Interview with Hemlock Printers- Richard

We recently spoke with Richard from Hemlock Printers. This is our interview with him.

Tell us about your company

-          We are based in Burnaby and have been operating for 46 years

-          Our location is primarily in the Lower Mainland but we do have offices in Victoria

-          We also have locations along the Western United States (San Francisco, Seattle, etc) that account for a third of our sales

-          All businesses are in commercial printing

-          Founded by Richard’s father in 1968. It is a family business

What are some popular sustainable products and services that your company has?

-Within the last 8 years, there have been more sustainable products

-Started in sustainable/recycled papers

-Over time, grown our paper industry. 10% to 100% post-consumer content

-Paper side is big with sustainability

-Last 5 years, did carbon footprinting

-Did a full life cycle

-Got clients more involved with sustainability

What is your competition like?

-Lots of competition

-Lots of options for clients makes it difficult

-Environmental conscience provides an additional take and potential advantage to the company

-Have a good service model

-Adapted technology to get a step over the competition

What does sustainability mean to you?

-Looking at the reality of our lives on this planet

-Need to ensure health on life on earth

-Bring new products, services and stay innovative for sustainability

-Corporations and businesses should step up in the sustainability department

-Sustainability is also important for innovation going forward

-Very important for youth to get involved

What is some advice for youth who are looking to go into a similar field?

-Think independently and learn to apply your skills

-Be very open and honest with people

-Enjoy what they do

-Set short and long term goals for oneself

How does one go about working at Hemlock?

-Hemlock does have interns/new employees

-Generally come from Ryerson or BCIT

-Students can look for internships online or on job boards at school

-More of a specialization than a general degree.

Thanks to Richard for taking part in this interview!