Asahi Photoproducts, Tokyo, Japan, this week announced that its European Sales Director Dr. David Galton has been recognized by the European Flexographic Industry Association (EFIA), Brussels Belgium, for his outstanding contribution to the Flexo Industry. This lifetime achievement award is the highest honor awarded by EFIA. 

Galton has been a key figure in the printing industry for more than 30 years, starting his industrial career at the London College of Printing and gaining his PhD at Leeds University. He remains an active researcher and author of numerous technical papers and articles and was chairman of EFIA for five years from 2009 to 2015. His career began at Ilford Films working in R&D. Galton moved to working with Litho Plate technology at Polychrome in the early 1980s and then transferred to Asahi Chemical and the flexographic sector in 1985. He has been in his role at Asahi Photoproducts for more than 30 years. 

Debbie Waldron-Hoines, CEO of EFIA, said that "David Galton’s contribution to EFIA cannot be underestimated. He has worked tirelessly and effectively to strengthen our organization and its purposes. He is a highly valued and respected member of our board. During his five years as chairman of EFIA, he has helped us to raise awareness for our organization. With his extensive technical knowledge, his understanding of business practices, and his caring manner, he is highly regarded by the hundreds of flexo printers and suppliers who are our members and depend on EFIA as a source of information and support."

The EFIA Awards 2018 were held at The Vox Centre in Birmingham, U.K., on March 14, 2018. During his acceptance speech, Galton made a personal tribute to thank each member of the board. "I am honored and humbled to be the recipient of this special award," said Galton. "EFIA makes a difference. It is a vibrant organization representing the Flexographic Industry that is run by a small group of dedicated volunteers without whom the industry would not have a platform to ‘showcase’ and champion excellence. The training of our young people is ongoing and vital. The association is in safe hands and I believe it has a bright future ahead." 

Dieter Niederstadt of Asahi noted that "I have had the privilege to know David for 16 years. He brings an energy and enthusiasm to his work that is infectious. He is a genuine guy and with a significant depth of knowledge and understanding of our industries. He always goes the extra mile to help and encourage each and every one he comes into contact with. We at Ashai all join together in congratulating David on this well-deserved award." 

In the photo below are David Galton (left) and Neil Jones, BOBST - Chairman of EFIA

Asahi Photoproducts is a subsidiary of the Asahi Kasei Corp., which was founded in 1971. Asahi Photoproducts is one of the leading pioneers of flexographic photopolymer plate development. By creating high quality flexographic solutions and through continued innovation, the company aims at driving print forward in balance with the environment.