Imagine Print Solutions and Classic Graphics Merge

CHARLOTTE, NC—December 2, 2013—Two of the most respected names in graphic solutions are joining forces. Imagine Print Solutions and Classic Graphics have merged, creating one of the largest privately owned commercial printing companies in the nation.

Financial terms of the transaction were not revealed. Sales figures for 2013 for the combined companies will approach $280 million.

Bob Lothenbach, president and founder of Imagine Print Solutions, was enthusiastic about the announcement. “The cultures and visions of our two companies are virtually identical,” he said. “We share a philosophy of providing highly responsive and flexible service to our clients, a passion for print and a belief in team work.” He continued, “Uniting the two companies creates a stronger entity. Blending the strengths and location of our company with those of Classic creates an optimal service and distribution model and leverages manufacturing and purchasing power for more competitive offerings to clients. Most important, clients of both companies will be served by one of the strongest graphics companies in the nation.”

In an industry dominated by announcements of closings and reduced expectation, Imagine Print Solutions and Classic have been committed to growth by listening to their customers and responding. “This is a logical move," said David Pitts, president of Classic Graphics. Classic has enjoyed tremendous growth over our 30-year history. Combining the two companies provides clients access to wider and more sophisticated service offerings. Our employees will form a talented team who will drive innovation in our industry.” Imagine will keep the Classic brand intact and Pitts will remain as president of Classic in the combined company.

New Direction Partners represented the shareholders of Classic in this transaction.

About Imagine Print Solutions
Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, Imagine Print Solutions is an award-winning, privately held, full-service graphic solutions company, founded in 1988 by Bob Lothenbach. It is one of the most amazing success stories in the graphics industry. Known for its commitment to the client perspective, technological capabilities and cutting-edge graphics expertise, Imagine serves the top national and international brands. The company is currently ranked 32 in Printing Impressions magazine’s 400, a list of the leading printing companies in the United States and Canada.

About Classic Graphics
Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Classic Graphics is an award-winning, privately held, full-service graphic communications company, founded in 1983 by David Pitts and Bill Gardner. Also known for exemplary client service, cutting-edge technological capabilities and cutting-edge graphics expertise, Classic Graphics serves national and international corporations. Classic is currently ranked 95 in Printing Impressions magazine’s 400, a list of the leading printing companies in the United States and Canada.

Source: Classic Graphics.