AWARD CENTRAL: Think You're Up To The Challenge?

The definition of challenge is a call to engage in a contest, fight or competition. We always talk of the challenges that the printing industry faces. Printers are always looking at their competition and trying to find ways to stand out from the crowd. They are looking for the competitive edge that will allow them to retain their current list of customers and to land new ones. Printers need to showcase themselves as the best in the business, especially during difficult economic times.

To meet these challenges, printers large and small need a full arsenal of marketing tactics. One inexpensive but powerful tactic is to enter PIA/GATF's Premier Print Awards.

The Premier Print Awards has been recognizing excellence in print communications for close to 60 years. Winning the Premier Print Awards highest honor, the Benny, says to your customers and potential customers that you produce the best work the industry has to offer. Companies both large and small have used their wins as benchmarks of quality and craftsmanship.

With a Benny in your marketing arsenal, it would be difficult for the competition to challenge the quality of work you produce. Speaking of marketing, those that are recognized with a Benny are provided with an entire marketing kit to help them promote their success.

Should you decide to accept the challenge and enter, who would your competition be? Last year more than 5,100 entries were received from 26 countries around the world, including Australia, China, Colombia, Ecuador, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and South Africa. It is an impressive list; however, both small and large companies have taken home a Benny because it is all about the printing.

Of the thousands of entries, only 100 Benny awards are given out at the annual awards gala held each year during Graph Expo in Chicago. Many winning companies invite their customers to attend the gala to showcase their achievements in print. The gala is a magical event where the print industry really shines and showcases the best. Many printers who win a Benny keep their statue prominently displayed at their company. The Benny is truly the Oscar or Tony of print!

Is it a challenge to enter this competition, you may ask. The answer is no. PIA/GATF makes it easy. Collect the print work you have produced since May 1, 2007, through April 30, 2008, and enter before the May 19 deadline. You can submit online and get complete details at a new, dedicated URL: www.premierprintentries.com.

There has never been a better time to stand out to your customers as the best in your field. Winning a Premier Print Award can give you the edge you need to remain competitive and profitable in what is predicted to be a challenging 2008.