With a mission to strengthen the ties that bind the print community together for the long-term, the IPIA’s flagship Recognising Excellence event returns on December 3rd, 2025, at the Crowne Plaza, Stratford-upon-Avon.
Bringing the print industry together for a day dedicated to connection, collaboration, and celebration, this year’s event underscores a central pillar of the IPIA’s strategy. Its goal is to enrich the print community by stimulating partnerships, inspiring innovation, and empowering business growth through shared learning and networking.
Recognising Excellence will see printers, technology developers, suppliers, and agencies come together for a dynamic programme of activities designed to strengthen the industry’s collective success. From the Expo and Business Networking Hub to the Networking Lunch – and culminating in the Gala Dinner and Awards – every element of the event is designed to create meaningful opportunities for professional connection and collaboration.
A Platform for Growth
“Recognising Excellence is far more than an event – it’s a cornerstone of our mission to bring people together and help businesses flourish,” says Alasdair Browne, Chair of the IPIA. He adds: “Our industry thrives on connection. Whether that’s through discovering the latest technology on the Expo floor, building trust and partnerships over lunch, or celebrating the creativity and resilience that define our members at the Awards – this event embodies the spirit of what makes the print community so special. It’s where innovation meets collaboration, and where ideas grow into opportunities.”
The Expo and Business Networking Hub are open from 11:00 to 15:00, providing attendees with direct access to more than 20 leading print technology, media, and service providers – they also stand the chance of winning £1,500 worth of prizes in the IPIA’s celebrated ‘stamp draw competition’.
Exhibitors will showcase the latest innovations driving efficiency, creativity, and productivity across print and communication channels. Interactive demonstrations and one-to-one discussions will also enable delegates to explore practical solutions tailored to their business needs.
A highlight of the daytime event is the Networking Lunch at 12:30, with a sumptuous two course meal laid on, this relaxed and informal gathering is designed to encourage members and guests to expand their professional networks and spark future collaborations.
A Spirit of Community
“The power of this event lies in its ability to bring every corner of the print ecosystem together,” explains Pete Horwood, Chair of the IPIA’s Networking and Collaboration Committee. He adds: “You will see creative agencies talking with trade printers, paper suppliers meeting brand owners, and technology providers sharing insights with designers. It’s an environment where mutual understanding leads to real business growth – and that’s exactly the kind of collaboration our industry needs to thrive.”
He continues: “Recognising Excellence is also about celebrating people. The passion, resilience, and ingenuity of those working in print deserve recognition, and our Awards provide the perfect stage to showcase those achievements.”
Celebration and Inspiration
Following the day’s networking and discovery, the Gala Dinner and Recognising Excellence Awards will begin at 19:00, starting with a Champagne Reception, followed by a three-course dinner and drinks service. The Awards ceremony, commencing at 21:00, will shine a spotlight on the industry’s most outstanding innovators, collaborators, and community champions.
The celebration continues with the IPIA’s ever-popular Stand-up Bingo, raising funds for The Printing Charity, and live music from the celebrated band Hypersonix – ensuring the evening ends on a high note of fun and fellowship.
For the IPIA, Recognising Excellence is more than a date on the calendar – it is a vital expression of the Association’s core values.
As Alasdair Browne concludes: “Every time we gather for Recognising Excellence, we see what’s best about this industry – the creativity, generosity, and drive to move forward together. It’s a powerful reminder that our collective strength lies in connection and community.”
To register, visit here