Only weeks after he took over as president of Australia’s Print and Visual Communications Association, Peter Clark has announced plans to merge it with the Real Media Collective.

TRMC chief executive Kellie Northwood takes a similar role with the new super industry body – to be effective from Pacprint in June – with its chair, Matt Aitken as vice president.

A new board will have equal representation of officers from each of the existing boards, representing almost 1000 members.

PVCA – previously known as Printing Industries (PIAA) – reported falling membership – down by more than a fifth to 573 – and a $583,000 loss in its 2020 annual report.

While it will initially continue as the Print and Visual Communications Association, a new name is to be decided, with “rebranding projects” in the new financial year.

Clark says the merger – in prospect for almost two years – is an important step in creating united leadership and a strengthened industry association. “I firmly believe it is the best news for the industry, and will leave all members, PVCA and TRMC, in a better position as we finalise the merger details and commence an enriched service delivery of programmes and outcomes for our industry.”

The merged association will be presented at Pacprint, which will also provide an opportunity for consultation and feedback.