Sale to Pacific West Commercial Corp. now just needs a few signatures:
The sale agreement between Pacific West Commercial Corp. and NewPage Port Hawkesbury was approved by the court today.
Pacific West Commercial Corp. also received approval of its amended power rate applications by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board today.
The only thing remaining to wrap up the sale is the signatures.
The purchase is expected to be completed tomorrow and most of the employees required to run the super calendared paper machine will be back on the job on Sunday.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Congressman Asks US Gov. to Review Port Hawk Deal
http://michaud.house.gov/press-release/michaud-pushes-us-response-canadian-paper-mill-subsidies Today, Congressman Mike Michaud, a former
papermaker, urged the U.S. government to examine the details of the financial
package offered by the provincial government of Nova Scotia to a paper mill in
Port Hawkesbury. Michaud sent a letter to United States Trade Representative
Ron Kirk asking him to obtain complete information about the province’s rescue
package and to determine whether it is consistent with Canada’s NAFTA and WTO
commitments. If violations are found, Michaud urges expeditious action.
FutureMark & Manistique Become FutureMark Paper Group
FutureMark® Paper Group launched today as the umbrella group for two recycled
paper producers previously operating as Manistique Papers and FutureMark Paper
Company. Guided by an unwavering commitment to sustainability, FutureMark Paper
Group is now the leading North American provider of responsibly made
high-recycled paper for books, magazines, catalogs, retail inserts, business
papers, commercial printing applications and packaging.
Catalyst Closes Snowflake Mill
The company announced the closure in July amid bankruptcy proceedings for Richmond, British Columbia-based Catalyst, which has three larger paper mills in Canada.
Chinese Pulp Business Not Sustainable
More Change: Time Names Group President
http://www.adweek.com/news/press/time-incs-lang-announces-shakeup-144027
Time Inc.’s Laura Lang today bumped up Paul Caine to the role of group president, signaling an emphasis on global growth at a company facing a tough business climate.
Time Inc.’s Laura Lang today bumped up Paul Caine to the role of group president, signaling an emphasis on global growth at a company facing a tough business climate.
TV Guide Launches Special Interest Titles
National Geographic: 4.5 Million App Users
National Geographic App Downloads Pass 4.5 Million:
Natural science, exploration and adventure publication National Geographic is seeing traction in the digital space, at least according to its new Consolidated Media Report (CMR) from the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC).
The National Geographic English-language magazine app has reached 4.5 million downloads as of August 31, 2012, while the English-language version of the National Geographic Traveler magazine app has been downloaded by more than 740,000 since the same period.
Natural science, exploration and adventure publication National Geographic is seeing traction in the digital space, at least according to its new Consolidated Media Report (CMR) from the Audit Bureau of Circulations (ABC).
The National Geographic English-language magazine app has reached 4.5 million downloads as of August 31, 2012, while the English-language version of the National Geographic Traveler magazine app has been downloaded by more than 740,000 since the same period.
Investcorp To Sell SourceMedia
Investcorp To Sell SourceMedia: Investcorp has put New York-based publisher SourceMedia up for sale, according to multiple sources.
SourceMedia, which provides news, analysis and research in the b-to-b space through publications including American Banker and The Bond Buyer, has an EBITDA of around $12 million.
SourceMedia, which provides news, analysis and research in the b-to-b space through publications including American Banker and The Bond Buyer, has an EBITDA of around $12 million.
Magazine Revenues Helped by Digital
Newspaper Ads Down in 2012
According to the research firm’s most recent report, total ad revenues for newspapers will decline from $22.5 billion in 2012 to $21.5 billion in 2013, $21 billion in 2014, $20.63 billion in 2015, and $20.4 billion in 2016, for a 9.5% drop over the next four years.
Global, NA Ad Spending Up
http://www.mediapost.com/publications/article/184043/global-ad-spend-up-24-biggest-growth-mideast-a.html
Global advertising spend picked up still sluggish single-digit growth in the second quarter, with Europe remaining the only region going lower.
Worldwide advertising spending was up 2.4% to $139 billion in the second quarter 2012, according to Nielsen's Global AdView Pulse.
Global advertising spend picked up still sluggish single-digit growth in the second quarter, with Europe remaining the only region going lower.
Worldwide advertising spending was up 2.4% to $139 billion in the second quarter 2012, according to Nielsen's Global AdView Pulse.
Consumers Still Rely on Coupons
Parents Seeking Offers, Coupons Turn to Print and Digital: A Harris poll finds parents are more likely than consumers without children to have stepped up money saving activities, with traditional channels showing a slight lead as the place to go for offers. The poll, conducted by Harris Interactive on behalf of location-based marketer Placecast, finds parents relying on print and online to save money. Clipping coupons from newspaper inserts (31%) and relying on coupons arriving at the home (31%) are top sources for parents.
Congress Holds Hearings on On-Line Tax
Online tax debate grows as retailers and states weigh in on the clash: On July 24 the House Judiciary Committee convened for a hearing on the Marketplace Equity Act, one of three bills empowering states to compel online merchants to collect sales tax. The bills were designed to close what supporters claim is a loophole from the 1992 Supreme Court decision Quill Corp. v. North Dakota, wherein only merchants with physical presence in a state must collect sales tax.
Quad Expands Agreement with USA Weekend
Quad Expands and Extends Its Agreement to Print and Distribute Usa Weekend:
Quad/Graphics Inc. has expanded and extended its agreement with Gannett Co. to print copies of USA WEEKEND, a Sunday magazine inserted into 700+ newspapers weekly. The new, longer-term agreement will include additional incremental print volume beginning in 2016, as well as additional freight, logistics and distribution services volume.
Quad/Graphics Inc. has expanded and extended its agreement with Gannett Co. to print copies of USA WEEKEND, a Sunday magazine inserted into 700+ newspapers weekly. The new, longer-term agreement will include additional incremental print volume beginning in 2016, as well as additional freight, logistics and distribution services volume.
USPS Defaults on Prefunded Payment
USPS Default on Mandated $5.6 Billion Prefunded Payment: For the second time in two months, the U.S. Postal Service will not make a mandated payment to prefund retiree health benefits. Absent legislative action, the Postal Service is unable to make a scheduled $5.6 billion payment to the U.S. Treasury on Sept. 30. As was the case with the default of a similar $5.5 billion payment due August 1, customers can be confident in the continued regular operations of the Postal Service. We will continue to deliver the mail and pay our employees and suppliers
RIT Takes Over the Print-in-the-Mix
RIT Taking Over the Print-in-the-Mix Website as The Print Council Ceases Operations: The Print Council, established in 2002 to promote the broader use of print in the marketing and media mix, is transfering sponsorship of the Print-in-the Mix website to Rochester Institute of Technology. Print-in-the-Mix was created in 2007 with a grant from The Print Council and is a clearinghouse of research on the effectiveness of advertising media including print, mobile and other direct forms of marketing communication.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
EURO-GRAPH Reports August Coated, SC Ships
EURO-GRAPH has reported that August European coated mechanical shipments declined -7.6% as compared to the same month last year. Demand fell -9% and exports were down -2.8%.
Coated woodfree shipments decreased -2.9%, demand fell -5.2% and exports declined -5.5%.
Supercalendered paper shipments were down -1.6%, demand decreased -2.1% and exports fell -2.1%.
NewPage Port Hawk. Requests 8th Extension
Updated: NewPage Port Hawkesbury asks for 8th extension:
NewPage Port Hawkesbury is appearing in Nova Scotia’s Supreme Court today to ask for an 8th extension to their original creditor protection period.
The company is requesting an extension to October 5, 2012 to allow time for the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board to approve the latest power agreement, allowing Pacific West Commercial Corp. to complete its purchase of mill, or allowing the Monitor (Ernst & Young) to determine the next steps should the sale deal not proceed.
NewPage Port Hawkesbury is appearing in Nova Scotia’s Supreme Court today to ask for an 8th extension to their original creditor protection period.
The company is requesting an extension to October 5, 2012 to allow time for the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board to approve the latest power agreement, allowing Pacific West Commercial Corp. to complete its purchase of mill, or allowing the Monitor (Ernst & Young) to determine the next steps should the sale deal not proceed.
Two More Firms Boost Pulp Pricing
West
Fraser informed customers in North America that its northern bleached softwood
kraft (NSBK) pulp price will increase by $20/tonne, effective October until
further notice.
Mercer International told North American and Chinese customers that it will increase northern bleached softwood kraft (NBSK) pulp prices by $20/tonne, effective October 1, industry contacts said.
Mercer International told North American and Chinese customers that it will increase northern bleached softwood kraft (NBSK) pulp prices by $20/tonne, effective October 1, industry contacts said.
Maine Mill Executives: Industry Viable
http://bangordailynews.com/2012/09/26/business/mill-executives-say-maine-paper-industry-viable-but-there-are-challenges/
Executives from three of Maine’s paper mills told 50 businesspeople that reports of the demise of Maine’s pulp and paper industry have been greatly exaggerated.
Executives from three of Maine’s paper mills told 50 businesspeople that reports of the demise of Maine’s pulp and paper industry have been greatly exaggerated.
Van Scotter; Bill Cohen, director of communications for Verso Paper Corp. in Bucksport; and George McLaughlin, manager of manufacturing for Great Northern Paper in East Millinocket, were the main speakers at Wednesday morning’s Bangor Region Chamber of Commerce Early Bird Breakfast.
Strike at UPM Stracel Ends
Employees
returned to work at UPM's Stracel mill in northeastern France this morning.
After a meeting with the management yesterday, employees voted to end the
industrial action which started on the morning of September 19.
Sappi Converting Alfeld PM 2 from CFS to Specialties
Sappi Alfeld Mill to refocus production to one-sided coated paper
Sappi
Fine Paper Europe has started the process of converting the coated woodfree
(CWF) paper machine PM 2 at its Alfeld mill in central Germany to make
specialty paper. The project will be completed in one year.
PM
2 has a capacity of 150,000 tonnes/yr of single and double coated paper mainly
for sheets in the basis weights of 80-225 g/m². The machine will be rebuilt to
make some 135,000 tonnes/yr of one-side coated grades for packaging and
technical purposes as well as liner and label applications in the basis weights
of 40-180-g/m².
Domtar & First Book Team Up for Literacy
Domtar Partners with First Book for Children's Literacy: Domtar Corporation today announced that it is teaming up with the Washington, D.C.-based non-profit organization First Book to put over 20,000 new books in the hands of children in need. Domtar will be providing a total of $25,000 in grants among ten schools and community programs located near Domtar facilities across the United States.
Quad/Graphics Starts New Press in Oklahoma City
Quad/Graphics rolls out new press, creates jobs in Oklahoma City:
With the press of a button Tuesday, Gov. Mary Fallin fired up the newest printing press at Quad/Graphics' Oklahoma City plant and essentially created 120 jobs.
Attending a ceremony at the 1 million-square-foot printing facility at 6801 S Sunnylane Road, Fallin congratulated the company on the addition of its 12th press. The new press has created more than two dozen new jobs already, and Quad/Graphics has nearly 120 full- and part-time openings to fill.
With the press of a button Tuesday, Gov. Mary Fallin fired up the newest printing press at Quad/Graphics' Oklahoma City plant and essentially created 120 jobs.
"M" Magazine's Debuts New Design
A Look at the Design and Influences on Fairchild’s New M Cover:
The first issue of M magazine, luxury men’s magazine last seen in 1992 and being revived by Fairchild Fashion Media, came out on Monday with a very distinctive and unusual cover. It’s not the cover subject, Bradley Cooper (People magazine’s Sexiest Man in the World of 2011), but the design, format, and photographic style that makes M very different from the usual newsstand fare.
The first issue of M magazine, luxury men’s magazine last seen in 1992 and being revived by Fairchild Fashion Media, came out on Monday with a very distinctive and unusual cover. It’s not the cover subject, Bradley Cooper (People magazine’s Sexiest Man in the World of 2011), but the design, format, and photographic style that makes M very different from the usual newsstand fare.
VSS: Overall Communications Spending to Grow 5.2%
VSS predicts b-to-b media will grow 4.9% this year: New York—The b-to-b media sector will grow 4.9% to $26.60 billion this year, according to the “VSS Communications Industry Forecast” released by Veronis Suhler Stevenson.
Overall communications industry spending in the U.S. is expected to rise 5.2% this year to $1.18 trillion. It will grow at a 5.2% CAGR from 2011 to 2016.
VSS said the Business & Professional Information & Services sector will grow 7.2% to $204.40 billion this year. The sector will post a 7% CAGR from 2011 to 2016, fueled by growth in business and professional services related to economic, financial, marketing, and scientific and technical Information, as well as technology services, VSS said.
Overall communications industry spending in the U.S. is expected to rise 5.2% this year to $1.18 trillion. It will grow at a 5.2% CAGR from 2011 to 2016.
VSS said the Business & Professional Information & Services sector will grow 7.2% to $204.40 billion this year. The sector will post a 7% CAGR from 2011 to 2016, fueled by growth in business and professional services related to economic, financial, marketing, and scientific and technical Information, as well as technology services, VSS said.
"T" Magazine Names Editor-in-Chief
http://www.adweek.com/news/press/t-magazine-names-deborah-needleman-editor-chief-144010
Looks like the rumors were true: The New York Times Co. has announced that the new editor in chief of T magazine will be Deborah Needleman—currently the editor of T’s four-year-old rival publication, WSJ. Amid reports [1] earlier this month that Needleman had twice been offered the top position at T, which has been vacant since Sally Singer’s departure [2] in August, Needleman vehemently denied that she had accepted the job, telling WWD, “That is just not true!” But in T's case, the third time may have really been the charm.
Looks like the rumors were true: The New York Times Co. has announced that the new editor in chief of T magazine will be Deborah Needleman—currently the editor of T’s four-year-old rival publication, WSJ. Amid reports [1] earlier this month that Needleman had twice been offered the top position at T, which has been vacant since Sally Singer’s departure [2] in August, Needleman vehemently denied that she had accepted the job, telling WWD, “That is just not true!” But in T's case, the third time may have really been the charm.
UBM to Sell Data Services
http://www.foliomag.com/2012/ubm-exploring-sale-data-business-not-magazines
Despite reports earlier today indicating that UBM has put some of its print magazines up for sale the company is saying that it's the data services business that's actually up for review. Included in that group are the Techinsights, Aviation, Global Trade and other related data services operations.
The strategic review of UBM's data services business was announced back in July during the company's 2012 interim results presentation.
According to a spokesperson, there are one or two print titles associated with these groups, but the bulk of any print products included in the review are directories. "This is purely about the data services business, it does not touch the magazine business," says the spokesperson.
Earlier report:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/mediatechnologyandtelecoms/media/9563659/UBM-puts-data-services-up-for-sale-for-250m.html
The company appointed Credit Suisse to carry out a strategic review of the so-called data services division in July. However, UBM chief executive David Levin is understood to have made it clear internally that he favours a sell-off. “It is effectively up for sale,” a senior source said.
The expected sale would fit with UBM’s ongoing strategy to scale back its magazines business and instead focus investment on major tradeshows and conferences, particularly in emerging territories like China.
Despite reports earlier today indicating that UBM has put some of its print magazines up for sale the company is saying that it's the data services business that's actually up for review. Included in that group are the Techinsights, Aviation, Global Trade and other related data services operations.
The strategic review of UBM's data services business was announced back in July during the company's 2012 interim results presentation.
According to a spokesperson, there are one or two print titles associated with these groups, but the bulk of any print products included in the review are directories. "This is purely about the data services business, it does not touch the magazine business," says the spokesperson.
Earlier report:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/mediatechnologyandtelecoms/media/9563659/UBM-puts-data-services-up-for-sale-for-250m.html
The company appointed Credit Suisse to carry out a strategic review of the so-called data services division in July. However, UBM chief executive David Levin is understood to have made it clear internally that he favours a sell-off. “It is effectively up for sale,” a senior source said.
The expected sale would fit with UBM’s ongoing strategy to scale back its magazines business and instead focus investment on major tradeshows and conferences, particularly in emerging territories like China.
US News & World Report Releases E-Book
Featuring chapters on the latest scientific advances, the best exercises for every age, longevity diets, happiness secrets, and how to save enough money, How to Live to 100 gives readers a personalized guide to their own longevity.
Ennis Reports Q3 Results
Ennis Net Sales Increase 2.7% in Q3: Ennis, Inc., today reported financial results for the three and six months ended August 31, 2012.Financial OverviewOur consolidated net sales were $138.3 million for the second quarter ended August 31, 2012 compared to $130.4 million for the second quarter ended August 31, 2011, or an increase of 6.1%. Print sales increased 24.3% for the quarter, from $69.2 million to $86.0 million.
Fortune Relaunches iPad App
Fortune Relaunches iPad App With Free, Paid Content Mix: In an effort to gain subscribers, Fortune has relaunched its iPad app with a mix of free and paid content.
Fortune.com managing editor Megan Barnett says the previous version of the app-which offered single-copy or subscription options for the magazine but no free content or access to the website-was frequently downloaded, but left many users wanting. The immediate goal is to bring those people back.
Fortune.com managing editor Megan Barnett says the previous version of the app-which offered single-copy or subscription options for the magazine but no free content or access to the website-was frequently downloaded, but left many users wanting. The immediate goal is to bring those people back.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Port Hawkesbury Gears Up For Restart
Port Hawkesbury Paper gears up for restart:
Opinions are mixed in Nova Scotia after the roller coaster weekend experienced in Port Hawkesbury when the mill deal fell through and then was back on again a day later.There are a lot of concerns that the province of Nova Scotia is giving too much money to the mill, and many people are convinced that history will soon repeat itself and the mill will be back looking for more money.
Opinions are mixed in Nova Scotia after the roller coaster weekend experienced in Port Hawkesbury when the mill deal fell through and then was back on again a day later.There are a lot of concerns that the province of Nova Scotia is giving too much money to the mill, and many people are convinced that history will soon repeat itself and the mill will be back looking for more money.
Tembec Follows With NBSK Increase
Following Domtar's announcement yesterday, Tembec Inc. has announced a US$20/ton NBSK pulp list price increase for North America, to $850/ton, effective Oct 1st.
Quad Adds New Press In Oklahoma City
Quad/Graphics rolls out new press, creates jobs in Oklahoma City:
With the press of a button Tuesday, Gov. Mary Fallin fired up the newest printing press at Quad/Graphics' Oklahoma City plant and essentially created 120 jobs.Quad/Graphics, based in Wisconsin, also marked the 10th anniversary of the groundbreaking on its Oklahoma City plant, which occurred Oct. 14, 2002. “It was a big deal,” Fallin recalled.It opened in 2003 with 100 employees and two presses and has since more than quadrupled in size. Quad/Graphics now employs more than 600 workers in Oklahoma and has “a vast need for additional employees,” company spokeswoman Claire Ho said.
With the press of a button Tuesday, Gov. Mary Fallin fired up the newest printing press at Quad/Graphics' Oklahoma City plant and essentially created 120 jobs.Quad/Graphics, based in Wisconsin, also marked the 10th anniversary of the groundbreaking on its Oklahoma City plant, which occurred Oct. 14, 2002. “It was a big deal,” Fallin recalled.It opened in 2003 with 100 employees and two presses and has since more than quadrupled in size. Quad/Graphics now employs more than 600 workers in Oklahoma and has “a vast need for additional employees,” company spokeswoman Claire Ho said.
Mags To See Positive Ad Growth in 2012
http://www.emarketer.com/newsroom/index.php/emarketer-magazines-positive-ad-spending-growth-2012/ Although both newspaper and magazine publishers are
encouraged by positive trends in device adoption and consumer behavior, the
continued growth of digital ad revenues has not yet made up for declines in
print ad revenue for newspapers. But it has for magazines. According to new estimates from eMarketer, US ad revenue
growth at magazines is expected to increase from 1.9% in 2011 to 2.6% this
year, as revenue reaches $18.33 billion. Print ad revenues at magazines will increase marginally to
$15.19 billion in 2012 from $15.15 billion in 2011, according to eMarketer. In
the same period, digital ad revenues are expected to grow to $3.14 billion from
$2.72 billion.
AF&PA Aug '12 P/W Shipments Down 5%
AF&PA Release Aug 2012 Printing-Writing Paper Report: The American Forest & Paper Association has released its August 2012 Printing-Writing Paper Report. According to the report, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 5 percent in August compared to August 2011. All four major printing-writing grades posted single-digit decreases compared to last August. U.S. purchases of printing-writing papers also decreased, down 6 percent in August. Total printing-writing paper inventory levels decreased 5 percent from last month, primarily due to double-digit decreases in mechanical-grade paper inventories.
PIA Report: Printing Industry Profits Increase
PIA Report: Printing Industry Profits Increase Again: The printing industry sees its second increase in profits in the last three years.
The average printer’s before-tax profit on sales was 1.8% over this past year. This was an increase compared to 1.4% in the 2011 survey (2010 fiscal year-end numbers) and -1.4% in 2009. This is the second increase in profits in the last three years. Printing Industries of America (PIA) notes that at this rate, the industry earned approximately $1.5 billion in total profits in 2011, which is above the $1.2 billion profit from the prior year.ndustry sees its second increase in profits in the last three years.
The average printer’s before-tax profit on sales was 1.8% over this past year. This was an increase compared to 1.4% in the 2011 survey (2010 fiscal year-end numbers) and -1.4% in 2009. This is the second increase in profits in the last three years. Printing Industries of America (PIA) notes that at this rate, the industry earned approximately $1.5 billion in total profits in 2011, which is above the $1.2 billion profit from the prior year.ndustry sees its second increase in profits in the last three years.
Sandra Lee Launching New Lifestyle Mag
Sandra Lee, is making a comeback on the mag scene with Sandra Lee, the Magazine. Lee, who will be editor-in-chief, told Media Ink that the new publication will be a lot broader than her previous venture, a simple cooking magazine that last appeared in January.
The print version will be available on newsstands only. No subscriptions will be sold. Avoiding subs means circulation will be lower, but it also avoids the costly direct-mail efforts needed to sustain a rate base.
NYM Tries Hand-Delivery In Manhattan
http://adage.com/article/media/york-hand-delivery-counter-postal-cutbacks/237430/
New York Magazine is trying to remedy rising postal costs and slower postal deliveries by distributing many subscriber copies by hand -- at least for Manhattan subscribers with doormen. After a test than began in May, sparked by concerns that post-office cutbacks would only continue to worsen, New York is now rolling out hand delivery to doorman buildings and commercial addresses in Manhattan. "Hand delivery means you'll get New York on Monday mornings -- earlier than is possible by U.S. Mail," New York explained in a letter to some subscribers.
The cost is competitive with the post office or cheaper, a New York spokeswoman said in an email. "It also gives us experience in this arena, in preparation for future USPS changes that may be more onerous."
New York Magazine is trying to remedy rising postal costs and slower postal deliveries by distributing many subscriber copies by hand -- at least for Manhattan subscribers with doormen. After a test than began in May, sparked by concerns that post-office cutbacks would only continue to worsen, New York is now rolling out hand delivery to doorman buildings and commercial addresses in Manhattan. "Hand delivery means you'll get New York on Monday mornings -- earlier than is possible by U.S. Mail," New York explained in a letter to some subscribers.
The cost is competitive with the post office or cheaper, a New York spokeswoman said in an email. "It also gives us experience in this arena, in preparation for future USPS changes that may be more onerous."
Penske Media Leading Bidder For 'Variety'
Report: Penske Media leading bidder for 'Variety': Penske Media Corp., owner of Deadline and six other online properties, has emerged as the leading bidder for Variety, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times. Penske has partnered with private equity company Shamrock Capital Advisors to acquire the 107-year-old trade publication, the report said. It added that a deal to purchase Variety for around $30 million could close within the next three weeks.Variety's parent company, Reed Elsevier put the publication up for sale in March.
M. Scott Havens Named President of The Atlantic
M. Scott Havens Tapped as President of The Atlantic:
The Atlantic has named M. Scott Havens as president effective today. The move puts a dedicated executive into the top spot for the brand and allows Justin Smith, who has held the dual role of president of Atlantic Media Company and The Atlantic, to shift solely to corporate oversight. The move also signals a continued emphasis on digital strategies for The Atlantic. Havens joined the brand in 2009 as its vice president of digital strategy and operations and then was promoted to senior vice president of finance and digital operations for the entire company.
The Atlantic has named M. Scott Havens as president effective today. The move puts a dedicated executive into the top spot for the brand and allows Justin Smith, who has held the dual role of president of Atlantic Media Company and The Atlantic, to shift solely to corporate oversight. The move also signals a continued emphasis on digital strategies for The Atlantic. Havens joined the brand in 2009 as its vice president of digital strategy and operations and then was promoted to senior vice president of finance and digital operations for the entire company.
Atlantic Media's Digital-only Quartz
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/24/business/media/with-digital-only-quartz-atlantic-to-cover-business-world.html?_r=1
“I love the romance of print,” said David G. Bradley, owner of Atlantic Media, but it has cost him. Business titans are generally not prone to self-appraisal, and when they do take stock, it usually begins and ends with a list of their conquests. David G. Bradley, the owner of Atlantic Media, has never been like that. He built and then sold the Advisory Board and the Corporate Executive Board, two research advisory firms, but he never trumpeted that or his fancy education — he was a Fulbright scholar with a law degree from Georgetown and an M.B.A. from Harvard — as a significant credential. At lunch a few weeks ago, we talked about Quartz, Atlantic’s new, strictly digital play in global media, a site for business news that is making its debut on Monday at qz.com. He was clearly excited about the new enterprise, but Mr. Bradley spoke candidly about his costly education in the economics of publishing.
“I love the romance of print,” said David G. Bradley, owner of Atlantic Media, but it has cost him. Business titans are generally not prone to self-appraisal, and when they do take stock, it usually begins and ends with a list of their conquests. David G. Bradley, the owner of Atlantic Media, has never been like that. He built and then sold the Advisory Board and the Corporate Executive Board, two research advisory firms, but he never trumpeted that or his fancy education — he was a Fulbright scholar with a law degree from Georgetown and an M.B.A. from Harvard — as a significant credential. At lunch a few weeks ago, we talked about Quartz, Atlantic’s new, strictly digital play in global media, a site for business news that is making its debut on Monday at qz.com. He was clearly excited about the new enterprise, but Mr. Bradley spoke candidly about his costly education in the economics of publishing.
NAPL- Conditions for Industry Mergers 'Favorable'
NAPL Economist Suggest Conditions for Industry Mergers 'Favorable': Executives and owners from a wide variety of printing and graphic communications companies gathered here for the inaugural NAPL/MFSA Mergers & Acquisitions Conference heard from top industry professionals and from their graphic communications industry peers about the most pressing issues facing the industry and what they can do now to get out in front of, and benefit from these trends.
The Print Council Transfer Print-in-the-Mix to RIT
The Print Council to Cease Operations, Transfer Print-in-the-Mix to RIT: The Print Council transferred its sponsorship of the industry resource to RIT. The Print Council, established in 2002 to promote the broader use of print in the marketing and media mix, is announcing the transfer of its sponsorship of the Print-in-the Mix website to Rochester Institute of Technology.
Print Thrives Among The Affluent
http://www.audiencedevelopment.com/2012/study+print+thrives+among+affluent
Both old and new media executives may be talking more openly about the inevitability of print’s decline, but for one demo dead trees and ink remain vital. The well-off. According to the 2012 iteration of the Ipsos MediaCT Mendelsohn Affluent Survey, in households making $100,000 and up, 82 percent of the “Affluents” read at least one of the 150 print titles the study tracks. (143 magazines and 7 national newspapers). This well-heeled and well-read segment of 59 million Americans is reading 18.7 issues across 8.2 titles. Despite the digital onslaught, this group showed only a tiny decline in their devotion to print since last year (-1.3 percent). The Ultra-Affluents ($250,000 a year and up) read 25 percent more than the Affluents, generally 23.5 issues over 10 titles.
Both old and new media executives may be talking more openly about the inevitability of print’s decline, but for one demo dead trees and ink remain vital. The well-off. According to the 2012 iteration of the Ipsos MediaCT Mendelsohn Affluent Survey, in households making $100,000 and up, 82 percent of the “Affluents” read at least one of the 150 print titles the study tracks. (143 magazines and 7 national newspapers). This well-heeled and well-read segment of 59 million Americans is reading 18.7 issues across 8.2 titles. Despite the digital onslaught, this group showed only a tiny decline in their devotion to print since last year (-1.3 percent). The Ultra-Affluents ($250,000 a year and up) read 25 percent more than the Affluents, generally 23.5 issues over 10 titles.
Is Newsstand Slide Related To Pricing?
http://www.audiencedevelopment.com/2012/how+much+newsstand+slide+related+pricing
Have you seen that Lucky subscription offer? It seems to be expired now, but it’s been all over the place online. You could buy a two-year subscription of this roughly $3.00-per-copy monthly magazine for the low, low price of $5.99. As in just under $6.00. As in a quarter per copy. Lucky, of course, isn’t the only publication doing this kind of thing. An online search can yield pages of results of magazines that are deeply discounted when compared to their newsstand prices. A number of years ago, audited publications couldn’t do this kind of thing. The ABC had guidelines preventing publishers from cutting subscription prices to only a fraction of the retail price.
Have you seen that Lucky subscription offer? It seems to be expired now, but it’s been all over the place online. You could buy a two-year subscription of this roughly $3.00-per-copy monthly magazine for the low, low price of $5.99. As in just under $6.00. As in a quarter per copy. Lucky, of course, isn’t the only publication doing this kind of thing. An online search can yield pages of results of magazines that are deeply discounted when compared to their newsstand prices. A number of years ago, audited publications couldn’t do this kind of thing. The ABC had guidelines preventing publishers from cutting subscription prices to only a fraction of the retail price.
USPS Moves Closer to Insolvency
Postal Service to Move Closer to Insolvency: At the end of this month, the U.S. Postal Service takes another step toward insolvency. On Sunday, the service is required by law to pay the federal government $5.6 billion to fund health care benefits for retirees. But it won’t do it, because it doesn’t have the money. It will be the second time that the service has defaulted on a payment, the first occurring on Aug. 1.
“This default will have no effect on the processing or delivery of mail, and employees and suppliers will continue to be paid,” said David Partenheimer, a spokesman for the Postal Service. But if Congress does nothing, come next spring, the Postal Service will truly start running out of cash. That means the agency may not have enough to pay mail carriers and subcontractors, which could mean drastic cuts to the mail delivery system -- postal service Armageddon.
“This default will have no effect on the processing or delivery of mail, and employees and suppliers will continue to be paid,” said David Partenheimer, a spokesman for the Postal Service. But if Congress does nothing, come next spring, the Postal Service will truly start running out of cash. That means the agency may not have enough to pay mail carriers and subcontractors, which could mean drastic cuts to the mail delivery system -- postal service Armageddon.
USPS Holiday Mobile Shopping Promotion
USPS Opens Registration for Holiday Mobile Shopping Promotion: Mobile barcodes and direct mail will drive retail sales this holiday season, so marketers looking to boost revenue while saving money should consider the 2012 Holiday Mobile Shopping Promotion.
The Promotion is designed to drive online product purchases by putting mobile-optimized promotional offers, coupons and catalogs into consumers’ hands in time for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The promotion will offer online merchants a 2-percent postage discount on Standard Mail and First-Class Mail letters, flats and cards that include a mobile barcode or print/mobile technology
The Promotion is designed to drive online product purchases by putting mobile-optimized promotional offers, coupons and catalogs into consumers’ hands in time for Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The promotion will offer online merchants a 2-percent postage discount on Standard Mail and First-Class Mail letters, flats and cards that include a mobile barcode or print/mobile technology
P&P Mills Future Water Usage Goals
Many pulp and paper mills will change future water usage goals
Since water has become an increasingly important strategic issue in the pulp and paper industry, potentially affecting the ability of a large number of the world’s mills to operate at capacity, Fisher International conducted a study of the topic and has published its findings in a study titled, The 2012 Global PPI Water Benchmark Report. The report is intended to help environmental managers understand how water issues are affecting pulp and paper mills around the world as they benchmark their own positions and evaluate their policies.
The study finds that many mills expect that their access to water will be threatened in the next five years.
Since water has become an increasingly important strategic issue in the pulp and paper industry, potentially affecting the ability of a large number of the world’s mills to operate at capacity, Fisher International conducted a study of the topic and has published its findings in a study titled, The 2012 Global PPI Water Benchmark Report. The report is intended to help environmental managers understand how water issues are affecting pulp and paper mills around the world as they benchmark their own positions and evaluate their policies.
The study finds that many mills expect that their access to water will be threatened in the next five years.
Heidelberg Opens Plant in Detroit
Heidelberg Opens Manufacturing Plant in Detroit: Five years after introducing Saphira Aqueous Coatings to the market, Heidelberg recently began manufacturing the coatings locally at its new Hi-Tech Coatings plant, located in the Detroit suburb of Taylor, MI. A ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the opening was held Aug. 30. The plant has been in production for several months. Hi-Tech Coatings International, Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Heidelberg Druckmaschinen.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Domtar Announces October Pulp Increase
Domtar
informed North American customers today its northern bleached softwood kraft
(NBSK) market pulp price will increase $20/tonne, effective October 1 until
further notice, as reported by RISI.
The
Montreal-headquartered firm's price increase is the first known pricing move in
North America for October business.
As
for other Oct. 1 pricing plans, the only previous moves from NBSK producers
came in Europe, where Sodra, Mercer International, Metsa Fibre, and Stora Enso announced $790/tonne,
Oct. 1 list prices. None stated the amount of their European increases.
AF&PA P&W, Recovered, Kraft Paper Reports
P&W Papers
According
to the AF&PA report, total printing-writing paper shipments decreased 5 percent in
August compared to August 2011. All four major printing-writing grades
posted single-digit decreases compared to last August. U.S. purchases of
printing-writing papers also decreased, down 6 percent in August. Total
printing-writing paper inventory levels decreased 5 percent from last month,
primarily due to double-digit decreases in mechanical-grade paper
inventories. Additional key findings include:
Shipments of coated free sheet papers decreased
year-over-year, but August shipments reached the highest level since
October 2011. Shipments of uncoated free sheet papers down
year-over-year, the sixth consecutive single-digit year-over-year
decrease .Uncoated mechanical paper inventories dropped sharply. Inventory of coated mechanical papers also dropped and
hit the lowest point since December 2007.
Recovered Fiber
According
to the AF&PA report, total U.S. industry consumption of recovered paper in August was
2.56 million tons, 6 percent higher than July 2012. Year-to-date total
consumption in 2012 is 4 percent lower than during the same period last year.
U.S.
exports of recovered paper, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau, increased 5
percent in July compared to June, led by a 14 percent increase in Mixed Papers
exports. Year-to-date exports of recovered paper in 2012 are 6 percent lower
than during the same period in 2011.
Kraft Paper
Total
Kraft paper shipments were 133,000 tons, a decrease of 3.6 percent compared to
the prior month. Total inventory was 77,800 tons this month. Both unbleached
and bleached Kraft shipments decreased year over year.
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