The AGM featured presentations from PLASA's Acting Chair Ed Pagett, Treasurer Martin Hawthorn and CEO Matthew Griffiths, covering the early stages of the merger and operational and financial reviews of the past 12 months. In the year since the merger was first voted for by members, PLASA has restructured its membership, run new-style elections, introduced a more representative Governance structure with Regional Boards and an international Governing Body and launched new services and research projects.
Whilst the merger was a key focus of the day, it was not the only subject under discussion and in a lively Q&A session following the formal proceedings, a range of issues were discussed including a proposal for an IP forum to be established to address concerns about product copying, for PLASA's Technical Standards initiative to run meetings in Europe and a rallying call to members to get behind the radio spectrum campaign being fought to protect members' interests.
The AGM was followed by a drinks reception and Members Lunch, at which invited guests from the industry joined PLASA Members. The guest speaker this year was broadcaster and TV personality Gyles Brandreth, who was one of the most entertaining after-lunch speakers to talk at the event.
(Claire Beeson)
