London -- The UK Periodical Publishers Association (PPA) is partnering with the international cross-industry PrintCity Alliance to showcase innovative printing techniques at the world’s largest magazine event – the 37th FIPP World Magazine Congress - in London on 4-6 May 2009. The highly innovative production techniques used for these printed materials reflect the dynamic and differentiated nature of print.
 
Throughout the three-day Congress, hosted by PPA on behalf of the International Federation of the Periodical Press (FIPP), CEOs from across the globe will chart the future for the industry and celebrate the ‘magic of magazines’. In keeping with this theme, the printed Congress Programme, produced by the PPA / PrintCity team, will showcase multiple value-added printing and finishing techniques, demonstrating the creative potential of paper and print as part of a multi-platform content strategy.
 
As an appetizer, the six-page invitation to the Congress (released this week) features vibrant and innovative techniques to create impact, attract attention and encourage registration. These techniques include the use of cold foil, hybrid matt and gloss coatings in unusual combinations to create both matt and gloss metallic effects.
 
Leading PrintCity Alliance members participating in the PPA / PrintCity partnership are UPM, Sun Chemical and manroland. In addition, other project partners providing their knowledge, materials and innovative production capabilities include Hammesfahr, D&S – Alexander Dort, Leonhard Kurz, UpCode and Polestar, printing at its Polestar Wheatons site. All design work has been produced by Anderson Norton Design (AND).
 
UPM is a partner sponsor of the 2009 World Magazine Congress and lead member in the innovative PPA / PrintCity team. UPM is providing substrate for the invitation, programme and promotional material and is also the sponsor of the official Congress opening ceremony at Kensington Palace.
 
Terry Parry, UPM’s Head of Technical Sales & Development, said: "The Value Adding Printing features of the printed materials for the Congress are a great example of what can be achieved by the strong competence partnership of PrintCity. It's important for the publishing industry to revitalise the print media by having access to novel designs, materials and techniques that enhance its sensory and visual attributes."
 
Sarah Tunstall, PPA’s Chief Operating Officer, added: “The FIPP World Magazine Congress is a fantastic showcase of some of the newest and most innovative opportunities available to the magazine sector. Print is part of a dynamic future for the magazine industry. The magazine world spans print, digital and face to face; and the creative possibilities of all three combine to make the real magic of magazines.”