A new look Ipex will take place in 2017 at its old stomping ground, the NEC, Birmingham, not in 2018 as slated, nor at the ExCeL London where the troubled 2014 took place. News that Informa Exhibitions has forged a partnership with Picon and the NEC and created a Joint Executive Committee to reshape Ipex coincided with the inaugural Print Show taking place at the NEC this week.
Peter Hall, MD Informa Exhibitions, said: “We recognise that several aspects of Ipex 2014 were not successful, but we have learned from these and will consult closely with the market to ensure that Ipex 2017 is a UK-focused, industry-driven event that appeals strongly to exhibitors and visitors. Our partnership with Picon and the NEC, and close collaboration with the UK industry as a whole, will help make it the best showcase for the latest print technology and innovation.”
Originally planned for spring 2018, Ipex will now take place every three years, the next being in the autumn of 2017. Specific dates have not yet been released.
“There is a strong appetite from UK suppliers, manufacturers and visitors for a major event every three years which keeps pace with the speed of change in the industry, does not conflict with Drupa and very much complements a variety of annual UK signage, packaging and print shows,” said Bettine Pellant, CEO, Picon. “Picon represents manufacturers and suppliers to the UK printing, papermaking and converting sectors and all will benefit from a vibrant Ipex.”
The Ipex 2017 Joint Executive Committee (JEC) has already met to start shaping the event. It comprises Bob Usher, Apex Digital; Andy Cook, MFFEI; Mark Bristow, Friedheim International; Peter Hall, Informa Exhibitions; Rob Fisher, Ipex exhibition director; Ian Taylor, NEC; Bettine Pellant and Tim Webb of Picon; and Jo Watkiss, Watkiss Automation.
Meanwhile, organisers of The Print Show have confirmed the event will take place again at the NEC on 11 – 13 October 2016 and in the autumn of 2017.