Classic Color Cops Sappi Printer of the Year Award

BOSTON—Sappi Fine Paper North America announced the Printer of the Year and 11 Gold Award winners of its 17th North American Printer of the Year. This award recognizes innovation and excellence in print, with nominated materials produced on Sappi papers across eleven categories of work. These winners were chosen as the most outstanding print submissions from approximately 1,700 entries this year.

Classic Color, which specializes in pre-media, digital artistry and innovative printing, is the 2014 Printer of the Year award winner, selected for its direct mail piece for a car advertisement printed on Sappi's McCoy Silk paper. According to judge Lauren Eliot, the piece was "thoughtfully produced with every detail executed." Classic Color will receive $20,000 to support brand and marketing initiatives, as well as up to 5,000 pounds of Sappi paper and the opportunity to print a Sappi job. The Gold Award winners, each chosen for their dedication to craft and meticulous eye for detail, will receive 5,000 pounds of paper and a spot on the list of preferred Sappi printers.

"Since 1999, Sappi has been committed to acknowledging companies who successfully embody the innovation of print while developing sustainable printing techniques," said Jennifer Miller, executive vice president coated business and chief sustainability officer, Sappi Fine Paper North America. "With our Printers of the Year competition, Sappi applauds companies whose commitment to the creative and versatile uses of print have made them industry leaders and earned them the respect of clients, publishers and the design community."

A panel of highly regarded print professionals selected the winning entries based on the overall impact of the piece, degree of difficulty in printing techniques, and technical excellence. The winners of Sappi's North American Printer of the Year award across a variety of categories, including Direct Mail and Cross-Channel Communications, which were added this year.

Sappi's North American Printers of the Year winners will also gain increased visibility with current and potential clients by being featured on their own page in Sappi's Printers of the Year online resource. This searchable database for designers, print buyers and corporations provides information about the award winning printers and their capabilities, printing equipment and location.