Meet Bella, Business Development Director of Colornet and a second-generation leader redefining what it means to grow a traditional business in a digital-first world. With a strong focus on transformation, innovation, and relationship-building, she is driving the company forward while honouring the legacy built by her father.
In an industry often seen as declining, Bella brings a fresh perspective by positioning print not as outdated, but as evolving. By integrating technology, enhancing customer experiences, and focusing on value over volume, she is shaping Colornet into a forward-looking solutions partner in Singapore’s rapidly changing business landscape.
As Business Development Director of Colornet, how do you see your role beyond just sales?
The title “Business Development Director” is quite common among second-generation business owners like myself. On the surface, it may seem focused on sales, but for me, it goes much deeper. It is about finding my own voice while leading the company forward, respecting the legacy my father built while evolving it for the future.
A big part of my role involves transformation, identifying new opportunities, strengthening relationships, and ensuring the business stays relevant in a changing landscape. Networking platforms and communities have also played a key role, allowing me to build meaningful connections and explore collaborations.
Beyond sales, I see my role as bridging the past and the future, building a strong team, empowering people, and creating a culture where we grow together.
Many people assume print is declining due to digital marketing. From your perspective, how does print still hold strong relevance today?
That assumption is partially true, especially with the strong push towards digitalisation in Singapore. Government initiatives and changing consumer behaviour have reduced the need for high-volume, low-value print, such as pamphlets and flyers. However, print is not declining. It is evolving.
It remains highly relevant in areas where physical presence and impact matter, such as packaging, event materials, signage, and premium printed collaterals. In fact, as digital channels become saturated, print can stand out even more by offering a tangible and lasting impression.
Today, print is less about volume and more about value such as creating meaningful touchpoints that complement digital strategies.
Colornet’s philosophy is “printing meets technology.” What does that look like in real client projects?
For us, it means going beyond producing printed materials to enhancing how print integrates with digital. For example, we incorporate QR codes into name cards or marketing materials, allowing users to access contact details, websites, or promotions instantly.
We also use variable data printing to personalise items such as event badges and direct mailers. On the hardware side, our digital printing technology enables premium finishes like metallic effects, which were traditionally only possible with high-volume conventional methods.
Today, we can offer these finishes in smaller, cost-effective batches. Ultimately, it is about making print smarter, more flexible, and more impactful within a broader customer journey.
Early on, I associated success with outcomes such as hitting targets and achieving milestones. Over time, I realised that success is equally about the process and personal growth.
What are the most common mistakes businesses make when designing marketing materials for print?
With the rise of tools like Canva, many businesses design materials without considering print requirements. Common mistakes include missing bleed settings, using low-resolution images, and designing in RGB instead of CMYK colour formats. These issues can lead to poor print quality or unwanted white borders after trimming.
While designs may look good on screen, the printed result can differ significantly. That is why it is important to design with print in mind and work closely with a trusted printer early in the process to avoid costly rework.
What has been the most unexpected lesson you have learned in business development within the printing industry?
One key lesson is that business development is not just about selling. It is about understanding and problem-solving. Clients often do not know exactly what they need; they may only have an idea, deadline, or budget. It is our role to guide them, ask the right questions, and provide suitable solutions.
Over time, I have learned to listen more carefully, manage expectations, and sometimes even advise against decisions that may not deliver the best outcome. Trust is crucial in this industry, and relationships matter just as much as price or product quality.
What belief did you once have about success that you later realised was completely wrong?
Early on, I associated success with outcomes such as hitting targets and achieving milestones. Over time, I realised that success is equally about the process and personal growth. Being in a traditionally male-dominated industry and stepping into a family business came with its challenges, and I often felt the need to prove myself through results.
However, I have learned that consistency, learning from the ground up, and building trust over time are just as important. Today, I see success as an ongoing journey of growth, resilience, and meaningful contribution.
What is your vision for Singapore in the next five years?
Singapore will continue to advance in digitalisation, sustainability, and innovation, especially among SMEs. Businesses will need to be more agile, tech-driven, and brand-focused. At the same time, we are seeing manufacturing shift to neighbouring countries, positioning Singapore as a hub for high-value services, innovation, and branding.
In the printing industry, this shift is already evident. Print is no longer just about production, but it is about creating brand experiences. At Colornet, we aim to evolve as a solutions partner, helping businesses communicate effectively through both traditional and modern print technologies.
If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be and why?
I would choose the ability to read minds. In my role, I work closely with clients, vendors, and internal teams, where communication is critical. Misunderstandings can affect timelines and outcomes. Being able to understand what people truly mean would make collaboration much more efficient and help resolve issues quickly.
Connect with Bella: Colornet, Instagram and Facebook.
Bella is a member of Rainmaker, a revolutionary movement that rallies like-minded people together based on the values of Love, Authenticity, Respect, Kindness and Youthfulness (LARKY).
