Paperclips Blog | Advertising Results

  • 09.13.2011

    Understanding Postal : USPS Offers Sneak Peek at January 2012 Pricing Change

    This summer the U.S. Postal Service provided cross-channel retailers with its January 2012 software release overview for customer-facing postage systems such as PostalOne after hearing from mailers and service providers that software changes need to be made in a more stable, scheduled manner so they could better plan for said changes.

    While some may think a software release schedule is no big deal, the January 2012 overview provides direct marketers a first look at initiatives the USPS is considering including in its next market-dominant product pricing change, which will occur on Jan. 22, 2012 — the same time as pricing changes for its competitive service products.

    The USPS has stressed that some of the items in its software overview are "placeholders," meaning that it hasn't yet committed to making those changes but wants the software designed to accommodate the initiatives if it does go through with them.

    click here
  • 09.13.2011

    Grainger Reports August 2011 Sales Results

    Grainger today reported sales results for the month of August 2011.  Daily sales increased 10 percent versus August 2010.  Results for the month included a 1 percentage point positive contribution from foreign exchange.  Excluding foreign exchange, organic sales increased 9 percent, including 8 percentage points from volume, 3 percentage points from price and 1 percentage point from sales related to Hurricane Irene, partially offset by a 3 percentage point decline from 2010 oil spill related sales.  August 2011 had 23 selling days, one more than August 2010.  The 2011 third quarter will have the same number of selling days as the 2010 third quarter (64 days).
    click here
  • 09.12.2011

    AEP Industries Inc. Reports Fiscal 2011 Third Quarter and Year-To-Date Results

    AEP Industries Inc. today reported financial results for its third quarter ended July 31, 2011.

    Net sales for the third quarter of fiscal 2011 increased $41.5 million, or 20.3%, to $246.4 million from $204.9 million for the third quarter of fiscal 2010. Net sales for the nine months ended July 31, 2011 increased $135.0 million, or 23.4%, to $712.7 million from $577.7 million in the same period of the prior fiscal year. The increases were the result of an increase in sales volume coupled with an increase in average selling prices primarily attributable to the pass-through of higher resin costs to customers during the comparable periods.

    “Through the first nine months of fiscal 2011, we have seen a significant increase in sales volume and solid year-over-year sales growth, demonstrating our continued ability to gain market share during this economic downturn,” said Brendan Barba, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company. “In addition to sales growth, our results are further supported by more efficient operations and improved plant utilization. We implemented
    numerous cost controlling measures throughout the recession, and continue to achieve material savings from these significant actions. We anticipated AEP and our shareholders would benefit from these initiatives for many years, and we are pleased to successfully deliver on our expectations. Going forward, our financial strength and ample liquidity position will enable us to continue our successes.”

    Gross profit for the third quarter of fiscal 2011 increased $1.7 million, or 5.0%, to $35.3 million from $33.6 million in the same quarter of the prior fiscal year. Excluding the impact of the LIFO reserve change of $5.7 million during the periods, gross profit increased $7.4 million primarily due to increased sales volumes and improved plant utilization, partially offset by continuing challenges in passing resin price increases through to customers in a timely fashion.

    click here
  • 09.12.2011

    EFI Pace Awarded JDF Certification for Digital Printing

    EFI, a world leader in customer-focused digital printing innovation, today announced the EFI Pace™ management system is one of the first in the industry to receive JDF certification for digital printing from Printing Industries of America. With integration to Fiery® controllers, the leading digital front-ends in the industry, EFI Pace offers end-to-end print shop and production management for mid-sized commercial and specialty printers. Fiery technology and Pace are on display now in GRAPH EXPO booth 2000 (through Sept. 14th, McCormick Place).

    Fiery technology is known worldwide for its speed, power, productivity, precision and amazing color and image quality. With integration of Fiery servers to the Pace MIS via JDF technology, print service providers can take advantage of a seamless workflow, with two-way information exchange.

    The Integrated Digital Printing ICS document certification is EFI's fourth certification for Pace, and the tenth across its MIS portfolio. Pace also holds the MIS to Prepress, MIS to Finishing, and MIS to Conventional Printing Sheetfed certifications from Printing Industries of America, the official certification body for CIP4 (the International Cooperation for the Integration of the Processes in Prepress, Press and Postpress). With this most recent certification, EFI was a beta participant in the program for Printing Industries of America, helping them build test cases and resolve issues within the testing process.

    click here
  • 09.12.2011

    Kelmscott Communications and Graphix Products Announce Merger

    Kelmscott Communications (#343 on the Printing Impressions 400 list with $10.6 million in sales) and Graphix Products (West Chicago, IL) are pleased to announce the merger of their two companies effective immediately. Together, they will operate under the Kelmscott Communications brand name and create a combined company with over 115 years of experience to best serve the marketing needs of their clients.

    Kelmscott Communications offers solutions that combine strategy, creative, web services, data analytics, variable-data printing with complex segmentation, offset and flexographic label printing, signage, promotional incentives, assembly, mailing and fulfillment. This merger combines two companies that are committed to providing high quality personal service and innovative solutions for their clients.

    click here
  • 09.12.2011

    Newbay Media Acquires Assets of Pro AV From Hanley Wood

    NewBay Media has announced that they have acquired the assets of Pro AV from Hanley Wood, including the magazine's web assets, editorial content, and subscriber lists.

    "Our stated goal is to be the number one resource for AV professionals, with unparalleled depth and breadth for readers and advertisers," says Steve Palm, President & CEO of NewBay Media LLC. "The acquisition of Pro AV further strengthens our already robust offerings, expanding our substantial reach to the professional AV community."

    When integrated, Pro AV will add over 18,000 unduplicated AV professionals. Combined with NewBay's existing AV/Consumer Electronics database, which includes leading brands such as Systems Contractor News and Sound & Video Contractor, the acquisition gives NewBay an unparalleled reach of over 200,000 professionals.

    click here
  • 09.12.2011

    Irving Paper Price Increase Oct 2011

    Please be advised that Irving Paper will increase its prices of Irving SCB, Irving SCA and Radiance (SCA+) $30/ST effective with all new orders shipping on and after October 1st 2011.  This increase affects all basis weights.
    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    NewPage Corporation and Certain U.S. Subsidiaries Receive Approval of First Day Motions To Enable Business Continuity Throughout Restructuring

    NewPage Corporation announced today that its corporate parent, NewPage Group Inc., and certain of its U.S. subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company") have received approval from the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware on all of the First Day Motions related to its voluntary Chapter 11 restructuring that were scheduled to be heard today.  The remaining motions (dealing with certain professionals) will be scheduled for a hearing at a later date. These approvals give the Company the authority to continue to conduct its business as usual without interruption in U.S. employee wages and benefits programs or customer programs, among other stakeholder protections.

    Among the First Day Motions granted, the Company received interim approval of its $600 million Debtor in Possession (DIP) financing committed by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., Barclays Bank PLC and Wells Fargo Capital Finance, LLC. These facilities help ensure the Company has adequate liquidity to continue to operate and compete successfully while it works with its creditors and other stakeholders to complete a Chapter 11 plan for its U.S. operations.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Oil Heads for Third Weekly Gain on Obama Job Plan, Storm in Gulf of Mexico

    Oil headed for a third weekly gain as investors bet President Barack Obama’s job-creation plan will support demand for fuel and as producers in the Gulf of Mexico evacuated workers ahead of Tropical Storm Nate.

    New York futures climbed as much as 0.5 percent, erasing a drop of 0.8 percent, after Obama asked Congress to pass a proposal that would inject $447 billion into the economy of the world’s biggest crude user. Prices slid yesterday after Federal Reserve Chairman Ben S. Bernanke stopped short of specifying measures the central bank may use to bolster growth when policy makers meet this month. Companies including BP Plc removed staff in the Gulf, home to 27 percent of U.S. oil output.

    “In the next month or so, it’s going to be very uncertain,” said Jeremy Friesen, a Hong Kong-based commodity strategist at Societe Generale SA. “We could see prices continuing to sell off if the market doesn’t like what the Fed says. But if the market likes it, the physical crude market is reasonably tight, so that should support prices.”

    Oil for October delivery gained as much as 45 cents to $89.50 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange and was at $89.23 at 3:13 p.m. Singapore time. Prices are 3.2 percent higher this week and up 20 percent the past year.

    Brent oil for October settlement was up 40 cents, or 0.4 percent, at $114.95 a barrel on the London-based ICE Futures Europe Exchange. The European benchmark contract was at a premium of $25.72 to U.S. futures, compared with a record settlement of $26.87 on Sept. 6.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Canon and Océ launch new jointly developed monochrome and color production printing systems

    Canon Inc. and Océ N.V. announced today the launch of two new production printing systems developed jointly by the two companies: a monochrome production printer series equipped with Canon finishing and scanning technology, and a high-speed color multifunction system series incorporating Océ controller technology.

    Since Canon welcomed Océ into the Canon Group in March 2010, the two companies have steadily worked to enhance their business base, building on the excellent complementary fit in technology and product range. In March 2011, Canon and Océ launched their first jointly developed production-use multifunction press.

    Today, the companies announced the next step in their joint development efforts: the launch of new monochrome production printers and high-speed color multifunction systems.

    The new monochrome production printer lineup combines a newly developed engine, made possible through Océ proprietary technology for high-quality, high-resolution output approaching that of offset printing, with a Canon high-performance finisher and scanner. Despite their compact body size, the Canon finishers enable the creation of a variety of print materials. Additionally, the inclusion of Océ's PRISMAsync controller not only provides the exceptional operability of Océ's VarioPrint-series digital printers, but also facilitates advanced system coordination with PRISMAsync-equipped Canon imagePRESS-series and imageRUNNER ADVANCE-series devices. The introduction of the new series serves to further enhance the Canon Group's overall black-and-white system lineup, better positioning the company to provide solutions that meet the increasingly diverse needs of the market.

    The new high-speed color multifunction systems build on Canon's imageRUNNER ADVANCE C9000 PRO series, incorporating Océ's PRISMAsync controller to support high-volume production for the high-speed copying of color documents and forms. Like the jointly developed color multifunction presses announced in March this year, the new systems realize high compatibility with Océ's PRISMA workflow, which is well established in the production industry.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Chesapeake’s new pack innovation

    Chesapeake Hamilton has extended its Figured™ range producing an innovative pack to support four of the collections of malt whiskies from Gordon & MacPhail. The new pack, which helps to reinforce the quality of the whiskies, incorporates two apertures, which is the first time this has been achieved in a composite shaped tube.

    The new pack provides product visibility allowing the purchaser to see the distinctive colour of each whisky as well as the front and reverse of the bottle’s labels. All the packs incorporate foil blocking and have a printed liner to further support the product’s high quality image. In addition, the packs are sealed with an embossed tin-plate lid bearing the Gordon & MacPhail logo.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Orient Paper Announces Production Line Updates

    Orient Paper, Inc., a leading manufacturer and distributor of diversified paper products in northern China, today announced that the Company has successfully completed the construction and installation of the paper manufacturing equipments at its new 360,000 tons corrugating medium paper production facility.

    Following the completion of construction and installation of equipments, the Company is currently engaged in carrying out limited testing procedures with its current power supply system on separate sections of its new production line, and in recruiting and training new employees. Meanwhile, Orient Paper is coordinating with the local government and electricity department to activate the Company's new power station, which will be the primary source of power supply for the new corrugating paper production line. The Company expects the new power station to be activated and the commercial production of the production line to be officially launched in the near term.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Random House Moving to Digital Catalogues in 2012

    Random House is the latest publisher to replace paper catalogues with digital editions. Random will begin the transition with its Random House Children’s  Books division’s summer 2012 list which reps will start selling in January. The three adult groups will begin using all digital catalogues for their fall 2012 lists which the company will start selling in April. 

    According to RH spokesperson Stuart Applebaum, the publisher’s goal “is to transition to paperless catalogues as our primary, broadest, and most effective platforms for presenting a complete, continuously updated seasonal overview of our forthcoming frontlists to our accounts and to our other constituencies.”
     
    HarperCollins was the first major house to move to digital catalogues in 2009. Macmillan and Simon & Schuster are moving to digital catalogues next spring.
     
    The move to digital cataglogues will make title information more timely and be cheaper to produce with Random using the savings to invest more in its consumer-centered sales and marketing programs, Applebaum said.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Quad/Graphics Completes Acquisition of Transcontinental's Mexican Assets

    Quad/Graphics Inc. is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of the Mexican assets of Transcontinental Inc. following final approval of all required regulatory authorities, including the Mexican Federal Law on Economic Competition.

    "We're pleased to advance our interests in Mexico and become the country's leading printer of magazines, retail inserts, catalogs, books and directories," said Joel Quadracci, Quad/Graphics Chairman, President & CEO. "This acquisition supports our strategy to grow profitably in geographies and segments where we can be a market leader through a diverse product offering, and a superior and efficient operating platform. Mexico is a logical place to put down stronger roots. With publishers and marketers - both in Mexico and other parts of the world - eager to reach this emerging market's large and growing population, we have the talent, technology and innovative solutions to help them achieve their business goals through the power of print."

    Quad/Graphics now has operations in five Mexican cities: Toluca, Querétaro, Azcapotzalco, Xochimilco and Tlalnepantla. Year 2011 proforma revenues for the combined company are forecasted to be approximately $115 million.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Green Mill Index launched for the pulp and paper industry

    Pöyry has released an index for analyzing the environmental sustainability of pulp and paper mills. "In many companies sustainability is connected to the company principles and needs to be communicated to various stakeholders. Currently there are no standards available that put all the relevant factors together in a way that gives a comprehensive overview. The Green Mill Index was developed to fill this need", comments Ms Päivi Käki, a technology specialist at Pöyry.

    The Green Mill Index represents the relations of different indicators and overall environmental performance of a mill. As a result, it brings together all pertinent information in a manner that is easy to understand. The outcome of the analysis is valuable for example for measuring environmental sustainability, as a benchmarking or due diligence tool, or as a means of pinpointing weak areas that need performance improvements. "Thinking green is not only good for the environment", reminds Ms Käki, "but it can also provide improvements in efficiency that have a direct impact on the bottom line. By seeing the full picture, you can understand what areas to target."

    Many of the indicators used in Pöyry's Green Mill Index are based on European Commission standards for best available technology, known as BAT levels. For example, the Green Mill indicators for emissions and efficiency refer to the BAT levels. Other indicators are based on actual statistical data collected from several mills.

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    John Wiley & Sons Reports First Quarter Fiscal Year 2012 Results

    John Wiley and Sons, a global provider of content and workflow solutions in areas of scientific, technical, medical, and scholarly research; professional and personal development; and education today announced results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2012:

    Revenue growth of 5% including FX (+0.4% excluding FX); Revenue growth by segment including FX:  STMS +10%, P/T +0.4%, and HE -2%; Revenue growth by segment excluding FX:  STMS +3%, P/T -2%, and HE -5%.

    US GAAP earnings per share (EPS) increased +$0.10 including FX to $0.82 (up +$0.05 excluding FX). U.S. GAAP EPS includes a $0.14 and $0.07 per share deferred tax benefit in fiscal year 2012 and 2011, respectively. The tax benefit was derived from two consecutive legislative reductions in the United Kingdom corporate income tax rates. The benefits had no current cash tax impact.   

    Adjusted EPS increased +$0.03 to $0.68 including FX (-$0.02 per share excluding FX). Higher operating and administrative expenses were partially offset by lower interest expense, a lower effective tax rate and gross margin growth. Adjusted EPS excludes the deferred tax benefits  described above.  

    click here
  • 09.09.2011

    Xerox Enriches Digital Color Systems with Advanced Color Management, New Finishing and Heavyweight Stock Options

    Xerox Corporation has added two new digital print systems to its industry-leading color portfolio – bringing sophisticated color management technology to more than just high-speed devices.
     
    The company also expanded the functionality of a popular light-production model, the Xerox Color 550/560 Printer. The advancements give print providers new ways to boost productivity and deliver top-notch color print quality – whether they’re entering the digital color business or already in it.
     
    New digital systems broaden Xerox color portfolio
    The Xerox 770 Digital Color Press can help print providers increase monthly print volume by expanding into applications such as photo books, direct-mail pieces, marketing materials and calendars.
     
    A key feature of the Xerox 770 Digital Color Press is the Automated Color Quality Suite, a set of tools that handle color management tasks with minimal operator involvement, allowing for more high-value, profitable applications to move quickly through the shop. The press also prints on a range of stocks, including heavyweight, at the rated speed of 70 pages per minute, a significant competitive advantage. 
    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Pearson heads media sector in sustainability index review for fifth consecutive year

    Pearson has been named the top company in the media sector for the fifth consecutive year in an annual review for the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes which measures economic, environmental and social performance in such areas as corporate governance, talent retention and engagement with external stakeholders.

    The review is conducted by SAM, an investment boutique that focuses on sustainability investing, for the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index.

    “Pearson continues to prove that it is a sustainability frontrunner amongst media companies and has, for the fifth consecutive year, confirmed its position as the sustainability leader of the sector,” the review said. “The company shows that it is possible to successfully integrate sustainability into business decisions and is a leading example when it comes to effective engagement with external stakeholders, something that is crucial in the media sector.”

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Greenpac Ground Breaking Ceremony

    Cascades and its partners hosted the construction kick off today for the new Greenpac Mill LLC (Greenpac) containerboard mill, to be located in Niagara Falls in New York State. The ground breaking ceremony was held in the presence of Niagara Falls Mayor Paul Dyster, Regional President of the Empire State Development (ESD), Sam Hoyt, Cascades' founders, Bernard, Laurent and Alain Lemaire, Marc-André Dépin, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norampac, the three other project partners and numerous other guests.

    Greenpac is a new corporation created through the efforts of Cascades with the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec, Jamestown Container and Containerboard Partners, for the purpose of building and operating a state of the art containerboard mill, one of its kind in North America. Its creation was also made possible thanks to theleadership of GE Capital, who structured a secured financingin the form of senior debt, through an international banking syndicate.

    “Greenpac is the result of a close collaboration between Norampac and its partners, and its realization symbolizes the beginning of a new era for our company and our industry. Through Greenpac, Norampac will be able to offer high performance and innovative products which will better respond to the growing demand for lightweight packaging” declared Marc-André Dépin, President and Chief Executive Officer at Norampac.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Tembec secures $75 million Quebec government loan to upgrade Temiscaming boilers

    Tembec has secured a $75 million loan through Investissement Quebec to upgrade the energy efficiency of its boilers at the producer's marquee forest products plant in Temiscaming.

    The funding was announced Wednesday in the provincial government's Gazette.

    Quebec-based Tembec said details of the program are still being finalized and will be announced within a few months.

    "We were looking at some investment in the Temiscaming plant but the details are not completed and that's why we're not ready at this time to really be more specific," vice-president, communications Linda Coates said in an interview.

    She would not disclose how much money Tembec (TSX:TMB) would be investing in the project nor any potential impact on the 900 workers employed at the facility, including 680 union members.

    The union says workers agreed to various concessions since 2006, conditional on Tembec investing some $300 million by 2015 to modernize the old plant.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Meredith to Increase Rate Bases for Hispanic Ventures Brands

    Meredith Corporation announced today that it will increase rate bases for its industry leading Hispanic media brands.

    Effective with the February 2012 issues:

    Siempre Mujer, the leading Hispanic women's lifestyle publication launched in 2005, will raise its rate base to 550,000 from 500,000, an increase of 10 percent

    Ser Padres, the leading parenting title in the Hispanic market, will raise its rate base to 850,000 from 700,000, an increase of 22 percent

    Ser Padres Espera, aimed at the expecting Hispanic Moms market, will increase to 400,000 from 350,000, an boost of 14 percent

    "This growth reflects the continued demand for our titles among the growing marketplace of young, active Hispanic consumers," says Enedina Vega-Amaez, Publisher, Meredith Hispanic Ventures. "It also demonstrates how well our strong editorial vitality and relevant content appeals to modern Hispanic women and parents."

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Crude Oil Declines From 5-Week High as Libyans Discuss Output, Storm Spins

    Crude futures declined in New York, paring yesterday’s 3.9 percent rally, as Libyan officials discussed prospects for resuming production and investors bet that economic growth is faltering.

    Libya’s oil industry will be prepared to start producing again within two weeks, the rebel council’s Oil and Finance Minister Ali Tarhouni said in Tripoli, the Wall Street Journal reported yesterday. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development cut growth forecasts for the U.S. and Japan.

    “Markets have adjusted to a level where growth is no longer priced in,” said Kaha Kiknavelidze, a London-based managing partner at Rioni Capital Partners LLP, a hedge fund that specializes in emerging markets.

    Oil for October delivery fell 19 cents, or 0.2 percent, to $89.15 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange as of 11:14 a.m. London time, after rising as much as 0.9 percent earlier today. Futures closed yesterday at $89.34, the highest since Aug. 3. Brent crude for October was at $115.41 a barrel, down 39 cents, on the London-based ICE Futures Europe Exchange.

    Crude in New York has dropped 20 percent since May 2, when it traded as high as $114.83 a barrel amid concern about supply from the Middle East and North Africa. Libyan output slumped to 45,000 barrels a day last month from 1.6 million barrels a day at the beginning of this year, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Florida Travel + Life Named Best Magazine in Florida

    Florida Travel + Life has been named the top magazine in the state. It took top honors at the annual Florida Magazine Awards, winning in the Best Overall Magazine category. Florida Travel + Life is published by Bonnier Corp. of Winter Park, Florida.

    "Florida Travel & Life is thrilled and honored to be recognized by our peers in the media. We're proud of our dynamic stories, photos and design, as well as the team that brought it all to life," says Patricia Letakis, editor-in-chief of Florida Travel + Life magazine.

    In addition to winning the top award of the competition, Florida Travel + Life took two other firsts: Best Department and Best Single Color Photo. The magazine also picked up second-place awards for Best Written Magazine, Best Overall Use of Photography, Best Overall Design and Best Visitor Publication.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Start of consultation for Product Footprint Rules for paper

    The Confederation of European Paper Industry (CEPI) and the European Commission DG Environment are launching a consultation for Product Footprint Category Rules (PFCR) for paper and paper products. The paper PFCR is linked to the forthcoming European methodology for the calculation of environmental footprint of products, currently being developed by the Commission services. This is a pilot project testing a new way of adopting PFCR for an industry sector using crowdsourcing and online tools.

    The PFCR development process will be transparent and open allowing all stakeholders to participate in the process. All interested organisations and experts are invited to register themselves now and start commenting on a consultation paper via the online collaboration platform www.paperpfcr.eu as of Monday, 12 September.

    A final PFCR for paper should provide clear guidance for paper companies to conduct environmental footprint studies. In addition, it might represent an important reference document for possible future policy actions both at EU and Member States level.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Fry Communications Wins Six Awards in the Annual Gold Ink Awards Competition

    Fry Communications will be honored September 12 during the Annual Gold Ink Awards and Hall of Fame Gala for winning six awards in the 24th annual competition co-sponsored by industry magazines Publishing Executive, Printing Impressions, and Book Business. Fry won one Silver, two Bronze, and three Pewter Gold Ink Awards this year.

    Fry earned a Silver Award for the 25th Anniversary Edition of Samir Husni’s Guide to New Magazines, published by the Magazine Innovation Center at the University of Mississippi, in the Trade Magazines (Sheetfed) category.

    Fry earned a Bronze Award for the 2011 Heritage Collection, published by Heritage Sportswear, in the Business Catalogs (Web) category, and a Bronze Award for the Musical America Worldwide 2011 Edition, published by United Business Media Global Trade, in the Directories category.

    Fry also received two Pewter Awards in the Consumer Magazines category for Bound by Ink, published by Source Interlink Media, and Worth Magazine, published by Sandow Media. Fry earned a final Pewter Award in the Directories category for the Bahamas 2011 Directory, published by the Bahamas Telecommunications Company, Ltd.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Plastic and paper bag ban proposed for Los Angeles

    Paper or plastic? For shoppers in Los Angeles, the choice may soon be neither.

    Hoping to reduce the billions of grocery bags circulating throughout the city, an L.A. councilman Tuesday called for a sweeping ban on single-use paper and plastic bags.

    By including paper bags in the ban, the proposal goes beyond similar measures taken recently by other California cities and counties. Although L.A. County, Santa Monica and other municipalities have banned plastic bags in recent years, most have allowed stores to sell paper ones for a small fee.

    "With paper bags, you're still generating litter," said Councilman Paul Koretz, who introduced the motion proposing the ban. "We're taking the next step."

    Environmentalists celebrated the news and said they hoped that it would push Sacramento lawmakers to enact a statewide ban.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Stora Enso the only European forestry and paper company listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes

    Stora Enso has been listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI) for the 11th year running. The Group is the only European company from the forestry and paper sector listed in the DJSI for 2011-2012. Stora Enso received top industry scores for sustainable forest management, product stewardship and environmental management. The members of the DJSI for 2011-2012 were announced today.

    “We are constantly improving in our Global Responsibility efforts, and being listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for 11th year in a row and still improving our performance in the Index are signs that we are on the right path,” says Stora Enso CEO Jouko Karvinen.

    “We have been rethinking our responsibility approach and made new initiatives such as improving sustainability standards in our supply chain and enhancing engagement with local communities. I'm glad to see that the work we have done is also reflected in the DJSI results. The only way our company can become even more responsible than today is by rethinking - questioning old ways of working and finding new ways and solutions. The key is to listen to our stakeholders and learn from them.”

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Stora Enso will record a negative non-recurring item of USD 180 million related to NewPage Stevens Point Mill paper machine lease in third quarter 2011

    Stora Enso will record a provision with a cash impact of approximately USD 180 million (about EUR 128 million) as a negative non-recurring item (NRI) in its third quarter 2011 results due to NewPage Corporation's Chapter 11 filing in the USA. On 7 September 2011 NewPage voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 protection under the US Bankruptcy Code to reorganise its debt.

    When Stora Enso North America, Inc (SENA) was divested to NewPage, the Stevens Point Mill Paper Machine (PM) 35 lease obligation was transferred from Stora Enso to NewPage. However, as explained in the Group's Financial Statements since 2007, Stora Enso remained as guarantor of the lease. Stora Enso intends to recover a portion of the recorded cost related to the lease obligation in NewPage's restructuring.

    In the second quarter of 2009 Stora Enso wrote down to zero value its 19.9% shareholding in NewPage and the vendor note it holds.

    click here
  • 09.08.2011

    Xerox Digital Packaging Solution Now FDA Compliant; Speeds Time to Market in Growing Packaging Industry

    Xerox Corporation’s iGen® family of digital presses and toners are compliant with Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) guidelines for dry foods.  Customized folding cartons can now be created quickly and cost-effectively, speeding time to market, increasing brand recognition and driving sales. 
     
    According to industry consultancy Pira International, the worldwide digital printing market for packaging and labels is expected to reach $6.75 billion by 2014.[1]

    With Xerox’s digital packaging solution, printers can offer more short-run packaging options to marketers, addressing promotional needs ranging from nationwide launches and regional brands, to specialty items and prototype products.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    NewPage Corporation Launches Process to Restructure Debt and Position Overall Business for Long-Term Success

    NewPage Corporation announced today that, to facilitate an orderly debt restructuring and position the overall business for long-term success, its corporate parent, NewPage Group Inc., and certain of its U.S. subsidiaries (collectively, "NewPage" or the "Company") have commenced voluntary cases under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code ("Chapter 11"). The cases are pending in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware. The company's Consolidated Water Power Company subsidiary is not part of the filing.

    Separately, the company's Canadian subsidiary, NewPage Port Hawkesbury Corp., has brought proceedings before the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia under the Companies' Creditors Arrangement Act of Canada ("CCAA"). In order to maximize efficiency in both the U.S. and Canadian Court processes, NewPage Corporation and NewPage Port Hawkesbury Corp. have executed a Settlement and Transition Agreement, subject to approval by the Canadian Court. 

    Through the Chapter 11 process, NewPage expects to work closely with its creditors and other stakeholders in the U.S. to formulate a Chapter 11 plan that details how it intends to satisfy its liabilities and restructure its balance sheet to emerge as a financially stronger company. The company expects to continue operating its U.S. businesses as usual throughout this process with an undiminished focus on providing customers with high-quality paper and employees with a stable and safe working environment. To help ensure it has adequate liquidity to achieve these objectives and continue to operate and compete successfully throughout the restructuring, NewPage has obtained a commitment led by J.P. Morgan for up to $600 million in Debtor in Possession (DIP) financing.

    Additionally, NewPage has filed a series of customary First Day Motions in the United States Bankruptcy Court that, subject to court approval, would allow it to continue its U.S. employee wages and benefits programs, honor obligations for customers served by its U.S. businesses and provide additional protection to various other stakeholders. These motions are typical of the Chapter 11 process and are generally granted in the days immediately after a filing.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    RR Donnelley Expands Packaging Design and Production Capabilities With Acquisition of Genesis

    R. R. Donnelley & Sons Company today announced that it has acquired Lemont, IL based Genesis Packaging & Design Inc., a full service provider of custom packaging, including designing, printing, die cutting, finishing and assembling.

    "We continue to expand our capabilities to serve our customers' packaging and merchandising needs," said John Paloian, RR Donnelley's Chief Operating Officer. "The addition of Genesis complements our platform with a centrally located facility, a superb range of capabilities and deep experience. Genesis enhances our ability to serve packaged food and beverage producers, pharmaceutical companies, consumer electronics manufacturers, retailers, consumer packaged goods producers, educational publishers, and a range of other customers."

    Beyond packaging production, Genesis (www.genesispkg.com) offers a broad spectrum of services, including the design and production of point-of-purchase displays and signage. The operation features a range of value-added capabilities, including the ability to print and coat on the inside of packaging products, which is especially attractive to customers in the food and beverage industry.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    AbitibiBowater Increases FSC® Forest Management Certification in Northern Ontario

    AbitibiBowater announced today that it has received Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) certification for the Black Spruce and Dog River-Matawin Forest areas, north of Thunder Bay, Ontario. This area covers approximately 2.5 million hectares of forest stretching from Lake Nipigon to Quetico Provincial Park.

    "This certification represents a major increase in the amount of forest AbitibiBowater now manages under FSC," said Richard Garneau, President and Chief Executive Officer. "This effort is part of our ongoing strategy to meet market expectations as well as ensuring our commitment to sustainable forest management."

    The FSC certification process took more than a year to complete and the certification audit entailed four auditors interviewing stakeholders including local citizens committees, community leaders, First Nations communities and various forest contractors working in the region. The two forest regions were certified by the SmartWood Program of the Rainforest Alliance using the National Boreal Standard of FSC. The certificate (FSC-C107523) is valid for five years subject to the annual Surveillance audits.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Inertia Beverage Group Announce Strategic Agreement

    1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. and Inertia Beverage Group (IBG) today announced a strategic alliance designed to enhance both company's position in the wine business. As part of the agreement, IBG has purchased the WTN Services™ division of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, which provides order fulfillment services to wineries. IBG is combining the WTN assets with its existing winery services business to create a leading company in the winery services space: WineDirectSM. WineDirectSM will manage fulfillment and other services for 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc.'s WineTasting.com® ecommerce wine gifting business. In addition, the companies plan to leverage their assets to grow direct-to-consumer sales through joint marketing and promotional programs including sales opportunities through the 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. family of gifting brands, such as 1-800-Flowers.com and 1-800-Baskets.com. Financial terms were not released.

    "1-800-FLOWERS.COM is committed to the wine gifting market and to establishing WineTasting.com as a leader in the direct-to-consumer wine business. This transaction enables us to focus on what we do best; provide great gifts appropriate for every occasion and recipient," said David Taiclet, president of the Gourmet Food and Gift Baskets division of 1-800-FLOWERS.COM, Inc. Taiclet noted that the Company plans to work closely with WineDirectSM to develop the wine gifting space. "As part of our effort in wine gifting, we are pleased to be working with WineDirectSM to help build sales momentum for WineTasting.com and the growing list of wineries, throughout the world, with which we both work."

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Adobe Digital Publishing Suite To Support iOS 5 Newsstand

    Adobe Systems Incorporated (Nasdaq:ADBE) today announced that publishers will be able to use Adobe® Digital Publishing Suite to create magazine and newspaper applications that appear in the Apple Newsstand section of the iTunes App Store and the Newsstand folder on the iPad. With more than 600 titles created to date, the industry-leading Adobe Digital Publishing Suite includes full support for Newsstand subscriptions, which can significantly boost sales and advertising revenue by combining greater content discoverability with flexible payment options required by readers.

    As a true cross-platform solution, content owners can use Adobe Digital Publishing Suite to target their new digital editions at iPad, Android tablets and BlackBerry Playbook devices.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Leading high performance materials company Ahlstrom joins the WBCSD

    Ahlstrom Corporation, a global high performance materials company, has become a member of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Sustainability forms a key pillar of the Helsinki, Finland based company's business activities and centers around environmental, social and economic responsibility within its global operations.

    Björn Stigson, President, WBCSD said: "Ahlstrom has a long history as a company and also in social responsibility. Corporate responsibility has been an integral part of Ahlstrom's business and way of thinking already for 160 years. I am delighted that they have decided to join the WBCSD."

    "Ahlstrom's clear commitment to sustainable development is impressive: they take care of integrating sustainable practices into product development from cradle to gate, and across all aspects of their business operations. Ahlstrom brings a valuable wealth of expertise and knowledge to our organization," Björn Stigson continued.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Allen Press and Southern Appalachian Botanical Society Form Co-Publishing Partnership

    Allen Press has been chosen by the Southern Appalachian Botanical Society (SABS) to co-publish Castanea, the Society’s scientific Journal, beginning in 2012.

    Castanea, first published in 1936, now in volume 76, is a quarterly journal that publishes papers relating to all aspects of botany covering the entire eastern United States and adjoining areas.  This co-publishing agreement will include, for the first time, an online presence of the journal’s content making it more widely available than ever before.

    The journal supports the mission of the Society by furthering the study of the science of botany in the southern Appalachian Mountain region, and provides a forum for the discussion of issues concerning plants and their role in society.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Crude Gains on Forecast Stockpile Drop as Cyclone Builds in Gulf of Mexico

    Oil advanced from the lowest in more than a week in New York as a weather system in the Gulf of Mexico threatened supplies in the U.S., where production halts because of storms have already reduced crude stockpiles.

    West Texas Intermediate climbed as much as 1.6 percent before an Energy Department report tomorrow that may show inventories declined last week. Stockpiles fell 2.25 million barrels as Tropical Storm Lee shut production in the gulf, a Bloomberg News survey of analysts showed. Another disturbance in Mexico’s Bay of Campeche may become a tropical cyclone. Brent’s premium to U.S. prices narrowed from a record.

    “The expectation that U.S. stock levels will be down due to shut-ins in the Gulf of Mexico, and the missing barrels from Libya, are keeping prices up,” said Gerrit Zambo, a trader at Bayerische Landesbank in Munich. “Oil is stronger than all the other markets around the world, so if there are signs the debt crisis cannot be overcome, I see a bigger downside for oil. But at the moment, oil is supported.”

    Crude for October delivery gained as much as $1.40 to $87.42 a barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange and was at $86.84 at 12:01 p.m. London time. The contract yesterday settled at $86.02, the lowest since Aug. 26. Prices have risen 17 percent in the past year.

    Brent oil for October settlement added 21 cents to $113.10 on the ICE Futures Europe Exchange. The contract yesterday increased $2.81 to $112.89. The European benchmark contract was at premium of $26.26 to U.S. futures, compared with yesterday’s record close of $26.87.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    CMOs to boost spending

    Despite the gyrations of the stock market, marketers plan to boost spending on all forms of marketing, according to an online survey of 249 marketing executives conducted in August by Duke University's Fuqua School of Business.

    The CMO Survey, which is conducted every year in February and August, found that marketing budgets are expected to increase 9.1% over the next 12 months. Additionally, marketing hires are expected to increase 7.2% in the same time period.

    The survey also found that marketers were pessimistic about the overall economy, with the overall average of respondents saying their optimism level was a 52.2 about the economy on a scale of 1 to 100. The lowest previous level was 47.6 in February 2009.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Canfor Resumes Operations at Vavenby Sawmill

    Canfor is pleased to announce the successful restart of the corporation’s Vavenby sawmill. The September 6, 2011 restart follows a $24 million capital investment which included a new canter line, a new grade optimizer in the planer and an upgraded planer feed system. At full production, Vavenby will add 240 million board feet of SPF to company capacity on an annual basis.

    “Our committed, exceptional workforce in Vavenby, the company’s capital investment program and the excellent work that government has done to partner with industry in developing new markets for our products has allowed us to restart this facility” said Canfor CEO Don Kayne. “Lumber from Vavenby will go to valued Canfor customers around the world.”

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    A sustainable bio-economy needs the forest sector

    In recognition of the International Year of Forests 2011, MEPs Riikka Manner, Luis Manuel Capoulas Santos and Gaston Franco are hosting the exhibition and workshop "Forest Sector's Contribution to the EU Bio-economy" at the European Parliament, 6-9 September 2011.The aim is to highlight the vital role that Europe’s forests and forest products play in contributing to the overall 2020 objective of the European Union of achieving a sustainable bio-economy.

    From responsible resource stewardship and supply of solid wood products, from packaging to ground-breaking materials, like food additives and hi-tech chemicals, via innovative wood architecture construction and bio-energy, the European forest sector’s contribution to the bioeconomy is far-reaching.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Donahoe asks Congress to solve crisis

    Postmaster General and CEO Patrick Donahoe told a Senate committee September 6 that the US Postal Service is "in a crisis" and will default on a $5.5 billion payment to the federal government if Congress does not enact legislation this month changing its business model.

    The Postal Service asked Congress last month for permission to cut its workforce by 220,000 positions in the next three years. The move would shrink the organization's employee costs by 30%, it said.

    “The Postal Service is in a crisis today because it operates within a restrictive business model and has limited flexibility to respond to a changing marketplace,” said Donahoe, according to transcripts provided by the USPS. “We do not currently have the flexibility in our business model to achieve all of these cost reductions. To do so, the Postal Service requires the enactment of comprehensive, long-term legislation to provide it with needed flexibility.”

    The Postal Service is asking Congress to reform its $5.5 billion annual requirement to prefund retirement health-benefits programs and return $6.9 billion in retirement system overpayments. It also wants the ability to determine its own delivery frequency, change its healthcare and retirement plan, and streamline its product development process.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Quad/Graphics Announces Share Repurchase Program

    Quad/Graphics, Inc., today announced that its Board of Directors has authorized the repurchase of up to $100 million of its outstanding Class A common shares.

    Share repurchases may be made in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions from time to time as permitted by federal securities laws and other legal requirements. The timing, manner, price and amount of any repurchase will be determined by the Company at its discretion and will be subject to economic and market conditions, stock price, applicable legal requirements and other factors. The program may be suspended or discontinued at any time.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Postal Service on the Brink of Default

    Without enactment of legislation by the end of this month, the Postal Service faces default, as funds will be insufficient to make a congressionally mandated $5.5 billion payment to pre-fund retiree health benefits, Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe told a Senate committee today.

    “The Postal Service is in a crisis today because it operates within a restrictive business model and has limited flexibility to respond to a changing marketplace,” Donahoe testified before the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. “We need the ability to operate more as a business does. This applies to the way we provide products and services, allocate resources, configure our retail, delivery and mail processing networks and manage our workforce.”

    The combination of weak economic conditions and diversion to electronic forms of communications continues to result in significant declines in the use of First-Class Mail and weakness in the use of Standard Mail. Future mail volume projections show this trend continuing, requiring even greater efforts to reduce costs.

    In the past four fiscal years, the Postal Service has reduced costs by more than $12 billion and reduced its career workforce by 110,000 employees. “As impressive as these reductions have been, we must significantly accelerate the pace of cost reduction in the next four years,” said Donahoe. Based on current revenue and cost trends, the Postal Service must reduce its annual costs by $20 billion by 2015 to return to profitability.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Walgreens August Sales Increase 7.8 Percent

    Walgreens had August sales of $6.10 billion, an increase of 7.8 percent from $5.66 billion for the same month in 2010.

    Total front-end sales increased 6.8 percent in August, while comparable store front-end sales increased 4.8 percent. Customer traffic in comparable stores increased 2.5 percent and basket size increased 2.3 percent.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Talbots Reports Second Quarter Fiscal 2011 Results

    The Talbots, Inc. today reported results for the quarter ended July 30, 2011 and commented on key initiatives and actions as well as third quarter 2011.

    Second quarter loss from continuing operations was $37.4 million, or $0.54 per share, compared to last year's income from continuing operations of $0.5 million or $0.01 per share.

    Adjusted second quarter loss from continuing operations was $35.5 million, or $0.51 per share, excluding special items of $1.9 million, or $0.03 per share, compared to last year's adjusted income from continuing operations of $9.8 million, or $0.14 per share.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Discover U.S. Spending MonitorSM Consumer Confidence Falls for Third Straight Month in August, but Spending Intentions Hold Steady

    Consumer confidence fell in August for the third straight month, as the Discover U.S. Spending MonitorSM dropped to its lowest level since March 2009. Since January, the Monitor has been in a freefall, dropping nearly 13 points over the last eight months. The daily poll that tracks economic confidence and spending intentions of around 8,200 consumers a month now stands at 80.5, 2.2 points lower than July.

    The monitor continues to show increased concerns from Americans about the broader economy. Uncertainty over the debt crisis and wild swings in the stock market may have played into those concerns last month. In August, 64 percent of Americans rated the economy as poor, up from 62 percent in July; 64 percent of consumers say economic conditions are worsening, which is a 5-point jump from July.

    But while consumers continue to be down on the economy, they were feeling slightly better about their own finances. In August, 33 percent of consumers rated their finances as good or excellent, 3 points higher than the month prior. However, for the third straight month, over half, 53 percent, of consumers feel their finances are getting worse, 1 point lower than July.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    International Paper Announces Definitive Agreement to Acquire Temple-Inland for $32.00 Per Share in Cash

    International Paper and Temple-Inland Inc. today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which International Paper will acquire all of the outstanding common stock of Temple-Inland for $32.00 per share in cash, plus the assumption of $600 million in Temple-Inland's year end debt. The total transaction value is approximately $4.3 billion.

    The combination, which has been approved by the Boards of both companies, brings together two strong North American corrugated packaging businesses to create an even stronger company. It offers numerous benefits for the shareholders and customers of both companies, and is consistent with International Paper's focus on achieving and sustaining cost of capital returns throughout the cycle. The transaction is expected to be accretive to International Paper's shareholders in year one after closing. It is expected to close in the first quarter of 2012.

    International Paper Chairman and CEO John Faraci said, "The strategic benefits of this combination are clear and we are pleased to be able to move forward on terms that are financially attractive for both sets of shareholders. Acquiring Temple-Inland enhances our ability to generate additional cash flow while maintaining our strong balance sheet. We look forward to working with the employees of Temple-Inland as we integrate our businesses and create an even stronger company with substantial benefits for our customers, employees and shareholders."

    Temple-Inland Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Doyle R. Simons said, "This transaction creates value for both Temple-Inland and International Paper shareholders. The combined company will be positioned to be a leader in providing high quality products for its customers."

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Verso Announces Price Increase for SC products

    Effective with all orders entered immediately and all orders shipping on or after October 1, 2011 Verso Paper Corp. is increasing the transaction price of all Supercalendered grades. 

    The increase ($1.50/cwt ($30/short ton) applies to all Supercalendered grades, including but not limited to the following Brands:  Clarity Plus, Clarity A, Clarity B.  All basis weights, bulks and finishes are included.

    click here
  • 09.07.2011

    Creel Acquires Digital Lizard to Expand Its Digital Capabilities

    Commercial printer and publishing solutions provider Creel Printing has acquired Digital Lizard in a move that positions Creel among the most expansive, one-stop partners nationwide.

    One of the top digital printing companies in North America, Digital Lizard has developed advanced processing protocols to manufacture, finish and ship on the same day, enabling customers to meet even the most pressing turnarounds. The company offers the power of eight, state-of-the-art HP Indigo presses, a full-service bindery and pre-negotiated discount shipping rates.

    Moreover, Digital Lizard develops and provisions automated Web-to-print storefronts that significantly improve ordering, workflow and reporting mechanisms. This will enable Creel customers and prospects to cost-effectively create and deploy their own portals, or improve the capabilities and return on investment of those that exist.

    click here
  • 09.06.2011

    Potential buyer of mills plans quick restart for ‘GNP’

    A New Hampshire-based investor seeking to buy the two Katahdin region paper mills plans to call its mill-operating subsidiary “Great Northern Paper Co. LLC” — harking back to the mills’ origins — and invest $20 million to $25 million in the Main Street mill as soon as the deal is made, one of its leaders said Thursday.

    If the deal occurs, and he stressed that several obstacles must be overcome by its mid- to late-September deadline, Cate Street Capital Senior Vice President Richard Cyr said the restart of the No. 6 papermaking machine in East Millinocket, and the hiring of as many as 200 workers, would happen fast.

    “Once we close [the deal] it will restart in a matter of weeks,” Cyr said in a telephone interview on Thursday, calling the mill restart “our focus today.”

    Cate Street Capital bears a superficial resemblance to its would-be predecessor, Brookfield Asset Management, whose operation of the two mills — except when Serge Sorokin was the mills’ manager — was often criticized. Both are deep-pocket investors in energy who do not have papermaking among their “core competencies.”

    click here
© 2010 Midland Paper, Packaging & Supplies. Content Credits