GRAPHICS PRO

Lina Chekhovich - stock.adobe.com Early graphics software had tools that enabled the user to quickly draw basic shapes such as rectangles, circles, triangles, and polygons. In those days, shapes were drawn with pixels. After a few years, though, vector software emerged that revolutionized the accuracy and editability of shape tools. Adobe Illustrator 1.0 was released in 1987 with a major upgrade (Illustrator 88) in 1988 for Macintosh computers.

When was the last time you raised the prices in your business? For many shop owners, it has been more than a minute. And when they do raise them, they bump them up a dollar or a small percentage. Unfortunately, that strategy fails you as the business owner. Your business will not survive when you assume that your customers won’t pay more. If your goal is to earn a reasonable wage as well as a minimum level of profits, you need to know your costs.

From left to right: Thomas Kleps, managing director, RUCOINX (part of the INX Group); Angelo Possemato, director of business development & partnerships for INX International Ink Co.; Frank Nowak, head of service for Koenig & Bauer Sheetfed; and Dirk Winkler, head of process and printing technology and product management for Koenig & Bauer Sheetfed, sealing the partnership in front of a Rapida 106 X at the press manufacturer’s CEC.

Image courtesy of Mimaki USA Mimaki USA, manufacturer of wide-format inkjet printers and cutting machines, and PRINTING United Alliance corporate supplier member, has announced two 2026 Pinnacle Award winners recognizing the company’s outstanding innovation in multiple categories. First, the Mimaki UJV300DTF-75 printer took top honors in the UV-DTF to Rigid Substrate category. Second, the Mimaki TS200-1600 printer claimed the top spot in the Roll-to-Roll Dye Sublimation on Metal category.

Next Level Apparel is teaming up with Got Sole for its 2026 U.S. tour. (Image courtesy of Next Level Apparel) Next Level Apparel, a family-founded apparel wholesaler, has been named the official apparel partner of Got Sole for its 2026 U.S. tour, marking a continued expansion into streetwear and pop culture spaces where customization and creative expression sit at the center of the experience.

Crystal D honored 18 employees at the company's 2026 WOW! Day event held at Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota. (Image courtesy of Crystal D) Crystal D, a St. Paul, Minnesota-based supplier of awards and gifts, has announced its 2026 employee award winners, as revealed at the company’s annual “WOW Day” recognition event. “We are a company dedicated to celebrating achievement, and we are so proud to spend a full day each year honoring our own people,” said President Jeanne Dahlgren.

Images courtesy of JDS Industries Memorial Day may be over, but the need for meaningful memorial products remains constant. For shops looking to meet that demand while broadening their offerings, everyday staples like picture frames and plaques can be reimagined with treasured photos, favorite poems, scripture, or service programs, turning familiar products into lasting tributes.

Ben Drysale (Image courtesy of Charles River Apparel) Charles River Apparel announced that Ben Drysdale has joined the company as strategic account representative, supporting the national accounts and buying groups. In this role, Drysdale will partner with Charles River Apparel’s national accounts and buying groups to strengthen relationships, identify growth opportunities, and deliver exceptional service and support across these key channels.

Justin Zavadil & Larry Zavadil (Image credit ASB) ASB announced the promotion of Justin Zavadil to chief executive officer and president. Founder Larry Zavadil will transition from his role as CEO to founder and chairman of the board. After 45 years leading ASB, Larry Zavadil is passing the role of CEO to the next generation of leadership following extensive succession planning with ASB’s board of directors.

Images courtesy of swissQprint swissQprint America officially opened its new headquarters in West Dundee, Illinois, on June 24. The company welcomed customers, partners, and industry professionals for an open house event at the newly completed building. The celebration coincided with the company’s 10th anniversary in the North American market.