The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) and the British Association for Print & Communication (BAPC) have joined forces to ’embark on a new journey and bring together the strengths of both organisations to create an enhanced trade association.’
Sidney Bobb, who assumes the role of BAPC president following more than three decades as chairman, comments, ‘In these times of unprecedented change it is important that the leading industry bodies work together.
‘That is why we have chosen to merge the BAPC with the IPIA, combing all our respective strengths and values, to support all the members and deliver the most comprehensive range of services possible.’
Graeme Smith, chairman of the IPIA added, ‘We believe this is the next step in our evolution as we as look to build a stronger organisation that supports the business of print as it creates a new normal.
‘What is absolutely critical to this endeavour is that we empower our members to realise the value they represent to the end-customer, and how they can leverage that to improve their long-term business prospects, and ultimately, their profitability.’
Brendan Perring, general manager of the IPIA, and now chairman of BAPC, commented, ‘I have worked with Sidney and the BAPC for more than a decade, and our two organisations have already developed a strong bond and partnership. Both trade associations will retain their unique values and character, but by combining our operational assets and conducting platform sharing, the whole will no doubt be greater than the sum of its parts.
‘I would also like to extend a personal debt of gratitude to Sidney, who has been a business mentor to me for many years. I have watched how he and the BAPC have helped thousands of businesses in our sector to navigate a sustained period of intense and rapid evolution, and he is held in very high esteem by us all. Working closely with him as president will be another great adventure for us both.’
