Joining a trade body can bring enormous benefits, but not everyone is convinced. Stylographics managing director Simon Wheeler is, AND has recently joined the Fespa UK board. Here he explains what he’s getting out of it.
There was a time not so long ago when trade associations were really struggling to get members. The perception of their value though seems to be changing, so should you reconsider joining one? Stylographics managing director Simon Wheeler tells it as he sees it as a new Fespa UK board member.
“One of the primary reasons to join a trade association is the opportunity to be accepted and recognized by your peers - and even competitors. Being part of such a community can enhance your company’s reputation within the business world. Connecting with like-minded individuals can reinforce the work you are doing, and provide new ideas to implement within your own organization. This aspect holds immense importance, as gaining insights and perspectives from others in the industry can be invaluable for shaping a solid strategy.
“While dedicating time to engaging with a trade association may seem counterproductive, it is crucial for leaders to create space for new ideas and broaden their perspectives. I have personally experienced the benefits of engaging with other business leaders and even younger members at Fespa events. Chatting with experienced professionals and the members of Fespa UK’s ‘Next Generation’ youth committee, which consists of new starters in the industry, has provided valuable insight and served as a sounding board for my own ideas. Their input has helped reinforce my decisions and shape future strategy plans.
“A big advantage of trade associations is the access to experts. At Stylo, we have leveraged the connections provided by Fespa UK to collaborate with sustainability professionals, accelerating our efforts to address environmental waste. Through these connections, we have received support for carbon accounting, evaluated our supply chain, and developed plans for reducing our Scope 1 and 2 emissions.
“Additionally, we have benefited from the expertise of an R&D specialist who advised us on R&D tax credits, a UK government tax relief rewarding companies investing in innovation.
“I initially had reservations about joining Fespa UK due to its historic focus on screenprinting and perceived resistance to digital advancements. But I have witnessed its transformation into a modern and forward-thinking organization. Being part of a worldwide community like this has not only elevated Stylo’s reputation to an international audience - through participation and success in Fespa’s international awards for instance - but has also facilitated connections with clients. We have utilized the global network to find installation and production companies in various parts of the world, enabling us to undertake projects on different continents.
“What I would say is that if you/your company is considering joining a trade association like Fespa UK, it is essential to explore the benefits firsthand. I would even go as far as guaranteeing that you would find something that would help your company become more profitable or better informed.
“It is an honour for me to be invited to join the board at Fespa UK, and I am committed to seeking ways to support the broader print industry in the UK, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.”
To sum up, trade bodies like Fespa UK can prove very advantageous to businesses in the printing industry - these include reputation enhancement, networking opportunities with industry peers and newcomers, access to expert advice, support for sustainability initiatives, and the chance to expand your business’s reach and connections globally.
Engaging with a trade association can certainly help your company thrive, stay informed about industry trends, and foster innovation in an ever-evolving landscape. With the fast-paced changes happening in the printing industry, joining a trade body can provide the necessary resources and connections to stay ahead of the curve and succeed in the marketplace.