IPIA to Look 'Beyond the Margin' at Annual Conference
The event will also feature the Technology Expo and Networking Hub
The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) will focus on how to achieve business growth, seize opportunity, and overcome an array of market challenges at its Annual Conference later this month.
Set to be held at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry on 28 August, the event's theme is, 'Beyond the Margin – charting new territory for growth, adaptation and commercial success in print'.
Alasdair Browne, chair of the IPIA, said: "This year's theme reflects a pressing need for our industry to look past the immediate pressures of day to day operation, fighting to protect profit margins on existing work, and consider where future growth will come from.
"The conference brings together in-depth research, practical case studies and expert perspectives to help print businesses navigate those wider opportunities."
Delegates will hear from leaders across the print, mail, finance, economics, and sustainability sectors, each sharing business intelligence and analysis that the IPIA said will reveal routes to adaptation and commercial success.
Together the sessions will explore significant growth markets for print, the power of personalisation and mail, how to advocate for the sustainability of print and paper, and the UK's economic outlook, as well as the opportunities and challenges of AI.
Katerina Lisenkova, senior economist at NatWest, will deliver the keynote address which will explore the major global forces reshaping our economic future – from climate and demographic shifts to geopolitical tension and inflation.
With more than 20 years of research and consulting experience, and high expertise of macroeconomic modelling, she will assess how these trends are likely to impact UK industries, businesses and households.
"For print sector leaders, her insights offer vital foresight into the ripple effects of economic change – including supply chain disruption, labour market shifts, and regional disparities," the IPIA stated.
"Katerina will help delegates identify areas of resilience and the adaptation strategies that can be employed for long-term sustainability and growth."
As well as the speaker programme, the event will also feature the Technology Expo and Networking Hub, where a raft of technology developers and suppliers will showcase their products and discuss sector trends.
The conference ticket includes all refreshments and hospitality throughout the day, starting with networking and breakfast at 9am, four conference sessions, and breaks for networking and lunch, before concluding with a drinks reception at 4pm.
Peter Horwood, chair of the IPIA's Networking and Collaboration Committee, added: “Our focus is on creating a space where people can meet, exchange ideas and find potential partners without the pressure.
"The day allows plenty of time for conversations alongside the speaker sessions, so whether you're new to IPIA events or have attended before, it's a chance to connect with peers and explore what's next for your business."
Tickets cost £48 for IPIA and BAPC members and £84 for non members. The venue offers ample free parking, and the nearest railway stations are Coventry and Nuneaton.