Latin American Leader Responds to David Gibbons Retirement

I’ve written hundreds of editorials, but this one differs from all. It’s not just about recognizing a colleague, partner, and friend; it’s about honoring a big man who has also been a giant in the global Aftermarket industry.

Recently, David Gibbons informed me that he would step down as International Communications Director at Comexposium Recycling Times (C-RT) on Friday, December 20, 2024. Many of you may know him from events, expos, his articles, or even his InTouch TV series. Here, I’ll share some insights into his impact on my story and that of Guía del Reciclador in Latin America.

Early Steps in the Aftermarket Media

David Gibbons entered the industry in 1992, founding his own printer cartridge remanufacturing business in Sydney and later serving as CEO and public relations director for the Australasian Cartridge Remanufacturers Association (ACRA).

In 2005, I had the opportunity to meet him in São Paulo, where he participated as a speaker and a delegate for the UK-based The Recycler magazine at a fantastic conference organized by Guía del Reciclador for Brazil’s major buyers. Even in brief conversations, I recognized his talent as a communicator. Our encounter was brief, and we lost contact.

David Gibbons at The Recycler Conference in São Paulo, Brazil, 2005

Arrival in the Capital of Consumables

Years later, I heard from David again when, in 2011, he made a decision that would define his professional and personal future: accepting an invitation from Tony Lee and Sabrina Lo to travel to Zhuhai, China to join Recycling Times magazine to develop its international publishing and event strategies.

“I thought I’d be there for a few months, a year at most, but 12 years later, I was still there,” David shared. His extended stay wasn’t just about work. “I met and married the lovely Judy ten years ago. We still have our apartment in Zhuhai, China’s most livable city, and we plan to return regularly.”

During these years, the industry’s focus shifted from the United States and Europe to China, particularly Zhuhai, which became globally recognized as the “World Capital of Consumables,” home to leading manufacturers of printing supplies.

Under David’s guidance, Recycling Times and the RemaxWorld Expo experienced exponential growth. His ability to lead and train the local team transformed these initiatives, making RemaxWorld the largest event in the sector. “I found a team eager to learn how Westerners think,” David remarked.

The Master Plan

Amid this growth, David devised an ambitious plan: to unite Aftermarket leaders worldwide to support the industry’s global expansion. He connected with top market leaders, speakers, thinkers, and editors to foster a virtuous synergy of knowledge.

“My greatest achievement was bringing together industry leaders from around the world to organize events and publish content that informed, educated, and nurtured the global industry,” David reflected.

One of his key partnerships was with the renowned Art Diamond. To honor Diamond’s legacy, David introduced the annual Diamond Pioneer Award, celebrating the industry’s innovators and trailblazers.

David and Art Diamond in Ventura, California, and with Tony Lee and Tricia Judge  in Zhuhai, China

VIP Events and Latin America

In January 2018, I received an email from David about potential collaborations in Latin America. We chose Bogotá as our meeting point in May, and a single coffee was enough to realize we were on the same page.

We saw that the best model for the market was to promote a unified media channel in the region and organize VIP events where major buyers from each country could meet face-to-face with relevant global manufacturers and distributors. Together, we hosted nine successful events across Latin America (in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, and Peru) and extended the model to Africa and the Middle East.

Left to right: at the heights of Cerro de Monserrate (Bogotá, Colombia, 2019), at the Obelisk and 9 de Julio Avenue (Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2023), and at the hotel entrance (with police guard) where the Lagos event (Nigeria, 2024) was held.

Coffee on Paulista Avenue (São Paulo, Brazil, 2023) and VIP upgraded flight segment between Nigeria and Kenya ( 2024).

David’s Market Perspective

David’s unique experience as an independent media participant and a Westerner in China gives him a broad perspective on the industry.

“Chinese-compatible products have entered all markets,” he explained. “They’ve become a threat to the status quo, leading to frustration, anger, and lies.”

David also commented on the ongoing dispute between Ninestar and the U.S. government: “Many haven’t asked the hard questions about the real reason behind Ninestar’s ban. Let’s be honest: some enjoy seeing one of China’s largest companies punished. This is about ‘chips and trade,’ not Uyghur forced labor.”

At the same time, he didn’t shy away from criticizing Chinese manufacturers: “Some continue flooding global markets with low-cost, poor-quality compatibles. ETIRA’s recent findings suggest many of these cartridges fail to meet EU environmental standards. We need fairly priced products that meet quality, ethical, and environmental benchmarks.”

David’s Retirement

I admit the news of his retirement brought a wave of melancholy. Our weekly meetings and event travels have become part of my routine. But after so many years abroad, I understand that he’s earned the reward of returning home to a beautiful new house near Sydney, where he can enjoy a more relaxed life with Judy.

Knowing David, however, he won’t sit still for long. “I won’t just curl up in a corner and do nothing,” he said when I asked about his plans. “I have skills and experience I’ll use to help companies improve their communications, marketing, and branding.”

David leaves the industry, but his legacy is unforgettable. His conviction and leadership helped thousands around the world find solutions for their businesses and access new opportunities. He set an innovative standard for informing and educating, elevating the quality of media with his talent and professionalism.

I am fortunate to have been one of the many beneficiaries of his generosity.

Last day of the event in Lima, Peru (June 2024), and feeding a giraffe in Nairobi, Kenya (April 2024).

Related:

• David Gibbons Announces Retirement After 32 Years in the Imaging Industry

Gustavo Molinatti graduated in Architecture from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. He is the editor of Guía del Reciclador, the leading Spanish-language media on printer cartridge aftermarket and printing solutions in Latin America. First published in 2002, it has released over 200 editions and organized more than 40 events in countries like Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, Chile, Peru, Nigeria, Kenya and UAE. Guía del Reciclador also runs a blog, www.blogdelreciclador.com, and weekly newsletters. You can contact him at gmolinatti@guiadelreciclador.com

Comment:
Please add your comments below about my blog, “Latin American Leader Responds to David Gibbons Retirement,” or go to my LinkedIn page and leave a comment there.