News Associations
Print industry associations SGIA and PIA announce merger

U.S.-based industry organizations the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) and Printing Industries of America (PIA) have announced plans to officially merge as of May 1, 2020.

In a joint statement, SGIA and PIA said that they are committed to serving the graphic arts community together “with preeminent 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; PIA primarily serves the commercial printing segment. 

Ford Bowers

As a result of the merger, Ford Bowers will become the president and CEO of the combined organization. Michael Makin, current president and CEO of PIA, becomes the executive VP of the unified organization. 

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,” said 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,” Makin said. “Pooling the extensive talent of both organizations, along with the media expertise of NAPCO Media, is a game-changer.”