UK Print and Packaging associations join forces to address talent shortages

UK — Leaders from across the UK’s print and packaging sector convened on 19th February to tackle growing workforce challenges, marking a collaborative effort to strengthen talent attraction, development, and retention.

The cross-association meeting was spearheaded by Joanna Stephenson, managing director of Think B2B Marketing and co-founder of Young People In Print (YPIP), a voluntary organization focused on promoting career pathways for the next generation of industry professionals.

The session brought together senior representatives from leading trade bodies, including the Independent Print Industries Association (IPIA), Graphics and Print Media Alliance (GPMA), Sheet Plant Association (SPA), Flexo Industry Association UK (FIA UK), Confederation of Paper Industries (CPI), British Printing Industries Federation (BPIF), British Coatings Federation (BCF), British Contract Manufacturers and Packers Association (BCMPA), and the Printing Industry Confederation (PICON).

The gathering reflected a shared recognition that talent shortages and workforce development are sector-wide challenges requiring coordinated action.

Hosted by Fujifilm at its Bedford site, the meeting featured open dialogue and presentations, including a compelling talk from one of Fujifilm’s younger employees.

The employee contrasted perceptions of the industry prior to joining with the reality of working within it, highlighting innovation, creativity, and career opportunities.

The presentation underscored the ongoing perception challenge facing the sector and set the tone for discussions on how to attract and retain talent.

Key issues identified included outdated industry perceptions, the need for education system engagement to create clear career pathways, recruitment competition from other sectors, employer support in retaining skilled staff, training and development gaps, and compensation and benefits.

While each association highlighted existing initiatives, there was broad consensus that a more aligned, collaborative approach is necessary to deliver meaningful impact.

The meeting concluded with the development of a collaborative action plan focused on enhancing industry visibility, strengthening early-career pathways, and equipping employers to attract and nurture emerging talent.

Participants committed to ongoing collaboration, with a follow-up session planned later this year to review progress and identify further opportunities for joint initiatives.

This effort mirrors similar sector-wide talent initiatives, such as the BPIF’s Skills Taskforce launched in 2024 and the recent IPIA-led apprenticeship campaign aimed at boosting early-career recruitment.

By uniting industry associations, YPIP is fostering a connected strategy to modernise the sector’s image, promote its strengths, and ensure a sustainable talent pipeline for the UK’s print and packaging ecosystem.

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