Yet again for 2025, we’re bringing back our popular festive spotlight — featuring regional businesspeople from across the north. We’ll be quizzing a notable name with 12 quickfire questions. Today it is the turn of Samantha Overton, managing director of Zebra Print Group.

1. What were you hoping to achieve by December when you sat down in January, and did you get there?

Coming into January, my goal was to build on the momentum we created in 2024 and really strengthen Zebra Print Group’s resilience and capability as we moved into a new chapter. After losing my dad, our founder, in September 2024, it was important to me that we honoured his legacy by growing with purpose, pushing innovation and empowering the team to shine.

Looking back now, I’m proud to say we did just that as we’ve broadened our services, deepened client partnerships and embraced smarter, more efficient ways of working, all while staying true to our values.

2. Tell us about three moments from 2025 that made you proud of your business.

First, watching the team confidently adopt new technologies and processes - they’ve all leaned into change with real enthusiasm which has been wonderful to witness. Second, seeing long-standing clients trust us with bigger, more strategic projects because they know we’ll deliver with creativity, quality and care.


Third, the way the whole business pulled together after a challenging couple of years, and to have this unity, pride and sheer graft recognised by being shortlisted for a Yorkshire and Humberside Family Business Award - I couldn’t be prouder of the team.

3. What's been your biggest headache this year?

Agility has been our superpower, but it also brings pressure and the biggest challenge has been keeping pace with the rapid shifts in technology and client expectations. Like many in the industry, we’ve also felt the squeeze of rising costs and timelines that never seem to slow down, but good planning (and Yorkshire grit) go a long way.

4. If you had to describe 2025 using a Christmas film title, which would you choose?

It would definitely be The Holiday starring Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jack Black and Jude Law. 2025 has been a year of perspective, fresh starts and a few plot twists, but overall it’s been an uplifting year, full of heart and built on strong relationships.

5. What's your number one priority when the office reopens in January?

To hit the ground running with a sharper, more data-led approach and continue developing the brilliant people in our team, giving them more room to innovate is high on my list.

6. Which business in the region has caught your eye this year - for all the right reasons?

The Yorkshire business community is packed with forward-thinkers, but I’m especially inspired by companies that champion innovation and sustainability while keeping relationships at the heart of what they do, which are values we hold close at Zebra Print Group.


7. Crystal ball time: what does 2026 hold for businesses like yours?

Print is evolving faster than ever and I think 2026 will be the year personalisation and targeted campaigns truly take centre stage, powered by smarter data and automation. Printers who combine technology with craftsmanship and human-led service will thrive.

8. This Christmas, are you a "full production" household or a "feet up and telly" one?

A joyful mix of both! I love hosting, organising and getting everyone together but once the plates are cleared, I’m all for cosy nights, good telly and switching off.

9. Crackers, Brussels sprouts, or pudding – which one best describes your year?

Crackers - this year has been full of surprises, plenty of laughter and the odd bang along the way.

10. Which business book, podcast or piece of advice has been your "surprise hit" of the year?

The best advice has been simple: Be bold earlier. So many of this year’s wins came from decisions I could have made sooner, and it’s something I’ll carry firmly into 2026.

11. As you wind down for the festive break, what are you most looking forward to switching off from?

While I adore what I do, I’ll be glad to have a little break from the constant face-paced nature of our industry. Stepping away from the to-do lists, decision-making and overflowing inbox to spend time with family, preferably by the coast, is exactly what I need and I can’t wait to slow down a little over the festive period.



12. In 25 words or fewer, what would you say to your customers, teams and stakeholders as we head into 2026?

Thank you for your trust, collaboration and support this year. Here’s to a bold, innovative and opportunity-filled 2026 driven by great people and great partnerships.

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