Upfront
Colorfx Obtains Capitol City
DES MOINES, IA—Colorfx announced its acquisition of fellow Des Moines-based printer Capitol City Graphics. Backed by a 26-year history, Capitol City's operation will join with Colorfx to offer customers enhanced marketing solutions and access to a more robust printing platform. Combined annual sales of the merged organizations will be approximately $90 million, with approximately 550 employees operating in five facilities throughout Iowa.
Quad Shuttering Iowa Facility
SUSSEX, WI—Quad/Graphics will close its plant in Dubuque, IA, by early March, leaving more than 200 employees without work, several sources reported. The plant has changed ownership several times since it opened in 1949. Quad/Graphics obtained the facility in 2010.
New Wide-Format for Impact
ELMHURST, IL—Digital print provider Impact Color has taken delivery of a new HP L26500 wide-format latex printer. John Schleich, president of Impact Color, said the HP printer was chosen to provide its customers with the highest possible print quality, fast project turnarounds, print longevity and an eco-friendly alternative to solvent printing.
Toof Commercial Swings Deal
MEMPHIS, TN—Toof Commercial Printing, a firm that traces its roots back to the Civil War era, has consummated a deal for American Digital, The Commercial Appeal reported. Terms of the transaction were not revealed. American Digital will operate as a division of Toof, retaining its individual brand, but will transfer its 17 employees to Toof's headquarters. Kim Webb, owner of American Digital, will serve as president of that division.
RRD Closing Wisconsin Plant
CHICAGO—RR Donnelley (RRD) is shutting down its printing facility in Greenville, WI (near Appleton). The closure, which will impact 47 workers, is slated to take place at the end of April, the Green Bay Press Gazette reported. According to the newspaper, RR Donnelley filed a WARN notice with the state Department of Workforce Development. The company cited changing market conditions as being behind its decision.
Thief Avoids Jail Time
CHATTANOOGA, TN—After pleading guilty to theft, Kelly Madewell will be making monthly payments of just under $200 to pay back her former employer, Murray Printing. She stole more than $67,000, of which $15,000 was covered by insurance. Madewell presented a $27,000 check in court, leaving $49,000 to pay off. She was given a suspended 10-year sentence, pending repayment, and must serve 100 hours of community service.
Vertis Workers Cry Foul
TORONTO—A printing plant owned by Vertis—one of three not included in the sale to Quad/Graphics—has been shut down in Fort Erie (Stevensville), Ontario, leaving the staff without jobs or compensation. About 100 members of the local union are threatening to sue due to the firm's reported refusal to pay out termination and severance, which is required under Canadian law.
Xeikon to Be Taken Over?
EEDE, THE NETHERLANDS—Xeikon NV announced that it has engaged in discussions with a party that has indicated to Xeikon it may be interested in entering into a potential transaction by way of making a public takeover bid for all shares in the capital of Xeikon. According to Xeikon, the parties are currently engaged in initial discussions on a potential transaction.
