Printing Industry Veteran Mark Michelson Announces Retirement

After more than four decades of dedicated service to the printing industry, Mark Michelson, esteemed editor-in-chief of Printing Impressions magazine, a PRINTING United Alliance media brand, has announced his retirement. Michelson's retirement marks the end of an era for the publication and the industry, where he has been a guiding voice, offering insightful analysis and reporting on the latest trends, technologies, and business strategies in the printing world.

A Longstanding History in Printing

Michelson joined NAPCO in 1982 as editor-in-chief of Package Printing (now Packaging Impressions), and the former World-Wide Printer, and El Arte Tipografico (Spanish) publications. In 1985, he became editor-in-chief of Printing Impressions, a position he has held for nearly 40 years. Under his leadership, the magazine has maintained its status as the leading publication in the commercial printing industry, providing readers with in-depth coverage, expert opinions, and valuable resources that have helped shape the direction of the printing industry in North America.

Michelson created and oversaw the annual Printing Impressions 500 (now 300) list of the top printers in the U.S. and Canada as ranked by sales, as well as established the Printing Impressions “Printing Industry Hall of Fame.” He also helped evolve the brand beyond the monthly print edition into new communications channels, such as a daily e-newsletter, a dedicated website, videos, webinars, and events, among other initiatives.

“Printers across the country have relied on Mark’s editorial integrity, thought leadership, and eloquent storytelling to help them stay informed and more effectively run their businesses,” says Dave Leskusky, president, PRINTING United Alliance. “He’s earned the respect of an industry by asking the tough questions and by his fair and balanced commentary. We can’t thank him enough for his 40 years of contributions to Printing Impressions, the Alliance, and the printing industry, and wish him nothing but happiness as he begins the next chapter of his life.”

Ashley Roberts Assumes New Content Director Role

In conjunction with Michelson's retirement, Printing Impressions is pleased to announce the appointment of Ashley Roberts as the new content director. Roberts, who previously served as managing editor, brings a wealth of experience, industry knowledge, and a fresh perspective to the role. Her tenure at NAPCO Media and Printing Impressions has been marked by her keen understanding of the industry's evolving needs and her ability to connect with a new generation of printing professionals.

“Ashley is the ideal successor to carry on the legacy of editorial excellence at Printing Impressions,” says Denise M. Gustavson, editorial director of media brands, PRINTING United Alliance. “Her vision for the magazine's future is both innovative and rooted in the same commitment to quality and integrity that has always defined our publication. I am confident that she will continue to serve our readers with the same dedication and insight that has been our hallmark.”

As Roberts steps into her new role, she is poised to lead Printing Impressions into the next chapter of its storied history, building on the foundation laid by Michelson while exploring new avenues for growth and engagement in an increasingly digital landscape.

“I am honored to take on the role of content director at Printing Impressions and to follow in the footsteps of such a respected and influential leader as Mark,” says Roberts. “I look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence that our readers expect while also embracing new opportunities to innovate and expand our coverage of this dynamic industry.”

Meet at PRINTING United Expo 2024
Michelson and Roberts will both be in attendance at PRINTING United Expo 2024 in Las Vegas from September 10-12 covering the latest in technology, education, and innovation. To schedule a meeting, email Mark: mmichelson@napco.com, or Ashley: aroberts@napco.com.