Pensord unveils half-price PPA membership offer

Welsh sheetfed magazine printer Pensord is offering its publisher clients half-price membership of the Periodical Publishers Association (PPA).

The initiative, which follows the recent MBO at the Blackwood-based printer, entitles Pensord's customers to a 50% reduction on the first year membership fee.

Managing director Darren Coxon said: "We have always been passionate advocates of the PPA and convinced of the benefits of membership for publishers. This is our way of offering a direct incentive to our customers [to join].

"We believe the PPA plays an important role in support of publishers and in the future wellbeing of the sector. A strong PPA means a strong publishing industry, and that has to be good for Pensord too."

PPA chief executive Barry McIlheney added: "Pensord and the PPA have worked very closely together over the years, and I am delighted with this exciting new initiative.

"Despite a tough economic climate PPA membership is growing again, and the Pensord voucher scheme will, I am sure help it grow further.

"There has never been a more important time for our industry to work together, and I look forward to welcoming a number of new members through this scheme."

PPA membership gives publishers access to networking events, training courses and market research, as well as advice on the legal, regulatory and commercial environment, in addition to other benefits.

Pensord's outgoing chief executive Tony Jones, who was responsible for the idea, said: "Pensord has always believed that a strong representative association, particularly in more challenging times like these, is in the best interests of the industry, and I know Darren and the team ensure Pensord’s continued support."

Coxon added: "In a changing environment successful publishers need to embrace change, master new technologies and capitalise on new digital platforms to help protect their profits, create new revenue streams and secure their business for the future.

"The PPA can play a big part in helping them achieve this, and I am delighted that Pensord, thanks mainly to Tony’s hard work and vision, are able to play a significant part in this process."

Pensord is currently a strategic partner of the Independent Publishers’ Advisory Council (IPAC), an awards sponsor at the annual PPA Magazines Awards, and is involved in awards judging and work on various working parties and groups, such as the Carbon Footprint working party.