Global ink manufacturers feel impact of recession.

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For most leading international printing ink companies, the past fiscal year was difficult. The year began with skyrocketing raw material prices that cut into margins. The last quarter of 2008 brought about the worldwide recession, which heavily impacted the printing industry, even in areas where growth had been strong. In response, ink companies did what they could to cut costs and become more efficient.

Even as international ink manufacturers looked for ways to reduce their operating costs, they also put increasing emphasis on developing new products to help their customers differentiate themselves and grow their business in this difficult market.

In our annual Top International Ink Companies Report, executives at leading global ink manufacturers discuss the past year and talk about their expectations for the rest of 2009 and beyond, with an eye toward preparing their companies for the time when the economy picks up again.

In this year's Top International Ink Companies Report, we have reported on companies with sales above $130 million. However, there are a number of major global ink companies with sales lower than $130 million that are well worth watching, and their comprehensive reports can be found online at www.inkworldmagazine.com.

David Savastano

Ink World Editor

dave@rodpub.com

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