I have been tasked by the Association Board of Directors to review all services provided by the DSPA to its membership and potential members, committing the support necessary to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing market place.

Printers and suppliers are caught in the pincers of increased cost pressures as end users squeeze margins and escalating raw materials costs. While in terms of labour costs and overheads UK industry cannot match the base levels of the Far East and lower costs of Eastern Europe, we can work smarter and close to peak efficiency. This is where the DSPA can help with support and programs. Value management, lean manufacturing, improved networking, a greater emphasis on education, plus a host of other vital initiatives.

In the short time I have been in the post my overriding impression is an industry populated by great people, many with vast experience in the sector's technology and function. A concern I do have is that it is an aging industry. As such, it is vital this experience is not lost. This is another aim of the Association.

A key success criterion for the DSPA going forward is Fespa support. Fespa's objective is the promotion of screen printing and digital imaging through each of the 28 separate National Associations in Europe. From the DSPA's perspective this means access to their administration, marketing and expertise in events management, plus strong contacts throughout Europe and worldwide. This new injection of resource will enable the Association to turn words into action.

This adds up to a valuable offering that, in the next few months, will be reinforced by a re-launch under a new name and identity more fitting of today's market. Fear not, the 70-plus year heritage of the Association will not be forgotten. We know where we came from and intend to be a substantial force in our industry working  tirelessly for the benefit of members and an industry worth more than £2 Billion in the UK.

For the Association to suit your needs I need to hear what additional services you would find useful. The Board has already given me a range of services they wish to see in place but you, the reader, can help refine these concepts.

Wide format digital printing, screen printing and large format lithography are the core processes but our influence is in the organisations that use these processes as part of their product offering. Be this as image creators or companies who use the processes as part of a manufacturing process. These companies have links through the Association to industry equipment, consumable and service providers who are also Association members.

Our events are an ideal opportunity to communicate effectively, often in an informal atmosphere. Included in the re-launch will be two valuable surveys. One on the status of the wide format digital printing sector, the other investigating the current state of the UK market. Both contain valuable information to help you to make informed decisions and plan future development.

john.keith@dspa.co.uk
01737 240792

DSPA UK - working behind the scenes to keep screen and digital printers going!
ww.dspa.co.uk - info@dspa.co.uk

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