The IPIA asks print to look beyond the margin

The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) is setting out to tackle a critical issue for the print industry at its Annual Conference on August 28th – how to achieve business growth, seize opportunity and overcome an array of market challenges.

Held at the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry, 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, comments: “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.”

The conference will encourage delegates to explore the new markets, smarter processes and fresh thinking that allow businesses not just to survive, but to evolve and thrive.

Inspirational speakers and practical insights

This year’s conference offers a packed programme of expert talks and debates that reflect the theme of venturing ‘beyond the margin’. Delegates will hear from leaders across the print, mail, finance, economics and sustainability sectors – each sharing business intelligence and analysis that reveal routes to adaptation and commercial success.

Together these sessions will explore significant growth markets for print, the power of personalisation and mail, how to advocate for print and paper’s sustainability, the UK’s economic outlook, as well as the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence.

Katerina Lisenkova, Senior Economist at NatWest, will deliver the keynote address, exploring 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 deep expertise in 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. Katerina will help delegates identify areas of resilience and the adaptation strategies that can be employed for long-term sustainability and growth. With a PhD in Economics and a career spanning NatWest, the Fraser of Allander Institute, and the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, she brings a powerful blend of academic rigour and real-world insight to her analysis of the UK economy within an international context.

A full day of networking and discovery

Beyond the speaker programme, delegates can immerse themselves in the Technology Expo and Networking Hub, where an array of technology developers and suppliers will showcase innovations and discuss sector trends. This space is designed to spark new partnerships and

ideas that strengthen business competitiveness. The conference ticket includes all refreshments and hospitality throughout the day – starting with networking and breakfast at 9:00, four conference sessions, breaks for networking and lunch, before concluding with a drinks reception at 16:00.

Peter Horwood, Chair of the IPIA’s Networking and Collaboration Committee, adds: “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 – which include all food and refreshments. The venue offers ample free parking, and the nearest railway stations are Coventry (from the south) and Nuneaton (from the north).

For full details and to book your place, visit: ipia.org.uk/ac25

ENDS

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Photo captions

1. Delegates at the 2025 IPIA Annual Conference will collaborate and share ideas as they explore fresh growth opportunities ‘Beyond the Margin’

2. Katerina Lisenkova, Senior Economist at NatWest, will deliver the keynote address, exploring the major global forces reshaping our economic future – from climate and demographic shifts to geopolitical tension and inflation

3. The Expo and Networking Hub at the MTC Coventry buzzes with activity as print professionals discover new technologies and form partnerships that will shape the future of the industry

About the IPIA

Founded in 1992, the IPIA is a print industry, not for profit, membership association. It is deeply committed to supporting its members and helping them excel by expanding their business horizons, grow using targeted member collaboration, adapt to ever evolving market forces, and thrive through mutual support.

For more information or interviews please contact: Brendan Perring Brendan@ipia.org.uk ~ 0796 962 8839

THE IPIA ASKS PRINT TO LOOK ‘BEYOND THE MARGIN’