Print industry lobbies government

If you are involved in the print industry, you have probably heard of the Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA). In April IPIA chair, Charles Rogers, visited Downing Street to lobby the government.

Printweek reported that Rogers met with two special advisers to the prime minister as part of the trade association’s efforts to grow the UK print industry. The meeting included a detailed overview of the UK as a top six global print producer, being responsible for nearly 8% of total UK manufacturing output.

The article also highlighted the challenges that inhibit the growth of the print and paper industry. Followed by presenting structural and strategic support requests such as:

  • The inclusion of print businesses in the Energy Intensive Industries Exemption Scheme.
  • Expansion of the existing capital allowances scheme on plant and machinery investment.
  • And very importantly, identification of the UK print and paper sector as an ‘industry of strategic value’ to the UK economy.

This meeting is significant in encouraging further growth of the sector especially for smaller print businesses like Stag Print. With the rising price of paper and ink along with many other increased costs to think about, any extra support will be welcomed.

Stag Print managing director, Sushil Patel, commented:

“The print industry is well established in the UK and employs hundreds of thousands of people. While traditional print such as business cards is declining, there are many pockets of growth including packaging print which is a primary focus for us. Companies are looking to produce high-quality, planet-friendly packaging – and no other form of packaging is more sustainable than folding carton boxes. It is imperative the UK print sector ensures its carton production capability remains on UK soil. We are enablers for the many companies looking to take their product to market in the most sustainable way possible.”

For example, one of Stag Print’s newest customers – The Colour Emporium which manufactures candles – was surprised to find that we make boxes right here in the UK just five miles from them. They were sourcing their boxes from abroad, so we offered them significantly reduced lead times within the same price point. They are, rightly so, proud of their local roots, and now both their product and packaging are local too.

Following on from this visit, Rogers attended another meeting hosted by deputy prime minister Oliver Dowden in May. The IPIA said this was part of a proactive response from the Government to its request for the identification of the UK print and paper sector as an ‘industry of strategic value’ to the UK economy.

The UK already has a great print industry. With a boost in government help and support, it could become greater still.