Tony Ross

CHICAGO—The largest M&A transaction in the history of the printing industry, in the midst of the worst financial climate this country has seen in decades, could make one company a towering behemoth among modest-sized competitors.

Postal Commission OKs Hike WASHINGTON, DC—A 5.4 percent increase in United States Postal Service (USPS) rates virtually across the board has been approved by the Postal Rate Commission. The rate increases were expected to take effect by the middle of January. The increase will help the USPS meet its $3.1 billion escrow payment due in 2006. Nonprofit mailings will go up by 3 percent, while the book rate will balloon 12.7 percent, in accordance with the requirement that all classes of mail cover their direct cost of service. A First Class stamp will rise by 2 cents. Quad Signs Billion Dollar Deal SUSSEX, WI—Quad/Graphics and

Worker Crushed in Accident VERSAILLES, KY—OSHA is investigating an apparent accident at a Quebecor World facility here that led to the death of a longtime employee. Carolyn Cox Campbell, 62, suffered fatal chest trauma Oct. 15 when she was crushed between a forklift and a metal racking system, according to John McCarty, Fayette County, KY, deputy coroner. McCarty indicated that a final autopsy and toxicology report would be completed in about four weeks. Tony Ross, director of communications for Montreal-based Quebecor World, said that Campbell's death, "appears to be an unfortunate accident." CGX Kills Deal for Newbridge HOUSTON—Consolidated Graphics (CGX) is no longer pursuing the acquisition

MONTREAL—Marc L. Reisch, president and CEO of Quebecor World North America, has made a quick departure from his post, leaving the company he helped transition and integrate during the largest-ever merger in the history of the commercial printing industry. Reisch's departure, which had been rumored for several weeks, was made official in a brief company press release issued September 17. The release cited Reisch's desire to pursue other opportunities as the reason for leaving. His position will not be filled, according to Tony Ross, communications director for the world's largest printer. However, the company did announce that John Paloian and David Boles, respective heads