PIA/GATF Presidents Conference Hits High Notes in the Desert

SEWICKLEY, PA—March 13, 2007—PIA/GATF’s Presidents Conference welcomed its largest number of newcomers last week. In addition to our overwhelming number of newcomers, we had over 300 registrants and guests who gathered to discuss Printing Industry at the Crossroads. Solid 2007 economic forecasts from Dr. Ronnie Davis coupled with results of the postal reform legislative victories kicked-off the association highlights. The Presidents Conference was the venue for the prestigious recognition of the Lewis Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award; this year’s recipient was Thomas A. Quadracci in recognition of his service to the industry.

PrintPAC inaugurated the first silent auction entitled Road Rally to raise funds for the ongoing legislative efforts that impact the printing industry. The fund raising, as well as participant goals, were exceeded. “This outstanding achievement highlights the value of PIA members’ commitment to raise printing industry awareness in the halls of Congress,” according to Executive Vice President Mary Garnett.

The theme was articulated with a panel of printers and a binder who disclosed the crossroads decisions that changed their business model. Martin Anson (Bindagraphics, Inc.), Eric Webber (Cohber Press) and Ward Griffin (Lowe-Martin Group) gave first-person accounts of critical issues associated with their business decisions. Another hot topic that drew the crowds was the behind-the-scenes overview of private equity partners in the printing industry. Printers heard, first-hand, the attributes of the industry and particular companies to private equity investments. Robert Cronin of The Open Approach facilitated a lively discussion along with Peter E. Mogk of Huron Capital Investment Team. Twenty-four breakout sessions, in addition to the general sessions, encouraged attendees to customize their learning experience to match their company goals.

Heidelberg was designated the Premier Sponsor. Other sponsors included Adobe, HP, Independent Printers Worldwide, Unisource, KBA North America, Inc., Komori Corporation, Kodak, MAN Roland Inc., Partners In Leadership, Printing Impressions, Sun Chemical, Kohl & Madden, Utica National Insurance Group, and Xerox.

Delegates were enthusiastic with the decision to schedule the 2008 Presidents Conference on March 2–6 in Cancun, Mexico, where ULIMAC (Union de Industriales Litografos de Mexico), PIA/GATF’s affiliate, will participate.

About PIA/GATF
PIA/GATF is the world’s largest graphic arts trade association representing an industry with more than 1.2 million employees. It serves the interests of more than 12,000 member companies. PIA/GATF, along with its affiliates, delivers products and services that enhance the growth, efficiency and profitability of its members and the industry through advocacy, education, research and technical information.