YEAR IN REVIEW - Is M&A Now DOA?

With stock prices slumping, Consolidated Graphics, of Houston; Laser Master International, of Harrison, NJ; Menasha, WI-based Banta Corp.; Valassis Communications, of Livonia, MI; and Bowne & Co., of New York City, each embarked on stock repurchasing programs.

Cincinnati-based C.J. Krehbiel launched a growth strategy aimed at boosting sales by as much as 40 percent over a three-year period. The company added to its sales staff and increased the capacity of its electronic prepress and plate making departments, as well as installed a four-unit web press.