The new GDPR regulations, aimed at strengthening and unifying data protection for individuals within the EU, are a hot topic for business.

But while companies across the UK are preparing for the new rules coming into force on 25th May, Gloucester print and mail specialist Alpha Response is at the sharp end of the regulations.

Contracted by clients, including six local authorities, to send out high volumes of direct mail, the company is privy to millions of pieces of data on customers and postal voters all over the UK.

That's why the firm, based in Permali Business Park on Bristol Road, has been accredited to the ISO 27001 information security standard - the same standard used by banks and other security conscious industries to protect data in all its forms.

John Orchard, marketing manager at Alpha Response (pictured left), said: "Companies need to use suppliers that have data security as a core value and the accreditation to ISO 27001 demonstrates our commitment to that.

"Given the sheer volumes of personal data we process here, a breach could have serious ramifications for our clients and ourselves, so it's essential that our customers and their customers know that we care about protecting the data they supply.

"There's a lot of concern out there in the business community about whether companies are going to comply with the regulations, so we're pleased to be able to demonstrate that any threat won't come through using us."

The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a complete overhaul of the legal requirements for anyone who handles the personal data of EU citizens and is aimed at giving people greater control of how businesses use information about them.

Any business involved in regular processing of data - including collecting and storing data - must comply with GDPR. GDPR will be enforced by large fines for non-compliance - up to 20 million Euros or four per cent of a company's global turnover.

John Orchard said: "Ironically - and fortunately for us - direct mail is one area where business can use a legitimate interest assessment rather than needing opt-in consent for legally processing data. This is unlike electronic communications where, as now, opt-in is specifically required. So direct mail remains a safe and viable way for businesses to connect with existing and prospective customer databases, as long as those efforts can pass the assessment."

Find out more about Alpha response here, or alternatively call 01452 421707  or email sales@alpharesponse.eu .