the most rewarding part has been seeing steady improvement in his abilities:

“The most enjoyable part is watching myself improve relative to what I used to be able to do.”

With renewed confidence and experience across multiple finishing processes, Oisin continues his career with CDS Print Services as a fully qualified print finisher.

Parker Churchill: New to Print and Already Making an Impact

Joining CDS in May 2025, Parker has embraced every opportunity to learn. From hands-on production experience to exploring cutting-edge industry technology at The Print Show at the NEC, he has quickly discovered the variety and dynamism of print.

Reflecting on his first few months, Parker shared:

“I’ve learned so much already and really feel part of the team… The thing I’ve enjoyed most is seeing a project go from start to finish — from an idea to the final printed product.”

Looking ahead, Parker hopes to build confidence on the machines, take on more responsibility, and continue developing his technical skills.

Why Apprenticeships Matter at CDS

Both Oisin and Parker highlight what makes apprenticeships so valuable:

• Industry-specific skills that can’t be learned in the classroom
• A pathway into meaningful employment
• Supportive teams and hands-on experience
• Opportunities to grow into long-term careers

Their stories remind us that apprenticeships aren’t just training programmes — they are an investment in people, innovation, and the future of print.

As we close out this year’s National Apprenticeship Week, we’re incredibly proud of the dedication, growth, and enthusiasm shown by Oisin, Parker, and all our apprentices across CDS Print Services.

To find out more about working in print with CDS Print Services, email info@cds-print.co.uk or contact us

The post Apprentices in Print appeared first on CDS Print Services.

National Apprenticeship Week is a time to celebrate the impact apprenticeships have on individuals, businesses, and industries across the UK. At CDS, apprenticeships aren’t just an entry point into work — they are a genuine pathway to long‑term careers. Today we focus on a true apprenticeship success story in the print industry.

Few stories illustrate this better than that of Joe Tosney, who joined CDS as one of its first apprentices. More than a decade later, now holds the role of Account Director.

Choosing an Apprenticeship: A Different Route to Success

For Joe, the traditional university route never felt like the right fit. While he performed well at school, his A‑levels were affected by an attempt to pursue a professional golf career. When that didn’t work out, his options narrowed — and clarity became essential.

An apprenticeship offered something university could not at that point in his life:
real‑world experience, recognised qualifications, and a stable income — all at the same time.

“I knew I needed structure, financial stability and a chance to build something long term,” Joe explains. “An apprenticeship gave me all three.”

After applying across several industries, Joe interviewed at CDS. The decision was immediate. The openness of the interviewers, the approachability of leadership, and sense of camaraderie he felt walking through the office made CDS stand out.

“It felt like a place where people genuinely wanted you to succeed.”

Learning While Earning: Training and Development at CDS

Joe’s apprenticeship at CDS was a 12‑month, workplace‑based programme designed to combine practical experience with structured learning. The programme was supported by fortnightly visits from a Leeds City College tutor. Allowing formal study to be directly applied to real client work and accelerating skill development.

Within nine months, Joe had successfully completed:

• GQA Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Print Administration
• GQA Level 2 NVQ in Understanding the Print Working Environment (QCF)

Before the apprenticeship had concluded, Joe was offered a full‑time position as a Print Account Executive, demonstrating CDS’s commitment to recognising potential and investing in early‑career talent.

Rather than stopping at Level 2, Joe chose to continue his professional development by completing Level 3 NVQs alongside his full‑time role. This combination of hands‑on experience, academic support, and early responsibility created a strong foundation for long‑term career progression within the business.

Career Progression: Growing With the Business

Joe joined CDS as a full‑time employee in December 2015, continuing in the Print Account Executive role he began during his apprenticeship. From the outset, he was trusted with real responsibility, including working with printers, managing technical specifications, and building client relationships.

Within a year, Joe progressed to Junior Account Manager, taking ownership of smaller client accounts while gaining exposure to CDS’s design and editorial services. He also began project‑managing larger campaigns and shadowing Senior Account Managers on complex, long‑term contracts.

Joe was later promoted to Account Manager, expanding his portfolio and moving into CDS’s digital and technology services, broadening his expertise beyond print. During this period, he managed some of the business’s most high‑profile national campaigns, including events attended by Prime Ministers and members of the Royal Family.

In 2022, Joe became a Senior Account Manager. Leading large, complex accounts and contributing to process improvement, retention strategy, and competitive bids. In October 2025, he was promoted to Account Director, where he now line‑manages account teams, supports key client relationships, works closely with senior leadership, and contributes to wider business strategy.

This progression demonstrates the long‑term impact of investing in apprenticeship talent.

What Made the Apprenticeship So Impactful?

Looking back, Joe identifies the breadth of exposure during his apprenticeship as a key factor in his development. He worked with a wide range of printers, gaining a clear understanding of different production methods and how they operate in practice.

A standout experience was spending two weeks at CDS’s production facility, shadowing teams across client services, production, finishing, and the warehouse. This hands‑on exposure gave him a full end‑to‑end understanding of the print process — from brief to despatch — and helped translate theory into real‑world knowledge.

“This gave me a full end‑to‑end understanding of a print job — from brief to despatch. It made everything click.”

Lasting Impact on His Role Today

Joe’s apprenticeship didn’t just help him get started — it shaped how he works today.

By understanding the industry at a granular level, he’s able to speak confidently with clients, offer informed consultancy, and make strategic decisions grounded in real technical knowledge.

“Without the apprenticeship, I wouldn’t have had the baseline understanding that everything else has been built on. I almost certainly wouldn’t be working in this industry today.”

The Role of Support, Mentorship and Culture

As one of CDS’s first apprentices, Joe benefited from a programme that was championed at leadership level. From day one, colleagues across the business were generous with their time, patient with mistakes and invested in his development.

That support didn’t stop when the apprenticeship ended.

“One of CDS’s greatest strengths is its people. The culture of togetherness and support I saw at my interview is the same culture that exists today.”

It’s a culture that continues to help apprentices — and experienced professionals alike — thrive.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence

Starting an apprenticeship can be daunting. For Joe, it meant entering an office environment for the first time with little prior industry knowledge. The biggest challenge was learning to ask questions.

As a shy 19‑year‑old, Joe initially found this intimidating. But the supportive culture at CDS made it clear there was no such thing as a stupid question. That sense of psychological safety allowed him to build confidence quickly and fully engage with the learning process — something he believes is essential for apprentices to succeed.

Advice for Future Apprentices

During National Apprenticeship Week, Joe’s advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship is simple. “Don’t be afraid to try something completely outside the box.”

Not everyone knows what they want to do at the start of their career. Many industries can feel inaccessible from the outside. An apprenticeship offers the opportunity to start from scratch, learn an industry properly, and build a career you may never have imagined.

By committing to the experience and giving yourself time to learn, apprenticeships can open doors to long‑term success.

Celebrating Career Development in the Print Industry

This National Apprenticeship Week 2026, Joe’s journey highlights how apprenticeships are not a second choice — they are a proven pathway to sustainable careers and leadership.

At CDS, we’re proud to celebrate and invest in the development of people at every stage of their career. Helping to build the future of the print and communications industry through meaningful apprenticeships and long‑term progression opportunities.

Could you be the next apprenticeship success story in the print industry? Discover how we’re developing careers in print — and shaping the next generation of talent — this National Apprenticeship Week. To register your interest, contact us.

The post National Apprenticeship Week 2026 appeared first on CDS Print Services.

From 2–6 February 2026, Love Paper Week brought the print and paper industry together to challenge myths, share evidence and celebrate paper’s role in modern communications. Throughout the week, CDS Print Services actively participated in driving the conversation, publishing a series of posts that focused on sustainability, informed choice and the practical value of print when used responsibly and alongside digital channels. The strong engagement across the week demonstrated a clear appetite for fact‑based conversations about sustainable print among procurement, sustainability and communications professionals.

Some of the highlights of the week were:

Myth Busting: Challenging Misconceptions About Paper and Print

One of the most engaged themes during Love Paper Week 2026 at CDS Print Services was myth busting. CDS Print Services published clear, evidence‑led posts addressing common assumptions that continue to influence procurement and sustainability strategies:

• Myth: Print is outdated in modern communications

Fact: Print remains vital in trusted, regulated and high‑impact communications.

• Myth: Consumers no longer want printed communications

Fact: 76% of European consumers believe they should have the right to choose between print and digital communications.

• Myth: Paper is bad for the environment

Fact: Paper is renewable, highly recyclable and operates within a well‑established circular economy.

By grounding these messages in recognised industry research and Love Paper campaign data, CDS Print Services reinforced the importance of evidence over perception, driving meaningful interaction and discussion in comments and reactions.

Print and Digital: Better Together

Another key message that gained traction during Love Paper Week was the role of integrated print and digital strategies. CDS Print Services emphasised that sustainable communication is not about replacing one channel with another, but about balance.

Posts highlighted how:

• Print builds trust, attention and engagement
• Digital extends reach, immediacy and depth of information
• Technologies such as QR codes enable seamless transitions between print and digital

This perspective reflected real‑world changes in audience behaviour and reinforced the idea that print remains a powerful entry point within a modern communications mix.

Collaboration and Industry Leadership

Love Paper Week at CDS Print Services also formed part of a broader sustainability conversation for early 2026. Alongside campaign posts, the business shared insights from collaborative sessions with Two Sides UK and Carbon Balanced Paper, focused on aligning clear, credible sustainability messaging for the year ahead.

These posts demonstrated how Love Paper Week fits into a wider strategy to:

• Challenge false narratives around print
• Promote carbon balancing and responsible paper choices
• Strengthen trust through transparency and partnership

The engagement on these posts reinforced the value of collaboration in moving the sustainability conversation forward.

Engagement Highlights from Love Paper Week 2026

Across the week, CDS Print Services’ LinkedIn content generated:

• Consistent reactions and comments from procurement, sustainability and marketing professionals
• Increased visibility of Love Paper Week messaging through shares and hashtag activity
• Constructive discussion around evidence‑based decision‑making in print and digital communications

The interaction levels reflected a growing demand for clear, factual guidance in an environment where sustainability claims are increasingly scrutinised.

What Love Paper Week 2026 Means for Customers

For organisations working with CDS Print Services, Love Paper Week reinforced several key takeaways:

• Sustainable print is about informed choice, not elimination
• Print remains a trusted, inclusive and effective communication channel
• Evidence and transparency are essential for defensible sustainability decisions

These principles continue to guide how CDS Print Services supports customers across print management, procurement and integrated communication strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Love Paper Week?

Love Paper Week is an annual industry‑wide campaign led by Two Sides that promotes the sustainability, recyclability and value of paper and print, running from 2–6 February 2026.

Why did CDS Print Services support Love Paper Week 2026?

CDS Print Services supports Love Paper Week to promote fact‑based understanding of print sustainability and help organisations make informed, auditable communication choices.

Is print sustainable compared to digital?

When assessed across its full lifecycle, responsibly sourced and well‑managed print can be highly sustainable and plays a complementary role alongside digital channels.

Looking Ahead

Love Paper Week 2026 was not just a moment in the calendar for CDS Print Services, but a reflection of its ongoing commitment to responsible, transparent and effective print communications. The conversations sparked during the week will continue to shape how organisations think about print, digital and sustainability throughout 2026 and beyond.

To join the conversation email us at info@cds.co.uk or contact us via our Contact Us page to find out more

The post A Week of Facts, Engagement and Sustainable Print appeared first on CDS Print Services.

Love Paper Week is an opportunity to focus on facts, transparency and informed choice when it comes to communication materials. At CDS Print Services, our commitment to sustainable print is rooted in responsible sourcing, evidence‑based decision‑making and helping organisations use printed communications in the right way, for the right purpose.

Rather than treating print as a sustainability risk, we believe it should be assessed on its full lifecycle performance and role within a balanced communications strategy.

What Sustainable Print Means at CDS Print Services

Sustainable print is not a single action or product choice. It is a joined‑up approach that considers sourcing, production, use and end‑of‑life outcomes.

At CDS Print Services, sustainable print means:

• using responsibly sourced paper
• supporting recyclability and circular economy outcomes
• providing transparency across the print supply chain
• helping customers make informed, defensible choices

This approach supports both environmental objectives and practical business requirements.

Why CDS Print Services Supports Sustainable Print Through Love Paper Week

Love Paper Week aligns closely with our values as a print services provider.

The campaign exists to challenge common misconceptions around paper and print and to promote fact‑based understanding. For organisations under pressure to evidence sustainability decisions, this matters.

By supporting Love Paper Week, CDS Print Services is reinforcing the importance of:

• informed procurement
• transparent sustainability claims
• choice in communication channels

It is not about promoting print at all costs, but about ensuring decisions are based on evidence rather than assumption.

The Role of Sustainable Print in Modern Communications

Despite the growth of digital channels, printed communications continue to play a critical role in many sectors, particularly where trust, accessibility and longevity are important.

Sustainable print supports:

• regulated and high‑trust communications
• inclusive access for diverse audiences
• long‑lasting engagement without continuous energy use

When used appropriately, print complements digital channels rather than competing with them.

How CDS Print Services Delivers Sustainable Print in Practice

Our role is to help organisations understand how their printed communications perform from a sustainability perspective.

In practice, this includes:

• advising on paper selection and responsible sourcing
• supporting recyclability and end‑of‑life considerations
• aligning print choices with sustainability and ESG objectives
• providing clarity rather than marketing‑led sustainability claims

This allows procurement and sustainability teams to make decisions that are defensible, auditable and aligned with policy commitments.

Sustainable Print vs Digital: Making Evidence‑Based Choices

One of the most persistent myths is that digital communication is always the more sustainable option.

In reality, sustainability depends on:

• lifecycle impact
• energy use
• infrastructure requirements
• usage patterns

A responsible communications strategy evaluates both print and digital on their merits. Sustainable outcomes are achieved through appropriate channel selection, not blanket exclusion.

At CDS Print Services, we support balanced, evidence‑led decision‑making rather than one‑size‑fits‑all approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions About CDS Print Services Sustainable Print

Is sustainable print environmentally responsible?

Yes. When responsibly sourced, produced and recycled, print operates within a well‑established circular economy. Sustainability depends on how print is specified and managed, not on the medium itself.

Does print contribute to deforestation?

No. Paper used in print comes from managed, renewable forests where harvesting is balanced with replanting and long‑term forestry management. Responsible paper sourcing supports forest sustainability rather than undermining it.

How does CDS Print Services support sustainable procurement goals?

We help organisations assess print based on lifecycle performance, sourcing transparency and end‑of‑life outcomes, supporting procurement decisions that can be evidenced and reported with confidence.

Is digital communication always greener than print?

Not necessarily. Digital channels have environmental impacts through energy use, infrastructure and device production. Sustainability should be assessed holistically, considering both print and digital.

Can sustainable print fit into ESG and reporting frameworks?

Yes. Print offers strong traceability, certification and recyclability, making it easier to evidence sustainability claims and align with ESG reporting requirements.

Looking Beyond Love Paper Week

While Love Paper Week runs from 2–6 February 2026, the conversation around sustainability and responsible communication continues year‑round.

At CDS Print Services, we believe:

Sustainable print isn’t about defending paper — it’s about making better, evidence‑based decisions.

By promoting facts over assumptions, we help our customers move towards credible, practical sustainability outcomes.

Learn More

To explore Love Paper Week resources, visit lovepaper.org/lovepaperweek. [lovepaper.org]

If you’d like to discuss how printed communications can support your sustainability objectives, CDS Print Services is always happy to have an informed conversation. Please leave your enquiry on our contact page or mail on info@cds-print.co.uk

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