In addition to SGIA's own events, educational resources, training, certifications, and research, the association recognizes the importance of supporting programs that share its values in encouraging industry growth and connection. And the Partners in Printing (PIP) Expo (July 21 - 23, 2020; La Crosse, Wis.), hosted by Empire Screen Printing, is one such event.

What started as a small-scale national sales meeting, PIP — now in its 10th iteration — has expanded to host a vendor fair of more than 100 leading print suppliers from across the world at the La Crosse Convention Center.

SGIA is an official supporter of Empire Screen Printing’s biennial event, which is all about strengthening the industry. It’s a chance for printers to learn solutions and see the newest developments in technology and materials across different printing disciplines. And it’s an invaluable opportunity for making connections in a setting where it’s not about competition, but sharing ideas that help ensure the industry’s success as a whole moving forward. In addition to its vendor fair and education, PIP will feature concerts, plant tours, and golf.

In fact, the three-day event kicks off with tee time with Celebrity Charity Golf. Attendees will have the chance to golf with celebrities and one lucky person will win off the course with a large giveaway. The event requires a separate fee and registration, with half the proceeds benefiting a charitable cause.

The next day’s professional learning opportunity — open to vendors and National Association of Graphic and Product Identification Manufacturers members — features a rounded lineup of speakers such as internationally recognized coach and thought leader Tracy Spears; columnist, author, and small business owner Gene Marks; and distinguished Viterbo University professor Tom Thibodeau. They’ll be discussing topics from the political, economic, and technological trends impacting businesses in the next few years to effectively managing different generations in the workforce.

The vendor fair takes place on the last day, where printers can find the latest solutions on the market, and also have the opportunity to tour the Empire Screen Printing plant. General admission for the PIP vendor fair is free, though registration is required.

For more information and to register for PIP, visit sgia.org/events/partners-in-printing, and be on the lookout for the upcoming SGIA Journal March/April Graphic edition, in which Doug Billings, Empire Screen Printing’s VP of sales/marketing, will delve more into PIP’s mission and what it will offer attendees this year.

Photos courtesy of Empire Screen Printing.