Flint Group Announces Price Increases on Commercial and Packaging Inks

ANN ARBOR, MI—December 14, 2006—Flint Group’s North American Packaging and Sheetfed divisions announced they will increase prices on all packaging and commercial inks. Customers will be notified directly by Flint Group’s sales organization to discuss the impact for the particular products they purchase. Flint Group will honor their contractual obligations in implementing the increases. Price increases are effective February 1, 2007.

Doug Labertew and Susan Kuchta, vice presidents and general managers of the Sheetfed and Packaging Divisions, respectively, noted that rising costs of raw materials and energy continue to put enormous pressure on the costs of these inks. Susan Kuchta explained further: “Unfortunately, these increases can no longer be mitigated entirely by aggressive supply chain and process improvement initiatives.”

“In order to remain a viable and strong supplier to the industry, we must take responsible action in managing our business,” said Doug Labertew. “We recognize the impact this will have on our customers and appreciate their loyalty and support as we manage through this difficult process.”

Flint Group
Flint Group is dedicated to serving the global printing, converting, and colorants industries. Flint Group companies develop, produce and market a wide range of conventional and UV printing inks on a global basis, with regional operations that provide local service throughout Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and India/Pacific. Other companies in the group include Flint Group Printing Plates, specializing in photopolymer printing plates, and XSYS Print Solutions, specializing in narrow web inks. Flint Group Pigments produces a range of pigment products and additives for use in inks and other colorant applications. Headquartered in Luxembourg, Flint Group operates more than 140 facilities worldwide, and employs nearly 7,000 people. Revenues in 2005 were $US 2.7 billion (Euro 2.23 billion), positioning the company as the number one or number two supplier in every major region it serves.