A cross-association meeting focused on addressing the print and packaging industry’s growing workforce challenges was held on 19th February, bringing together senior trade association leaders from across the UK to drive a more unified approach to talent attraction, development, and retention.

The meeting, led by Joanna Stephenson, managing director of Think B2B Marketing and co-founder of Young People In Print (YPIP), involved representatives from leading trade bodies, including the Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA), Graphics and Print Media Alliance (GPMA), Flexo Industry Association UK (FIA UK), and several others. These industry leaders came together to share insights and agree on the need for collaboration to tackle the sector-wide issue of talent shortages.

Key issues discussed during the meeting included outdated industry perceptions, recruitment challenges, the need for enhanced career pathways, and the pressure to compete with more attractive sectors. The meeting also highlighted the importance of employer support in attracting and retaining skilled employees and the necessity of connecting with younger generations through education systems.

A standout moment came from a presentation by one of Fujifilm’s younger employees, who shared their personal journey in the industry, providing an honest perspective on the industry's perception and the career opportunities it offers. This powerful presentation emphasized the need to challenge outdated perceptions and demonstrate the dynamic, creative, and innovative opportunities within the print and packaging sectors.

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the development of a collaborative action plan focusing on improving industry visibility, strengthening early-career pathways, and providing employers with the necessary tools to attract and nurture emerging talent. A commitment to ongoing partnership working was made, with the group set to reconvene later in the year to review progress and identify further opportunities for collaboration.

The session underscored that workforce development is not a challenge owned by any single organization but affects the entire print and packaging ecosystem. Through collaborative efforts and a unified approach, the industry aims to modernize its image, attract new talent, and build a sustainable future for print and packaging professionals.