USA print and signage associations SGIA and PIA join forces

The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) and Printing Industries of America (PIA) have merged. Together, the two are committed to serving the graphic arts community with pre-eminent research, education, training, events, legislative support, government affairs, health and safety, and other key industry services. SGIA primarily serves the graphics, industrial and apparel decorator segments; and PIA primarily serves the commercial printing segment. Together, members will have access to services across many channels.

Ford Bowers has been appointed President and CEO of the combined organization, while Michael Makin, current President and CEO of Printing Industries of America, becomes an Executive Vice President. The new association name will be announced in the coming weeks, as will the combined board of directors.

“As convergence increasingly continues in our industry, this newly-formed entity with PIA is the logical progression of our long-standing history together,” says Ford. “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.”

“PIA is thrilled to join forces with SGIA, combining resources to serve every segment of the printing industry. Pooling the extensive talent of both organizations, along with the media expertise of NAPCO Media, is a game-changer,” says Michael . 

In addition to collaborating to produce the PRINTING United Expo and Conference, SGIA and NAPCO Media recently partnered with PIA and its affiliates to launch a powerful resource channel dedicated to providing the printing and graphic communications industry with up-to-the-minute news and resources on COVID-19 and how to navigate the latest information about the pandemic. The COVID-19 Resource Channel continues to serve the industry with this critical detail. The companies will now work together to continue offering these essential resources and services.

Further details about the merger and combination of services will be announced as the integration takes place. In the meantime, information is available on sgia.org or printing.org  until the new site is launched, reflecting the combined organisations.