FESPA Eurasia has pledged 20,000 Turkish Lira (￡6,120) for research into the Eurasian region, while allocating a further 100,000 Lira (￡30,620) for awareness activities and the construction of a graphic arts and sign school, at its partner conference in Istanbul. The event, chaired by Birol Fedai, owner of Sistem Printing, included representatives from FESPA, ARED and nine manufacturers and distributors from the region.

The research project to be undertaken will form part of FESPA's Global Census, which aims to provide the industry with 'deeper insight' into the needs and requirements of the print sector. The results of the research will be used as a starting point from which to base further investment in the Eurasian graphic arts market.

"Our 'Profit for Purpose' mission is to support and give back to our global print community," explains Michael Ryan, group exhibition manager at FESPA Eurasia. "The next generation of printers have the creativity and fresh ideas that will be hugely beneficial to the future of Eurasia's print market.

"With this investment we hope to inspire the decision makers of the future, providing them with the knowledge to move the industry forward."