The BPIF is to lead a 12-month DTI-sponsored study investigating the competitiveness of the printing, packaging and graphic communications industry.


A steering group has been formed to help guide the progress of the project. In addition to representatives from the DTI, the group will comprise: Mike Hopkins, director of corporate affairs at the BPIF; specialist consultant Peter James from the Sustainable Business Centre; Francis Davis from Battley Brothers, Ray Tindle from Chameleon Press; Mike Turner from the Screen Printing Association; Jim Raeburn from SPEF; Barry Hibbert from Httprint Europe; and Mike Griffiths from the GPMU.


The first meeting of the steering group is due to take place on 3 November, after which James will begin an analysis of the printing industry's strengths and weaknesses.


Hopkins said: "It is essential that the industry fully understands and embraces the technological changes taking place.


"If the globalisation of business continues at the same pace, we will also be facing competition from countries outside Europe, such as the Far East and former Eastern Bloc countries."