Worzalla’s Jim Fetherston Honored with Book Manufacturers’ Institute Signature Award
Fetherston recognized for valuable contributions to and leadership in U.S. book printing industry
Worzalla CEO and President Jim Fetherston was awarded the Signature Award at the Book Manufacturers’ Institute’s Fall Annual Conference. The Book Manufacturers’ Institute (BMI), a nationally recognized trade association representing the book manufacturing industry, created the Signature Award to recognize BMI members who have made a valued contribution to the welfare of the industry through the display of superior leadership qualities. The Signature Award, awarded only when the BMI board of directors identifies worthy candidates, has just 44 recipients in BMI’s 90-year history.
“While there have been ups and downs for U.S. book printers during the last few decades, we have all learned one truth: the printed book is not dead and, in fact, is thriving,” said Fetherston. “It has been a privilege to help lead our industry to the fruitful landscape that we are experiencing today. I humbly accept the Book Manufacturers’ Institute’s Signature Award on behalf of all our industry partners who trust us to get the job done and the many people on the ground responsible for making each and every book that we are sending to bookshelves, libraries, schools, and homes across the country.”
BMI’s Fall Annual Conference was held this year in Orlando, FL on November 8, 2021. In addition to Fetherston, the 2021 Signature Award was also given to Dirk Hiler of Lakeside Book Company. When asked about the awards, Joe Upton, Past-President of BMI and Past Chairperson of the Awards Committee, said, “It’s wonderful to be back in-person to recognize the many wonderful contributions these individuals have made to our industry and to celebrate what brings us together, printed books.”
Fetherston is a print veteran, currently the President and CEO of Worzalla, an employee-owned book printer specializing in printing high-quality children’s books, cookbooks, and hard-cover best sellers. Fetherston has previously held positions at Hess Print Solutions and RR Donnelley. Fetherston is an alumnus of University of Michigan and longtime member of BMI, serving in various volunteer positions within BMI, including Board President.
In Fetherston’s tenure with Worzalla, he has overseen a multi-phase plant modernization plan, increasing Worzalla’s printing capacity and aiding growth. Worzalla has been recognized by the industry for its safety and HR practices and by Stevens Point and Wisconsin organizations for being a top place to work regionally. Employee owners organize year-round community involvement events and fundraisers with a special focus on education and literacy.