The Strategic Plan is a blueprint for PLASA's future growth and will inform the tactical and operational plans needed to transform this collaborative document into a reality. It was clear that effective implementation would only be possible with the full support and involvement of the membership and, with this in mind, a concise version of the Strategic Plan would be delivered to all members during the summer.
PLASA worked to set the scene through 2012 in support of launching the plan and members were informed that the most significant internal change was the ongoing implementation of new software to support all areas of the Association and, externally, the forthcoming launch of the PLASA Show at its new home at Excel London, after 23 successful years at Earls Court. This change of venue will revitalize PLASA's flagship event and present many opportunities that were previously undeliverable.
In a Question and Answer session following the AGM, Phil Price of RCF Group opened up the discussion with a question relating to the future development of the PLASA Show. A thoughtful debate followed with valuable feedback and ideas from those attending. The conversation then moved on to issues of concern and the significant challenges faced by the industry, including the continuing problems around intellectual property and product copying. Matt Lloyd of Global Design Solutions suggested that a separate manufacturers' meeting would be of value, bearing in mind the nature of some of the subjects discussed, and it was agreed that this would take place later in the year.
Freelance broadcaster and writer, John Sergeant, was the perfect speaker to end the day and talked eloquently about his life as a journalist. His stories about well-known political figures were highly entertaining and insightful, and he was self-deprecating about his celebrity status gained following an appearance on Strictly Come Dancing.
"This was a really productive day for PLASA," said Matthew Griffiths, "and it was hugely encouraging to see so many members take the opportunity to actively participate in supporting the future plans of their Association. The pace and scale of change in the world is unprecedented and we aim to ensure that we are in the right place to meet our members' future needs".
(Claire Beeson)
