SGIA, PIA complete merger

The Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) and Printing Industries of America (PIA) announce, as of May 1, 2020, the two organizations will officially merge into an as-yet-unnamed association. “SGIA and PIA are together committed to serving the graphic arts community with preeminent research, education, training, events, legislative support, government affairs, health and safety, and other key industry services,” the news release said. SGIA primarily serves the graphics, industrial and apparel decorator segments; and PIA serves the commercial printing segment.

Ford Bowers is named to the president and CEO of the combined organization. Michael Makin, current president and CEO of Printing Industries of America, will become an Executive Vice President of the unified organization, effective May 1. The new association name will be announced in the coming weeks, as will the combined board of directors. Further details about the merger and combination of services will be announced as the integration takes place.

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

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 the COVID-19 Resource Channel.