Quad/Graphics Inc. has completed its acquisition of World Color Press Inc. and has successfully launched its initial public offering (IPO).
The closing of the acquisition followed approval by shareholders of both companies as well as final court approval.
“This is a defining moment in our company’s history and for the future of our industry,” said Joel Quadracci, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Sussex-based Quad/Graphics. “We believe in the power of print in a multichannel media world, and we now have more talent, technology and solutions in more places to better serve our clients well into the future. Our new leadership includes the best and the brightest from both companies, building a unique team of innovative people who will redefine print for the benefit of all our stakeholders.”
Quadracci said the “New Quad” offers a broader variety of product types and revenue-generating solutions; an enhanced manufacturing platform that makes available Quad/Graphics’ industry-leading technology and automation to the combined platform; and an expanded geographic footprint and customer service presence.
In addition, the company will realize significant mailing and distribution efficiencies, and offer clients improved speed-to-market and product integrity for USPS-delivered products, as well as volume-driven postage savings through programs such as co-mailing.
Based on proforma unaudited revenues of both companies for the 12 months ending March 31, the newly expanded Quad/Graphics has annual sales of $4.8 billion. It has approximately 28,000 employees working from more than 80 facilities in North America, Latin America and Europe.
Quad/Graphics is now the second-largest provider of print and related multichannel solutions in the Americas.
“Today, the ‘New Quad’ is off to a running start in our quest to redefine print and transform the printing industry,” Mr. Quadracci said. “We have a comprehensive plan designed to smoothly integrate the two companies’ operations while ensuring that our customers continue to receive top-quality, on-time services. We are keenly focused on achieving the synergies that make this transaction so compelling for our shareholders. However, our plans don’t stop there. We expect to advance all aspects of our business through technology and innovation.”
“Quad/Graphics has had five months to plan this integration and is better prepared than any team with which I’ve been associated over the years,” stated Mark Angelson, former chairman and CEO of Worldcolor, who continues on with Quad/Graphics as a member of the board of directors. “Harry Quadracci would be beaming with pride, as I am, at having passed the torch of leadership to such a remarkable group. They bring to this acquisition a seamless will to win, the best technology and the clearest strategic vision that I have seen. With Joel Quadracci at the helm, surrounded by the best of the best from these two great companies, Quad/Graphics should go from strength to strength, and all of our constituent groups will benefit.”
Quad/Graphics’ class A common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the symbol QUAD.
