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United Litho Recognized in PIA/GATF's Premier Print Awards

August 2007 — Competing in the graphic arts industry’s largest and most prestigious worldwide printing competition, United Litho received two Certificates of Merit for outstanding achievement in the production of a "magazine series." The awards honored Maryland Life (November/December 2006, January/February 2007 and May/June 2007) and Wine & Spirits (February 2007, April 2007 and June 2007) for technical excellence in printing and design, displayed consistently throughout the series.

Each entry is judged anonymously by a team of distinguished professionals from the worldwide graphic arts community, chosen for their extensive knowledge of the printing process. Among other print characteristics, judges look for even application of color, registration and degree of difficulty, in addition to the piece's overall look and design. Only those pieces exhibiting technical superiority are considered; judges eliminate from contention any piece with obvious flaws such as hickeys, streaking, hazing or slurring.

Michael Makin, president and CEO of the Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (PIA/GATF), noted, “Each year, the field of thousands of entries brings impressive work from some of the best printers in the world — and only a small number of companies receive any award at all. Through its craftsmanship and hard work, United Litho produced two award-winning entries in the face of some very stiff competition.”

The printing industry’s oldest graphic arts competition, PIA/GATF's Premier Print Awards promotes excellence in print and rewards companies and individuals who produce the best in print communications. Headquartered in Sewickley, PA, PIA/GATF is the world's largest graphic arts trade association, representing an industry with more than 1.2 million employees and serving the interests of more than 11,000 member companies. PIA/GATF and its affiliates deliver products and services that enhance the growth, efficiency and profitability of its members and the industry through advocacy, education, research and technical information.

See more information about industry awards and honors.