CEBU CITY – With more candidates vying for position in the May 2010 elections, the local printing industry expects at least a 30% growth in revenue this year with advanced job orders for the May 2010 elections.

Edmun Liu, Chief Executive Officer of Cebu-based printer Basic Graphics Inc., said the increase in demand for banners, posters and flyers during the election season is seen to account for 30 to 40 percent of industry revenue by year-end.

However, Liu said while most local candidates have their campaign materials printed in the City, national politicians bring their materials from their Manila headquarters.

“They could print their materials here at lower cost, considering they will not have to pay for shipping cost," he said.

Although television has now become a popular medium to promote candidates, Liu said print materials are always an effective means for candidates to campaign with the masses.

“Flyers and posters are cost-effective, especially for local candidates. In general, the industry will see more local candidates and those seeking for a national post to take advantage of the printing business beginning next month,” Liu said.

Elections, he said, is an opportunity for the commercial printing sub-sector to expand their usual client-base composed mainly of export industry players, including those involved in furniture, fashion accessories, gifts, toys and housewares, and garments, among others, who are in need of quality, high-end advertising and marketing materials.