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December 22, 2006
John H. Harland Company Announces Its Acquisition
R.R. Donnelley to Acquire Magazine, Catalog Printer
Kodak, CFC Technology Launch Check Processing Solution
FedEx Reports Solid Growth, FedEx Kinko's Sees Revenue Decline
International Paper to Sell 2 Businesses
December 15, 2006
Congress Approves Postal Reform Legislation
TopForm to Test Open Data Architecture
ASB Invests in Oracle Applications
Bernadette Installs Flexo Press
Study: Black & White Digital Printing Still Significant
IBSA, Misys Healthcare Systems Sign Deal on IT Products
December 8, 2006
R.R. Donnelley Wins $465M Contract
Consolidated Graphics to Acquire Hennegan Company
IBM Selects WorkflowOne as Supplier for Laser Print Products
Four51 Reports Growth
Wise Business Forms Announces Appointments
USPS Allows Users to Create Holiday Cards
FedEx Ground to Increase 2007 Rates by 4.9 Percent
Boise Cascade to Close Oregon Mill
Georgia-Pacific to Close Green Bay Plant
Standard Register Names New Chairman
Print Matters Announces Survey Winner
December 1, 2006
The Industry Measure Releases Annual Forecast
Top 50 GPO Vendors for 2006
Ennis Ranked in Forbes
FormStore Incorporated Installs New Equipment
Safety Record Remains Intact for Printco
OfficeMax Rebrands Print and Document Services
Web-To-Print Emphasis at Graphics of the Americas
November 17, 2006
Chapter 7 for Global Docugraphix
Tractor Supply Selects WorkflowOne
Burton Increases Cenveo Holdings
Intraform Sells Regional Operations
Holiday Card In-a-Box Program
Dupli-Systems Adds Equipment
Marrs Printing and Packaging Adds UV Capabilities
Ward/Kraft Recognizes Lisa Butler
MAN Roland Promotes Ron Sams
Suppliers Join to Enhance UV and Hybrid Reliability
November 10, 2006
Metro Label, Ambassador Envelope to Close Operations
R.R. Donnelley Q3 Profit Up 61 Percent
Cenveo Reports Q3 Profit, Burton Extends Contract
InnerWorkings Announces Record Q3 Results
Quebecor World Reports Lower Q3 Earnings
Coast Label Company Wins Awards
In Memoriam
November 3, 2006
R.R. Donnelley to Acquire Banta for $1.3B, Cenveo Drops Bid
Deluxe to Acquire Commercial Printing Enterprise
Document Security Systems to Launch Bar Code Protection Technology
NIC Opens Facility in California
Consolidated Graphics Reports Q2 Results
MeadWestvaco Q3 Profits Rise
Ward/Kraft Announces Winners
Shuff Joins Wise as Production Manager
International Paper Completes Sale of Forestland
October 27, 2006
Cenveo Sends Letter to Banta
R.R. Donnelley Signs Deal With UAE Commercial Printer
Ward/Kraft Opens New Division
Study: Printers Ready to Invest in New Equipment
Four51 Announces Application Upgrade
Deluxe Launches Fraud Protection Tool
Printable Technologies Introduces Online Retail Tool
Avery Dennison Profit Falls
International Paper Plans Russian Venture
Brian Fritsche is TopForm President, CEO
Weyerhaeuser Reports Q3 Results
October 20, 2006
Four51, Kodak Create Digital Print Network
Ward/Kraft Announces Composite Technology
Ultra Forms Extends Gas Card Promotion
Xitron Previews Short Run Digital Press
Office Depot Reports Q3 Profits
HP Creates RFID Technology for Tracking Data Center Assets
Alien Technology Enables Global Deployment of Gen 2 RFID Readers, Tags
Study: Retailers to Increase Use of Electronic Signage
Webb/Mason Hires HR Vice President
October 13, 2006
Banta Outlines Plant Closings, Cenveo Revises Proposal
Xerox to Acquire XMPie
InnerWorkings Acquires Applied Graphics
Ward/Kraft Launches Die Cut Indigo Labels
Open House at Team Concept Printing
WorkflowOne Launches Digital Solutions Business Unit
Study: Global Card Market Sees Growth
Office Depot Buys Chinese Firm
Domtar to Cut 18 Mill Jobs
Ferree Named Appleton CFO
Standard Register, HP to Offer Managed Print Services
September 29, 2006
Ennis Q2 Earnings Rise
Ward/Kraft Launches Protective Laminate
Don't Miss the Opening Night's Celebration
MAR Graphics Adds Concepta Web Press
USPS Proposes New Mailing Standards
Georgia-Pacific to Sell 6 Mills
EFI to Acquire Jetrion
September 22, 2006
Cenveo Sends Formal Proposal to Banta
Bernadette Under New Ownership
Don't Miss the Opening Night's Celebration
R.R. Donnelley Buys Printing Operations
Standard Register Opens Facility in Mexico
FedEx Reports Strong Q1 Revenue
Office Depot to Cut Jobs
Deluxe Launches Online Check Resource Center
September 15, 2006
Banta Plans to Strengthen Business, Position
WorkflowOne, Purchasing Group Sign $2M Deal
American Solutions for Business Holds Sales Conference
Don’t Miss the Opening Night’s Celebration
Wisco Announces Early Ordering Program
Appleton Introduces Label Facestock Selector
Deluxe to Add 200 Jobs at Call Centers
September 8, 2006
Cenveo Ups Bid to $47 Per Share, Banta Remains Mum
Last Chance!
PSDA, ASI Team on 2007 Regional Shows
Printra Changes Name to PageDNA
Bowater to Cut Paper Production
Xerox Launches Carbonless Paper
Report: Production Color Driving Growth in Print on Demand Market
International Paper Completes Sale of Brazilian Coated Papers Business
September 1, 2006
Print Solutions Hotel Cut-Off is Sept. 7
R.R. Donnelley Buyout Talks Fail
Regency Thermographers to Close Iowa Plant
Ernesto Loses its Punch in Fla., Regains Strength
Weyerhaeuser Acquires OrganicID
MeadWestvaco Announces Next Generation of Tango Paper 9/1/06
August 25, 2006
R.R. Donnelley Investor Urges $3B Share Buyback
Meissner Buys Back Distributorship
Appleton Names Winner of 'Game of Your Dreams' Trip
Four51 Announces Continuing Education Program
Wright Business Forms Expands Management Team
InfoSeal Celebrates Fifth Anniversary
Deluxe to Shut N.Y. Call Center
Weyerhaeuser to Combine Fine Paper Assets with Domtar
Quad/Graphics Acquires Craftsman Press West
International Paper to Sell Brazilian Coated Papers Business
August 18, 2006
Banta Board Rejects Cenveo Offer
Analyst: Paper Producers Will Increase Prices
Bradley Graphic Solutions Joins UnigraphicsUSA
IKON Signs Deal With Health Care GPO
Sources: R.R. Donnelley Holds Buyout Talks With 2 Groups
Consolidated Graphics to Acquire Annan & Bird Lithographers
Tyczkowski Named Appleton’s Chief Compliance Officer
Document Security Systems, Ergonomic Group Sign Agreement
Staples Q2 Profit Rises
August 11, 2006
Banta Confirms Cenveos Hostile Offer
Data Group to Acquire Relizon Canada for $141M
Universal Buys Reynolds and Reynolds
DocuSource Print Management Acquires US Print Resource Management
Ennis Completes Acquisition of Block Graphics
Is R. R. Donnelley for Sale?
FedEx Kinko's Introduces New Retail Concept
How Does VistaPrint Do It?
Ward/Kraft, Mike West Form Consultative Partnership
AB&C Group to Consolidate 2 Operations
Century Marketing Launches Online Tool to Create Customized Products
Printers Face Competition from Prison Print Shop
August 04, 2006
Webb/Mason, American Solutions for Business Sign Agreements to Buy GDX Assets
PRINTSouth Acquires Assets of NCR Division
Ultra Forms Plus Extends Free Gas Card Program
R.R. Donnelley Q2 Profit Up 38 Percent
Cenveo Raises Q2 Guidance
Standard Register Reports Q2 Results
Consolidated Graphics Quarterly Profit Rises 57 Percent
International Paper Sells Coating Unit, Reports Q2 Earnings
MeadWestvaco Narrows Q2 Loss
July 28, 2006
Global DocuGraphix Seeks Buyers After Court Approval
Power Outages, Summer Storms Affect Companies
DocuSource Print Management Acquires US Print Resource Management
Siegwerk Group Completes SICPA Packaging Ink Acquisition
Reynolds and Reynolds to Cut 450 Jobs
The Flesh Company Receives EPA Approval
Avery Dennison Q2 Earnings Rise
Weyerhaeuser 2Q Profit Falls 25 Percent
R.R. Donnelley Launches Mail Tracking Tool
Customer Ordering Patterns, Weather Impact MeadWestvaco Q2 Results
Standard Register's Shelbyville Facility Receives ISO Registration
Banta Reports Q2 Results, Announces Print Sector Reorganization
July 21, 2006
Global DocuGraphix Files for Bankruptcy
Fiserv Acquires Jerome Group
The Shamrock Companies Purchases RBF
Microforms Purchases Assets of Continuous Forms
Nashua Invests in Printing Firm
CMS-1500 Health Care Form Revised
Canadian Payments Association Clarifications on Check Specifications
June 30, 2006
Consolidated Graphics to Acquire Global Group
Ennis Q1 Earnings Rise
International Paper Agrees to Sell Paper Unit
MAR Graphics Completes Expansion
Xerox Sponsors Web Site to Send Postcards to U.S. Troops
Major Business Systems Completes 39 Years
PSDA's Publications Department Wins 4 More Awards
In Memoriam: Nora A. Shellhase
June 23, 2006
TRADEMarts Complete a Successful Season
High Energy at Baltimore TRADEMart
Appleton Removes CFO
Radical Changes at Print Solutions 2006
HP Hiring Salespeople to Increase Market Share
MeadWestvaco Names Senior VP
Georgia-Pacific's Correll to Retire as Chairman
SEMCO Products Achieves Safety Milestone
OfficeMax to Open Center in Puerto Rico
June 16, 2006
Wright Business Forms Completes Purchase of Cal Snap & Tab
American Solutions for Business Wins Contract
O'Hara Announces Retirement
FMI, Union Reach Agreement
Standard Register, Streamline Health Announce Alliance
Appleton Introduces Security Product Guide
FedEx Introduces Supply-Chain Service
June 9, 2006
Ennis to Acquire Block Graphics
RB&O, SWM Join Forces
Source4 Acquires Taylor Business Products
Business Forms Inc. Purchases Belknap Assets
Centurion to Acquire ABP from TimeMed
Graphic Services Buys Firm from Cenveo, Announces New Name
International Paper to Sell Coated & SC Papers Business
OfficeMax to Install Canon Wide-Format Printers
AB&C Group Makes Multimillion-Dollar IT Investments
Standard Register Sells Software Business
Wise Business Forms Names General Manager
Print Matters (E-Weekly) Wins National Award
June 2, 2006
Coming Monday: Newly Redesigned PSDA.org
Manufacturers, Distributors Discuss Ways to Meet Requirements
Document Security Systems Signs Agreement with R.R. Donnelley & Sons
FORMost Graphic Launches VDP Solution
PrintXcel Relocates Marshall Sales Office
Creative DataProducts Joins ICMA
May 12, 2006
Georgia-Pacific to Close Savannah Plant
Cenveo Reports Q1 Profit
Document Security Systems, UnigraphicsUSA Sign Agreement
Quebecor World Reports Losses, Plans Job Cuts
Standard Register Launches Marketing Software
WorkflowOne to Offer Services to Italian Ice Chain
FedEx Kinko's Enhances Printing Software
Deluxe, BancorpSouth Announce Deal
MeadWestvaco Offers Just-In-Time Access
Scarborough Named Corporate Vice President at Ennis
Suncoast Marketing Employee Earns HR Certification
May 5, 2006
R.R. Donnelley Q1 Income Grows, CFO to Leave
PrintXcel Introduces Annual Sales Contest
Consolidated Graphics Reports 4Q, Full Year Results
USPS Proposes Stamp Rate Increase
Four51 Announces New Features
Printegra Appoints Southeast Regional Sales Manager
Staples, HP Move Ahead in Wide-Format Market
MeadWestvaco to Acquire Dispensing, Spraying Systems Manufacturer
Alien Technology, Vue Technology to Offer Item-Level RFID Solutions
Bowater Reports Q1 Loss of $18.8M
Weyerhaeuser Reports Q1 Loss of $580M
April 28, 2006
Region 6 Holds Forum on E-Commerce
Ennis Reports Profits
Webb/Mason to Open Offices in Florida
Ward/Kraft Announces New Location for Ohio Sales Team
Kodak Names Jeffrey Hayzlett Chief Marketing Officer
New E-Paper Devices on the Horizon
Deluxe Reports Lower Profits, CFO Resigns
Alien, Unisys to Deliver Advanced RFID Solutions
Paris Business Wins Approval to Use CPSA Icon
April 21, 2006
PSDA's Region 5 Holds First Local Forum
Standard Register Signs $110M Contract
F.P. Horak Expands Digital, Mailing & Bindery Capabilities
FormStore Incorporated, Four51 Sign Agreements
NewPage Plans IPO, Announces Organization Changes
MeadWestvaco Reports 4.4% Q1 Sales Growth
Ink Company Acquires 2 More Firms
Former Relizon President Retires Today
HP, BEA to Offer New RFID Solutions
Boise Approves $72M Pressure Sensitive Paper Investment
International Paper to Sell 275,000 Acres of Forestland
Deluxe Names New CEO
April 14, 2006
Consolidated Graphics Considering Possible Sale
ASI: Promotional Products Sales Jump 5.1%
International Paper Clear-Cuts Its Taxes
MeadWestvaco Group Introduces Corn Cartons
Standard Register to Offer Supply-Chain Management Services to Online Retailer
FedEx Freight Announces Rate Increase
Public Printer Announces Retirement
April 7, 2006
USPS: Direct Mail Will Grow
Cenveo Announces Completion of Supremex Income Fund IPO
International Paper Agrees to Sell 5.1 Million Acres of U.S. Forestland
Study: Digital Color Market Entering Rapid Growth Phase
Quebecor World Names New President, CEO
Specialty Envelope Opens Offices in Tempe
Four51, Pageflex Expand Partnership
Paris Business Increases Capacity for Laser Rolls
Structural Graphics Acquires Intervisual Communications
Suntower Launches SAFE EE
Report: Printer Supply Revenue to Top $100B
March 24, 2006
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Acquires Another BPO Firm
FedEx Reports Strong 3Q Results
Business Forms Develops Printing Process for Multipart Forms
TST/Impreso Introduces Sports Caps for Bottled Spring Water
3M Awarded Injunction in Patent Case Against Avery Dennison
Degrava Systems Appoints Vice President
March 17, 2006
Standard Register to Close Plant
NewPage Corp. Announces Q4, 2005 Results
Survey: Digital Printers Becoming Increasingly Popular
DSS to Offer Online Secure Documents to Bank
Shipman Print Solutions Adds Envelope Press
Printegra Upgrades Digital Print Capabilities
Concept Forms Offers Guest Checks
Strata-Tac Introduces Gold, Silver Laser Films
ASB Holds Winter Convention
Wise Business Forms Names General Manager
March 3, 2006
Cenveo Announces 4Q Results
Wise Plant Offers Short Runs
Staples Reports Improved Q4 Numbers
NewPage Introduces Brochure
February 24, 2006
Ennis Acquires Specialized Printed Forms
NewPage to Sell Carbonless Units, CEO Steps Down
Cenveo Closing More Facilities
R.R. Donnelley Reports 4Q Loss, Renews Contracts
IBSA to Offer Products to Health Group
Standard Register Creates On Demand Solutions Unit
Business Stationery Launches Webinar Program
Paris Business Products Introduces Paper
OfficeMax Reports 4Q, 2005 Results
February 17, 2006
R.R. Donnelley Wins Several Contracts
Ward/Kraft Consolidates Production
MeadWestvaco Realigns Packaging Units, Establishes New Headquarters
Burton Set to Spin Off Unit
750 New Jobs at Quad/Graphics
Consolidated Graphics Completes Acquisition of Nies/Artcraft Companies
February 10, 2006
Document Security Systems Acquires Security Printer
Ward/Kraft Introduces Security Laminate
PrintXcel Adds In-line Die Cut Capabilities
Proforma Launches ProApparel
FMI Employees Face Lockout
IBSA Reports 2005 Sales
Weyerhaeuser Reports 4Q Loss
International Paper Reports Earnings
Wilmer Office to Relocate
Harland Co. Reports 4Q, 2005 Results
February 3, 2006
Consolidated Graphics Q3 Earnings Rise
Workflow Announces Leadership Team
Team Concept Printing Enhances Capabilities
VersaSeal Launches DVD on Pressure Seal
Bowater Reports Net Loss for 2005
Super Bowl XL: This Company is Already a Winner
American Solutions Wins State Award
In Memoriam
John H. Harland Company Announces Its Acquisition 12/22/06
M & F Worldwide Corp. and John H. Harland Company have entered into a merger agreement for M & F Worldwide to acquire Harland for $52.75 per share in cash. Upon the completion of the transaction, valued at $1.7 billion, Harland will become a wholly owned subsidiary of M & F Worldwide. The combined company is anticipated to have operations in more than 20 states. The merger is expected to close in the second half of 2007. M & F Worldwide is the parent company of Clarke American, which offers more than 3,200 financial institution customers a variety of comprehensive marketing services and products, including customer contact solutions, and checks and check-related products and services. Harland offers printed products, and software and related services to the financial institution market, including banks, credit unions, thrifts, brokerage houses and financial software companies. Full story.
R.R. Donnelley to Acquire Magazine, Catalog Printer 12/22/06
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire Perry Judd's Holdings Incorporated, a privately-owned printer of magazines and catalogs, for $176 million. The all-cash deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2007. Headquartered in Waterloo, Wis., Perry Judd's long and short run capabilities for producing catalogs and magazines will complement R.R. Donnelley's publishing, catalog and retail services, the company said. Full story.
Kodak, CFC Technology Launch Check Processing Solution 12/22/06
Eastman Kodak Company launched a check processing solution and strategic relationship with CFC Technology Corp., Minneapolis. The new, hosted platform managed by CFC Technology will utilize Kodak's portfolio of online Check Imaging Solutions. The platform will help organizations of all sizes take advantage of Check 21 benefits, allowing them to remotely scan their incoming checks. The hosted service model is attractive to banks as it allows them to pay as they go based on demand, as opposed to making upfront, large investments in in-house technology and support capabilities, the company said.
FedEx Reports Solid Growth, FedEx Kinko's Sees Revenue Decline 12/22/06
FedEx Corp. reported strong earnings for the second quarter ended Nov. 30. The company reported the following consolidated results for the second quarter:
- Revenue of $8.93 billion, up 10 percent from the previous year
- Operating income of $839 million, up 6 percent from a year ago
- Operating margin of 9.4 percent, down from last year's 9.8 percent
- Net income of $511 million, up 8 percent from the previous year
For the second quarter, the company's FedEx Kinko's segment reported revenue of $519 million, down 2 percent from last year, operating income of $8 million, down 50 percent from a year ago, and operating margin of 1.5 percent, down from 3 percent the previous year. Full story.
Additionally, FedEx acquired ANC Holdings Limited, a United Kingdom domestic express transportation company for £120 million. This transaction will allow FedEx Express, an operating unit of FedEx Corp., to directly serve the entire U.K. domestic market.
International Paper to Sell 2 Businesses 12/22/06
International Paper has agreed to sell its beverage-packaging and Arizona Chemical businesses for about $985 million. International Paper agreed to sell its beverage-packaging business to Carter Holt Harvey Ltd. for $500 million and its Arizona Chemical business to Rhone Capital III LP for $485 million, the company said. Full story.
Congress Approves Postal Reform Legislation 12/15/06
The U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate approved Dec. 8. the first postal reform legislation since 1970. H.R. 6407, the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act of 2006, provides a mechanism for controlling pricing that will replace a lengthy rate-setting process with more predictable, manageable price adjustments, held at or below the rate of inflation with a cap tied to the consumer price index. It also offers financial reforms to enable the U.S. Postal Service to better meet its employee benefits obligations and management reforms to improve service performance and create efficiencies within USPS. President George Bush now has to sign H.R. 6407 into law.
Additionally, the U.S. Postal Rate Commission is considering one of the most complex changes to the mail pricing system in history and it has some corporations that ship millions of letters, flats and parcels annually shaking in their boots. The proposed rate change, Rate Case R-2006-1, is slated to take effect in May. After H.R. 6407 becomes law, it will not affect the rate changes currently being considered by the commission. Read the full story in the January issue of Print Solutions magazine.
TopForm to Test Open Data Architecture 12/15/06
TopForm Software Inc. will provide its customers the option of using an open relational database for real-time data storage and access. The company will first support Oracle database, followed by mySQL and others. "Our customers requested a more flexible system that would provide greater access to data and Oracle is that solution," said Brian Fritsche, TopForm president/CEO. "This is our first significant step toward adopting an open architecture that gives customers more control over their business. In addition, customers will have the ability to integrate third-party applications and design custom e-commerce software."
ASB Invests in Oracle Applications 12/15/06
American Solutions for Business (ASB) signed an agreement with Oracle to purchase and implement Oracle's PeopleSoft Enterprise Supply Chain Management and PeopleSoft Enterprise Financial Management. These applications will allow ASB to pursue supply-chain integration, allowing sales associates, corporate operations and vendors to work together to fulfill the needs of customers across the nation.
Bernadette Installs Flexo Press 12/15/06
Bernadette Print Group purchased an 8-color Mark Andy 2200 flexographic press to produce high-quality, full-color prime labels, tags and clean-release cards. Headquartered in St. Louis, Bernadette Print Group is a manufacturer of integrated products, direct mail, specialty forms, custom labels and tags.
Study: Black & White Digital Printing Still Significant 12/15/06
Although black-and-white digital printing is considered mature, it's still a significant part of the overall production digital printing market, according to a new InfoTrends study entitled "The Future of Black & White Production Digital Printing." Black-and-white devices produced 874 billion impressions and generated $17.8 billion in retail print value in 2005. Total equipment revenues (equipment, services, and supplies) reached $7.41 billion. Other findings include:
- There will be continued displacement of black-and-white devices by Universal Copier/Printers (UCPs) that can cost-effectively produce color and black-and-white pages on the same device. This, however, doesn't mean the black-and-white production digital printing is without opportunities.
- New, higher-speed black-and-white devices will compete with offset technology. New entrants are expected to penetrate the market, particularly within the 'light production' segment. Continued improvements in finishing in addition to the improved cost and quality of output will make black-and-white devices attractive for niche applications.
IBSA, Misys Healthcare Systems Sign Deal on IT Products 12/15/06
International Business Solutions Alliance (IBSA) signed an agreement with Misys Healthcare Systems to provide health information technology, including electronic medical records (EMR), to IBSA's health care customers. IBSA members can offer their customers a fully integrated practice management solution, including billing, scheduling and EMR offerings.
R.R. Donnelley Wins $465M Contract 12/08/06
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company announced that U.K.-based Astron, a wholly-owned subsidiary of R.R. Donnelley and a document business process outsourcing provider, has been awarded a 7-year, $465 million outsourcing agreement by ING. ING is a financial institution that provides banking, insurance and asset management services to more than 60 million private, corporate and institutional clients. Astron will provide ING a range of document-related services, including print and mail, scanning, fulfillment, application development and more. Full story.
Consolidated Graphics to Acquire Hennegan Company 12/08/06
Consolidated Graphics Inc. signed a letter of intent to acquire The Hennegan Company, Florence, Ky. Founded in 1886, Hennegan has annual revenues of approximately $85 million. Hennegan offers a variety of sheet-fed printing, full web printing with numerous folding options, highly personalized digital printing, finishing, bindery, die cutting, embossing, art and design, color analysis, direct mail and fulfillment. Full story.
IBM Selects WorkflowOne as Supplier for Laser Print Products 12/08/06
WorkflowOne announced that IBM Corp. chose it to supply custom-printed rolls and continuous forms to be used in IBM high-speed laser printers. WorkflowOne will produce and distribute the forms and 50-inch rolls under the IBM brand and market the supplies through its national sales organization. Full story.
Four51 Reports Growth 12/08/06
Four51 Inc. announced that October was another month of growth with an additional 32,500 users connected to its network, a 642 percent increase from October 2005, and 152,112 transactions, a 190 percent increase from last year. Four51 said its growth is because of the increased adoption of its web-to-print solutions.
Wise Business Forms Announces Appointments 12/08/06
Wise Business Forms named Sandra Kortenber as customer service/sales manager at Fort Wayne, Ind. Kortenber has more than 10 years' experience in the printing industry. Nextwave Digital Marketing, a division of Wise Business Forms, named Mike Dinan as general manager. Dinan has more than 20 years of management experience in the printing industry. The company also named Marcos Escudero as production manager and Michael Richards as customer service manager. Escudero has more than 12 years of experience. Richards, who has more than 28 years of printing experience, joined Nextwave last year.
USPS Allows Users to Create Holiday Cards 12/08/06
The U.S. Postal Service's online CardStore allows customers to choose from more than 50 holiday card designs, upload an address book, add postage and then simply hit the send button. The Postal Service takes care of the rest. USPS has made available a number of traditional, religious, interfaith, multi-cultural and non-denominational cards. Customers also can create a personalized card by uploading a photo and selecting either a folded card with an envelope or a postcard. Once the card is selected, customers easily click through to the page that instructs the Postal Service to mail the card.
FedEx Ground to Increase 2007 Rates by 4.9 Percent 12/08/06
FedEx Corp. announced that it will increase the standard list rates for FedEx Ground and FedEx Home Delivery by an average of 4.9 percent. The new rates and surcharge changes will be effective Jan. 1. The increase is in addition to other changes to FedEx Express, FedEx Ground and FedEx Home Delivery surcharges. Full story.
Boise Cascade to Close Oregon Mill 12/08/06
Boise Wood Products, an operating unit of Boise Cascade LLC, announced that its veneer mill in Independence, Ore., will be permanently closed on Jan. 25. The closure will affect all 29 employees. The mill has been in operation since 1963. "The lack of affordable logs and an ample supply of veneer from our other operations in the region are the primary reasons we are closing the Independence mill," said Bruce Cartmel, Western Oregon regional manager.
Additionally, Boise Paper introduced fluorochemical-free Boise EcoOGR flexible packaging papers. Boise EcoOGR prints, converts and provides the same functionality as traditionally treated paper, but is made with naturally occurring, renewable resources.
Georgia-Pacific to Close Green Bay Plant 12/08/06
Georgia-Pacific Corp. plans to close one of its plants in Green Bay, Wis., according to a Dec. 1 story in The Business Journal. Seventy three employees will be laid off Jan. 29, according to a mass layoff notice filed with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development. Production at the plant will be transferred to the company's Broadway mill in Green Bay, the story said.
Standard Register Names New Chairman 12/08/06
Standard Register elected F. David Clarke, III, as chairman of the board following the death of Paul Granzow on Dec. 1. Granzow, 79, had served as chairman for 23 years and was a member of the board of directors since 1966. Clarke, 50, has served on Standard Register's board since 1992.
Print Matters Announces Survey Winner 12/08/06
Congratulations to Jeff Linehan, CEO of Diversified Business Forms, Haverhill, Mass., who was named winner of a 4GB iPod Nano from among 215 readers who responded to a Print Matters' readership survey in November. Linehan's name was chosen in a random drawing.
Overall feedback from the survey was extremely positive. Most respondents said they value Print Matters as a comprehensive and easy-to-read industry publication. The News, PSDA News, Q&A, Special Report, Solution of the Week and Sales Tips were the highest rated sections of the newsletter. (Next week, be sure to read this month's Special Report on variable data printing.) The major complaint about the newsletter was the requirement to enter usernames and passwords to access full versions of some articles from the PSDA.org web site. Print Matters, for PSDA members only, has a circulation of 10,500.
The Industry Measure Releases Annual Forecast 12/01/06
The Industry Measure has released its annual forecast of the publishing markets in a report titled "Publishing Forecast 2007." Based on surveys done in the summer of 2006, it forecasts trends that will influence book, magazine, and catalog publishers in the next 12 months and beyond. Among its findings:
48 percent of catalog publishers said that "e-mail promotions/e-letters" were becoming more important for the promotion of their products, while 17% said that "print catalog mailings" were becoming less important;
18 percent of all publishers had worked on at least one personalized, customized, or variable-data print project in the previous 12 months.
Top 50 GPO Vendors for 2006 12/01/06
The e-LYNXX Corporation has released its annual list of the Top 50 U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) vendors for 2006. The list includes printers that produce the most work through the GPO procurement system. News Printing Company, Claysburg, Pa., has taken over the GPO top spot with $23,918,051 in winning bids, while former top performers like Peake Printers, Cheverly, Md., dropped to No. 41 and Esselte, Los Angeles, Calif., dropped to No. 47. Twelve printers historically among the top vendors dropped off the list, while up-and-coming performers like PA Hutchison, Mayfield, Pa., moved onto the list and into the No. 27 spot with $2,665,773. The list is compiled from data assembled exclusively by e-LYNXX and encompasses the Federal Fiscal Year beginning Oct. 1, 2005 and ending Sept. 30, 2006.
Click here for the Top 50 List
Ennis Ranked in Forbes 12/01/06
Manufacturer Ennis Inc. was listed among Forbes "200 Best Small Companies" for the fifth consecutive year. Ennis ranked 93rd on the list, moving up eighty seven places from the previous year's ranking of 180. The list includes publicly traded companies with $5 million to $750 million in sales for the previous year. All companies on the list must earn a minimum of 5 percent net margin and have a five-year average return on equity of 5 percent or more. Ennis remains the only wholesale printer to appear on this list.
FormStore Incorporated Installs New Equipment 12/01/06
Manufacturer FormStore Incorporated installed its second Kodak NexPress 2500 Plus and its second Kodak NexGlosser. FormStore also announced participation in the Four51 Connect Elite program, which allows FormStore distributors, without charge, to manage their customers' digital print catalogs and transact their customers' digital print orders using the Four51 commerce network.
Safety Record Remains Intact for Printco 12/01/06
Printco employees received jackets embroidered with the company's logo in recognition for their emphasis on safety in the workplace. The manufacturer has been injury-free for the last three years, the company reports. "In the printing industry, where there is lots of equipment used to produce the products we provide, there are lots of opportunity for injury," says Ken Sperling, owner. In addition to the jackets, employees were treated to free lunches, fleece tops, first aid kits and other rewards for staying safe.
OfficeMax Rebrands Print and Document Services 12/01/06
OfficeMax announced that its print and document services operations will now be branded under the name OfficeMax ImPress. The name is meant to signify that the company creates documents and printing pieces with the intent to make a favorable impression, the company says. OfficeMax has begun changing retail signs and associate badges to reflect the OfficeMax ImPress brand.
Web-To-Print Emphasis at Graphics of the Americas 12/01/06
For the first time, Graphics of the Americas will feature a Web-to-Print exhibition pavilion, information area and conference symposium. The event takes place Feb. 28 through March 4, 2007, at the Miami Beach Convention Center. The Web-to-Print Pavilion is dedicated to web-to-print solutions including storefront, brand management, portal and online procurement models. The information area will give attendees guidance on visiting the appropriate exhibiting company for their needs. The symposium will allow attendees to evaluate an increasing array of technologies including "build or buy," stand-alone software or hosted solutions.
Chapter 7 for Global Docugraphix 11/17/06
Global Docugraphix has filed petitions under Chapter 7 of the United States Bankruptcy Code, a sign that the company plans to liquidate its remaining assets and terminate the business. Global Docugraphix originally had filed under Chapter 11 and sold some of its assets, including subsidiary TopForm Software Inc.
Tractor Supply Selects WorkflowOne 11/17/06
WorkflowOne announced that it has signed a multi-year contract with Tractor Supply Company, the largest retail farm and ranch store chain in the country, to serve the needs of its 650-plus retail stores across the United States. WorkflowOne is also supporting the retailer's major e-commerce initiative by providing Tractor Supply-branded promotional products to the retail stores. Using WorkflowOne's Web-based order management system, any Tractor Supply store in 34 states can order approximately 660 consumable items required to run a retail business. In addition, WorkflowOne builds, maintains, sources and fulfills the company's online store, where any of Tractor Supply's 10,000 employees can purchase brand-related promotional products.
Burton Increases Cenveo Holdings 11/17/06
Cenveo CEO Robert Burton this month bought 50,595 more shares of Cenveo stock, increasing his personal holdings to more than 3.5 million shares. His stake in the company is now about 6.5 percent. Cenveo stock, currently trading in the $20 range, is up more than 70 percent compared to a year ago. Full story.
Intraform Sells Regional Operations 11/17/06
Greg Marks recently purchased the Arizona assets of Intraform Inc., a marketing and communications company. He previously worked for Intraform as a business development executive for 10 years. Under the brand Intra-Media Solutions, Marks will expand the company's presence in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada and Utah. He plans to hire additional business development professionals, account managers and graphic designers, and open a southern California office by next summer.
Holiday Card In-a-Box Program 11/17/06
Four51 Inc. launched its Holiday Card In-a-Box program in time for the holiday season. The program allows Four51 customers to sell holiday cards and gifts without having to create, implement and manage the process. Customers have a holiday-themed site seamlessly integrated into their catalogs at no cost, which allows them to place ready-to-order holiday cards and gifts.
Dupli-Systems Adds Equipment 11/17/06
Dupli-Systems, an independent trade printer that specializes in commercial printing, business forms and cut sheets, recently added a pocket folder-gluer at its facility in Strongsville, Ohio. The Haskins Hyperfold Automatic Pocket Folder Gluer will improve efficiency, provide quicker turn times and reduce costs of producing pocket folders, the company says.
Marrs Printing and Packaging Adds UV Capabilities 11/17/06
Marrs Printing and Packaging Inc. will install a MAN Roland perfector with UV capabilities to its pressroom in February. The 41-inch Roland 700 offers fast makereadies and a run rate of 16,000 sheets per hour, the company reports.
Ward/Kraft Recognizes Lisa Butler 11/17/06
Lisa Butler, Ohio Sales Representative for Ward/Kraft Inc., has presented at more than 50 WK On Site seminars. She received an engraved airplane from the company for her contribution. WK On Site programs are 90-minute seminars presented each week at several locations around the country, offering education on products, markets, applications and new technologies. Presenters are members of Ward/Kraft's sales team as well as plant personnel. Awards are given to presenters who have given 50, 100 and 250 seminars. Ward/Kraft has nine presenters who have reached the 50 site mark and seven who have presented at more than 100 locations.
MAN Roland Promotes Ron Sams 11/17/06
Ron Sams was appointed vice president, newspaper sales, at MAN Roland Inc., effective January 1st. He succeeds Vincent Lapinski, who becomes the company's CEO in 2007. Sams previously served as central region newspaper sales manager for MAN Roland. In that role, he helped many of the Midwest's major dailies upgrade from letterpresses to MAN Roland web offset technology.
Suppliers Join to Enhance UV and Hybrid Reliability 11/17/06
KBA and Heidelberg unveiled a joint initiative to standardize UV and hybrid applications to enhance reliability, safety and predictability of the consumables. The two companies have signed a letter of intent to draft, define and introduce:
- universally applicable public standards in the form of certification and accreditation for UV and hybrid inks
- universally applicable public standards in the form of certification for press-compliant printing aids and consumables
- universally applicable public proofing forms and norms for UV and hybrid inks.
Metro Label, Ambassador Envelope to Close Operations 11/10/06
Metro Label Corp. closed its four locations in Atlanta, Santa Fe Springs, Calif., Colorado Springs, Colo., and Garland, Texas, on Nov. 3. An employee answering phones at the company's Garland location declined to provide details. In April 2005, MLC Holding Corporation, which owns Metro Label, The Vallis Companies, and other printing-related subsidiaries, closed three Vallis Form Service plants, catching several distributors off guard. The plants, located in Baltimore, Md., Cherryvale, Kan. and Chicago, were part of The Vallis Companies led by CEO Scott Metko.
Ambassador Envelope, a manufacturer in O'Fallon, Mo., also is closing. An employee said that the company informed the staff of its decision on Nov. 3. Employees weren't expecting the envelope manufacturer to close, said the employee, who didn't comment on the reason behind the company's decision. Ambassador Envelope has stopped accepting new orders; jobs received prior to Nov. 3 will be completed and delivered to customers, the employee said. CEO David Driscoll could not be reached for comment.
R.R. Donnelley Q3 Profit Up 61 Percent 11/10/06
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Co. said its third-quarter profits rose 61 percent, benefiting from higher sales and a lower tax rate. The results come six days after the company announced an agreement to buy Banta Corp. for $1.3 billion. Net income rose to $164.7 million from $102.1 million a year ago. Excluding restructuring charges, the company reported earnings from continuing operations of $146.2 million in the latest quarter. Full story. Additionally, the company was awarded a multi-year contract extension to provide the major share of Crain Communications' magazine printing and logistics services.
Cenveo Reports Q3 Profit, Burton Extends Contract 11/10/06
Cenveo Inc. announced results for the three and nine months ended Sept. 30. For the third quarter, Cenveo reported net income of $11.6 million compared to a net loss of $64.1 million in the third quarter of 2005. Net sales for the quarter decreased to $383.9 million from $430.8 million in 2005. For the first nine months, Cenveo reported net income of $90.7 million compared to a net loss of $97.2 million in the same period in 2005. Net sales for the first nine months decreased to $1.17 billion from $1.30 billion in 2005.
Chairman and CEO Robert Burton said he has agreed to extend his original 3-year contract for an additional two years, through 2010. "I am 100% convinced that we have the opportunity not only to continue to enhance shareholder value, but to create a company that is the envy of the industry," Burton said in a statement. "As the company's largest individual shareholder, I am confident that our team will be successful in achieving this goal." Full story.
InnerWorkings Announces Record Q3 Results 11/10/06
InnerWorkings Inc. reported record third quarter results ended Sept. 30. Revenue grew to a record $41.8 million, an increase of more than 78 percent compared to the 2005 third quarter. Income from operations increased 128 percent year over year. The company added 23 account executives and five new enterprise clients during the three months ended Sept. 30. Full story.
Quebecor World Reports Lower Q3 Earnings 11/10/06
Quebecor World Inc. announced third quarter 2006 net income of $19.2 million compared to net income of $30.9 million in the third quarter of last year. Operating income in the third quarter was $55.7 million compared to $80 million during the third quarter last year. Consolidated revenues for the quarter were $1.55 billion compared to $1.58 billion in the third quarter of 2005. To improve its performance, the company launched a 5-point transformation plan that includes improved customer value, organizational capabilities and cost savings, and installing new presses. Full story.
Coast Label Company Wins Awards 11/10/06
Coast Label Company won three awards for printing and converting excellence at the Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute Converter meeting in Orlando, Fla. The company won the first place in the Line and Screen Tone, Prime category, second place in the EDP category, and an honorable mention in the Letterpress, Flatbed-Non-Prime category.
In Memoriam 11/10/06
Allen Bailey Tag & Label announced that George E. Phelps, II, president and CEO, died on Oct. 31 after a brief battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife Barbara and children, Jennifer and George Edward, seven grandchildren, his mother Bernice J. Salmiere and his siblings, Janet Phelps, Jennifer Chapman, Laurie Beardsley and Richard Phelps. George, 63, began his career in 1968 with the family-owned business Allen-Bailey Tag & Label.
R.R. Donnelley to Acquire Banta for $1.3B, Cenveo Drops Bid 11/03/06
R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company and Banta Corp. jointly announced a definitive agreement under which R.R. Donnelley will acquire Banta. The all-cash deal is valued at $1.3 billion. The agreement has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2007.
This allows R.R. Donnelley to expand its range of products and services, and offer its services to the magazine, catalog, book and direct marketing segments—areas which Banta serves. It also creates opportunities for Banta in locations where R.R. Donnelley is already present.
Additionally, Cenveo Inc. withdrew its proposal to acquire Banta. Cenveo has sent Banta several proposals recently to acquire the company. Cenveo had initially offered to acquire Banta for $47 per share, which was rejected. The offer was raised to $50, and Banta did not respond. "I am disappointed (but not surprised) that Banta has not accepted or even entered into discussions with us regarding our proposal to acquire Banta for $50 per share (or $34 per share if the acquisition is completed after the record date for your "special" dividend)," Robert G. Burton Sr., Cenveo chairman and CEO, wrote in a letter. "Since you have had plenty of time to review our proposal and have not responded at all, Cenveo has no other choice but to withdraw its current and all prior proposals to acquire Banta."
Deluxe to Acquire Commercial Printing Enterprise 11/03/06
Deluxe Corp. purchased the assets of The Johnson Group, a commercial printer, and its affiliated companies. The Johnson Group is headquartered in Rockford, Ill., and employs 130 people. Deluxe said that the group's custom, full-color and digital printing services, and emerging web-to-print technology fit its growth plans. The company paid $16.5 million as part of the transaction. The Johnson Group will continue to operate under its current names and will remain headquartered in Rockford.
Document Security Systems to Launch Bar Code Protection Technology 11/03/06
Document Security Systems Inc. introduced a bar code printing method for consumer products and tickets that protects the bar code from duplication, forgery and counterfeiting. The system can be printed as part of the normal package printing process.
NIC Opens Facility in California 11/03/06
National Imprint Corp. (NIC) opened a new facility in Yorba Linda, Calif. NIC now has four facilities in California, Illinois, Pennsylvania and South Carolina. "The addition of this new facility will allow us to better service our distributors' need for envelope and stationery products on the West Coast and provide them with a manufacturer to handle national programs," said Casey Campbell, president and CEO. The facility's address is: National Imprint Corporation California, 23281 La Palma Ave., Yorba Linda, CA 92887. Call (866) 582-8311 or (800) 620-4371 (fax).
Consolidated Graphics Reports Q2 Results 11/03/06
Consolidated Graphics Inc. announced financial results for its second quarter ended Sept. 30. Revenue for the quarter was $234.2 million, up 6 percent compared to a year ago. Net income for the quarter was $13.7 million compared to net income of $9.3 million a year ago. For the six months ended Sept. 30, total revenue was $472.7 million, up 10 percent compared to the same period a year ago. Net income for the first six months of this year was $27.4 million compared to net income of $18.1 million a year ago. Full story.
MeadWestvaco Q3 Profits Rise 11/03/06
MeadWestvaco Corp. reported net income for the third quarter of $56 million compared to $55 million during the same period last year. Sales in the third quarter were $1.75 billion, an 11 percent increase compared to sales in the third quarter of 2005. Sales in its core packaging business increased 10 percent on stronger pricing for its paperboard products and the acquisition of plastics maker Saint-Gobain Calmar in April, the company said. Full story.
Ward/Kraft Announces Winners 11/03/06
Ward/Kraft Inc. announced winners of a drawing held at their WK Coffee Blog booth at Print Solutions 2006. The company sponsored the contest to promote the networking theme of the event. If the winner was a PSDA member, then he or she received free registration for the 2007 Spring Technology Conference, May 2-5 at the La Quinta Resort and Club, Palm Springs, Calif. If the winner was a non-PSDA member, Ward/Kraft paid for the company's first year of membership dues.
Winners included Mary Schwegman of Acct-Forms Cons, Bobbie Elbert of Vintage Printing, Dinesh Patel of Advance Instant Printing Co., John Loftis of Innovative Business Products Inc., Karen Bridges of Bank & Business Solutions, and Shelly Wohler of Quality Resource Group Inc.
Shuff Joins Wise as Production Manager 11/03/06
Wise Business Forms announced the appointment of Brad Shuff as production manager Fort Wayne. Previously, Shuff worked as production manager at Ward/Kraft. He has more than 20 years of management experience in areas including, process improvement, staff development, cost control and vendor negotiations.
International Paper Completes Sale of Forestland 11/03/06
International Paper completed the previously announced sale of 900,000 acres of forestland in Louisiana, Texas and Arkansas to TimberStar Southwest, whose lead investor is TimberStar, for approximately $1.13 billion in cash and notes. The transaction was announced in April 2006 as part of International Paper's sale of the majority of its U.S. forestlands. In connection with the transaction, the parties also entered into a 50-year fiber supply agreement for IP's pulp and paper mills, and a 30-year fiber supply agreement for IP's wood products facilities, both at market prices. Full story.
Cenveo Sends Letter to Banta 10/27/06
Cenveo Inc. sent another letter to Banta Corp. Oct. 19 urging the company to respond to its proposal to acquire Banta for $50 per share.
"It has been more than two weeks since we submitted our proposal to acquire Banta for
$50 per share (or $34 per share if the acquisition is completed after the record date for
your "special" dividend)," Robert G. Burton, Cenveo chairman and CEO, wrote in the letter. "In 12 days, on Oct. 31, 2006, our proposal to acquire Banta will expire. I do not plan to blink and increase our proposal."
"The only reason I can think of for your delay in responding to our proposal is that your advisors are still looking for another party to pay a higher price," he wrote. "The fact of the matter is that Banta has had over two months to determine whether any third parties will pay more than Cenveo. As you know, the potential list of parties willing to purchase Banta is extremely limited. Cenveo will not be a back-stop bidder to any other persons who may propose to acquire Banta."
Additionally, Banta reported 2006 third quarter revenue of $382 million, comparable to the $381 million reported in the same period last year. Net earnings declined to $15.9 million from the prior year's record $21.7 million, primarily due to restructuring and reduced pricing in both the company's printing and supply-chain management sectors.
Banta employs about 8,000 people in 40 manufacturing facilities in the United States, Mexico, Ireland, Scotland and Singapore. It provides printing and digital imaging solutions to leading publishers and direct marketers, focusing on four print markets: softcover books, special-interest magazines, direct marketing materials and catalogs. Its global supply-chain management businesses provide outsourcing capabilities to technology and electronic product companies worldwide. Services include materials management, product assembly, testing, quality assurance, order fulfillment and global distribution.
Burton became Cenveo's chairman and CEO Sept. 9, 2005. He is the former president and CEO of Moore who improved the company's bottom line and raised the stock price by slashing payroll and other expenses. Before turning around Moore (which was bought by R.R. Donnelley), Burton ran World Color Press Inc., which merged with Quebecor Printing Inc. in 1999 to become Quebecor World Inc.
R.R. Donnelley Signs Deal With UAE Commercial Printer 10/27/06
R. R. Donnelley & Sons Company signed a joint venture agreement with Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing Ltd., a leading financial and commercial printer in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to form Al Ghurair Donnelley LLC. The agreement, which is effective immediately, gives both companies access to printing and financial communications resources that extend from UAE to Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing has a comprehensive print and finishing platform in Dubai.
Ward/Kraft Opens New Division 10/27/06
Ward/Kraft announced that WK ShortRun and Creative Technology Center have created WK Commercial, the company's newest division. WK Commercial has a Karat 74, Indigo 3050, and a Ryobi 3404 DI capable of a wide variety of color printing. The division offers a variety of substrates, photo quality up to 2540 dpi, quick turnaround, and quantities from one on up. The division has offline bindery equipment to support product lines such as presentation folders, posters, multiple panel brochures and postcards.
Study: Printers Ready to Invest in New Equipment 10/27/06
The Industry Measure (formerly TrendWatch Graphic Arts) released its annual report, "Printing Forecast 2007: The Industry Measure Perspective on the Challenges and Opportunities for the Printing Industry in the Next 12 Months and Beyond." According to the report:
•In fall 2006, 22 percent of commercial printers said business conditions for the past 12 months had been "excellent," better than they had been in the 12 months before that.
•Twenty-nine percent of commercial printers expect business conditions in the next 12 months to be "excellent," or better than they had been in the past 12 months.
•One-third of all print and prepress establishments surveyed said they planned to invest in new printing equipment in the next 12–18 months.
•In summer 2006, three out of 10 graphic design and production establishments expect that business conditions in the next 12 months will be "excellent."
Four51 Announces Application Upgrade 10/27/06
Four51 Inc. released its latest upgrade to its Four 51 system, which includes features such as a buyer "Super User" permission, the ability to clone users, and increased password security. The "Super User" permission capability allows Four51 administrators to enable certain buyer users with the ability to manage some of their own administrative functions. The system now offers a choice of three password security settings, allowing the Four51 administrator to apply the setting that is most appropriate for their buyers.
Deluxe Launches Fraud Protection Tool 10/27/06
Deluxe Financial Services launched Deluxe ID TheftBlock 2.0, an advanced fraud recovery and protection tool offered to consumers on behalf of financial institutions. The tool offers two levels of protection—Deluxe ID TheftBlock Basic, a fraud recovery solution, and Deluxe ID TheftBlock Plus, a fraud detection and prevention solution. The basic version provides multifaceted recovery assistance to victims of identity theft. After fraud occurs, a team assists victims in detecting additional fraud and works to stop additional fraud loss. The Deluxe ID TheftBlock Plus offers consumers monitoring and protection services, including daily credit report monitoring and security alerts.
Printable Technologies Introduces Online Retail Tool 10/27/06
Printable Technologies Inc. launched PrintOne Retail Store that provides commercial and quick printers an online retail presence for selling generic printed goods and services, including print-on-demand, inventoried products, and, through additional options, mail list purchasing. The PrintOne Retail Store is a flexible online order center that enables users to browse a generic product catalog, upload images, submit a print job, pay with a credit card, and review order history.
Avery Dennison Profit Falls 10/27/06
Avery Dennison Corp. reported net income of $85 million for the third quarter compared with $86.2 million in the prior year. Net sales from continuing operations for the third quarter were $1.42 billion, up approximately 5 percent from $1.36 billion for the same quarter last year. Full story.
International Paper Plans Russian Venture 10/27/06
International Paper Co. signed a letter of intent with Ilim Pulp, Russia's largest forest products enterprise, to establish a 50-50 venture, creating the largest foreign-domestic alliance in the Russian forest sector, according to an AP story. Under the deal, International Paper will buy a 50 percent stake in Ilim, which operates four pulp and paper mills located in the European and Siberian regions of Russia. The venture, which will be headquartered in St. Petersburg, will invest about $1.2 billion in the four mills over five years, upgrading equipment and boosting production capacity.
Brian Fritsche is TopForm President, CEO 10/27/06
Webb/Mason announced that its CIO Brian Fritsche joined TopForm Software Inc.'s executive team as the president and CEO, and Denise Montroy was promoted to vice president of technology. Webb/Mason acquired TopForm Software in August 2006. Julie Prichard will continue working at TopForm as vice president of sales and marketing. Fritsche will continue his role as Webb/Mason's CIO and remain part of the Webb/Mason board of directors.
Weyerhaeuser Reports Q3 Results 10/27/06
Weyerhaeuser Company reported third quarter net earnings of $211 million on net sales of $5.3 billion. This compares with $285 million on net sales of $5.4 billion for the third quarter 2005. Full story.
Four51, Kodak Create Digital Print Network 10/20/06
Four51 Inc. announced an alliance with Kodak to create the Kodak MarketMover Network, a program that leverages Four51 e-commerce application and the global network of Kodak digital print service providers. The network allows printers with Kodak's NexPress digital color presses and other Kodak printing equipment to streamline print production and grow revenue with global access to all companies in the digital print network. A printer can now offer digital services to customers by outsourcing work to another company in the network.
Ward/Kraft Announces Composite Technology 10/20/06
Ward/Kraft Inc. added digital and commercial printed cards, also known as composite cards, to its offerings. With the addition of new equipment, Ward/Kraft's current quantity ranges of 500 to 40,000 will now begin at 100 and extend to the largest card runs required. Products and services include picture ID cards, full variable print from card to card, inline numbering and bar coding, and full-service encoding capabilities for long run gift cards and laminated key fobs.
Ultra Forms Extends Gas Card Promotion 10/20/06
Ultra Forms Plus added a high-speed press to offer longer run laser checks and forms in quantities of up to 100,000. Additionally, the company has expanded and extended its successful gas card promotion through 2007, which now includes $15, $25, and $50 gas cards. For details, call Robin Gannon at (800) 531-2101.
Xitron Previews Short Run Digital Press 10/20/06
Xitron recently previewed its Xitron Prism digital press for short run, on-demand commercial printing and proofing. The Prism is a high-quality, LED-based plain paper digital press capable of producing color output at up to 36 pages per minute, and black-and-white output at up to 40 pages per minute.
Office Depot Reports Q3 Profits 10/20/06
Office Depot Inc. announced record third quarter results for the fiscal period ended Sept. 30. Total company sales for the third quarter grew 10 percent to $3.9 billion compared to the third quarter of 2005. Sales in North America were up 10 percent, while international sales increased 13 percent. Net earnings for the quarter were $133 million compared to a net loss of $48 million in the same quarter of the prior year. Full story.
HP Creates RFID Technology for Tracking Data Center Assets 10/20/06
HP has created an RFID asset tracking technology for data centers and successfully tested it at a major retailer. The technology was developed by HP Labs, and tested at Meijer Inc., a retailer with more than 170 grocery and specialty stores in the Midwest. The solution can automatically monitor data center assets, providing real-time tracking and auditing of servers, networking equipment, server and storage enclosures and other technology using RFID.
Alien Technology Enables Global Deployment of Gen 2 RFID Readers, Tags 10/20/06
Alien Technology Corp. introduced a series of high-performance Gen2 RFID World Readers that enables a common reader platform across the Americas, Europe and the Asia/Pacific region. The company recently introduced an expanded family of Gen2 World Tags, also designed for uniform usage around the globe. The Gen2 readers and tags enable organizations to implement a single, unified RFID infrastructure worldwide. Full story.
The company also has collaborated with Oracle and Intel to develop integrated, end-to-end RFID solutions for the transportation, automotive and aerospace industries.
Study: Retailers to Increase Use of Electronic Signage 10/20/06
The growing acceptance of electronic signage among retailers indicates an imminent challenge to print providers, according to a new study by EDSF (The Electronic Document Systems Foundation). Thirty-seven percent of managers use in-store electronic signs today, while another 12 percent are actively considering their use. Nearly two-thirds of current users anticipate usage will increase over the next two years, according to the study titled, "Criticality of Printed Information in the Retail Industry." The study identifies major challenges for print providers offering solutions to the retail industry. Other findings include:
- Retail store managers don't perceive print to be a critical element of their operations, yet are well aware of the price they pay for it. Only 25 percent of store managers indicate that print is highly critical to their operations.
- While store managers have a high level of awareness of printed sales materials cost, there is little interest in print content tailored to the store's specific retail environment and competitive market pressures.
- Most signage printed in-store is for general pricing rather than display purposes.
- There's a disconnect in the management of electronic and paper advertising materials. A significant majority of store managers indicate less than half of their company's print catalog was derived from its web catalog. Most retailers don't integrate inventory information between store and web, and most manage print and internet consumer communications as independent channels.
Webb/Mason Hires HR Vice President 10/20/06
Webb/Mason announced the appointment of Gerald H. Reynolds as the company's vice president of human resources. Reynolds assists with developing Webb/Mason's strategic growth plans, retention efforts and employee development. Additionally, he works with the executive team to ensure employee success, operational functionality and flexibility of Webb/Mason's business model.
Banta Outlines Plant Closings, Cenveo Revises Proposal 10/13/06
Banta Corp. identified the facilities it plans to close as part of a previously announced restructuring plan that includes about 500 job cuts. As outcome of the plan, the company will close two facilities, put one facility up for sale and consolidate three facilities into a single new location.
The company will close its Eden Prairie, Minn., book printing plant by the end of the year, affecting up to 72 employees. The Spanish Fork, Utah, literature management and fulfillment facility will also close by year-end, affecting up to 17 employees. Banta's Danbury, Conn., direct marketing printing plant is being offered for sale. The plant employs approximately 200 employees. Three book fulfillment facilities will be closed and consolidated into a new and larger fulfillment center. Services provided at Banta's Appleton, Wis., Menasha, Wis., and Kaukauna, Wis., facilities will be moved to a single, yet-to-be-determined location nearby over the next six to 12 months, affecting up to 75 employees. Combined, the three facilities employ approximately 400. The company expects 325 of those employees will relocate to the new facility.
Last week, Cenveo Inc. sent a revised merger proposal to Banta to acquire it for $50 per share in cash, instead of $47 per share.
In a letter, Robert G. Burton, Cenveo chairman and CEO, said, "This letter represents our best and final proposal to acquire Banta. Despite your rejection, we remain enthusiastic about acquiring Banta. After spending much time evaluating the synergistic fit and complementary nature of our companies, we are increasing the price at which we propose to acquire Banta to $50 per share in cash (or $34 per share if the acquisition is completed after the record date for your "special" dividend). The other terms of our proposal are reflected in the draft merger agreement that was sent to you on Sept. 20, 2006. Our proposal remains subject to receipt of acceptable disclosure schedules."
Earlier, Burton told Cenveo shareholders, "As we close the third quarter, we continue to see strength across all of our business units. Our performance this quarter was highlighted by record backlogs in our envelope business and solid operational improvement in our commercial segment. It is clear to me that the benefits of our cost savings initiatives are yielding their desired effect. The strong momentum that we have gained throughout the year is strengthening in the back half."
Xerox to Acquire XMPie 10/13/06
Xerox Corp. agreed to acquire XMPie for $54 million. XMPie is a leading provider of variable information software, which enables cross-media, personalized marketing programs. These programs combine communication outlets such as digitally printed direct mail, the internet, email and other methods to reach customers with customized marketing materials that are relevant to the individual recipient and generate higher response rates. XMPie, which employs about 60 people, will keep the company's headquarters in New York and its research and development facility in Netanya, Israel. Majority of XMPie employees are expected to join Xerox. XMPie is Xerox's second acquisition this year. In July, Xerox acquired Amici LLC, a leading provider of electronic-discovery services, primarily supporting litigation and regulatory compliance.
InnerWorkings Acquires Applied Graphics 10/13/06
InnerWorkings Inc. acquired privately-held Applied Graphics Inc., a West Coast provider of print management and print-on-demand services. Applied Graphics has sales offices in California and Hawaii, and its offerings include print-on-demand, commercial printing and marketing solutions. In 2005, Applied Graphics employed more than 35 sales representatives and generated revenues of approximately $29 million. It served about 1,000 corporate clients, utilizing a network of more than 400 supplier partners.
Ward/Kraft Launches Die Cut Indigo Labels 10/13/06
Ward/Kraft Inc. introduced pre-die cut labels printed on its full-color digital offset press. The manufacturer offers seven designs with both round and square labels. Pre-die cut labels are a cost-effective solution for short run, 4-color labels. Photo-quality print with short run capabilities make the labels ideal for a variety of markets, including distribution, retail, manufacturing, education, and direct mail.
Open House at Team Concept Printing 10/13/06
Team Concept Printing held an open house Sept. 22 at its Carol Stream, Ill., offices. About 350 people attended the event where the manufacturer showed the capabilities of its Xerox iGen3 press. The company employs about 75 people and offers a variety of services, including business cards, letterhead, envelopes, announcements, rubber stamps, laminating, offset printing, foil stamping, embossing, finishing services, and more.
WorkflowOne Launches Digital Solutions Business Unit 10/13/06
WorkflowOne launched its Digital Solutions business unit to offer customers a dedicated network of equipment, services and personnel to meet the growing demand for digital and variable data printing, mailing and electronic communications solutions. The unit will unify the resources of WorkflowOne's former billing solutions production facilities in Timonium, Md., and Salt Lake City, Utah, and its eServices team in Dallas, with the company's digital marketing service operation in Columbus, Ohio.
Study: Global Card Market Sees Growth 10/13/06
The North American region leads the world in the total number of cards manufactured, while Europe continues to be the most lucrative market measured in dollars, according to the annual card manufacturing global market survey by The International Card Manufacturers Association (ICMA).
The survey measured the number of cards manufactured and market volumes in 2005. Major findings revealed that globally, in 2005, approximately 14.7 billion cards were manufactured, an 11.4 percent growth rate. The global card market, in U.S. dollars, increased 11.5 percent to $9.1 billion, as a result of microprocessor chip card growth. The regions surveyed were North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and Middle East/Africa. The products surveyed were plastic cards of all thicknesses, including traditional cards.
Worldwide production capacity has significantly increased, the survey said. This is partly due to the national ID programs being implemented throughout the world, new contactless credit cards and contactless transportation cards (trains, buses and subways).
Office Depot Buys Chinese Firm 10/13/06
Office Depot said it has agreed to buy a controlling interest in AsiaEC, an office products and services dealer in China. Based in Beijing, AsiaEC has offices in Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. Its 500 employees support contract sales, direct mail and internet businesses. AsiaEC offerings include office supplies, technology, furniture, custom printing and promotional items and business services. Office Depot didn't disclose financial terms of its agreement.
Domtar to Cut 18 Mill Jobs 10/13/06
Domtar Inc. said that it will lay off up to 18 mill employees in Baileyville, Maine, over the next few months, according to a story in the Bangor Daily News. The layoff is not part of the agreement that Montreal-based Domtar reached with Weyerhaeuser Co. in August to combine its fine-paper business with the Canadian papermaker. The Baileyville mill produces northern hardwood pulp and business and printing paper products.
Ferree Named Appleton CFO 10/13/06
Appleton announced the appointment of Thomas J. Ferree as the company's vice president of finance and CFO. Ferree will be responsible for developing and implementing Appleton's financial strategies and for managing the company's financial analysis and reporting processes. He will report to Mark Richards, CEO.
Standard Register, HP to Offer Managed Print Services 10/13/06
Standard Register announced an agreement with HP that provides enterprise customers a single point of contact for document output requirements. Standard Register's recently expanded SMARTworks enterprise document services platform will be included in HP's Managed Print Services offering, providing customers a suite of document services, software and on-site resources to help them optimize the creation, printing and distribution of documents throughout their organizations, a press release said.
Ennis Q2 Earnings Rise 9/29/06
Ennis Inc. reported financial results for the three and six months ended Aug. 31. Quarterly sales increased from $148.1 million to $151.7 million, with apparel sales up 8.2 percent for the quarter to $69.5 million. Sales in the print segment for the quarter were $82.3 million, compared to $83.9 million for the same quarter last year. Net earnings increased 9.4 percent over the same quarter last year, from $10.6 million to $11.6 million. Full story.
Ward/Kraft Launches Protective Laminate 9/29/06
Ward/Kraft Inc. added to its offerings BioLam thermal lamination with an antimicrobial surface. This protective laminate uses AgION technology to prevent the spread of bacteria, molds, fungi and mildew. One of the most common ways that bacteria spread is through contact with contaminated surfaces, including printed documents. BioLam provides an inhospitable surface that kills bacteria and prevents the spread of disease. Some of the markets for BioLam include medical, food service, schools and clinics.
Don't Miss the Opening Night's Celebration 9/29/06
New this year at the Print Solutions Conference & Expo, Oct. 3-5 in Chicago, is the PEAK Awards Banquet, Tuesday, Oct. 3, 7:30-10 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, the awards presentation and entertainment by a rising Las Vegas star, singer/impressionist Ken Block and his band. Gold Sponsors of the banquet are Appleton and Plastag Corp. Silver Sponsors are Folder Express, Pilgrim Plastics, Team Concept Printing and TopForm Inc.
Preceding the banquet is a 6 p.m. cocktail party sponsored by Glatfelter Carbonless & Specialty Papers Group. Your conference registration includes the banquet and cocktail party. If you registered for the Expo only, you must either register for the conference or buy a banquet/cocktail party ticket. You may reserve seats at the banquet by clicking on this link.
Remember, before you reserve your seats, be sure you have registered for the conference or purchased a banquet/cocktail party ticket. To register for the conference, click here. Use this link to order tickets for the banquet and cocktail reception.
MAR Graphics Adds Concepta Web Press 9/29/06
MAR Graphics recently installed a 10-color Muller Martini Concepta web press. The Concepta, with CIP3 capability, has been configured with a turret rewinder for jumbo rolls, a high-speed sheeter and prime UV 22- and 28-inch inserts. Concepta offers the capabilities of up to 12 offset printing units and the integration of flexo and digital printing, as well as various inline finishing options such as die cutting and perforating.
USPS Proposes New Mailing Standards 9/29/06
The U.S. Postal Service proposed revised mailing standards to encourage mail preparation that's compatible with its improved processing capabilities. The standards give customers more choices in terms of shape, sorting, packaging and containers. The proposal also increases sharing opportunities for mailers, allows them to qualify for lower prices by permitting multiple classes of mail to be combined, and reduces the number of bundles, sacks or trays in a mailing through scheme sorting for letters, flats and parcels. The standards will accompany the proposed price changes planned to take effect next spring. Full story.
Georgia-Pacific to Sell 6 Mills 9/29/06
Georgia-Pacific Corp. and Roseburg Forest Products Co. announced that they have reached an agreement on the sale of six Georgia-Pacific industrial wood products mills to Roseburg. The mills are located at Eupora, Louisville, Oxford and Taylorsville, Miss.; Russellville, S.C.; and Vienna, Ga. The acquisition, scheduled to be complete by Dec. 1, will make Roseburg one of the largest manufacturers of particleboard products in the country. Approximately 750 employees work at the mills and Roseburg plans to hire the existing workforce.
EFI to Acquire Jetrion 9/29/06
EFI, a supplier of digital controllers, super-wide format ink jet printers and inks, and print management solutions, signed an agreement to acquire privately held Jetrion LLC, a subsidiary of Flint Group Incorporated, for approximately $40 million in cash. Jetrion specializes in digital printing and provides ink jet systems, custom high-performance integration solutions and specialty inks to the converting, packaging and direct mail industries. EFI expects the transaction to close in the fourth quarter of 2006, subject to certain closing conditions.
Cenveo Sends Formal Proposal to Banta 9/22/06
Cenveo Inc. on Sept. 20 sent another merger proposal to Banta Corp. Confirming the receipt of the letter, Banta said, "it is in the process of reviewing the proposal and will respond to Cenveo as appropriate in due course.”
"As you might expect, following our prior proposals to acquire Banta, we were amused to read in your press release on Sept. 14 that Banta has adopted 'strategic initiatives' to 'create value for shareholders,'" Robert G. Burton Sr., Cenveo chairman and CEO, wrote in the latest letter. "At Cenveo, we are always working to create value for shareholders and do not wait until we have received proposals from third parties to do so. We were also disappointed to hear on your carnival-like conference call that you continue to refer to Cenveo's $47 per share fully-financed, all-cash proposal for Banta's shares as "illusory". To reiterate what I stated in my letter of Sept. 5, we have obtained committed financing to complete this acquisition from Lehman Brothers and Wachovia.”
In August, Cenveo offered to buy Banta for $46 a share to create a $3 billion printing company. Banta then declined the offer saying it's not for sale. Cenveo reiterated its interest in early Sept. and increased its proposal to acquire Banta for $47 per share. But last week, Banta announced initiatives, which it said, would strengthen its business, position it for growth, and return additional value to shareholders. The company expects the steps to generate annualized cost savings of $35 million when fully implemented, position Banta for global expansion in its print and supply-chain management businesses, and deliver cash to shareholders through a special dividend.
Burton wrote, "Your unresponsiveness to our $47 per share proposal (or $31 per share if the acquisition is completed on or after Nov. 10, 2006, which is the record date for your recently declared "special" dividend) is another example of you and your board looking out for yourselves instead of doing what is right for the shareholders. The fact that you continue to dismiss our proposal as "illusory" is outrageous and further demonstrates your entrenchment. I personally believe that you and the Banta board have breached your fiduciary duties to shareholders by taking actions to entrench yourself by not responding to my Sept. 5, 2006 letter and the $47 per share proposal to purchase Banta.”
Banta employs about 8,000 people in 40 manufacturing facilities in the United States, Mexico, Ireland, Scotland and Singapore. It provides printing and digital imaging solutions to leading publishers and direct marketers, focusing on four print markets: softcover books, special-interest magazines, direct marketing materials and catalogs. Its global supply-chain management businesses provide outsourcing capabilities to technology and electronic product companies worldwide. Services include materials management, product assembly, testing, quality assurance, order fulfillment and global distribution.
Burton became Cenveo's chairman and CEO Sept. 9, 2005. He is the former president and CEO of Moore who improved the company's bottom line and raised the stock price by slashing payroll and other expenses. Before turning around Moore (which was bought by R.R. Donnelley), Burton ran World Color Press Inc., which merged with Quebecor Printing Inc. in 1999 to become Quebecor World Inc.
Bernadette Under New Ownership 9/22/06
Bernadette Print Group, formerly Bernadette Business Forms, was purchased by St. Louis businessman J. Paul Behrens. Brian Curran has been appointed the company's general manager. Barry Korman, former owner of Jet Envelope, is the sales manager, and Rick Niehaus is the marketing director. Under the new leadership, the company has invested in equipment such as automatic color control systems and register units to improve quality, and a turret rewind unit for jumbo rolls. The manufacturer will soon install an 8-color Mark Andy flexographic printer.
Don't Miss the Opening Night's Celebration 9/22/06
New this year at the Print Solutions Conference & Expo, Oct. 3-5 in Chicago, is the PEAK Awards Banquet, Tuesday, Oct. 3, 6-10 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, the awards presentation and entertainment by a rising Las Vegas star, singer/impressionist Ken Block and his band. Gold Sponsors of the banquet are Appleton and Plastag Corp. Silver Sponsors are Folder Express, Pilgrim Plastics, Team Concept Printing and TopForm Inc.
Preceding the banquet is a cocktail party sponsored by Glatfelter Carbonless & Specialty Papers Group. Your conference registration includes the banquet and cocktail party. If you registered for the Expo only, you must either register for the conference or buy a banquet/cocktail party ticket. You may reserve seats at the banquet by clicking on this link.
Remember, before you reserve your seats, be sure you have registered for the conference or purchased a banquet/cocktail party ticket. To register for the conference, click here. Use this link to order tickets for the banquet and cocktail reception.
R.R. Donnelley Buys Printing Operations 9/22/06
R. R. Donnelley & Sons Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire Canadian Bank Note Company's financial printing assets and operations that include service facilities in Toronto and Montreal. The all-cash deal is expected to close in September. "This acquisition gives us a strong and immediate geographic presence in Canada's fast growing business and financial sectors," the company said. R.R. Donnelley's Financial Services serves the financial centers across 42 countries. The Canadian Bank Note Company supplies printed products and related issuing and control systems in lottery, identification, payment and shareholder services.
Standard Register Opens Facility in Mexico 9/22/06
Standard Register opened its new facility in Monterrey, Mexico. The plant is designed to increase customer support to businesses that have manufacturing operations in Mexico. Standard Register de Mexico, a wholly-owned international subsidiary of Standard Register, will have a 30,000-square-foot production and service facility that will provide labels, warehousing, kitting and on-demand printing. It will employ 30 employees, including bilingual support staff.
FedEx Reports Strong Q1 Revenue 9/22/06
FedEx Corp. reported consolidated results for the first quarter ended Aug. 31. It reported revenue of $8.54 billion, up 11 percent from the previous year. Its operating income of $784 million was up 34 percent from a year ago. FedEx reported a net income of $475 million, up 40 percent from the previous year. Full story.
Office Depot to Cut Jobs 9/22/06
About 250 workers in Office Depot's Boca Raton, Fla., call center are being laid off as the company outsources the operation, according to a Sept. 15 story in the South Florida Business Journal. The 250 workers handled inbound and outbound sales. The company said it has almost 200 positions open on its corporate campus, more than 150 positions open at Florida stores and 25 positions open at its North American Business Solutions Division. Office Depot plans a series of job fairs to make sure associates know about the job opportunities.
Deluxe Launches Online Check Resource Center 9/22/06
Deluxe Corp. launched an online check resource center to help financial institutions and small businesses adjust to recent changes to NACHA rules. The rules can affect the way checks are processed, but don't alter the check-writing experience for individual and business customers.
Effective Sept. 15, 2006, the first change established guidelines for identifying business checks ineligible for conversion to electronic transactions, including distinguishing code lines and limits on check value. Effective March 16, 2007, the second change introduces back-office conversion (BOC), a new check processing application. BOC allows most consumer and business checks accepted at registers, lockboxes or manned bill-payment locations to be processed together in a central back office.
Additionally, the company said it has hired Richard S. Greene to become its CFO, succeeding Terry Peterson, who has been serving as interim CFO since May 2006.
Banta Plans to Strengthen Business, Position 9/15/06
Banta Corp. announced strategic initiatives to strengthen its business, position itself for growth, and return additional value to shareholders. The company expects the steps to generate annualized cost savings of $35 million when fully implemented, position Banta for global expansion in its print and supply-chain management businesses, and deliver cash to shareholders through a special dividend.
During the past several months, the company's board of directors reviewed Banta's operations, financial strength and competitive conditions. In August, Cenveo Inc. offered to buy Banta for $46 a share to create a $3 billion printing company. Banta then declined the offer saying it's not for sale. Cenveo reiterated its interest in early Sept. and increased its proposal to acquire Banta for $47 per share.
Banta also announced that it has executed a letter of intent with its largest customer, HP, for a new 5-year relationship.
The company plans to reduce expenses by further consolidating management infrastructure beyond the first step announced in July, which reorganized Banta's Print Sector from five divisions into two; centralizing administrative functions; and eliminating non-essential services. Banta will close or sell five print facilities that "are either not meeting profitability expectations, or whose activities can be effectively consolidated into other Banta operations," it said. This move will eliminate more than 500 jobs, or approximately 6 percent of its work force.
Banta has reached an exclusive agreement in principle to acquire a book and commercial printing company in Southern China. The transaction is expected to close by year-end. Banta will open a facility for its supply-chain management business in Shenzhen, China, during the fourth quarter of 2006, and add several additional supply-chain management facilities during 2007. Full story.
WorkflowOne, Purchasing Group Sign $2M Deal 9/15/06
WorkflowOne signed a 2-year contract with CommonWealth Purchasing Group to provide print services to its 175 member health care providers and affiliates. Under the contract worth more than $2 million, WorkflowOne will be the group's preferred supplier for documents, forms and labels. CommonWealth members will have access to WorkflowOne's portfolio of marketing services and promotional products. Members can access WorkflowOne's web-based portal for simplified order entry and inventory management.
American Solutions for Business Holds Sales Conference 9/15/06
As many as 300 sales associates attended American Solutions for Business' National Sales Conference, Aug. 22-27, at Cragun's Conference & Golf Resort, near Brainerd, Minn. They attended seminars, workshops and a company meeting. Guest speakers included Mac Fulfer, who taught attendees the art of reading faces, and Alison Levine, a motivational speaker and mountain climber. The conference was preceded by meetings of the company's four sales councils: Supply Chain, Hiring and Development, Operations, and Sales and Marketing. At the annual awards banquet and ceremony, sales associates were inducted into various million dollar clubs and were honored with awards in various categories.
Don’t Miss the Opening Night’s Celebration 9/15/06
New this year at the Print Solutions Conference & Expo, Oct. 3-5 in Chicago, is the PEAK Awards Banquet, Tuesday, Oct. 3, 6-10 p.m. Enjoy dinner, wine, the awards presentation and entertainment by a rising Las Vegas star, singer/impressionist Ken Block and his band. Gold Sponsors of the banquet are Appleton and Plastag Corporation. Silver Sponsors are Folder Express, Pilgrim Plastics, Team Concept Printing and TopForm Inc. Preceding the banquet is a cocktail party sponsored by Glatfelter Carbonless Specialty Papers Group. Your conference registration includes the banquet and cocktail party. If you registered for the Expo only, you must register for the conference to attend the banquet/cocktail party. You may reserve seats at the banquet by clicking on this link. Remember, before you reserve your seats, be sure you have registered for the conference. To register for the conference, click here.
Wisco Announces Early Ordering Program 9/15/06
Wisco Envelope announced its 2006 line of holiday teller helper items and a program for early ordering, which gives customers an extra 5 percent discount on orders of holiday products placed by Oct. 1. Delivery can be scheduled at the user's request as long as all products ship by Dec. 1. Sales kits are available to distributors that feature illustrations of the 2006 holiday line and product samples.
Appleton Introduces Label Facestock Selector 9/15/06
Appleton has developed a label facestock selection tool, making it easier for converters to perfectly match direct thermal paper performance with label requirements to deliver a more cost-effective solution. The selector tool lists 21 label applications, including baggage tags, compliance, industrial, infrared, near-infrared, package delivery, pharmaceutical, RFID and weigh scale. The tool calculates primary and secondary recommendations and also cross-references each application with specific ribbonless thermal facestock attributes. This enables users to choose the product most appropriate for the specific application based on usage duration, print speed, bar code orientation, scanning requirements and resistance characteristics.
Deluxe to Add 200 Jobs at Call Centers 9/15/06
Deluxe Financial Services plans to add 100 positions at its Greensboro, N.C., call center and 100 jobs at its Phoenix call center. Both centers will absorb calls currently being handled by the company's call center in Syracuse, N.Y. Deluxe announced last month its intent to close that facility.
Cenveo Ups Bid to $47 Per Share, Banta Remains Mum 9/8/06
Cenveo Inc. sent another letter Sept. 5 to Banta Corp. reiterating its interest and commitment to acquire the $1.4 billion company. It remains unclear whether Banta will accept the purchase offer.
A Postcrescent.com story quoted Mark Fleming, director of investor and corporate communications at Banta, as saying that the company was reviewing the letter.
In the letter, Robert G. Burton Sr., Cenveo chairman and CEO, wrote, "In summary, Cenveo remains convinced that a combination with Banta makes tremendous strategic and financial sense, so much so that we have decided to increase our proposal to acquire Banta to $47.00 per share." In August, he had offered to buy Banta for $46 per share. Banta then declined the offer saying it's |
