As reported by various news sources, RR Donnelley & Sons Co. has agreed to acquire Bowne & Co. Inc., for $481 million in an all-cash deal expanding RR Donnelley’s product portfolio and adding Bowne’s customers to the fold.
Analysts consider this step by Chicago-based printing services firm RR Donnelley a catalyst for further consolidation in the printing industry, including its ancillary services.
New York-based Bowne helps businesses produce and manage their shareholder, investor, marketing and business communications.
According to RR Donnelley Chief Executive Thomas Quinlan, “Bowne is an exceptional fit with RR Donnelley. This combination satisfies all of the strategic imperatives that we evaluate as we consider acquisitions.”
In related news, RR Donnelley had offered in May 2009 to buy the assets and properties of Quebecor World for about $1.5 billion but was rebuffed by the Canadian company. Last month, privately held U.S. commercial printing company Quad/Graphics Inc. acquired Quebecor World, which is now known as World Color Press after emerging from bankruptcy protection in mid-2009.
