Lunar New Year boost for printing companies

Lunar New Year boost for printing companies
By Evelyn Lam, Evelyn Choo | Posted: 03 February 2011 1833 hrs

SINGAPORE: Spending habits have taken a leap from the past as Singapore ushers in the Year of the Rabbit.

Printing houses making 'hongbaos' (red packets) are rushing to meet increased demand for the Lunar New Year.

One company said business saw a twofold increase from last year and its clients are spending more with a better economy in sight.

Tan Eng Hock, who is the owner of Wah Mee Silk Screen, said: "Big companies have increased their budget from $5,000 to $20,000. And small companies have upped theirs from $500 to $2,000. They can now afford special printing services, like embroidery on cards and calendars."

But Mr Tan does not see a similar jump in profits.

He said production costs have gone up by 50 per cent, with raw materials like paper and ink costing more.

This, in turn, has downplayed revenue.

Riding on the zodiac calendar, bunny-themed red packets are the way to go.

For instance, specially-designed rabbit motifs are each distributed to visitors across 39 museums in Singapore.

Alvin Tan, Chairman, Museum Roundtable, said: "We wanted to feature the Chinese zodiac animal, and at the same time highlight the uniqueness of each of our museums. So for instance, for the Asian Civilisations Museum, the rabbit will be wearing the empress robe. And for the Peranakan Museum, the rabbit will be wearing a kebaya."

The museums hope this promotion will entice more people to hop over for a visit.

- CNA/fa

- wong chee tat :)