The British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) marked its 125th anniversary by bringing together members from across the print industry for a day of discussion reflecting on the sector’s past, present and future before concluding with the annual Print Industry Reception at the House of Lords.
BPIF chief executive Charles Jarrold at the Parliamentary Reception
Held at the St Bride Foundation in London on 14 July, BPIF Members’ Day combined the federation’s Annual General Meeting with a series of panel discussions exploring how the industry has evolved, the challenges it faces today and the opportunities that could shape its future.
Opening the event, BPIF chief executive Charles Jarrold reflected on the federation’s 125-year history and outlined its priorities for the year ahead. During the AGM, he was joined by Mandy Robson, Darren Shepherd, Karly Lattimore, Ian Conetta and Jonathan Dul to discuss the organisation’s recent progress, future ambitions and the role the BPIF will continue to play in supporting the industry.
The afternoon programme was structured around three themed panel discussions. The first, hosted by Printweek contributing editor Jo Francis, explored the history of print and the milestones that have shaped the industry. This was followed by a panel chaired by Print Monthly editor David Osgar, which examined the current state of the sector and how print businesses have continued to adapt through transformation, diversification and collaboration.
The final discussion looked ahead to the next phase of the industry’s development. Chaired by Digital Printer editor Chris Brock, the panel brought together BPIF economist Kyle Jardine, Aaron Leishman of Bluetree Group and Anthony Rowell of Tradeprint to discuss the potential impact of artificial intelligence, robotics, automation and wider industry trends over the coming years.
Although each panel focused on a different stage in the industry’s journey, common themes emerged throughout the day, including the importance of innovation, investment in skills and collaboration to help businesses respond to changing technologies and market demands.
Following the sessions, delegates travelled aboard a vintage Routemaster bus to the House of Lords for the annual Print Industry Reception, hosted by Lord Teverson. Guests also heard from Peter Hughes of Unite the Union, who spoke about the challenges and opportunities facing the sector, including education and the importance of a coordinated industrial strategy.
The reception also saw the presentation of two industry awards. Izelda Lala received the Kathy Woodward Award for Learning, sponsored by Webmart and presented by its founder Simon Biltcliffe, recognising her achievements following the completion of her apprenticeship at Baker Labels. Daniel Mydlowski of Blackmore and Chloe Welham of Two Sides were highly commended.
The Award for Outstanding Achievement to the Printing Industry was presented to Debbie Mellett, managing director of Label-Form, in recognition of her leadership, commitment to mentoring and long-standing contribution to the print sector.
Marking a milestone year for the federation, Members’ Day celebrated the BPIF’s history while focusing firmly on the conversations that will help shape the future of British print
