June 28, 2005 -- Adding to the comprehensive coverage of the world’s largest and most important commercial, package printing, and converting event in 2005, two leading national organizations -- the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) and the Association of Industrial Metallizers, Coaters and Laminators (AIMCAL) -- have signed up to participate in September’s PRINT 05 & CONVERTING 05. These two organizations join other leading groups participating in the international PRINT 05 & CONVERTING 05 such as the Flexible Packaging Association, the Flexographic Pre-Press Association, the Foil Stamping & Embossing Association, the Paperboard Packaging Council and RadTech, The Association for UV & EB Technology. The event will take place September 9-15 at the McCormick Place Complex in Chicago. Some 70,000 people are expected to attend, with more than 800 exhibitors occupying nearly 750,000 net square feet of exhibit space. “The support of these respected national organizations reflects both the community of interest across all segments of commercial printing, package printing and converting and the central role of PRINT 05 & CONVERTING 05 in bringing all of these specialties together in one venue,” says Regis J. Delmontagne, president of the show’s manager, the Graphic Arts Show Company (GASC). FTA is the leading technical society devoted exclusively to the flexographic printing industry. Membership includes printers, suppliers, graphic trade shops, consumer product companies, designers, end-users, consultants and educational institutions. A strong supporter of the converting and package printing sector and the events connected with it, FTA’s presence at PRINT 05 & CONVERTING 05 speaks volumes about their level of confidence in the event and it’s impact on converters and package printers. “We’re very pleased to be able to participate in this global event. All of our members will find value in participating, either as exhibitors or by attending. There’s no question that the opportunity exists for commercial printers to explore package printing and converting more extensively, and for package printers to gain some insights on improving print quality and workflow efficiency,” noted Mark Cisternino, President of FTA. AIMCAL, founded in 1970, has more than 140 members engaged in flexible metallizing, laminating and coating. They have also been strong supporters of events related to the converting sector, and their members have much to gain by their participation in the upcoming international show and conference. FTA will occupy Booth #464. AIMCAL, will stage a display in Booth #668, both in the South Building.