Ann Hirst-Smith, an independent international journalist based in the UK and a member of Finat community has passed away unexpectedly on January 24 as a result of Covid-19.
Ann Hirst-Smith, a lady proud of her Scottish heritage, was an independent, international journalist based in the UK. As the managing partner of Ann Hirst-Smith Associates, Ann had a broad spectrum of interests focused on the packaging, labelling, printing and graphics industries. In later years her interests grew to include environmental issues and sustainability. Ann was also the co-author of books with her husband Peter in areas remote from the industry, including co-authorship of the Complete Candle Maker.
AWA Alexander Watson Associates has launched AWAVirtual as part of its AWA Conferences & Events business, a platform of online virtual industry events, complementing its long-established and respected physical conferences and seminars.
AWAVirtual has been established to create a new and sustainable virtual conference and seminar model in partnership with AWA’s traditional physical events. The first event took place in August 2020, followed by several conferences and seminars, which were pivoted from regular physical events due to the impact of Covid-19.
‘AWAVirtual is a strategic initiative, born from a practical need, which will enhance the activities of AWA Conferences & Events as we proceed forward with our growth plans, providing the industry verticals in which we specialize with the information, insights, and collaboration needed for success,’ said Corey Reardon, president, and CEO of AWA Alexander Watson Associates.