The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) and Printing Industries of America (PIA) are merging, creating ‘largest, most comprehensive’ printing and graphic arts association in the US.
SGIA primarily serves the graphics, industrial and apparel decorator segments, while PIA primarily serves the commercial printing segment. Together, members will have access to services across many channels. The new association name will be announced in the coming weeks.
Ford Bowers is to become president and CEO of the combined organisation, with Michael Makin, current PIA president and CEO, will become an executive vice president of the unified organisation, effective 1 May, 2020.
Mr Bowers commented, ‘As convergence increasingly continues in our industry, this newly-formed entity with PIA is the logical progression of our long-standing history together. SGIA acquired Napco Media in 2019, bringing the industry’s leading media company under our umbrella. Now with PIA, we can provide even more streamlined services across all market segments and in one easily accessible location. Together, we house the most renowned thought leaders, events, and programming in the printing and graphic arts community.’
Convergence has been a recurring theme for SGIA, Napco Media and PIA, with Printing United debuting last year to bring together the various facets of the print industry under one roof, and foster networking, collaboration and innovation.
In addition to collaborating to produce Printing United, SGIA and Napco Media recently partnered with PIA and its affiliates to launch a resource channel dedicated to providing the printing and graphic communications industry with information on COVID-19 and how to navigate the latest information about the pandemic.
Mr Makin added, ‘PIA is thrilled to join forces with SGIA, combining resources to serve every segment of the printing industry. Pooling the extensive talent of both organisations, along with the media expertise of Napco Media, is a game-changer.’
