With the UK print industry continuing to go through a sustained period of rapid structural change—characterised by both growth and consolidation in different sectors—the IPIA is reporting that 2019 is seeing a growing trend of strong membership engagement across its initiatives and events.
“The signs are very good for the print industry in the UK. Despite the political backdrop over the last two years, we are seeing amazing positivity and levels of engagement on the ground,” explains Mike Roberts, Chairman of the IPIA Council and Managing Director of PMG.
He continues: “Whether it is our conferences, networking lunches, our publications, or usage of our business and marketing services, we are seeing great attendance and engagement.
“In particular our EPIC conference on July 3rd has seen a groundswell of support from the print industry due to its core goal of educating major print buyers from across the UK about the technical capabilities and strength of print as a channel to market—especially when it is used as part of a full integrated communications strategy.”
Delegates to EPIC will also hear from world leading marketeers, who will help them revaluate their own business strategy, as well as giving them insight into how they can solve their customers challenges more effectively.
Roberts concludes: “A key factor is that the print industry is now starting to see itself as a creative sector that provides solutions to their customer’s communications challenges, versus being a production led industry that leaves the thinking and creativity to the customer.”
Marian Stefani, IPIA CEO explains what has underpinned the success of the EPIC campaign to date: "The IPIA is so energised to be working hand in hand with members, industry bodies, and the trade media to reach out and drive an initiative that is based on collaboration for the greater good of all those involved in it.
“We are the only association that is really reaching out to the buyers and end-users of print – marketers in brand and agency. As such we are opening up conversations and bridging the gap that existed between the two industries, so each has a better understanding of the other’s needs.
“We urge the industry to investigate EPIC (epicthinking.net) and come along if possible—June 3rd at Congress, London—so they can be inspired to solve some of the fundamental challenges facing our sector, network with print buyers and their peers, hear from disruptive thinkers on how to provide added value for their customers, and come away energised to create positive change in the businesses.”
Having recently undergone a full rebrand and evaluation of its core purpose, the IPIA is now guided by its “Connect, Inspire. Amaze” mission statement. Which in full reads:
• We CONNECT likeminded people across the print industry to strengthen the long-term health of the sector and create new business opportunities
• We INSPIRE through thought provoking conferences and events so that our members businesses can adapt and thrive
• We AMAZE by showcasing innovation in products and services to support our members and the wider industry.
