STATE OF THE INDUSTRY - Far from Dead

Equipment and software suppliers are promising new productivity breakthroughs that will lead to even greater speed, productivity and profitability.

The leading printers recognize the importance of electronics in their business. The larger commercial printers are either developing or buying digital capabilities. We track printing industry acquisitions in "The Compass Report." We note that, in 1998 and 1999, 11 acquisitions announced by printing companies were software companies. Three of Bowne's five announced acquisitions in 1998 were software companies.