The strength of the print industry has always been rooted in its ability to connect – bringing together expertise, ideas and ambition to overcome challenges, create opportunities and drive the sector forward.
That spirit will be celebrated at the IPIA’s flagship Recognising Excellence 2026 event, which returns to the Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon, on December 2nd for a day dedicated to business, collaboration and the achievements of its members.
Combining its Expo, Networking Lunch, Gala Dinner and Recognising Excellence Awards, the event will bring together printers, trade houses, print buyers, agencies, technology developers, media specialists and suppliers from across the industry.
Looking forward
Recognising Excellence 2026 will also mark an important new chapter for the Association’s leadership.
Charles Rogers will move from IPIA President to the Association’s Advisory Board and become a Lifetime Member, recognising his outstanding service and contribution. Alasdair Browne (Abbot Print) will move to President, Mark Stephenson (The Spark Organisation) to Chair, while Lance Hill (Eight Group) will step up from Committee Chair to become Vice Chair.
Alasdair comments: “People, print, possibilities and partnerships sums up what this event – and really the IPIA itself – is all about. We are a community of people who genuinely want to see each other succeed. This year is particularly special because we can celebrate everything Charles has given to the Association. His leadership, commitment and belief in the IPIA have helped us become what we are today, and I’m delighted his experience will remain with us.
“At the same time, we are looking forward. Mark brings tremendous energy and passion as our new Chair, Lance has already contributed enormously through Council and our committees, and I know they will make a formidable team. There is no better place to mark that transition than surrounded by our members and friends at Recognising Excellence.”
Connections that create opportunities
The daytime programme will see the return of the IPIA Expo and Business Networking Hub, providing an interactive showcase of the latest products, technology, media and services shaping the sector, while creating opportunities for attendees to explore new ideas and developments for their businesses.
At its heart will be the Networking Lunch, providing an informal environment –complemented by sumptuous food and refreshments – for people from across the print supply chain to strengthen existing relationships, make new connections and explore opportunities to work together.
“There is enormous power in getting people together face-to-face. We all have challenges to overcome and opportunities we want to pursue, but you achieve far more when you can share experiences, exchange ideas and find people who want to work with you. Sometimes a single conversation creates an opportunity nobody expected. That is what the IPIA community does incredibly well.”
The people behind print
As evening arrives, the focus moves from business to celebration with a Champagne reception and three-course black-tie Gala Dinner. The Recognising Excellence Awards will then celebrate the achievements of IPIA members, followed by the Association’s much-loved Stand-up Bingo and live entertainment into the night.
The Awards will shine a spotlight on the achievements of members, recognising the businesses and individuals whose innovation, leadership, collaboration and commitment are helping the print industry thrive.
Natalie Evans, IPIA Associate General Manager and Event Lead, comments: “The Awards matter because behind every great business, innovation and collaboration are people putting in the work and helping others succeed.
“Recognising Excellence gives us the chance to celebrate them properly. But I also love the breadth of the day – you can discover the latest technology, explore new developments in media, meet potential partners and customers, strengthen relationships with fellow members and then enjoy fantastic hospitality and entertainment together. It captures everything we want an IPIA event to be – useful, welcoming, collaborative and genuinely great fun.”
Open to members and non-members alike, find out more and get your tickets for the event at: ipia.org.uk/re26
