The Business Case for Green: Simpson Print's SGP Journey

Business leaders manage their reputation by validating their sustainability claims, and Simpson Print stands out by using its Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) certification to do just that. The company’s reputation is built on its sustainability program and its relentless commitment to a more sustainable supply chain. As a regional business leader and one of the top sustainable printers in the industry, Simpson Print’s Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) certification validates their leadership, helping to make them a key partner for brands committed to a sustainable future.

Driven by a 60-year history of innovation, Simpson Print successfully transitioned from a traditional screen-print shop to a full-service solutions provider. For CEO Carla Johanns, this forward-looking mindset is most visible in their commitment to sustainability as a core business driver.

The Business Case for SGP Certification

Simpson Print’s journey toward SGP certification was a logical step given its long-standing environmental values. The SGP certification, as an independent third-party assessment that looks at every part of a facility’s operations from waste reduction to energy use, gives them a powerful way to keep improving. “SGP certification offered the credible resources to align our staff and customers,” said Johanns. “Our goal is to be leaders in reducing our carbon footprint and taking the bold steps required for brands and retailers that demand sustainable action from their supply chain.”

This complete approach, which connects sustainability to efficient automation, is what Johanns calls “walking the talk.” The Canadian government recognized this leadership, investing $1.3 million in 2023 to help the company add new digital technology. This strategic investment enables Simpson Print to remove up to one ton of printing waste each year. This not only cuts their environmental footprint but also leads to big gains in efficiency and cost savings for their clients.

“We are proud of our ability to help our customers achieve their ESG goals at the same time, they meet their sales and marketing objectives,” said Johanns. “For example, if a national retailer needed a partner for an in-store display campaign with a strict goal to cut the project’s carbon footprint by 25%, we could demonstrate how we achieve this through our SGP-certified processes, which direct our material and technology choices. For instance, by using UV LED-cured inks and sourcing FSC-certified materials, Simpson Print can not only meet the company’s goal but exceed it, helping achieve a 30% reduction in environmental impact.” This situation shows how choosing the right supplier can directly support a brand’s sustainability goals.

“Simpson Print demonstrates their commitment to a more sustainable future every day,” said Jonathan Graham, SGP Past Chair 2020-2022. “It’s always refreshing to talk to Carla because the team is not only focused on continuous improvement but on making their products and every material circular. What’s truly inspiring is how they, as a sustainability leader, share their journey and progress with other regional businesses and the wider print supply chain.”

Leadership with Purpose

Simpson Print’s leadership goes beyond environmental goals. As a WEConnect International Certified women-owned business, it’s a key player in a global network focused on supplier diversity and fair supply chains. With a majority woman-led leadership team, Simpson Print shows how sustainability and equality can drive business success.

Johanns points out that modern automation is key to delivering great brand experiences while reducing environmental impact. The company’s culture focuses on constant improvement and strong collaborations, including with vendors like Zund and Swiss Q to push green manufacturing forward. By building sustainability and inclusive practices into its core business model, Simpson Print sets a high bar for other companies in all industries.

A New Standard for Print

Simpson Print’s SGP certification shows it is a leader in a strategic way that fits with how the company already works. Its focus on cutting emissions and its carbon footprint is at the top of the list for every product they make. By always asking, “How green can this look in-store and in print?”, they offer a great example of how print facilities can lead with purpose.

“As an industry leading printer, we recognize our position within the community and our responsibility to continually work on environmental best practices,” said Johanns.

This dedication provides a strong signal of trust, expertise, and a firm resolve to a more sustainable future, making Simpson Print a vital partner for brands looking to build a smarter, more responsible supply chain.

For more information on Simpson Print’s sustainability efforts, visit https://simpson-print.com/