The two bodies have signed a Heads of Agreement that outlines the key elements that will be required if an amalgamation is to proceed.
The main driver is the rapidly changing business environment, and Printing Industries’ desire to be in the vanguard of it. Rather than moving from its traditional offset base into the digital, cross media and creative side of the industry itself, it is effectively bolting on that capability through GASAA, which is the key operator there.
Bill Healey, CEO of Printing Industries says, “As the print media landscape evolves printers of every hue and cry are looking for leadership, a voice to define and present the role of print. By amalgamating the two associations we will be in a stronger position to accomplish this.”
Following consultation with members a Scheme for Amalgamation will be prepared for the endorsement by each Board and lodgement with Fair Work Australia. A vote of members will be required to formalise the arrangement once it is signed off by Fair Work Australia.
If members support the move the amalgamation is expected to take place before the end of this year.
Printing Industries’ national president Susan Heaney, said the printing and graphic communication industry was undergoing significant change as it adjusted to the challenges of a multi-channel communication world and the impact of new technology.
She says, “There is a view that many of the traditional boundaries that have defined the turf of industry organisations are no longer relevant. This is supported by a growing desire for a single voice to represent the interests of the industry, an industry that is at a crossroads where print markets have and will continue to change dramatically.
“Communication has become personalised, faster and individualised, changing the value chain with new emphasis on digital, design, innovation and marketing oriented services. We must all strive for relevance, the new currency that can either buy success or consign a business to failure.”
GASAA president Theo Pettaras says print has an important role in the new environment, but the industry needed to change what and how it does things to remain relevant.
He says, “There is a need for the industry to reposition itself to ensure that the value of print continues to be appreciated by the broader community. It is widely acknowledged that the organisations representing the industry need to understand the changes and challenges occurring and be able to help members address these and reap the benefits of new circumstances.
“These changes have seen the creation of many new businesses that should see value in the new and united organisation. I believe the proposed new arrangement will allow member services to be enhanced by the pooling of the very considerable human and financial resources of both bodies.”
Under the terms of the agreement GASAA would effectively become a section within Printing Industries. While some in the industry understand that GASAA is owned by its executive officer Garry Knespal this is not the case, it is in fact a bona fide trade association. Knespal provides a contracted secretariat to GASAA, an arrangement which will continue if the two bodies merge.
Healey says Printing Industries is looking to revamp itself across the board. He says, “We are asking ourselves what our value proposition is, and how we can best serve the developing print industry.”
Comment below to have your say on this story.
If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.
Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter
