Leading Retailers Call on SGIA Sustainability Expert to Address Visual Design

Marci Kinter, Vice President, Government & Business Information, Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA) addressed sustainability concerns in visual design and how SGP-certified printers can help them reach their sustainability goals at the first Visual Impact dinner yesterday.

The event targeted visual designers who want to construct retail windows that impact sales, but not the environment. With attendees from Macy's, Apple, Michael Kors and REI among the sell-out crowd, the Visual Impact dinner demonstrated retailers' commitment to coming together to make retail more responsible.

SGIA and Ann Inc., owner of brands including Ann Taylor, are both board members of the Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP). Ann Inc. held the event in conjunction with visual merchandising trade show Global Shop.

“The event was geared to visual designers, and my talk was all about letting them know how sustainable printing is a key player,” said Kinter. “SGP-certified printers integrate sustainable principles — everything from using recyclable substrates as much as possible to finding ways to reduce air and water use — in their standard operating practices.”

Kinter first met Ann Inc. Senior Director, Marketing Operations, Libra Balian at an SGIA Expo when Balian was looking for sustainable materials.

“We’re passionate about sustainable marketing. Much, if not all, visual marketing materials are thrown in the trash, because they can’t be reused or recycled. We want more brands, especially mall-based brands, to be aware of SGP and how SGP-certified printers can help them on their sustainable journeys,” Balian said.

SGP is a non-profit organization that certifies printing facilities’ sustainability best practices. Becoming an SGP-Certified printing facility requires an independent third-party certification audit verifying the facility is in functioning alignment with published SGP criteria. Facilities must pass environmental, health and safety, and energy audits in addition to indoor air quality tests. Further, facilities must maintain documentation for best management practices and have a team of employees in place to coordinate sustainability efforts.