Top 40 distributor Proforma (asi/300094) announced yesterday it has launched Global Graphics Network (GGN), a sister company focused on helping commercial printers grow their businesses. Through GGN, commercial printers, decorators and silkscreen printers can capitalize on the combined resources of a connected network, while still maintaining their independent business ownership and business name. During the initial launch of GGN, Proforma says that new members can join the network without any upfront costs.

“Global Graphics Network is designed to focus on the unique needs of printers,” said Greg Muzzillo, founder of Proforma, in a statement. “We know most printers have invested a great deal in their equipment, their staff and building their brand. We respect the businesses they have created. We also know that most printers need to find the right path forward to dynamically increase their sales and position their business for success in today’s business reality.”

Proforma’s new company will offer printers access to a $4 million sales and marketing fund and marketing materials they can brand with their own company name and logo. Members will also have access to a 140-member support services team, financial backing, free credit insurance, dedicated sales rep recruiters, and an acquisition support team.

“Proforma and Global Graphics Network understand the specific challenges printers face,” said Andy Mealor, owner of Proforma Ascension Marketing Group. “When I joined Proforma in 2010, I had a struggling commercial printing business with sales around $1 million. Today, we have more than doubled our sales to the $2 million range and are looking forward to achieving at least $3 million in 2016. I am pleased to see that Proforma is creating a separate network with GGN, solely focused on the unique needs of printers.”

Proforma currently ranks as the third-largest distributor in the promotional products market, after reporting to Counselor that it totaled 2014 North American ad specialty sales of $373.4 million, a 7.3% increase over the previous year.