In an era defined by globalized supply chains, digital convergence and ever-evolving security threats, card manufacturers and personalizers play a crucial role in maintaining public trust. Whether producing EMV payment cards, ID credentials or transit passes, the responsibility to protect sensitive materials and processes has never been greater.
For members of the International Card Manufacturers Association (ICMA), Intergraf certification—anchored in ISO 14298 and Intergraf 15374—provides an internationally recognized framework to demonstrate that commitment.
Who Is Intergraf?
Intergraf is the European Federation for Print and Digital Communication, a not-for-profit association based in Brussels that represents 22 national printing federations from 21 European countries. While its scope covers the broader printing industry, Intergraf has long specialized in security printing—the production of documents and products where authenticity and integrity are critical.
Its mission is to strengthen security and harmonize expectations across the global printing community. Through certification, training and collaboration, Intergraf helps organizations build trust, demonstrate compliance and continually raise performance standards.
A Framework for Security: ISO 14298 and Intergraf 15374
At the heart of Intergraf’s work are two complementary certification schemes.
ISO 14298 applies to security printers and hologram manufacturers, establishing a public standard for managing security printing operations. It defines the minimum requirements for a security printing management system and is regularly updated to remain relevant to emerging threats. The standard covers thirteen key risk categories, encompassing everything from customer and information security to supply chain, personnel, and disaster management. This holistic structure ensures that organizations approach security not as a checklist, but as an integrated management process.
Meanwhile, Intergraf 15374 is designed for suppliers to the security printing industry—those providing materials, components, machinery or software that underpin secure manufacturing. It ensures that suppliers, too, maintain the rigorous controls necessary to safeguard the integrity of the supply chain. Together, these certifications provide an end-to-end framework that reinforces trust between printers, personalizers and their partners.
The Value of Certification
Intergraf certification offers far more than a compliance badge. It creates a common technical language between stakeholders worldwide—facilitating smoother collaboration between card manufacturers, issuers, regulators and suppliers. It helps organizations establish and maintain a secure supply chain, ensuring that every partner within the production ecosystem adheres to the same stringent standards.
Certified organizations gain a competitive advantage, as many tenders and procurement processes now require proof of recognized security management. But beyond market differentiation, certification drives operational discipline. The process of preparing for and maintaining certification encourages clearer documentation, better employee training, and more robust response mechanisms. It becomes a continuous journey of improvement and resilience, not a one-time milestone.
The Certification Journey
Achieving certification begins with a clear understanding of scope—identifying which products, facilities and processes fall under the standard. Organizations then perform a detailed gap analysis, using Intergraf’s requirements and checklists to evaluate their current state. Implementation follows, often involving upgrades to physical security, documentation and risk management protocols.
Once ready, companies undergo an external audit conducted by Intergraf’s global network of auditors—experts with extensive experience in security printing and the graphic industry. These auditors are not just evaluators; they are trusted partners who provide practical guidance and insights for improvement. Certification is issued after successful assessment, but it doesn’t end there. Regular follow-ups ensure that organizations maintain compliance and continue to enhance their systems over time.
A Growing Global Community
Intergraf certification is now a mark of excellence across the world. Today, 188 sites in 57 countries hold certification under Intergraf schemes. Among these, 156 are certified security printers under ISO 14298, while 32 suppliers are certified under Intergraf 15374. This global network forms a vibrant community of practice, united by shared standards and a commitment to continual improvement.
Beyond Certification: Training and Knowledge Exchange
Certification is one part of a broader ecosystem of learning. Intergraf supports certified companies—and those aspiring to certification—through in-person and online training, webinars, and dedicated events. Two flagship programs are offered annually: the Intergraf Security Manager course, which trains professionals to manage security processes within the Intergraf framework and the Intergraf Internal Auditor course, designed to build internal auditing capacity within certified organizations.
In addition, Intergraf hosts a Certification Workshop—a full-day event that brings together certified companies, auditors, and experts to exchange ideas, ask questions, and share best practices. Participation is free for certified members, reflecting Intergraf’s commitment to community learning.
Upcoming dates include training courses in Brussels from 24–28 November 2025.
Joining the Secure Supply Chain
For security printers, personalizers and suppliers, Intergraf certification is a practical and proven pathway to strengthen trust, enhance resilience and align with international best practices. It connects companies to a network of professionals who share one goal: to safeguard the integrity of secure printing and manufacturing for generations to come.
As the global demand for secure identity and payment products continues to grow, Intergraf certification offers more than compliance—it offers confidence. It empowers ICMA members to demonstrate leadership, inspire trust and strengthen the secure supply chains that keep our world connected.
“Intergraf Certification is more than a framework—it’s a mindset of responsibility and trust that connects people, processes and commitment,” said Doris Schulz-Pätzold, customer relations & certification director, Intergraf.
Why ICMA Membership Matters
As ICMA celebrates 35 years of leadership in 2025, the association remains steadfast in its mission to empower the global card manufacturing community. Through a blend of cutting-edge marketing support and robust professional development, ICMA equips its members with the tools they need to lead, innovate and grow.
ICMA’s professional development programs are designed to elevate technical knowledge and leadership skills. Programs like Advanced Card Education (ACE) and the Card Industry Training & Education (CITE) initiative help individuals deepen their expertise, while the EXPO and CardTREX bring together the brightest minds in the industry for learning, networking and innovation.
Members who engage in ICMA’s educational offerings and industry events don’t just keep pace with change—they help drive it. Whether contributing thought leadership to Card Manufacturing magazine or gaining recognition through programs like the Élan Awards of Excellence, ICMA provides members with meaningful opportunities to raise their profile and shape the future of the industry.
For card industry professionals looking to stay competitive and connected in 2025 and beyond, ICMA offers a clear path forward through education, visibility and community.
Discover the full value of ICMA membership and join a global network of professionals advancing the card industry.