Fairfax, Va.-based PRINTING United Alliance announces that Michael Makin, who was serving as EVP since the merger of the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association and Printing Industries of America, will depart on January 1 after a successful transition of the combined organizations. On May 1, SGIA and PIA officially merged to become the largest, most comprehensive printing and graphic arts association in the country. As former president and CEO of PIA, Makin was instrumental in the unification.
Makin has served in leadership roles in the printing industry worldwide since 1995, where he served as president and CEO of the Canadian Printing Industries Association, followed by his tenure with PIA in 2001. He has championed many successful initiatives and transitions, including representing the industry in important legislation and regulatory victories. His vision and commitment in his role in the SGIA and PIA merger was greatly valued.
“We are extremely grateful to Michael for not only his years of service to our industry and the membership of PIA, and for representing the industry from international venues to the halls of Congress, but most recently for his embrace of the vision of PRINTING United Alliance and a coming together of the industry in body and spirit,” says Ford Bowers (pictured right), president and CEO, PRINTING United Alliance. “Without Michael, this would not have happened, and we are all better off for his taking the opportunity to bring two significant organizations together. We are certain he will contribute to whatever he puts his mind to, whatever that might be. Our well-wishes go with him and we look forward to hearing of his continued success.”
“I have enjoyed traversing this vital journey of the SGIA and PIA merger in being involved in helping make the transition a smooth one,” says Makin. “I have been in the printing industry a very long time and am thrilled with the direction that Ford and the Alliance are taking the association. The plans that the Alliance has to serve and lead this great industry are exciting and I wish the team nothing but the best.”
PRINTING United Alliance is the new entity borne of the merger between the Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) and Printing Industries of America (PIA). In a milestone in the printing industry, SGIA and PIA officially combined in 2020 to create the largest, most comprehensive, member-based printing and graphic arts association in the U.S. Members now have unparalleled access to preeminent education, training, workshops, events, research, government and legislative representation, safety and environmental sustainability guidance, as well as resources from the leading media company in the industry—NAPCO Media. PRINTING United Alliance produces the PRINTING United Expo, the most influential days in printing. The expansive display of technology and supplies, education, programming and services are showcased to the industry at large, and represents all market segments in one easily accessed place. In 2020, PRINTING United introduced the PRINTING United Digital Experience. For more info, visit PRINTINGUnited.com.
