THE BPIF 'S ANNUAL PRINT RECEPTION

The hugely successful event gave members the opportunity to hear from the host Lord Teverson, Louisa Bull from
Unite the Union, and Charles Jarrold, CEO of the BPIF.

Charles Jarrold made reference to the release of the new UK Printing Facts & Figures document published by the BPIF to set out detailed information on the structure of the industry by region and product, as well as covering its economic importance and its productivity. It also highlights the effectiveness and sustainability of print as a modern communications medium. “It’ll come as no surprise to hear it’s a £13.7 billion industry, with over 7000 companies,” Charles told the crowd. “It’s the fifth largest print sector on the planet, and second in Europe, so it really is an important powerhouse.”

The latest edition of InPrint magazine was released on the day which featured the 2022/23 Annual Review. The
review provides an update on the BPIF’s activities, key focuses and achievements for the year, as well as an overview
of their future plans. The speeches at the event focused on how the industry and the BPIF is focused on sustainability, young people in print, new technology and future proofing the industry. The highlights of the afternoon included presentations of awards within the industry.

Stationers will be delighted to learn that Liveryman Richard Walker from Harlow Printing was presented with the Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Printing Industry. Charles Jarrold, on presenting the award, described him as “a business leader and true industry veteran,” and having “really made an outstanding contribution over many years” with involvement across many areas.

The Kathy Woodward award, sponsored by Webmart, was presented to Greg Fitzgerald from Bell & Bain. The award,
presented by Dr Simon Biltcliffe, was launched in memory of the BPIF’s much-loved CEO who sadly passed away in
2015, and supports individuals in the print, packaging and graphic design industries to further their careers.

The Victor Watson Trophy was presented to Ryan O’Leary from Adare SEC. The award, launched in memory of Victor
Watson CBE Dl to recognise a Young Person of Outstanding Achievement, was sponsored by The Printing Charity.
“It’s always a great joy to be able to participate in this reception,” said Charles. “The links between political and
business decision makers are always important, but, perhaps now more than ever in a world with challenges, and an
economy finely balanced. I’m delighted at the effort that our team, and all the sector associations, put in to
strengthen those links.”