The annual IPIA networking lunch, the first physical event for 2024, took place on Wednesday 19 June, at the stunning sky restaurant Orelle, Birmingham, to much success.
Delegates, who ranged from printers, print buyers, and suppliers through to designers and technology developers, were invited to arrive from midday and were greeted with refreshments and a stunning view of the Birmingham cityscape. Once seated in the restaurant, compere for the afternoon and IPIA general manager Brendan Perring let invitees know the usual changing table between courses, to enable further networking, would be happen again this year.
As the wine flowed and the hum of light business chat filled the space, it was soon time for IPIA chair Charles Rogers to address the room. Speaking of his time as chair, Mr Rogers also addressed the need for collaboration throughout the industry and how the rapid development of digital technology will push print forward.
Next to the lectern was the afternoon’s guest speaker, Rob Cross. As joint managing director of Micropress, he told the audience of how the business was founded by his father in 1974, and through vision, forward thinking and adaptability, Micropress has become a substantial trade printer with a very healthy annual turnover. Mr Cross closed his speech by commenting that continued investment in the business has driven Micropress onwards and looks forward to another 50 years of print.
The afternoon was wrapped up by Mr Perring, with all attendees commenting that the networking opportunity during the reception and meal would pay dividends for their own businesses going forward.
The next in-person IPIA event is the Autumn Conference on Thursday 29 August and will be held at The Manufacturing Technology Centre, Coventry.
