The trade body representing the global hologram industry has extended its membership criteria and adapted its articles of association to reflect the rapidly changing nature of the sector.
As a result, the International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA) now accept applications for membership from all security OVD (optical variable device) suppliers. This comes as the organisation continues to strengthen its position as a leading authority on commercial authentication, ID security, and packaging augmentation technologies.
Initially open to hologram suppliers, providers of material and equipment, finishers, and converters can now also become members. Associate membership has refocused to ensure research organisations and other trade associations can benefit from the IHMA’s work at the forefront of developing new applications and spearheading the opening of new markets for holograms.
The Hologram Image Register was recently expanded and rebranded as the Security Image Register (SIR). The rebrand reflects the changing dynamics of the global security printing industry and security features, including all optically variable security features.
According to chair Dr Mark Deakes, the news to include all security OVD suppliers sees the IHMA continue to grow and expand its membership base
It comes as developments in new anti-counterfeit technologies such as micro-lenses, micro-mirrors and plasmonics, which all require new foils, different manufacturing processes and different originating technologies, promise to reshape the industry and drive the growth of holograms in the next few years.
“In these exciting times for holography, the IHMA board felt it apt to make full membership available to all OVD suppliers,” said Deakes. “The move reflects the changing dynamics of the global hologram and security print industries, where holograms are increasingly being integrated with other optically variable devices to provide advanced anti-counterfeiting solutions.”
“For example, the new-look SIR represents a beneficial step forward, more accurately reflecting the way holograms and other OVDs are designed and used – undoubtedly facilitating an increase in the registration of images to secure their integrity.”
New members can benefit from a package of support from the IHMA. This includes the use of the SIR, access to industry publications, plus regular tender alerts and patent newsletters.
