A Winning “Can-Do” Attitude: SGX’s Blaine Robinson Awarded Metal Decorator of the Year
Blaine Robinson, expert metal decorator and master machine operator, has been named one of seven recipients – out of 100 nominees – of the Metal Decorator of the Year Award at the 2025 International Metal Decorating and Packaging Association (IMDPA) conference.
This prestigious honor recognizes Blaine’s deep expertise, built over 20+ years in lithography, with the past five years dedicated to metal decorating. His award comes at a milestone moment for SGX, part of the Propelis family, as the SGS & Co & SGK teams attend IMDPA for the first time under a single, unified banner.
The event in Itasca, IL also marked the official introduction of SGX Print Solutions to the global metal decorating community – showcasing who we are, what we stand for, and the expanded power we bring to the market. Blaine’s recognition underscores the efficiency, craftsmanship, and professionalism of our in-house team.
About Blaine Robinson
Blaine’s can-do attitude, skill, and commitment to quality set him apart in the metal can decorating space. He consistently delivers on time and to the highest standards, approaching every task with calm self-possession and good humor. He tackles challenges head-on and is relentless about continuous improvement – for example, when tasked with reducing machine changeover times, Blaine’s innovative approach delivered a 40% reduction.
Leveraging SGX’s advanced technology, Blaine also brings a keen eye for color and design intent, scrutinizing every outcome before sign-off to ensure top quality every time. A natural leader, he sets a high bar for workmanship and earns the respect of his peers through his actions. His contributions have elevated our output and strengthened a collaborative team culture.
SGX Print Solutions at IMDPA
Metal cans are more than containers – they’re 360-degree canvases for creativity. The IMDPA annual conference is a premier forum for innovation, discussion, and collaboration in metal can decoration – one of print packaging’s fastest-growing segments as consumers demand sustainable, infinitely recyclable substrates.
While SGS & Co and SGK have participated in IMDPA separately in the past, 2025 is the first year we’ve presented together as SGX Print Solutions. Attendees experienced our consolidated purpose, commercial vision, and strengthened ability to deliver at scale. We’re proud to be a globally trusted print powerhouse, combining technology and expertise to deliver consistent quality and speed – and, as part of the Propelis family, to extend this creativity with unrivaled scale.
With two production sites in St. Louis, MO and Butler, PA, and four pilot lines, SGX Print Solutions offers:
• Up to 10-color + varnish capabilities
• Support for multiple can sizes: 12oz, 12oz sleek, 16oz, 25oz, and aerosols
• Specialized digital pilot decorating for necked and sleek cans
• Advanced plating and finishing, including Dry Offset Plating with CTP, DLE, elastomer, laser-engraved blankets, and automated plate finishing
This blend of craft and technology delivers unmatched consistency, flexibility, and speed to market.
Blaine said: "It’s been an incredibly memorable experience to attend IMDPA this year, representing SGX Print Solutions and introducing our newly unified metal deco capabilities to the wider industry – and, of course, to come away with this incredible recognition.
“Seeing the fantastic work being accomplished across the industry to advance metal can decorating, it’s impossible to overstate how much creativity and ability there is in this space. I’m also hugely appreciative of the team here and to support our outstanding clients each and every day.”
Wes Bradford, EVP, Propelis & President, SGX Print Solutions, added: “We are tremendously proud that Blaine has been recognized by IMDPA, the foremost authority on metal decorating in the country. Blaine’s determination and impressive skills make him a very worthy recipient.
“Blaine demonstrates adaptability and responsiveness – he’s able to change course to satisfy shifting requirements and deadlines, and continually goes above and beyond. He’s one of the best master machine operators anywhere in the country, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have him as part of our team.
“Of course, we are also delighted that at our first outing as a unified SGX Print Solutions brand, with a combined team, one of our own has garnered IMDPA’s highest accolade. It underscores that we’re a globally trusted print partner – not just because of our leading-edge equipment, but because we have an experienced team to go with it.”
