Book Printing Outlook — Opportunities Abound

Tobin anticipates solid growth from both el-hi and college markets in 2008, at a level consistent with 2007. Within the past 12 months, Courier has gone live with a new MAN Roland Lithoman web press, which was installed at its Kendallville, IN, facility. That plant also reaped a new high-capacity binding line and a warehouse is being constructed. McCain and Smyth sewing capabilities have been increased. At presstime, Courier was mulling over options for its 2008 spending initiatives.

Soft proofing for one-, two- and four-color printing has become mainstream, according to Tobin, and Courier has also invested in technology toward that end. It’s another example of publisher clients seeking to save time and compress their schedules.

Smooth Integrations

Lane feels the Banta and Von Hoffmann integrations have gone smoothly in the past year. The Windy City printer has increased manufacturing capabilities to provide its customers more flexibility in the “One RR Donnelley” platform, which will allow the company to enter new book segments.

“From RR Donnelley’s perspective, the most important measure of success is how our customers perceive the integration, and we are pleased to say the feedback has been positive,” Lane says. “In addition, we continue to provide our customers a global platform that combines offshore capabilities with the service levels that they expect. RR Donnelley recognizes the importance of offering an international platform because our publishers’ strategies are increasingly more globally focused.

“We believe our expansive manufacturing platform, superior customer service and overall capabilities enable us to be nimble, responding quickly and effectively to each book segment’s growth and changing customer needs,” he contends.

Quebecor World’s Clarke believes his company is well-positioned to handle the time-reducing needs of its clients and should flourish over the next two campaigns.

“We’ll see significant growth in the education business; our investments complement what we’re trying to accomplish,” he says. “It’ll be interesting to see the impact of the general economy, an election year and the paper pricing situation. Publishers are also embracing the carbon footprint and green initiatives. We embraced that many years ago because, for one, in many cases, there are legal requirements, and two, it makes sound business sense.” PI