Ian Schofield
With a rich and diverse career in packaging and printing, my journey began as a Packaging Technologist/Engineer at CO-OP in Manchester. I had the unique opportunity to work across a range of manufacturing facilities, gaining hands-on experience with materials like cans, glass, plastics, paper, and board. This early foundation laid the groundwork for my deep understanding of the industry. Transitioning into roles in buying and marketing, I expanded my skill set and perspective. In 1984, I took on the role of Head of Packaging and Technical at the retailer Iceland, where I played a pivotal role in launching and establishing the Iceland brand. This experience ignited my passion for the intricate relationship between product and packaging.
As my career progressed, I ventured into the realm of product launch systems, collaborating with renowned brands such as Danone, Heinz, Estée Lauder, Kraft, and others. This involved overseeing design, artwork, and pre-press companies, where I witnessed first-hand the power of effective packaging in capturing consumer attention.
Returning to the retailer Iceland in 2013 as the Own Label Manager, I led initiatives across a network of 1000 stores in 42 countries. One of the highlights of my career was spearheading Iceland’s commitment in 2018 to become plastic-free by 2023, a move that underscored the growing importance of sustainability in the industry.
Through these experiences, I developed a keen interest in Digital Printing and its transformative potential. Today, I serve as a consultant in Print and Packaging, collaborating with industry leaders like Cabot Corporation to drive advancements in the Digital Print process and support the evolution of printing technologies.
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