UPFRONT
Workers Say No to Union
MONTREAL—An independent arbitrator has ruled there is no need to hold a re-run election for union representation at Quebecor World’s Covington, TN, facility, as requested by the Teamsters. The decision upholds a secret ballot election in which those employees opted against union representation. As part of the decision, it was ruled that Quebecor World’s conduct did not adhere to the neutrality provisions of the May 2005 Neutrality Agreement signed by the printer and Teamsters.
CGX Finishes Nies/Artcraft Deal
HOUSTON—Consolidated Graphics has completed the acquisition of St. Louis-based Nies/Artcraft Companies, which includes Nies/Artcraft Printing, Valcour Printing and Impression Label. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Compass Capital Partners represented the selling interests in the transaction.
Durbin Named CEO of Vertis
BALTIMORE—President Dean Durbin has been appointed the additional role as CEO of Vertis, effective immediately. The CFO from 2000 to 2005, Durbin was named president in 2004, then handed the job of COO in early 2005. Former CEO Donald Roland will remain on the Vertis board of directors as non-executive chairman.
Bennett, 70, Was Quad Pioneer
SUSSEX, WI—Carl Bennett, 70, a confidant of the late Harry V. Quadracci who played a pivotal role in the founding of Quad/Graphics, lost his battle with cancer on January 21. Mr. Bennett and Quadracci became close while working for printer W.A. Krueger Co. in the late 1960s. After Quadracci left Krueger, the pair remained in touch and Mr. Bennett actually created the original financial projections for starting Quad/Graphics. He officially joined Quad/Graphics in 1977 and rose to the title of senior vice president of sales and administration.
Merrill Corp. Files for IPO
ST. PAUL, MN—Merrill Corp. has filed a registration statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in connection with a proposed initial public offering of its common stock. The proposed offering will include shares sold by Merrill and certain company stockholders. The number of shares to be offered and the price range have yet to be determined.
