Printing

3-D printers, all the rage in recent years for their ability to simply and affordably create a multitude of items, may have a dark side: New research suggests some of the materials they use are toxic to fish and perhaps other animals as well. The story began when Shirin Oskui, a graduate student at the…

Smart Source LLC, New York, announced a strategic merger with Benchmark Graphics Ltd., New York, a company with more than 50 years of experience in commercial print services. Under the agreement, Smart Source LLC will now offer its sourcing technology, national network of suppliers, and products and brand management expertise to Benchmark Graphics Ltd.'s network…

Adman Printing, a California-based printer and distributor, erupted in flames early Sunday and suffered extensive damage before the fire was brought under control by firefighters. Most of the building was destroyed, with the Corning Fire Department estimating damage to the business at approximately $140,000. 

A bill seeking to increase bulk mailing postal rates isn't sitting well with commercial and specialty printer Quad/Graphics Inc., especially at a time when the printing industry is at a tipping point, said CEO Joel Quadracci.

In 2013, Sussex-based Quad/Graphics co-mailed about 5 billion magazines, catalogs and letter-size mail pieces.

During the earnings call on Feb. 27, Quadracci told analysts that the 6 percent U.S. Postal Service increase that went into effect on Jan. 26 included a 4.3 percent emergency increase. 

For 2014, The Flesh Company, Parsons, Kan., released an updated logo and launched a new website.

“2013 was a celebration year for us, but now it’s time to move on,” Roger Buck, Flesh's marketing director, said. “Our new website will offer distributors better access to our capabilities and education materials. This includes easy registration for our INSIGHTS newsletter and blog."

Mohawk, Cohoes, N.Y., aims to grow its business and enhance its operation schedule this year. In the midst of hiring up to 100 full-time employees, Mohawk will invest millions of dollars in upgrading equipment and expanding envelope output at its converting center in Ashtabula, Ohio.

Schob & Schob, Inc., Fresno, Calif., a distributor for Safeguard Business Systems, Dallas Texas, acquired NCF Graphic Solutions (NCF), Santa Barbara, Calif., a supplier of custom-printed business forms and promotional items for more than 25 years.

Velocity Print Solutions, Scotia, N.Y., announced its decision to close its Middlebury, Conn. printing plant and expand its Glenville location. The commercial printer will add up to 20 new jobs over the next three years, and invest more than $300,000 to move and install its printing equipment at the currently 80,000 square foot site, located in the Glenville Business and Technology Park. The Connecticut sales office will remain open.

A young book business, little BLUEPRINT, Los Angeles, selected RPI, Seattle, to deliver its customized books made to help children address challenges and achieve milestones.

The Flesh Company recently announced that Randy Lewis has been promoted to vice president of manufacturing. Lewis has been with the company for more than 10 years as plant manager of its Parsons, Kan. production facility. He has 40 years of experience in the printing industry and holds a green belt in Six Sigma.