IBS Direct Enters Into Deal for Mars

KING OF PRUSSIA, PA—IBS Direct, based here, has completed a deal to acquire Mars Graphic Services of Westville, NJ. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

IBS Direct (#289, with $14.7 million in sales, on the 2010 Printing Impressions 400 ranking) offers printing solutions, direct marketing program management and new marketing technologies to implement and measure its customers’ campaigns. Mars is a full-service printer with in-line finishing capabilities, as well as heatset and non-heatset web printing expertise.

“With Mars Graphic Services, we found a business just as committed to the printing industry as we are,” said George Schnyder, owner and CEO of IBS Direct. “The breadth of quality services that we may now offer our customers will greatly contribute to our continued growth, as well as that of our current and future customers. Our intention is to remain the comprehensive resource for any print or direct marketing campaigns.”

“I’ve always had a great deal of respect for George, as a leader within the industry and a gentleman who appreciates the ever-evolving business climate for direct marketing professionals,” said Mark Smith, owner of Mars. “We sought out a company with a unique knowledge of the region, as well as a deep passion for our industry. We are pleased that this partnership has come to fruition.”

With this strategic alliance, Smith will continue to play an integral role in leading sales efforts on behalf of IBS Direct for these newly acquired and specialized skills. Also, he remains owner of Direct Impressions, a Richmond, VA, web printer.

Ted Sherwin, who was named president of IBS Direct in May 2011, will remain in his current position. Additionally, Smith, who has been president of Direct Impressions for the past 25 years, will serve as vice president of the newly-created, heatset printing division of IBS Direct and, given his long-standing relationships with key clientele, will continue to manage those accounts.