The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) has revealed it is to use its presence at the inaugural edition of The Print Show to help its members from across the UK gain valuable exposure.

Due to take place at Birmingham’s NEC from October 13th to 15th, The Print Show will give printing companies the chance to view some of the latest technology on offer. 

The IPIA has taken the biggest stand so far at the event, with the body planning to use its 204 sqm stand to help its members showcase themselves to visitors. This will be done through the use of individual pods within the stand where each firm will be represented and have the chance to showcase their talents. 

IPIA chief executive, Marian Stefani, said, ‘We think that we should get behind any initiative that supports our industry. Businesses need to share information, educate and inform their owners, directors, staff and ultimately customers.

‘Trade shows have a key part to play in this process. If we don’t have fresh events and people prepared to try new things then we will end up with just the vendor-supported shows. Those are great and we will continue to work with the businesses that put them on but we do also need something new and inviting for the whole industry.

‘We have a number of our members coming to share the stand and showcase their trade services.  Any printer, print manager, trade buyer or indeed anyone who outsources anything to enhance their own production offering from print and finishing through to mailing, web-to-print, crossmedia or promotional gifts should come and visit us.’ 

IPIA will also be running its popular ‘Meet the Trade Buyer’ event at the show, with buyers encouraged to come along and meet with suppliers.

Ms Stefani added, ‘We were due to have one of our big Meet the Trade Buyer events in October and thought that bringing it to the show was a great idea. It has always been a great event for us in the past and we think the show will add an extra bit of interest.

‘We also host some legendary networking lunches and dinners for members and guests-which is the fun part of the association. You might be surprised how many new contacts are made at the bar so we will have the Gala Dinner on the Wednesday evening with a great speaker and band so everyone can continue networking while they unwind and enjoy themselves.’