As one of the leading printing firms in Ghana, Appointed Time Printing humbly began business operations in 2003 initially focusing solely on screen printing but over time, expanded her product lines to include commercial printing, digital printing, publishing and currently packaging. Now in her twentieth year, this diversification has allowed the forward-looking firm to meet the growing and varied needs of her clients, and in the process – maintaining commitment to quality and excellence. WHERE To Print Ghana in this SPECIAL FEATURE INTERVIEW with Appointed Time Printing Managing Director – Mrs. Jacqueline Afful discovers the secrets of the two-decade success and the award-winning company’s plans for the next twenty years. Read on for other insightful business nuggets from the financial expert turned print professional that you can adopt to take your business to the next level:
CONGRATULATIONS ON MAKING 20 YEARS IN BUSINESS; WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN THE LAST 2 DECADES AND WHAT ARE YOU GRATEFUL FOR?
Thank you very much. Over the past two decades, our printing firm has undergone significant growth and diversification; expanding from a screen printing business to encompass commercial press, publishing, and packaging services. Reflecting on this journey, there are a few key accomplishments that stand out as sources of pride:
Diversification: One of our proudest achievements is successfully diversifying our services beyond screen printing. By adding commercial press, publishing, and packaging capabilities, we have positioned ourselves as a comprehensive printing solution provider, catering to a broader range of our clients’ needs.
Adaptability: The printing industry has seen numerous technological advancements and shifts in consumer preferences over the past two decades. Our ability to adapt to these changes, embrace new technologies, and stay ahead of industry trends has been crucial to our success.
Client Relationships: Building and maintaining strong relationships with our clients has always been a top priority. We take pride in the trust and loyalty we have earned from our customers over the years, serving as their go-to printing partner for all their needs.
Quality and Innovation: Whether it’s delivering high-quality prints, implementing innovative printing techniques, or staying eco-friendly, we’re proud of our commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in all aspects of our business.
In addition to these achievements, we’re also incredibly grateful for several factors that have contributed to our success such as following:
Dedicated Team: Our team of talented and hardworking individuals is the backbone of our company. We are grateful for their dedication, creativity, and unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results.
Supportive Partnerships: From suppliers and vendors to strategic partners and industry associations; we are thankful for the support and collaboration of all those who have helped us along the way.
Community Support: As a local business, we are grateful for the support of our community. Whether it’s through word-of-mouth referrals, patronage, or participation in local events, we appreciate the support of our community members.
Overall, as we look back on the past two decades, we are proud of how far we’ve come as a printing firm and grateful for the many people and factors that have contributed to our success. We look forward to continuing to serve our clients; pioneer innovation in the printing industry; and strive for excellence in the years to come.
WHAT BUSINESS CHALLENGES DID YOU OVERCOME, ESPECIALLY IN TERMS OF GOVERNMENT POLICIES AND MARKET FORCES?
Challenges in business are inevitable especially in relation to a growing economy such as ours. In relation to Government policies and market forces, the following are some of the key challenges and how we have been able to overcome them:
Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to government regulations and compliance standards in the printing industry can be complex and demanding. We invested significant time and resources into ensuring that we stay up-to-date with all relevant regulations, whether related to environmental sustainability, workplace safety, or data privacy.
Technological Advances: The rapid pace of technological change in the printing industry has presented both challenges and opportunities. While embracing new technologies has allowed us to improve efficiency and expand our capabilities, it has also required ongoing investment in equipment, training, and infrastructure.
Market Competition: The printing industry is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for market share. We have had to differentiate ourselves through innovation, quality, and customer service to remain competitive in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
Economic Downturns: Like any business, we have faced economic downturns and market fluctuations that have impacted demand for printing services. During these times, we’ve focused on cost control, diversification, and maintaining strong relationships with existing clients to weather the storm.
Supply Chain Disruptions: Disruptions in the supply chain, whether due to natural disasters, geopolitical events, or other factors, can have a significant impact on our operations. We have worked to build resilient supply chains, diversify our supplier base, and maintain open communication with suppliers to mitigate the impact of potential disruptions.
“We aim to provide unmatched value to our clients and solidify our position as a leader in the printing industry.”
WHAT LESSONS DID YOU LEARN FROM THE CHALLENGES THAT OTHERS CAN ADOPT TO SUCCESSFULLY NAVIGATE TOUGH TIMES?
The lessons leant are numerous though some may be unique to certain structure but generally, here are some key lessons that others can adopt to successfully navigate difficult circumstances in print and allied business:
Embrace Change: In a rapidly evolving business landscape, it’s essential to embrace change rather than resist it. Be open to exploring new technologies, business models, and market opportunities that can help you adapt to changing conditions and stay ahead of the curve.
Focus on Innovation: Innovation is key to staying competitive and resilient in challenging times. Look for creative solutions to problems, whether it’s streamlining processes, developing new products or services, or finding novel ways to meet customers’ needs.
Build Resilience: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and adversity. Cultivate a mindset of resilience within your organization, emphasizing adaptability, perseverance, and resourcefulness in the face of challenges.
Prioritize Relationships: Strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and other stakeholders can be invaluable during tough times. Invest in building and maintaining these relationships, fostering open communication, trust, and collaboration.
Stay Agile: Agility is essential for navigating uncertainty and rapidly changing circumstances. Be willing to pivot quickly in response to new information or market conditions, adjusting your strategies and tactics as needed to stay on course.
Invest in Talent: Your employees are your most valuable asset, especially during tough times. Invest in training, development, and support to empower your team to succeed, and foster a culture of teamwork, innovation, and resilience.
Learn from Failure: Failure is inevitable, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and learning. Encourage a culture of experimentation and risk-taking within your organization, and view failures as valuable lessons that can inform future success.
WHAT OLD BUSINESS STRATEGY(IES) DO YOU THINK PRINT & ALLIED PRACTITIONERS SHOULD DO DIFFERENTLY NOW TO TAKE THEIR BUSINESSES TO NEXT HIGHER LEVEL?
There are several time-tested business strategies that print and allied practitioners should always be committed to in order to take their businesses to the next level. Here are some business strategies that they may consider doing differently:
Emphasize Customer Experience: In an increasingly competitive market, delivering exceptional customer experience is crucial for retaining existing clients and attracting new ones. Print and allied practitioners should focus on understanding their clients’ needs, providing personalized service, and delivering high-quality results in a timely manner. By prioritizing customer experience, practitioners can build long-term relationships with their clients and differentiate themselves from competitors.
Diversify Revenue Streams: Instead of relying solely on traditional printing services, practitioners should explore opportunities to diversify their revenue streams. This could involve expanding into adjacent markets such as packaging, signage, promotional products, or e-commerce printing. By diversifying their offerings, practitioners can mitigate risk and capitalize on new opportunities for growth.
Collaborate with Technology Partners: Technology is constantly evolving in the printing industry, and practitioners should collaborate with technology partners to stay ahead of the curve. Whether it’s partnering with software vendors to implement workflow automation solutions or working with equipment manufacturers to access cutting-edge printing technologies, practitioners should embrace collaboration as a means to drive innovation and competitiveness. Others business strategies worth mentioning are:
Adopt a Data-Driven Approach: Data analytics can provide valuable insights into client preferences, market trends, and operational efficiencies. Print and allied practitioners should leverage data analytics tools to track key performance indicators, identify growth opportunities, and optimize their operations. By adopting a data-driven approach, practitioners can make more informed decisions and drive business success.
Invest in Sustainability: Environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers and businesses alike. Print and allied practitioners should prioritize sustainable practices such as using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and implementing energy-efficient processes. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, practitioners can attract environmentally conscious clients and differentiate themselves as responsible stewards of the environment.
ON STAFF RELATIONS: HOW DO YOU THINK MANAGEMENT OUGHT TO DEAL WITH STAFF TO BRING OUT THE BEST IN THEM FOR OVERALL GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY OF THE BUSINESS?
Building positive staff relations is crucial for bringing out the best in employees and ensuring the overall growth and sustainability of a business. Here are some key strategies that managers can employ in dealing with staff to bring out the best in them:
Communication: Open, transparent communication is essential for fostering trust, collaboration, and engagement among staff members. Management should communicate clearly and regularly with employees, providing updates on company goals, performance expectations, and any changes that may affect their work. Additionally, management should encourage feedback from staff and actively listen to their concerns and ideas.
Empowerment: Empowering employees to take ownership of their work, make decisions, and contribute ideas can enhance motivation, job satisfaction, and performance. Management should provide employees with the autonomy, resources, and support they need to succeed, while also recognizing and rewarding their achievements.
Professional Development: Investing in the professional development of staff members can boost morale, loyalty, and productivity. Management should provide opportunities for training, skill development, and career advancement, aligning individual goals with the overall growth strategy of the business. By investing in the growth and success of their employees, management can cultivate a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Recognition and Appreciation: Recognizing and appreciating the contributions of staff members is essential for maintaining morale and motivation. Management should regularly acknowledge and celebrate employee achievements, whether through formal recognition programs, team events, or simple expressions of gratitude. By demonstrating appreciation for their hard work and dedication, management can foster a positive and supportive work environment.
Work-Life Balance: Promoting work-life balance is important for employee well-being, satisfaction, and retention. Management should encourage flexible work arrangements, provide resources for managing stress and burnout, and respect employees’ boundaries between work and personal life. By prioritizing work-life balance, management can help employees feel valued and supported, leading to greater overall happiness and productivity.
Inclusion and Diversity: Creating an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees feel valued, respected, and included is essential for fostering innovation, creativity, and collaboration. Management should promote diversity and inclusion initiatives, address biases and discrimination, and ensure equal opportunities for all staff members. By embracing diversity and fostering a culture of belonging, management can harness the full potential of their workforce and drive business success.
HOW DO YOU THINK DIVERSE BACKGROUND OF STAFF CAN BE USED TO BUSINESS ADVANTAGE ESPECIALLY FOR PROFITABILITY AND BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY IN THIS ECONOMY?
Employees from diverse backgrounds bring unique perspectives, experiences, and ideas to the table. By fostering an inclusive culture that values and encourages diversity of thoughts, businesses can leverage on this to their advantage in several ways. The benefits of staff diversity include but not limited to the following:
Innovation and Creativity: Fostering inclusive culture promotes creativity and innovation. This is because different viewpoints can lead to more innovative solutions to business challenges, product development, and service delivery, ultimately driving competitive advantage and profitability.
Market Insights: A diverse workforce can provide valuable insights into the needs, preferences, and behaviors of diverse customer segments. Employees from different cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds may have a deeper understanding of specific market segments or customer demographics, enabling businesses to tailor their products, marketing strategies, and customer experiences more effectively. This targeted approach can lead to increased customer satisfaction, loyalty, and profitability.
Global Perspective: In an increasingly interconnected global economy, businesses that embrace diversity are better positioned to navigate diverse markets and cultural landscapes. Employees with diverse language skills, cultural competencies, and international experience can help businesses expand into new markets, forge strategic partnerships, and adapt to diverse regulatory environments. This global perspective can enhance business resilience and sustainability by reducing reliance on any single market or region.
Talent Attraction and Retention: A commitment to diversity and inclusion can make a business more attractive to top talent from diverse backgrounds. Employees are more likely to be engaged, productive, and loyal when they feel valued, respected, and included in the workplace. Businesses that prioritize diversity and create a welcoming environment for all employees are better positioned to attract and retain top talent, reducing turnover costs and enhancing long-term profitability.
“The next 20 years of appointed time printing will be marked by substantial growth and innovation.”
WHAT EXCITES YOU ABOUT THIS YEAR AND WILL MOTIVATE YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS TO SUCCEED?
This year excites us with the promising opportunities in the printing industry, particularly due to the upcoming election, which we anticipate will boost our screen printing revenue significantly. We are also thrilled to monitor and manage the growth of our publishing and packaging divisions. As this is our first year experiencing revenue and customer feedback in these areas, we are committed to refining our processes to meet and exceed customer expectations while effectively competing in the market. The increased demand for campaign materials and our expansion into publishing and packaging energize us to innovate and excel. By staying agile, investing in quality, and prioritizing customer satisfaction, we are confident in our ability to navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities. This dynamic environment fuels our motivation to succeed and drive the business forward.
ON A PERSONAL LEVEL, WHAT NEW HABITS DID YOU START AND ARE WORKING WELL FOR YOU THAT OTHERS CAN LEARN FROM?
On a personal level, I started practicing mindfulness and time management, which have been working exceptionally well for me. Mindfulness helps me stay focused and calm, allowing me to make more thoughtful decisions and see good results for every input made. Effective time management ensures I prioritize tasks efficiently, leading to increased productivity and better work-life balance.
I also believe in playing hard with my subordinates, creating a dynamic and energetic work environment. This approach not only fosters camaraderie but also encourages creativity and innovation. Furthermore, I empower my team to exceed their limitations by providing them with opportunities for growth, continuous learning, and challenging projects. This not only boosts their confidence but also drives the overall success of the team.
By adopting these habits, I have seen significant improvements in both personal and professional aspects of my life, and I encourage others to try them for enhanced performance and satisfaction.
WHAT ARE THE KEY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP TIPS THAT YOU KNOW WILL BE VITAL TO BUSINESS GROWTH AND SUSTAINABILITY?
Key customer relationship tips vital to business growth and sustainability include building trust through consistent communication, delivering on promises, and always meeting delivery deadlines. At Appointed Time Printing, my team believes in repeat business by offering more value for the money of our clients through high-quality products and exceptional customer service. We focus on understanding our clients’ needs, providing personalized solutions, and promptly addressing any issues. Ensuring customer satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships are central to our approach, as we aim to exceed expectations and make every client feel valued and appreciated.
ANY NEW PRODUCT OR SERVICE OFFERINGS TO DISTINGUISH YOU FROM THE COMPETITION?
We are excited to announce several new product and service offerings that distinguish us from the competition. We have diversified into publishing and packaging, expanding our capabilities and market reach. Currently, we have 54 titles of textbooks, ranging from pre-schools and primary schools up to the junior high level. Our goal is to promote these books across all schools in Ghana and explore partnerships in Nigeria and other West African countries to extend our educational impact.
Additionally, we have introduced mono-cutting packaging solutions tailored for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries, addressing the growing manufacturing needs of our country. These innovations not only meet the highest standards of quality and efficiency but also reinforce our commitment to supporting the local manufacturing sector. By continuously expanding and enhancing our offerings, we aim to provide unmatched value to our clients and solidify our position as a leader in the printing industry.
ARE THERE SPECIALS, PROMOS OR DISCOUNTS THAT YOU’RE OFFERING TO YOUR CLIENTS?
To celebrate our two decades of success in the printing industry in Ghana, we are thrilled to offer a special promotion as a token of our gratitude to our clients. We are extending a 20% discount on every business order throughout the entire year. This is our way of giving back to our loyal clients and the society in general for their unwavering support over the past 20 years. This promotion is a heartfelt thank you for helping us achieve this significant milestone. By providing this discount, we hope to continue fostering strong relationships and express our appreciation for the trust and loyalty our clients have shown us. This year-long offer underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional value and quality while celebrating our journey with those who have been integral to our success.
WHAT ASSURANCE ARE YOUR GIVING YOUR CUSTOMERS THIS YEAR 2024 AND BEYOND TO GUARANTEE YOUR COMMITMENT TO THEIR NEEDS ANYTIME, ANYDAY?
In 2024 and beyond, we assure our customers of our unwavering commitment to meeting their needs anytime, any day. At Appointed Time Printing, we are dedicated to continuously improving the quality of our services by enhancing our process flows and adhering to international standards. This ensures that our prints meet the highest international quality benchmarks.
We are leveraging digitalized industrialization to refine every aspect of our production process. By integrating advanced technology from ordering to finishing, we ensure that each product is meticulously tracked and checked for durability and exceptional quality. This technological integration allows us to maintain consistent excellence and reliability in every project we undertake.
Our commitment extends beyond just meeting expectations; we aim to exceed them by delivering superior products and unparalleled customer service. We recognize the importance of evolving with industry advancements, and we invest in state-of-the-art equipment and training to keep our team at the forefront of the printing industry.
Furthermore, we value the trust our clients place in us and are dedicated to fostering long-term relationships built on transparency, reliability, and excellence. By consistently delivering high-quality prints and ensuring timely delivery, we guarantee that our clients can depend on us for all their printing needs, now and in the future. As we always say to our clients: ‘Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we are committed to being your trusted partner in success’.
AS ELECTION YEAR, WHAT ARE YOUR EXPECTATIONS BEFORE AND AFTER THE GENERAL ELECTION?
As we approach the election year, our expectations are both hopeful and strategic. Before the general election, we anticipate a significant increase in demand for election paraphernalia, a market we have consistently supported over five successive elections. Despite the current challenges posed by the depreciation of the Cedi, we are committed to maintaining competitiveness in pricing, quality, and affordability.
Our goal is to provide parliamentarians with high-quality election materials, thereby gaining their confidence and fostering long-term business relationships. We believe that delivering exceptional election paraphernalia will open doors for future transactions and collaborations.
We are optimistic that our dedication to quality and service will solidify our reputation as a trusted partner in the printing industry, ensuring sustained growth and success for our business.
FINALLY; WHAT WILL THE NEXT 20 YEARS OF APPOINTED TIME PRINTING BE LIKE?
The next 20 years of Appointed Time Printing will be marked by substantial growth and innovation. We anticipate our business expanding twentyfold, building on the solid foundation we have established from our beginnings to where we are now. This success journey has provided invaluable experiences that will continue to guide us forward.
We will constantly develop agile strategies to adapt to the evolving market landscape, ensuring that we meet and exceed the changing needs of our customers. By investing in cutting-edge technology, we aim to streamline our operations and enhance our service offerings, maintaining our commitment to quality and efficiency.
Our vision includes becoming a leader not only in printing but also in publishing and packaging, with a strong presence across West Africa. We are excited about the future and dedicated to making the next two decades even more successful, innovative, and impactful for our clients and the communities we serve.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR TIME
It’s my pleasure
BRIEF ABOUT MRS. JACQUELINE AFFUL & APPOINTED TIME PRINTING
With zeal to make a difference in the printing sector in Ghana where indigenous print service providers compete favourably with international printing firms, Jacqueline Afful is a passionate finance professional, chartered accountant, and print professional with over a decade of experience in the printing industry. Married with three lovely children, the consummate business strategist currently serve as the Managing Director at Appointed Time Printing, a subsidiary of the Jospong Group of Companies.
As one of the leading printing firms in Ghana, Appointed Time Printing humbly began operations in 2003 initially focusing solely on screen printing but over time, expanded her product lines to include commercial printing, digital printing, and publishing. This diversification has allowed the forward-looking firm to meet the growing and varied needs of her clients, in the process – maintaining commitment to quality and excellence. No wonder Appointed Time Printing won The Most Cost Efficient Subsidiary, The Best Subsidiary Profitability and Exceeding 2023 Planned PBT Target amongst Jospong Group of Companies in 2023 Business Year.
Currently, Appointed Time Printing has also ventured into packaging business, reflecting her continuous growth and adaptation to market demands. With two branches located in Adabraka and Spintex, the revolutionary press is well-positioned to serve her clients more effectively. As Mrs. Afful puts it: “Our dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction drives us to keep enhancing our services and expanding our reach. At Appointed Time Printing, we look forward to continuing our journey of growth and success, setting new standards in the industry.”
