How often have pundits been telling us to specialise, get into a niche and not follow the crowd?

At the BPIF, we provide space for companies in a niche to exchange ideas and work together. We call them Special Interest Groups (SIGs). The BPIF has 10 SIGs covering areas as diverse as cartons, books and in-house print units. Each group has its own character, objectives and activities but the one thing that links them is a common market or technology.

For example, a few years ago we started the Digital Interest Group, now one of the largest groups as digital permeates the four corners of the industry. Its theme for 2008/09 is ‘Reducing Costs and Adding Value – The Digital Alternative’. Their events will focus on how cost reduction and added value can improve margins for printers who are considering or have already placed strong investment in digital software and equipment.

The Direct Marketing Special Products Section (DMSP) caters for BPIF members engaged in the production of direct marketing and special mailing items. Members are also represented on Postwatch, which monitors the activities of the Royal Mail, and Postal Business Partnership. DMSP has close links with the Direct Marketing Association. Members organise study trips and plans are under way to visit Xplor Exhibition in the US and local direct mail printers.

Currently, one of the most successful groups is BPIF Cartons, representing the vast majority of the UK folding carton industry. The group has evolved as the premier meeting place for the entire carton sector – printers, board mills and machinery suppliers – and is currently working on a range of issues including environmental management, training, and supply chain relationships.

These SIGs show that with the commit-ment of members, a vibrant group can provide a focus for that existing or emerging niche. And if you can’t see a SIG for your specialism on the BPIF website, let us know and we will see what you can do.