INX International executives receive NAPIM industry awards

INX International Ink Co. executives Ron Deegan and Alex Folloso have received prestigious awards from the National Association of Printing Ink Manufacturers during the organization's annual awards dinner held September 8 at the Omni Charlotte Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Deegan, senior vice president of sales for North America, received the Printing Ink Pioneer award, recognizing technical contribution and industry service. Folloso, vice president of R&D metal decorating technology, accepted the Technical Service award for contributions to printing ink formulation, manufacture and application science.

Bryce Kristo, president and CEO of INX and current NAPIM president, presented both awards to his colleagues.

'This industry has been my life's work since I was 22 years old. I never expected this recognition, but I appreciate it,' noted Deegan. 'I know many deserving people in our industry who have received this award. I am humbled, grateful and surprised to win the Printing Ink Pioneer award.'

Based in Toronto, Deegan began his 33-year printing industry career at Kroma Corp. International, which SICPA later acquired. He joined INX in 2003, working in various sales and operations roles before becoming vice president of sales and operations for Canada. He later advanced to vice president of sales for the North America Liquid Ink Division and has served in his current position since 2019.

Deegan's career contributions include understanding stakeholder needs across converters, brand owners, ink formulators and press experts while delivering market improvements in product performance, sustainability, applications and color management.

'Coming from a technical background and receiving the Major Technical Accomplishments in the science of printing ink from NAPIM is an honor I never expected,' commented Folloso. 'Without them, I would not have been considered for this award. Working at INX and for the metal division has been full of success and challenges.'

Folloso was promoted to his current role in 2024 after starting his INX career 27 years ago as a summer intern following college graduation. He progressed through positions as R&D chemist, manager and director, leading teams in ink technology improvements for two-piece and three-piece metal decorating, three-piece metal and UV, and rigid container inks.

His team's developments include higher BRC content products, novel catalytic approaches, UV/LED products for rigid container food applications and technology enhancements that have improved printed can visual quality and specialty inks and coatings.