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The paper company has joined the organisation in acknowledgment of the changing role of paper in the industry
Packaging and paper manufacturer Sappi Europe has announced that it has joined trade association Intergraf.
Intergraf, a European association promoting and protecting the interests of the printing industry, represents a group of 22 national member associations and 15 associate members across 25 countries. Intergraf also works with EU policymakers to support the print sector’s competitiveness in Europe.
By joining Intergraf as an associate member, Sappi will support a range of the association’s projects. This includes the Print Your Future EU initiative, which aims to attract a skilled workforce for quality jobs in the European graphic industry.
Another of Intergraf’s projects is Keep Me Posted EU, which advocates for citizens’ right to choose how they receive important information like tax forms, election documents, and bills.
The association also has a strong sustainability focus, focusing its efforts on improving and maintaining industry standards across industrial emissions, packaging and waste, food contact materials, and eco-labels.
According to Sappi, the move to join Intergraf represents a strong endorsement of the role of print for the future. Speaking in its official press release, Sappi says: “People are hardwired to hold print: 72% of people prefer printed material versus a digital version.
“It is viewed as 200% more intimate: people feel more valued when receiving printed mail over e-mail, and twice as likely to feel positive toward the sender.
“The return on investment speaks volumes, 60% of people look up a brand online after receiving printed materials.”
In its official announcement, Sappi acknowledged that print volumes are declining, and that the paper industry “must provide value beyond the product” by aligning with projects and organisations that seek to strengthen the printing industry.
Conor Evers, Sappi’s head of marketing operations, comments: “Intergraf represents the European printing industry, from the smallest to the largest players, through the work of the country organisations and federations.
“It makes sense to be at the table to support this valuable work and share our voice on matters that are a core part of Sappi’s DNA, including the future of print as well as sustainability practices.”
Sappi Limited is headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, with manufacturing operations across three continents and sells its products in more than 150 countries. Sappi produces 5.5 million tons of paper per year and has over 12,000 employees globally.
