TINLEY PARK, IL - The Illinois Manufacturers’ Association (IMA) and the Great Lakes Graphics Association (GLGA) are pleased to announce a partnership that will benefit both associations and their respective member companies.  Working together, the IMA and GLGA can speak with a greater voice about the economic impact of the printing industry and the importance of the Graphic Arts tax exemption and Manufacturers Purchase Credit. 

“The graphic arts industry is a sizeable employer in Illinois comprised of a community of progressive and innovative firms in the newspaper and commercial printing industries. We want to grow our businesses, implement the latest industry trends and run our companies efficiently and profitably,” said Bill Gibson, Illinois Director of GLGA. “We contribute to the economic growth in Illinois and have created much-needed jobs here as well.”   

According to the North American Industry Classification System, an economic classification standard used by federal statistical agencies to collect and analyze business data, the breadth of the printing industry in Illinois is impressive: there are more than 2300 printing establishments in the state, with more than 55,000 employees. These companies combined for more than $9 billion in shipments in 2015.

“We’re pleased that the Great Lakes Graphics Association has become a member of the IMA and help increase our strength and advocacy at the State Capitol,” said Mark Denzler, Vice President and COO of the IMA. “Our two associations will work collaboratively to educate our members and advocate for legislation that will make Illinois more attractive for job creators.”

GLGA members will be able to access IMA publications and communications, which allows GLGA to expand the base of resources and tools that it offers member companies.  GLGA representatives will sit on various IMA committees, including Government Affairs and the Manufacturers Environmental Committee.  

The IMA will serve as a resource for GLGA member companies that have specific questions on issues including labor law, tax policy, and environmental regulations.  In addition, GLGA member companies will be able to attend IMA events at a discounted rate, and IMA members will be able to do the same with GLGA programs and events.

“I’m thrilled to establish this relationship for our members and provide the ultimate in representation on legislative issues as well as additional benefits and value,” Gibson said. 

Founded in 1893, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association is the oldest and one of the largest state manufacturing trade associations in the United States.  Representing nearly 4,000 member companies and facilities, the IMA is the only statewide organization in Illinois dedicated exclusively to advocating, promoting and strengthening the manufacturing sector.

The Great Lakes Graphics Association is the trade association dedicated to representing the graphic arts industry throughout Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin through education, promotion, and public affairs, and is an affiliate of the Printing Industries of America. GLGA’s three-state region accounts for combined annual shipments of nearly $19 billion.