In July 2018, the Association for PRINT Technologies (APTech) Board of Directors unanimously voted to create a membership category that will allow print service providers to officially engage with the organization. In addition, the Board amended the bylaws to allow for print service providers to serve in leadership positions, including Board participation, even potentially chairperson.

This news is being announced just in time for the PRINT® 18 event, set to happen at McCormick Place in Chicago from September 30–October 2, 2018. Print service provider memberships will have an annual fee of $49. For those print service providers attending PRINT 18, APTech will be offering a special promotion for FREE membership for the first year. To take advantage of this offer, print service providers must stop by APTech booth #1442 and digitally “opt in.” Print service providers attending the event and unable to visit the APTech booth can take advantage of this offer later by contacting the Association at 703-264-7200.

“Our overarching goal is to align with the printing industry value chain,” said Thayer Long, President of APTech. “This includes manufacturers of hardware and software, print service providers, and buyers of print such as brands, designers and agencies. We believe the industry should be as frictionless as possible, and for it to continue to be profitable and thrive, we need to bring these communities together as equals.”

APTech will be actively recruiting print service provider members to the Board with the intent of having several positions filled for 2019. By putting this new membership offering in place, the goal is to strengthen relationships and deliver year-round value to the entire printing value chain.