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Young People in Print and Packaging: Broadening the pipeline for industry talent
schools to talk about the opportunities the sector can off er. COLLABORATION AS A STRATEGIC PRIORITY
Another key focus for the coming year is increased collaboration with industry associations. Fragmentation has long been a challenge in the print sector, with multiple bodies working toward similar goals but often in isolation. YPIPP’s approach aims to bridge these gaps, creating a more coordinated eff ort to address skills shortages and raise awareness.
he print industry has long been a cornerstone of communication, manufacturing and innovation, but like many sectors, it faces a growing challenge in attracting and retaining the next generation of talent. In response to this, industry initiative Young People in Print has taken a signifi cant step forward, recently rebranding as Young People in Print and Packaging (YPIPP) to better refl ect the evolving landscape it serves. The decision to expand its identity is more than cosmetic. It signals a recognition of how closely intertwined print and packaging have become, both in terms of technology and workforce needs. As packaging continues to grow in importance across sectors such as retail, e-commerce and sustainability-driven innovation, the skills required increasingly overlap with those found in traditional print. “This rebrand refl ects where the industry is today, not where it was ten years ago,” says Joanna Stephenson, YPIPP Board Member. “Print and packaging are no longer separate conversations. If we want to future-proof the sector, we need to represent it as a unifi ed opportunity for young people.” A clearer message to future talent At its core, YPIPP exists to promote careers in the industry, challenge outdated perceptions and create accessible entry points for young people. One of the key drivers behind the rebrand was feedback from across the sector, highlighting confusion around the organisation’s scope and a
T need for greater inclusivity.
By explicitly including packaging in its name, the organisation is not only broadening its appeal but also aligning itself with one of the fastest- growing and most dynamic areas of the industry. This is particularly important when engaging younger audiences, who are often more aware of packaging’s role in sustainability, branding and product experience.
“We’re trying to meet young people where their interests already are,” Joanna explains. “Packaging is visible, tangible and increasingly innovative; it’s a powerful gateway into the wider world of print.” BUILDING INDUSTRY ENGAGEMENT THROUGH EXPERIENCE
Looking ahead, YPIPP has outlined an ambitious programme of activity designed to bring the industry closer to emerging talent. Among the most impactful initiatives are planned open house events at print and packaging facilities, giving young people the chance to experience the environment fi rsthand. This approach refl ects a broader shift in recruitment thinking, from passive attraction to active engagement. By opening doors – literally - companies can showcase the diversity of roles available, from design and prepress to production, automation and logistics.
In addition, YPIPP will be present at key industry events throughout the year, including major conferences and trade shows and supporting UK Government initiatives like Equalex, working in
The planned development of a promotional video resource and website platform is a good example of this collaborative mindset. Designed for companies to use in their own recruitment eff orts, they represent a shared tool that benefi ts the wider industry rather than individual organisations.
This kind of initiative aligns with best practice seen in other sectors, where collective branding and messaging have proven eff ective in reshaping perceptions and driving interest. GOVERNANCE AND REPRESENTATION Internally, YPIPP is also evolving. A restructuring of its board is underway, aimed at bringing in a broader range of expertise from across both the print and packaging sectors. This is a crucial step in ensuring that the organisation remains relevant and representative of the industry it serves. Diverse leadership not only strengthens strategic direction but also helps ensure that messaging resonates across the diff erent segments of the industry. A PLATFORM FOR LONG-TERM SUSTAINABILITY
Ultimately, the rebrand to Young People in Print and Packaging is about more than identity; it’s about sustainability. Without a steady infl ux of skilled, motivated individuals, the industry risks stagnation.
By focusing on awareness, accessibility and collaboration, YPIPP is positioning itself as a central player in addressing this challenge. “This isn’t just about recruitment; it’s about changing perceptions and building a future pipeline,” Joanna adds. “If we can show young people the creativity, technology and opportunity within this industry, we can secure its future for decades to come.”
To get involved, please visit
www.ypip.co.uk
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May/June 2026
www.convertermag.com
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