Year in Review--A Torrent of M&A

But there were so many other deals. Another major gulp was heard when New York-based Applied Graphics Technologies (AGT), having outbid Schawk Inc., acquired London-based prepress provider Wace Group plc.

While Lisle, IL-based Wallace Computer Services spent most of 1999 trying to smooth out its operations (following its 1998 acquisition of Graphic Industries) it took time out to sell two of its operations: Memphis, TN-based Mercury Printing (to Consolidated Graphics) and its $40 million contract stationery business (to Boise Cascade Office Products). But in the third quarter, Wallace returned to its acquisition course, acquiring San Diego-based Commercial Press.