Holography trade body IHMA names new chair

The International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA), which represents the global hologram industry, has announced a new chair and board members as it expands its operations.

ITW Speciality Films’ holographic research and development lead Dr Mark Deakes, comes in to lead the organisation as it pushes developments in new anti-counterfeit technologies to support the growth of holograms in the next few years, alongside applications for eye-catching design solutions for retail packaging and print.

A not-for-profit organisation, the IHMA also confirmed two new Board appointments for 2024 as part of a new-look leadership team. Jim Keller, OpSec Security’s VP Global Product & Technology, and Alexandre Noizet, SURYS IN Groupe’s banknote business line director have joined the seven-strong board.

An industry veteran with over 20 years’ experience in holography and associated processes, the appointment of Dr Deakes comes as the IHMA is expanding its membership base, in particular to include more non-traditional members coming from outside the security and brand protection industries.

It recently secured a new agreement with China’s regional trade organisation Security Identification Union (SIU) in a move that sees the SIU ramp-up promotion the IHMA’s work to the wider hologram community across China, one of the world’s most important markets.

Growth of commercial holograms remains robust despite the global challenges, said Deakes, while hologram-based authentication and track and trace systems help to underpin efforts by government and law enforcement agencies to bolster their protection strategies.

In his new role, Dr Mark Deakes will spearhead the IHMA’s representation of the world’s leading producers and converters of holograms for security, packaging, graphics and other commercial applications.

He said: “The IHMA continues to move forward and work with members and organisations to ensure that it remains a strong advocate, industry voice and effective resource for the industry in the future.

“I look forward to working with colleagues in 2024 and beyond, helping our industry secure growth and innovate, as well as ensuring all involved in holography come together as one to secure the opportunities available for growth.”