Birmingham event in June

IPIA reveals details for Annual Networking Lunch

To encourage diverse interactions, guests will switch tables between courses
To encourage diverse interactions, guests will switch tables between courses

The IPIA has outlined details for its first in-person event of the year, the Annual Networking Lunch.

Set for 19 June at sky restaurant Orelle in Birmingham, the trade association’s aim with the event is to invigorate the print economy and re-energise attendees.

The IPIA said the event includes “a welcoming glass of bubbly or two, a sumptuous three-course lunch accompanied by a selection of wine, beer, or soft drinks, as well as access to a networking introduction service”.

Offering French cuisine, Orelle is located close to both Birmingham New Street and Birmingham Snow Hill stations and offers impressive views from Birmingham’s tallest building.

The event kicks off with casual networking and welcome drinks at 12pm, followed by lunch from 1pm. To encourage diverse interactions, guests will switch tables between courses.

There will be a pause in proceedings at 2.30pm as IPIA chair Charles Rogers gives an address on market trends, followed by a presentation from Micropress Printers’ joint managing director Rob Cross. He will explain how the company has adapted to critical industry trends, significantly strengthened its sustainability and grown.

The Networking Lunch wraps up at 4pm, and attendees that want to extend their networking opportunities will be able to join the post-event socialising at bar Henman and Cooper, located across from the restaurant.

Matthew Ruff, chair of the IPIA events subcommittee, said: “Our Annual Networking Lunch isn’t just another industry event; it’s a catalyst for growth and collaboration in the print sector. We’ve meticulously crafted an experience that fosters meaningful connections, sparks innovative ideas, and drives expansion.”

The IPIA runs a series of events throughout the year with the aim of bringing together a cross section of printers, print buyers, suppliers, designers, marketing agencies, and technology developers, enabling attendees to learn from peers, grow their business network, and generate new customers.

IPIA chair Charles Rogers said: “At the heart of the IPIA Annual Networking Lunch is a commitment to hospitality and ROI. We recognise taking a day out of business means the event must be a valuable investment of time, this is why we ensure we know who is of interest to you when signing up to the lunch.

“From tailored introductions to engaging conversations, we’re dedicated to making your experience both enjoyable and rewarding.

“If you’ve never attended an IPIA networking event before, I encourage you to take the leap. Join us at the Annual Networking Lunch and discover first-hand the incredible opportunities that await within this vibrant community.”

Regular attendee Lance Hill, managing director of Eight Days a Week Print Solutions, said: “The networking lunch is a must-attend event, as it’s a great opportunity to catch up with industry colleagues and meet new ones too. The venue is superb, with a relaxed atmosphere that facilitates engaging conversations with like-minded people.”

Tickets are available online at ipia.org.uk/nl24/. Members’ tickets are £95 plus VAT and non-members’ tickets are £120 plus VAT.