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Business leaders and printers were invited to the House of Lords in London last week
The British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF) held its Annual Print Reception at the House of Lords last week which saw a variety of print industry professionals come together and connect.
The reception was hosted by Lord Teverson, a member of the House of Lords since 2006 and a member of the Liberal Democrats. He is also chairman of Wessex Investors and was previously a councillor and MEP for the European Parliament.
Attendees got to hear from Teverson as well as Charles Jarrold, chief executive officer of the BPIF, and Louisa Bull from Unite the Union.
Bull made particular reference to the struggles of workers throughout the UK in 2023 and the challenges the Union has faced when challenging the government, referring to the British workforce as navigating increased challenges ‘with one arm tied behind their back’.
Automation and robotics was another challenge Bull highlighted, emphasising that such processes require regulation in order for people and businesses to stay ahead of developments.
In his speech Jarrold referenced the newly released UK Printing Facts & Figures document published by the BPIF to highlight the structure of the print industry by region and product.
“It’ll come as no surprise to hear it’s a £13.7bn industry, with over 7,000 companies,” said Jarrold, who added: “It’s the fifth largest print sector on the planet, and second in Europe, so it really is an important powerhouse.”
Speaking about the importance of the event, Jarrold said: “It’s always a great joy to be able to participate in this reception. 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.”
The event also gave the opportunity to reward individuals in the industry with a variety of awards. Dr Simon Biltcliffe from Webmart presented The Kathy Woodward award to Greg Fitzgerald from Bell & Bain, a large-format print company based in Glasgow and the oldest printers in the UK (established in 1831).
Ryan O’Leary from Adare SEC won The Victor Watson Trophy, sponsored by the Printing Charity, an award launched in memory of Victor Watson CBE DI to recognise a Young Person of Outstanding Achievement.
Finally, the award for Outstanding Contribution to the Printing Industry went to business veteran Richard Walker from Harlow Printing who was recognised for his legacy and dedication to print.
The BPIF will continue to educate and bring the industry together through its various workshops throughout the year, as well as a celebration of print and creative businesses in Yorkshire on August 1st, 2023.
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