Shawmut: A Legacy of Kindness and Sustainable Printing Leadership

Shawmut Communications Group is a privately held, family-run, fourth-generation print manufacturer and recognized as Massachusetts’ first SGP-certified printer.

Shawmut’s commitment to sustainability traces back to founder Ted Peluso, who in the early 1950s lived by a “waste not, want not” philosophy—donating leftover paper to schools and transforming trimmings into notepads for local businesses. Decades before sustainability became a business priority, Ted was already putting it into practice. Today, Shawmut continues to uphold his heartfelt belief that “sustainability is kindness” with local efforts to give back and wellness initiatives for employees.

Leading Together: A Culture of Collaboration

Leading Shawmut’s sustainability efforts is Kristin Spanier, Executive Director of Business Development and Director of Sustainability Programs. She spearheaded the company’s SGP certification—earning an A+ with no corrective actions—proving that sustainability isn’t just a goal, but a business imperative.

Kristin’s leadership extends beyond Shawmut. As an SGP Board Director she’s a powerful voice shaping the future of the print industry. “Kristin’s ideas and leadership are exactly what SGP needs to drive our future,” said Birdley James, Chair of the SGP Board of Directors. “She brings clarity, compassion, and a focus on impact.”

Behind Kristin’s leadership stands a deeply aligned team—and, most importantly, an extended family. From operators and designers to estimators, quality managers, sales, and support staff, sustainability is not confined to one department but embraced across the company.

More Than Just a Green Printer

Shawmut combines its green values with full-service capabilities, delivering sustainable solutions all under one roof:

• Commercial Print – high-quality marketing collateral and corporate materials
• Direct Mail & Print-on-Demand – targeted, personalized campaigns with storefront technology
• Packaging Solutions – folding cartons, corrugated packaging, and specialty packaging
• Display Graphics & Event Booths – large-format graphics, signage, and visual displays
• Branded & Promotional Products – Merchandise, giveaways, and custom swag

These services are backed by more certifications including FSC®, SFI®, G7, GMI, and HIPAA, underscoring Shawmut’s commitment to quality, compliance, and sustainability.

Initiatives

At Shawmut, sustainability is powered by people. From their Green Team tending the corporate garden to the employee walking club or continuing Ted’s legacy of donating paper to schools, every effort counts. Metrics matter, but it’s the creativity, commitment, and teamwork of people that truly make sustainability happen—and set Shawmut apart.