PRINTING United Alliance Fly-In Shows Industry’s Power Play

The PRINTING United Alliance’s legislative Fly-In, held on May 15-16, 2025, in Washington, D.C., was a clear sign the industry is waking up. After a pause during the pandemic, this was the first big event under the Alliance’s banner, and it drew about 40 top leaders from every corner of printing—commercial, labels, books, promotional, and more. They didn’t just show up to shake hands; they went straight to Capitol Hill to talk policy, influence lawmakers, and make sure printing stays front and center in economic discussions.

The Significance of the Fly-In

And, seriously, I think that’s smart. Because let’s face it, people often overlook physical advertising and print’s role in the economy. But what is really making this better is the industry’s strategic push to preserve tax policies, modernize how the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) tracks our sector, and highlight how printing touches everything—from car dashboards to packaging. They’re making noise, yes, but they’re also making progress.

Beyond Lobbying: Positioning Printing as Essential

On the other hand, this isn’t just about lobbying; it’s about positioning the industry as a critical manufacturing component. Meetings with Congress members like Rep. Fitzpatrick and staff from Senators McCormick and Fetterman’s offices focused on printing’s ubiquity—how it’s embedded in everyday products and infrastructure. Printing on consumer goods, road signs, even apparel—these are not niche, but core to the U.S. economy.

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What is really interesting here is the growth of the Printing Caucus—up to 17 members in 2025—showing that the industry’s voice is gaining political traction. That’s not accidental. The pandemic slowed things down, but the Alliance’s leadership in reviving advocacy efforts, like this Fly-In and the “Day on the Hill,” proves they’re serious about influencing policy for the long haul.

By the way, they also say that having industry leaders face lawmakers directly is the most effective way to get results. And let’s be honest, what’s better than real face-to-face conversations about the real impact of print? This event shows that the industry knows its value, and it’s willing to fight for it.

Key Takeaways and Future Outlook

So, what do we take from this? Well, for starters, print isn’t fading away. It’s evolving—and actively lobbying for its future. It’s about protecting tax treatment, modernizing data collection, and reminding everyone that print supports critical sectors, keeps jobs, and drives innovation. And, yes, that takes strategy and guts.

Are we seeing a turning point? Maybe. Or maybe just a well-timed wake-up call. Either way, it’s clear the industry is ready to speak louder, and that’s good news for anyone who values quality print finishes, special effects, and the craftsmanship behind the jobs.

What’s Next?

Keep an eye on the legislative caucus, see if this momentum continues, and ask yourself—how can your business contribute? Because print’s future depends on how well we advocate for it today.

I like it. And, seriously, I think that this kind of active engagement is what keeps our industry alive and kicking. So, what do you think? Do you believe advocacy can make a real difference? Drop your thoughts and let me know. Read more, learn more, and let’s keep pushing the limits of print.

Richard H. Bell

With a lifelong dedication to the printing industry, I have collaborated with several printing companies, perfecting my skills in pre-press design, material selection and technical particularities. As an experienced professional, I bring to “The Print Blog” a deep knowledge of materials and printing.