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IHMA Continues Strategic Diversification with New Name

18 Oct 2024 | Press Release

As part of its ongoing strategy to broaden its scope and realign its identity to better serve evolving markets and new technology frontiers, the International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA) has initiated a renaming process. This marks a pivotal moment for the association as it continues to evolve alongside the holography and optical security industries.

Three new name alternatives have been selected:

– Global Optical Technologies Association

– International Optical Technologies Association

– Global OVD Association

These options have been shared with members through email and social media, inviting them to participate in selecting the final name.

This strategic initiative is part of a broader plan that began in early 2024, which includes significant developments such as the launch of the Security Image Register (SIR), new research and development collaborations, leadership changes with the appointment of new board members and the expansion of membership to all security OVD suppliers.

The Security Image Register (SIR)

One of the critical milestones in this strategy is the rebranding and expansion of the Hologram Image Register (HIR) into the Security Image Register (SIR). As the only system for the secure document community, SIR now covers the full spectrum of optical security manufacturers. The system safeguards copyright by recording and tracking all designs and manufacturing details for optical security features, with each registration receiving a unique reference number for authentication.

This expansion reflects the evolving dynamics of the global security printing industry, where holograms are increasingly integrated with other optically variable devices (OVDs) to create advanced anti-counterfeiting solutions. While holograms remain essential, they are now part of various imaging technologies offering colour change, movement, animation, and 3D effects.

Global awareness campaign

Throughout 2024, the IHMA has actively promoted the SIR, members, industry and its broader strategic initiatives through a global awareness campaign. In March, it introduced the SIR at the High Security Printing™ (HSP) conference in Sofia and led an innovation session at the Banknote Conference in the US. The association then presented the SIR at HSP Latin America in Santiago, Chile.

In Asia, the IHMA participated in the 18th Security Document Summit (SDS) in Beijing, China, organised by the China International Association for Promotion of Science and Technology (CIAPST) and the Security Identification Union (SID). IHMA board member Manoj Kochar showcased the SIR at the Asia Security Conference in New Delhi, India, in July 2024. In August, IHMA General Secretary Micaal Sidorov spoke at a webinar organised by the Authentication Solution Providers’ Association (ASPA) on protecting FMCG and nutraceuticals from counterfeiting.

In September, the IHMA participated in the ‘Handling the Counterfeit Economy’ event organised by the Reinforce Intellectual Property Association (RIPA) in India. This program connected industry experts, academic professionals, and key stakeholders to enhance collaboration between academia and industry, focusing on combatting counterfeiting.

Looking ahead

As the IHMA moves forward, it is preparing to launch the next level of awareness with a new name and vision that better reflects its expanded focus on optical security technologies and innovation. It will also be holding a series of user-focused webinars during 2025 that target key sectors for holography, including security, brand protection and packaging, as well as topics such as sustainability and innovation.

Members will receive ongoing updates on all significant changes, including the IHMA Excellence in Holography Awards, which will be organised following the completion of the rebranding process.

“We are working on a comprehensive PR and marketing plan to position IHMA and its members as the leading authority in optical variable technologies/devices and systems (OTDS), ensuring that all stakeholders are well-informed and empowered”, said Dr Mark Deakes, Chairman of IHMA.