bpma Academy launches second course

The bpma will launch the second course of their new academy later this month. The current course has 63 candidates from the September intake which covers both the distributor and supplier chain and has been well received by the industry. "I am delighted to have such a strong presence from some of the leading players in the industry as well as new and emerging companies explained bpma Director General, Gordon Glenister. "We have had some great feedback particularly from the print practical workshops, one of which I was able to attend".

Senator Pens was the host of the first ever bpma regional Academy workshop.

Housing the UK's largest dedicated print facility for the production of promotional pens, candidates were treated to a blend of practical, hands-on experience in the purpose-built factory (which utilizes a variety of market leading branding techniques), backed up by an in-depth theory session and a branding Masterclass. The Senator team of experienced staff from each department was on-hand throughout the day to provide well-rounded advice and to answer questions from candidates.

Keramikos, mug manufacturers have also been involved in the workshops and Managing Director Mark Lee commented "The bpma Training Day was a great opportunity not only to show people in the trade our new factory, but also the extensive range of printing processes which we now employ"

The delegates enjoyed an intensive day of information and practical help, which included the opportunity to learn more about printing onto ceramics, glass and plastics, interaction with our sales and customer services team, a full tour of the factory and finally the opportunity to print their own mug."

Feedback from the day was encouraging from both participant and Keramikos alike. One comment from a BPMA trainee said that it was really exciting to hear so much encouragement and dedication from the Keramikos staff about their product and services

"We will be making some additional changes to this course following feedback received from the candidates explains Glenister"

The course includes 6 modules, Introduction to the industry, The print process, Product information, the selling process, Marketing and Procurement. That's only five!! In the Examination all the questions are multiple choice based on the extensive course material, much of which has come from well respected industry figures. The final part is an online exam made from case studies including all the key modular elements. Candidates who pass will be presented with their Academy qualification at the House of Commons in April.

Having recently entered the promotional merchandise industry, the BPMA Academy's Promotional Merchandise qualification is proving invaluable as an educational tool to bring me up to speed with every aspect of the industry.

In a short time I have learnt enough to be confident in discussing different merchandise products, branding procedures and ideas with my clients. This is a course that I would recommend to all new staff, as well as existing staff who would like to understand the industry more completely." Grant Watson, Brandinc "BPMA Academy What an amazing and visionary concept! It is wonderful to be able to look at our industry from every angle. The knowledge gained in completing the course will be invaluable to both supplier and distributor alike.

The introductory seminar was very enlightening and motivating. It was fabulous being able to meet our fellow students and knowledgeable members of the BPMA.

The academy modules are both informative and interesting. The flexibility of this programme will ensure its success!

The BPMA has a vision of how to ensure that the Promotional Merchandise Industry is ahead of its game and I for one think that it is wonderful concept and look forward to being able to embark on this wonderful voyage with Gordon and Daniela at the helm! Terri Baker, Pen Warehouse " I just wanted to send a note to say thank you for the Academy training day you hosted on the 22nd January.

It was a well structured, enjoyable and informative day. Visits such as these are not only great as a training method for people new to the industry, but also act as an excellent opportunity to explore industry wide issues from a variety of perspectives. Once again, many thanks for a fantastic day! " Lawrence Savage, Listawood "The Introductory seminar was a great way to kick start the course. I met many people from the industry, learnt about the course itself and was left feeling really motivated about studying and further developing my industry knowledge. I am now half way through the course and , so far, I have learnt many things which I hadn't paid attention to, previously. The fact that the course is based online allows me to fit in study at times that suit me and I love the flexibility!" Carly Benson, COI

"In the current climate, customer service is king, and there is no replacement for well qualified and professional trained promotional gift consultants" states Glenister

The Academy team includes Director of Education Adrian Ferrand, Daniela Arena, bpma events and training manager and Gordon Glenister.

February 2009
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Contact:
Gordon Glenister
Director General
BPMA 0207 689 5555
mailto:gordon@bpma.co.uk

http://www.bpma.co.uk