POPAI promises global networking

Point of purchase provider to the FMCG industry Universal Print Group, in partnership with Efficient Consumer Response (ECR) South Africa, will be hosting a series of seminars throughout the country, presented by Richard Blatt, President and CEO of POPAI, and Sean Simmons, General Manager for Global Development.

Russell Cagnacci, manager of ECR SA, says: "POPAI is an international organisation with representation in some 30 countries, including the United States. It focuses on providing thought leadership to the FMCG industry through research, education and advocacy, technology and globalisation. POPAI is considered the global authority on everything relevant to at-retail marketing and its value now exceeds $30 billion."

Cagnacci says the benefits of membership are legion, with global connections keeping members up to date on trends and 'POP Today' publishing articles from around the globe, promoting awareness in the industry.

The Online Creative Gallery reveals the best in retail marketing displays and the online Library highlights key articles from thousands of sources in its 'POPAI Retail Marketing Brief.'

"Networking is essential for members to share expertise and information. POPAI hosts seminars and similar events to facilitate building relationships. In addition, members can earn the only professional certification programme for the industry - the CPP - through the internet or through study at North Western University."

Seminars will be conducted in Durban, Cape Town and Johannesburg during the first week of April 2006 and will keep delegates abreast of Point of Purchase trends, such as buyer behaviour, effectiveness of POP as a marketing and communication tool, in-store hotspots, technology, partnerships with customers and the role of POP suppliers throughout the supply chain from concept to merchandising and research on POP effectiveness.

"These are opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to become more effective, more modern and sophisticated and more successful in reaching consumers, which they simply cannot afford to miss," says Cagnacci.

For more information on POPAI visit the CGCSA website: www.cgcsa.co.za.