On 15 September 2010, Sappi announced the names of eleven printers from across the globe as deserving winners of the Sappi International Printers of the Year awards. The awards are considered the only truly global print awards and the world’s most prestigious accolades of excellence in print. Held every second year, the much anticipated 2010 announcement was made by Ralph Boëttger, Chief Executive Officer Sappi Limited.
The awards recognise, reward and honour the printers’ craftsmanship and attention to their work and understanding of their clients’ brief and designs. Each winner receives a coveted cast-bronze elephant trophy created by world-renowned sculptor Donald Greig, symbolising Sappi’s South African heritage.
In congratulating the winners, Boëttger said, "Despite the press extolling the virtue of electronic media and the demise of print, the printed word remains powerful and pre-eminent in all forms of communication, be it for marketing purposes or just for pleasure. Each year printers set new standards of exceptional quality and Sappi is proud to honour these achievements. I am sure that the winners, and indeed all the finalists, will enjoy the recognition of their peers as well as their clients."
Over 6,000 entries were received from participating countries in this year’s four qualifying regional Printers of the Year competitions in Africa, North America, Europe and the Sappi Trading region of Australasia, Asia and South and Central America.
