The IPIA will host its annual Recognising Excellence event on December 2nd in Stratford-upon-Avon, with this year’s celebration marking a series of changes to the print association’s senior leadership
The Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA) will celebrate the print industry’s ability to connect at its upcoming Recognising Excellence 2026 event, which returns to the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-upon-Avon on December 2nd.
Combining an expo, networking lunch, gala dinner, and the annual Recognising Excellence Awards, the event will bring together printers, trade houses, print buyers, agencies, technology developers, media specialists, and suppliers from across the UK print industry.
Recognising Excellence 2026 will mark a new chapter for the association’s leadership, as Charles Rogers moves from the role of IPIA president to the association’s Advisory Board.
Rogers will also become a lifetime member of the association, an accolade which recognises his longstanding service and contribution to the IPIA.
Alasdair Browne, director at Abbot Print, will become the IPIA’s new president, with Mark Stephenson of The Spark Organisation becoming chair, and Eight Group chief executive officer Lance Hill stepping up from committee chair to become vice chair.
Speaking about the changes at the IPIA, Browne says: “This year is particularly special because we can celebrate everything Charles has given to the association. His leadership, commitment, and belief in the IPIA have helped us become what we are today and I’m delighted his experience will remain with us.
“At the same time, we are looking forward. Mark brings tremendous energy and passion as our new chair, Lance has already contributed enormously through our Council and our committees, and I know they will make a formidable team. There is no better place to mark that transition than surrounded by our members and friends at Recognising Excellence.”
The daytime programme for Recognising Excellence will see the return of the IPIA Expo and Business Networking Hub, providing an interactive showcase of the latest products, technology, media, and services shaping the sector.
The networking lunch aims to provide an informal environment for people from across the print supply chain to strengthen existing relationships, make new connections, and explore opportunities to work together.
The evening will include a champagne reception and three-course black-tie gala dinner. The Recognising Excellence Awards will then celebrate the achievements of IPIA members, followed by the return of ‘stand-up bingo’ and live entertainment into the night.
The Awards seek to shine a spotlight on the achievements of members, recognising the businesses and individuals whose innovation, leadership, collaboration, and commitment are helping the print industry thrive.
Natalie Evans, IPIA associate general manager and event lead, adds: “The Awards matter because behind every great business, innovation, and collaboration are people putting in the work and helping others succeed.
“Recognising Excellence gives us the chance to celebrate them properly. But I also love the breadth of the day – you can discover the latest technology, explore new developments in media, meet potential partners and customers, strengthen relationships with fellow members, and then enjoy fantastic hospitality and entertainment together.”
