FESPA Announces Passing of Honorary Board Member and Former President Lascelle Barrow
28 May 2025: FESPA has announced the passing of Lascelle ‘Las’ Barrow, its Honorary Board Member and former President, who died on May 22, 2025, at age 79 following a prolonged illness. A figure synonymous with dedication and innovation, Lascelle’s impact on the global print community spanned over 30 years and transformed FESPA into the dynamic, globally influential organization it is today.
Lascelle played a pivotal role in the evolution of the screen and digital printing industries. With over six decades of expertise in retail and out-of-home (OOH) graphics, he offered unparalleled insight and leadership. Serving as FESPA President during two separate terms (1992-1996 and 2013-2015), he also contributed significantly to the Finance and New Business Committees. His contributions were honored in 2022 with his appointment as an Honorary Board Member.
A champion of innovation, Lascelle was crucial in FESPA’s strategic decision to internalize exhibition management in the late 1990s. He pioneered a sustainable financial model that ensured the organization could grow without compromising its support to 37 national Member Associations worldwide. This shift laid the foundation for FESPA’s reinvestment programme, benefiting print and signage professionals through global education and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
His vision also propelled the launch of FESPA Digital in 2006, catalyzing the digital transformation of wide-format printing. Understanding early on the potential of digital print technologies, he helped position FESPA as a future-ready leader. Lascelle further advocated for FESPA’s global reach, championing events in Mexico and Brazil and endorsing localized brand licensing through national associations.
Barrow’s professional legacy began at the age of 19 when he co-founded Augustus Martin Ltd. with Barrie Dix. The company grew into an award-winning innovator in retail point-of-sale and OOH advertising, serving major brands with cutting-edge solutions. His foundation in print was shaped by his training at the London College of Printing.
FESPA CEO Neil Felton paid tribute to Lascelle, describing him as the heart and soul of FESPA-a visionary with unmatched strategic clarity and a relentless drive for progress. Felton remembered him as a candid and passionate leader who always sought to elevate the print industry and inspire fellow entrepreneurs. Lascelle’s legacy will continue to shape the future of print worldwide.
Details on memorial tributes will be shared soon via FESPA’s website and social media.
