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Wins Multi-Year Contract Extension From United Stationers Totaling $100 Million
MONTREAL, September 10, 2003--Quebecor World (NYSE:
IQW)(TSX: IQW) has been awarded a contract extension from office
products wholesale distributor, United Stationers Inc. This multi-year
contract expands upon the companies' 25-year relationship and includes
the print production of United Stationers catalog, mail list services,
logistical services as well as paper procurement. Sales over the
duration of the contract are expected to total over $100 million.
"Quebecor World's longstanding commitment to quality, their world
class customer service, their 'can do' attitude, the ease at which
they handle all of our versioning, as well as their ability to offer
us solutions for our paper and printing needs were major factors in
our decision to extend our contract." explained Bob Smetana, Vice
President of Advertising, United Stationers.
"We are happy to extend our relationship with United Stationers
and look forward to continuing our work with them to create
efficiencies throughout their supply chain," commented David Boles,
Chief Operating Officer, Quebecor World North America. "We are
committed to bringing specialized business solutions to our customers,
to help them retain a competitive edge in today's marketplace."
George Zengo, President, Catalog and Direct Services, Quebecor
World North America stated, "We are excited that United Stationers
recognized the benefits that Quebecor World's platform offers. We have
the technology, flexibility and the experience to meet the diverse
needs of United Stationers today, and in the years to come."
Quebecor World will produce this work in its Augusta, GA,
Jonesboro, AK, Brookfield, WI and Lebanon, PA facilities. Mail List
and Logistic services will be managed out of Quebecor World's
Bensenville facility.
United Stationers Inc., with annual sales of approximately $3.7
billion, is North America's largest broad line wholesale distributor
of business products and a provider of marketing and logistics
services to resellers. Its integrated computer-based distribution
system makes more than 40,000 items available to approximately 15,000
resellers. United is able to ship products within 24 hours of order
placement because of its 35 United Stationers Supply Co. distribution
centers, 24 Lagasse distribution centers that serve the janitorial and
sanitation industry, two Azerty distribution centers in Mexico that
serve computer supply resellers, and two distribution centers that
serve the Canadian marketplace. Its focus on fulfillment excellence
has given the company an average order fill rate of better than 97%, a
99.5% order accuracy rate, and a 99% on-time delivery rate.
The company's common stock trades on The NASDAQ Stock Market(R)
under the symbol USTR and is included in the S&P SmallCap 600 Index.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include Magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 38,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United
States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain,
Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru,
Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Announces Strategic Expansion at its Dubuque Iowa Facility
MONTREAL August
7, 2003--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) announced plans to
implement the second phase of the expansion of its Dubuque, Iowa
facility. This $13 million investment completes a total $19 million
investment in the Dubuque facility over an 18-month period and significantly
strengthens Quebecor World's ability to compete in the educational
book market.
"This is a
market that Quebecor World has identified as having strong potential
for future growth. We believe the demographics and product dynamics
will continue to generate increased opportunities over the years,"
stated David Boles, Chief Operating Officer, Quebecor World North
America. "Our customers have indicated that an investment in a specialized
facility is the correct approach to capturing this market."
With the completion
of the phase II expansion, Quebecor World Dubuque will be a state-of-the-art
facility dedicated to the production of hardcover and paperback
textbooks. The overall expansion plan includes new presses, sewing
and in-line binding, and casing-in capacity. This will substantially
increase the Dubuque facility's capacity and make it an extremely
efficient producer of elementary, secondary and higher education
textbooks.
"We recognize
that a facility dedicated to the education market will allow us
to best meet the needs of our customers," stated John Bertuccini,
President, Book & Directory Publishing Services, Quebecor World
North America. "We will continue to invest and realign our platform
to offer specialized solutions to help educational publishers compete
in the marketplace."
This investment
is being made to support the expanding business recently awarded
by publishers in the education sector. Quebecor World expects Phase
II to be completed by the middle of the second quarter, 2004.
Quebecor World
Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial printer in the world.
It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which
include Magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty
printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics,
mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor
World Inc. has approximately 38,000 employees working in more than
160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada,
Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden,
Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Mexico and
India.
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Announces Second Quarter Results
MONTREAL, July 24, 2003--Quebecor World Inc.
(NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW) announced that for the second quarter 2003, the
Company recorded a loss of $62 million or $0.51 per share after
impairment of assets, restructuring and other charges of $82 million.
This compares to earnings of $64 million or $0.40 per share in the
second quarter of last year. Before this charge Quebecor World
recorded a loss of $0.07 per share. Consolidated revenues for the
quarter were essentially flat compared to same period last year at
$1.5 billion.
The impairment of assets, restructuring and other charges is
mainly related to workforce reductions and the write down of certain
idle and under-performing assets. In the quarter, the Company also
incurred specific charges of $49 million.
"These challenging economic times demand rigorous financial
management at every level of our operations. The measures we are
announcing today demonstrate our new management's firm resolve to deal
with the current competitive environment while setting a clear course
for the future," said Jean Neveu, President and CEO, Quebecor World
Inc. "The restructuring charges we are taking in this quarter are in
addition to those the Company announced in the 4th quarter of 2002.
Although those initiatives had resulted in certain savings, management
determined they were insufficient and that additional measures are
required to reduce costs in all areas and across all our geographies.
These reductions will further lower our cost base, improve
efficiencies and make us better positioned to take advantage of an
eventual economic recovery."
Impairment of assets, restructuring and other charges of $82
million, includes $26 million of new restructuring initiatives that
will result in the elimination of approximately 1,000 employee
positions. Once completed, these new measures will represent an
annualized, pre-tax cost savings of $36 million, of which more than
one-half will be realized in 2003. The charge also includes an
additional $8 million related to previous years' initiatives,
including the non-cash portion, mostly related to lease payments and
facility closures costs. The balance of the current charge, or $48
million, is largely related to the write down of idle and
under-performing assets across the Company's global network.
"As part of our rigorous attention to cost control, we have
recently completed an extensive, detailed review of our global asset
base," added Mr. Neveu. "During the last several years our strategy
has focussed on positioning assets into larger more specialized
facilities resulting in greater efficiencies. During the quarter, we
reviewed the status of our assets and identified idle and obsolete
equipment across the platform that became permanently idle as a result
of prior restructuring and difficult economic conditions. This write
down will be accomplished without reducing our overall capacity."
Specific charges in the quarter of $49 million include a $15
million adjustment related to rapid growth and systems issues in our
North American Logistics business, a $15 million provision for
doubtful accounts and $19 million of various adjustments of less than
$2.5 million such as, the write down of other assets, inventories and
other items.
"While we continue to partner with the largest and most profitable
publishers and retailers in the industry, we believe it is prudent at
this time to increase our provision for doubtful accounts with many
companies facing difficulties as they battle the current economic
climate," said Mr. Neveu.
Quebecor World's logistics business is the industry leader. It has
the best on-time delivery record in the industry at 97 percent and is
the largest shipper of product by volume into the U.S. Postal System.
In just three short years it has gone from shipping 1.7 billion tons
of printed product annually to an expected 4.5 billion tons in 2003.
The rapid expansion of this business, now under new management,
strained certain systems that have now been improved.
The charges in the quarter do not impact on Quebecor World's
ability to generate strong free cash flow. In the second quarter 2003,
the Company generated $72 million of free cash flow compared to $40
million of free cash flow in the same quarter last year.
In North America, revenue for the quarter was level at $1.2
billion. Operating income, before impairment of assets, restructuring
and other charges, was $45 million compared to $124 million for the
same quarter in 2002. These results include specific charges of $39
million as described previously. The decrease in operating income is
the result of reduced advertising spending, the continuing competitive
pricing environment and other charges. Ongoing cost reduction and
operational consolidation will benefit margins going forward. Despite
the challenging market we continue to renew agreements with our major
customers and are gaining new business with leading publishers and
retailers as evidenced by several recent announcements.
In Europe revenues for the quarter increased to $268 million
primarily due to currency translation. Operating income, before
impairment of assets, restructuring and other charges, was $3.4
million compared to $8.2 in the same quarter of 2002. These results
include specific charges of $2.1 million as described previously. The
European print market continues to suffer from overcapacity affecting
both volume and pricing. Our businesses in the UK, Belgium and Austria
performed well during the quarter but difficult market conditions in
France, Spain and the Nordic countries had a negative impact on
overall results. During the quarter, Yvan Lesniak was appointed
Managing Director of Operations for France. Mr. Lesniak's leadership
and extensive experience in the printing industry will be significant
factors in restoring profitability to our French platform.
Our Latin American business is also being impacted by excess print
capacity in the region and a difficult economic environment. Revenue
for the quarter was stable compared to the same period last year but
the operating loss, before impairment of assets, restructuring and
other charges, was $3.5 million compared to operating income of $2.7
million in the second quarter of 2002. These results include specific
charges of $4.4 million as described previously. This business has
expanded rapidly during the last several years and we expect recent
cost reductions will help to improve margins and operating income as
we move forward.
Please refer to the MD&A for the reconciliation to Canadian
generally accepted accounting principles of certain figures used to
explain these results. The MD&A can be found through the SEDAR and SEC filings.
The Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.13 per share on
Multiple Voting Shares and Subordinate Voting Shares. The Board also
declared a dividend of CDN$0.3845 per share on Series 3 Preferred
Shares, CDN$0.4219 per share on Series 4 Preferred Shares and
CDN$0.43125 on Series 5 Preferred Shares. The dividends are payable on
September 1, 2003 to shareholders of record at the close of business
August 15, 2003. Quebecor World Inc. also announced today that it has
filed its quarterly report for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 with
the Securities and Exchange Commission. The report contains
certifications from Jean Neveu, President and Chief Executive Officer
and Claude Helie, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
Officer, that the periodic report fully complies with the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the report
fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and
results of operations of the Company. These certifications are in
accordance with the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
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Announces Multi-Year Contract Extension with Verizon Information Services-Canada
MONTREAL--July 2, 2003--Quebecor World NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW) has been awarded a multi-year contract extension from directory publisher Verizon Information Services - Canada. Under
this new long-term contract, Quebecor World will produce all 121
SuperPages directory titles that will be distributed throughout
Canada.
"Quebecor World has been printing for Verizon Information Services
- Canada for more than 50 years. The combined strength and flexibility
of Quebecor World's manufacturing platform in both the United States
and Canada allowed us to develop a manufacturing plan that
economically enhanced our customers' time to market," explained David
Boles, Chief Operating Officer, Quebecor World North America.
Verizon Information Services - Canada, which operates under the
name SuperPages Canada, is headquartered in Burnaby, British Columbia.
The company is Canada's second largest directory publisher
distributing over 14 million SuperPages directories to markets in
British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec.
"We are pleased to extend our long-term relationship with Quebecor
World. Over the years they have demonstrated that they understand our
business and have a willingness to truly listen to their customers'
needs," stated Scott Laver, general manager of SuperPages Canada.
"We are proud of the strong relationship we have developed with
SuperPages Canada and we look forward to working with them in the
future," explained David Bragen, President, Directory Group and Book
Specialty Sales, Quebecor World North America.
This work will be produced at Quebecor World's Hazleton,
Pennsylvania and Edmonton, Alberta facilities.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United
States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain,
Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru,
Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Wins Multi-Year Contract From Yellow Book USA Totaling Over $70 Million
MONTREAL, June 11, 2003--Quebecor World Inc.
(NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW) has been awarded a multi-year contract from the
nation's oldest and largest independent directory publisher, Yellow
Book USA. Under the contract, Quebecor World will produce about 210
titles annually at its Hazelton, Pennsylvania, Waukee, Iowa, Loveland,
Colorado and Merced, California facilities. During the contract
period, sales are estimated to exceed $70 million.
Yellow Book USA publishes and distributes 71 million yellow pages
directories in 40 states and the District of Columbia. Yellow Book's
success has been based on providing more buying information to the
consumer, the end user of its directories.
"Quebecor World's proven track record of understanding our
business, as well as the size and flexibility of their platform, have
played a role in our decision to extend this relationship", stated
Mark Cairns, Chief Publishing Officer at Yellow Book USA. "We look
forward to continuing our work with them."
"Quebecor World is committed to investing in the technologies
necessary to provide our customers with the quality products they need
to excel in their marketplace," commented Dave Boles, Chief Operating
Officer, Quebecor World, North America. "We are pleased that Yellow
Book USA has recognized the value of our relationship," he added.
Established in 1930, Yellow Book USA is the oldest and largest
independent yellow pages publisher in the nation. In recent years,
Yellow Book has made a number of strategic acquisitions and entered
scores of new markets. The 2002 acquisitions of McLeodUSA's telephone
directory publishing unit and the National Directory Company have
extended Yellow Book's presence into more states than any other U.S.
yellow pages publisher. Yellow Book currently publishes nearly 600
directories with a circulation of 71 million.
"We have built a solid relationship with Yellow Book USA and are
delighted that they have chosen to extend their long-term relationship
with us," stated, David Bragen, President, Directory Group, Quebecor
World North America. "We look forward to working with them to create
new and unique value-added product offerings that can deliver superior
value for their advertisers and end user."
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE, TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United
States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain,
Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru,
Columbia, Mexico and India.
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Awarded Multi-Year Contract Extension From Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc.
GREENWICH, Conn., June 4, 2003--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW) has been awarded a multi-year contract extension by Hachette Filipacchi Media (HFM U.S.) to print all of its core magazines. HFM U.S. is one of the top 5 magazine publishers in North America.
Under the new contract, Quebecor World will produce all 18 of HFM U.S.'s core magazines across several of its magazine-dedicated manufacturing facilities. Quebecor World also produces spot jobs, direct mail, books, international and premedia work for HFM U.S.
This multi-year contract extends a 20-plus year mutually beneficial relationship between HFM U.S. and Quebecor World. Prior to the merger of Quebecor Printing and World Color Press in 1999, each of the predecessor companies had part of the HFM U.S. business, and post-merger, Quebecor World remains the sole producer of HFM U.S.'s entire portfolio of core magazine titles.
Tony Romano, Senior Vice President Manufacturing and Distribution, HFM U.S., stated, "While Quebecor World has been a valued business partner for many years, our decision to extend our contract was made only after a careful evaluation of the marketplace". He added, " Quebecor World's demonstrated understanding of our business needs, combined with a uniquely strong, flexible manufacturing network, were key factors in our decision."
Quebecor World's North American Chief Operating Officer, David Boles noted that, "Our company has been designed to provide customers like HFM U.S. with the inherent benefits resulting from single-sourcing entire segments of their business with us. We remain confident that Quebecor World's unparalleled ability to provide total manufacturing and distribution solutions will continue to allow our customers to enjoy significantly streamlined operations."
Rick Marcoux, President of Magazine Services, Quebecor World North America added, "The confidence in our ability to produce all of their magazines, that HFM has demonstrated by awarding us this contract extension, is the direct result of the way in which our sales and manufacturing teams manage this business. Communication of specific customer needs and requirements remains strong across the entire platform, and continues to be vital to our success with this complex account."
HFM U.S. is the New York headquartered subsidiary of Hachette Filipacchi Medias, the world's largest magazine publisher. HFM U.S. reaches nearly 50 million readers in the U.S. through its 18 titles, including American Photo, Car and Driver, Cycle World, ELLE, ELLE Decor, ELLEgirl, Home, Premiere, Road & Track, Woman's Day and others.
Quebecor World Inc. is the largest commercial printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Columbia, Mexico and India.
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Repurchases 10,000,000 Shares at CDN$24.00
MONTREAL, Jun 3, 2003 -- Quebecor World Inc. (IQW) announced today that it has taken up and will repurchase for cancellation a total of 10,000,000 Subordinate Voting Shares pursuant to its Substantial Issuer Bid dated April 24, 2003, as amended on May 23, 2003, at a purchase price of CDN$24.00. The Substantial Issuer Bid expired at midnight (Montreal time) on the evening of June 2, 2003 and was oversubscribed by 23,084,971 number of shares.
Computershare Trust Company of Canada, depositary under the offer, reported that 9,101,166 Subordinate Voting Shares were validly deposited by way of Letter of Transmittal and 23,983,805 Subordinate Voting Shares using the guaranteed delivery procedure. As the number of shares deposited at the purchase price as at the expiration date of the offer, namely 10,248,044, exceeded 10,000,000, Quebecor World has determined that a pro ration factor of 1.0263 would apply to shares deposited at the purchase price and that all shareholders who deposited their Subordinate Voting Shares at the purchase price of CDN$24.00 will have 97.44% of the number of shares deposited by them bought back at the purchase price, except for odd lot deposits, which are not subject to pro ration and for adjustments to avoid the purchase of fractional shares. Payment for shares properly deposited and accepted will be made by June 6, 2003. Return of shares not purchased because of pro ration or because they were deposited at a price above CDN$24.00 or because they were determined to be invalidly deposited, will be made as promptly as possible.
Excluding the 10,248,044 shares deposited at the purchase price of CDN$24.00, the remaining shares were deposited at an average weighted price of CDN$25.92.
The shares repurchased represent approximately 10.6% of Quebecor World's outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares. After giving effect to the repurchase and cancellation of such shares, Quebecor World will have 84,674,250 Subordinate Voting Shares outstanding.
Quebecor World Inc. is the largest commercial printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Columbia, Mexico and India.
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To Announce Results of Issuer Bid on June 3, 2003
MONTREAL, Canada, May 23, 2003--Quebecor World
Inc. (NYSE:IQW) (TSX:IQW) will publicly announce on June 3, 2003 the
results of its Offer to purchase for cash up to 10,000,000 of its
Subordinate Voting Shares at a price not less than CDN$24.00 and not
more than CDN$27.00 by issuing a press release. Such public
announcement will indicate the number of Subordinate Voting Shares
deposited under the Offer by way of Letter of Transmittal and Notice
of Guaranteed Delivery, as well as the Purchase Price determined by
Quebecor World for the Offer. The Purchase Price will be the lowest
price that will enable Quebecor World to purchase an aggregate of
10,000,000 deposited Shares as of midnight, Montreal time, on the
evening of June 2, 2003, which is the Expiration Date of the Offer.
Quebecor World has mailed earlier today to all shareholders a
Notice of Variation that makes certain amendments to the procedure for
depositing Shares by way of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. Under the
Offer, as amended by the Notice of Variation, depositing shareholders
who elect to deposit Shares using the guaranteed delivery procedure
will now have the option to deliver share certificates representing
the number of Shares deposited and as indicated in the Amended Notice
of Guaranteed Delivery divided by the pro ration factor that will also
be announced by Quebecor World on June 3, 2003. Also, shareholders who
deposit Shares above the Purchase Price by way of Amended Notice of
Guaranteed Delivery will not be required to deliver share certificates
representing such shares to the Depositary.
Quebecor World Inc. is the largest commercial printer in the
world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories
which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs,
specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media,
logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services.
Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more
than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada,
Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden,
Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Columbia, Mexico and
India.
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Robert G. Burton to Lead Burton Management Group, LLC; Firm to Target Strategic Manufacturing Acquisitions
GREENWICH, Conn., May 14, 2003--Robert G. Burton,
founder and CEO, announced today the formation of the Burton
Management Group, LLC ("BMG"), the assembly of a proven management
team and the opening of its executive offices in Greenwich, CT.
The Burton Management Group, LLC has been formed for the strategic
purpose of providing a vehicle for control equity investments. BMG's
focus is on domestic middle market manufacturing companies with sales
in excess of $300 million, which provide an opportunity for increased
shareholder value through intense management and present opportunities
for organic and acquisitive growth.
BMG's approach will differ from investment firms that acquire
companies and manage their investments with non-operating managers.
BMG will take ownership and day-to-day management control of these
companies with experienced manufacturing executives who will invest
personally in each deal.
Characteristics of target acquisitions include businesses that
demonstrate a pattern of earnings volatility, consistently
underperform industry peer groups, lack strategic game plans or
require successful management. BMG will develop strategic and
operating plans and execute these plans to return the acquisition to
financial strength and stability and maximize shareholder value. BMG
management will identify core operations, improve the infrastructure
and establish a manufacturing platform to realize synergies and
operational savings.
Mr. Burton, well known as one of the most successful turnaround
specialists, will lead this group as CEO, Chairman and President. Mr.
Burton is recognized for his ability to increase shareholder value and
deliver on his promises. He is intensely committed to, and has a
successful record of, improving margins and realizing operational
synergies. Mr. Burton has completed over 50 accretive acquisitions in
his career and has never missed a quarter or annual EPS budget.
Mr. Burton Stated:
"I am pleased to lead what will be a dynamic and exciting
business. I am delighted for the third time to establish our corporate
headquarters in Connecticut's Fairfield County. It is my intention to
grow our business and to add a significant number of jobs to the area
over the next few years.
"I believe a significant opportunity exists in today's market to
unlock tremendous shareholder value in the industrial sector by
targeting companies with under-utilized assets and inefficient cost
structures that are under-managed. BMG will target companies that,
with focused leadership, investment and strategic direction, will grow
and deliver profitable results. Maximizing returns for shareholders
will be BMG's primary focus."
Prior to his current role, Mr. Burton served as Chairman,
President and CEO of Moore Corporation Limited (NYSE, TSX: MCL), a
$2.1 billion printing company. During his two years as senior manager,
Mr. Burton directed a dramatic turnaround of the company. Under his
leadership, operating costs were reduced by over $150 million. Stock
price performance improved from a low of $2.50, to a high of $14.45
per share, generating in excess of $1.4 billion of incremental market
capitalization during his two-year turnaround.
Prior to his tenure at Moore Corporation Limited, Mr. Burton
served as Chairman, President and CEO of former Kohlberg, Kravis &
Roberts portfolio company, World Color Press Inc.; a $2.7 billion NYSE
listed printing company. During his nine years, Mr. Burton led a
dramatic turnaround of World Color Press Inc. from an unprofitable
company in 1991 to a company which generated EBITDA of $440 million
with operating margins of 10.5%. This successful turnaround culminated
in the merger with Quebecor Printing Inc. in the fall of 1999 creating
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE, TSX: IQW), the world's largest and most
profitable printing company.
Prior to leading World Color Press Inc., Mr. Burton held a series
of senior executive positions at Capital Cities-ABC, including
President of ABC Publishing where he was instrumental in turning
around its operations from a loss to a major profit contributor. Mr.
Burton has also held senior executive positions at CBS and IBM.
Joining Mr. Burton at BMG are eight experienced executives who
have worked with him over the past twelve years. Each of these
executives has a proven track record and has worked with him during
the turnarounds at World Color Press Inc. and Moore Corporation
Limited. Each of these managers will be active investors in each deal.
Mr. Burton added:
"I have worked along side each of these senior executives in the
past and have found them to be excellent strategic thinkers and
hands-on operating managers who have a strong history of consistently
delivering improved results. It is of great comfort to launch BMG with
a team of dedicated and proven senior business leaders. I will be
looking for each of them to take a leadership role in identifying
opportunities to reduce costs, maximizing the value of assets and
increasing return on each investment."
Burton Management Group is located at 100 Northfield Street,
Greenwich, CT 06830. BMG's main phone number is (203) 302-3700.
Additional information can be requested by emailing: info@BurtonMG.com
This press release may contain statements that Burton Management
Group, LLC believes are, or may be considered to be, "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of various provisions of the Securities
Act of 1933 and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These
forward-looking statements generally can be identified by use of
statements that include phrases such as Burton Management Group, LLC
"believes," "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "foresees"
or other similar words or phrases. Similarly, statements that describe
Burton Management Group, LLC's projected growth and goals and its
plans for expansion are forward-looking statements. All of these
forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties,
many of which are beyond management's control, and which could cause
Burton Management Group, LLC's actual results to differ materially
from those contemplated by the relevant forward-looking statement. As
a start-up company, some of the significant factors that could cause
actual results to differ materially from those described in the
forward-looking statements include general economic, business,
competitive and/or regulatory factors affecting Burton Management
Group, LLC as well as the inability of Burton Management Group, LLC to
acquire companies with its target characteristics. Readers are urged
to consider these factors carefully in evaluating the forward-looking
statements. The forward-looking statements included in this press
release are made only as of the date of the press release and Burton
Management Group, LLC undertakes no obligation to publicly update
these forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or
circumstances.
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Announces
First Quarter Results
MONTREAL, April 24, 2003--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW; TSX:IQW) today announced that for the first quarter 2003, net income was $25 million or $0.12 per diluted share. This compares with $46 million or $0.28 per diluted share in the same quarter last year. This is in line with the Company's previously released first quarter outlook.
Consolidated revenues for the quarter increased $72 million or 5 per cent to $1.5 billion. This was primarily the result of currency translation and the acquisition of the European printing assets of Hachette Filipacchi Medias. Operating margin was 5.1 per cent compared to 7.3 per cent in the same quarter last year. This reflects continuing negative price pressures, higher energy prices, the negative impact of Quebecor World's under-performing French operations and lower margins in Scandinavia and Spain.
"These results reflect the challenging market conditions in the print industry as a result of continued over capacity and the global economic weakness," said Jean Neveu, President and CEO of Quebecor World. "We are addressing the critical area of reducing costs at all levels and across our entire platform. We expect the benefits of these measures to improve our operating margins going forward. As we stated earlier in our first quarter outlook, we do not expect these results to be indicative of our performance in subsequent quarters."
In North America revenues increased $27 million to $1.23 billion and operating income was $83 million compared to $108 million in the first quarter of 2002. Most of the revenue increase occurred in the Retail Group with other business units reporting revenues that were flat or slightly below the same period last year. A more competitive pricing environment had a negative impact on operating income and margins. This is compounded by the underperformance of the book group. It is currently experiencing lower margins as publishers reduce the size and length of their press runs.
In Europe revenues for the quarter increased to $258 million from $212 million, mostly as a result of the Hachette acquisition completed last March. Lower prices and margins in certain parts of our European operations had a negative impact on our overall results. Workforce reductions announced at the end of the fourth quarter 2002 are beginning to be implemented across our French platform and we expect this to have a positive impact on margins in subsequent quarters.
In Latin America we experienced a reduction in revenue and operating income. Margins were also affected by pricing pressures and currency translation. The regional economy continues to be weak, especially in Brazil, where we experienced a reduction in directory volume at our Recife facility. Some of our major customers have reduced their volumes as a result of the current economy. To counter this we are extending our customer base and increasing our focus on export markets in the United States and Europe.
In an accompanying press release today, Quebecor World announced a Substantial Issuer Bid to purchase and cancel up to 10,000,000 of its Subordinate Voting Shares.
"In recent weeks Quebecor World's stock price has experienced a substantial decrease to the point where we believe it is significantly undervalued," said Jean Neveu, President and CEO Quebecor World. "With no major mandatory debt repayment until 2006 we believe this share repurchase is an appropriate use of our cash flow and will enhance shareholder value."
The Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.13 per share on Multiple Voting Shares and Subordinate Voting Shares. The Board also declared a dividend of CDN$0.3845 per share on Series 3 Preferred Shares, CDN$0.4219 per share on Series 4 Preferred Shares and CDN$0.43125 on Series 5 Preferred Shares. The dividends are payable on June 2, 2003 to shareholders of record at the close of business May 16, 2003.
Quebecor World Inc. also announced today that it has filed its quarterly report for the quarter ended March 31, 2003 with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The report contains certifications from Jean Neveu, President and Chief Executive Officer and Claude Helie, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, that the periodic report fully complies with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the information contained in the report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company. These certifications are in accordance with the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
Financial statements are available on the Company's website and through the SEDAR and SEC filings.
Sedar web address: www.sedar.com
SEC web address: www.sec.gov
Quebecor World To Webcast Investor Conference Call on April 24, 2003
Quebecor World Inc. will broadcast its First Quarter conference call live over the Internet on April 24, 2003 at 4:00 PM (EDT).
The conference call, which will last approximately one hour, will be webcast live and can be accessed on the Quebecor World web site:
Prior to the call please ensure that you have the appropriate software. The Quebecor World web address listed above has instructions and a direct link to download the necessary software, free of charge.
Anyone unable to attend this conference call may listen to the replay tape by phoning (416) 695-5800 or (800) 408-3053 passcode 1407329, available from April 24, 2003 to May 2, 2003.
Except for historical information contained herein, the statements in this release are forward-looking and made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause the Company's actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecasted results.
Those risks include, among others, changes in customers' demand for the Company's products, changes in raw material and equipment costs and availability, seasonal changes in customer orders, pricing actions by the Company's competitors, and general changes in economic conditions.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Announces
Issuer Bid to Repurchase Up to 10,000,000 Subordinate Voting Shares
MONTREAL, April
24, 2003 --
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW; TSX:IQW) announces an offer to purchase and cancel up to 10,000,000 of its Subordinate Voting Shares for not more than CDN$27 per share and not less than CDN$24 per share. The offer, which is subject to regulatory approval, expires at midnight (Montreal time) on the evening of June 2, 2003, unless extended by the Corporation. Full particulars of the offer, including the applicable terms and conditions and the procedures for depositing shares, are set out in the issuer bid circular that will be mailed to holders of Quebecor World's Subordinate Voting Shares on or about April 28, 2003.
The Corporation is making the offer through a procedure known as a "Dutch Auction" which allows shareholders to deposit shares at a price, within the range stated above, at which they would be willing to sell some or all of their shares. Scotia Capital Inc. and its U.S. subsidiary, Scotia Capital (USA) Inc., have been retained by Quebecor World to act as dealer managers for the offer.
The actual purchase price that will be paid by the Corporation will be the price per share that will result in Quebecor World repurchasing not more than 10,000,000 Subordinate Voting Shares. Shareholders who will deposit their shares at prices equal to or lower than the Purchase Price will receive the purchase price. All shares deposited at a higher price will be returned to shareholders. Quebecor World currently has 94,530,416 Subordinate Voting Shares outstanding. The Subordinate Voting Shares are listed and posted for trading on both The Toronto Stock Exchange and the New York Exchange under the symbol "IQW".
"It is our judgement that our stock is currently undervalued, and we made the decision to reduce the number of shares outstanding because it is in the best interest of the Corporation and its shareholders", said Jean Neveu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Quebecor World Inc.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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David S. Boles Appointed Chief Operating Officer
MONTREAL, March 24, 2003--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW; TSE:IQW) is pleased to announce that David S. Boles has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, Quebecor World North America. Mr. Boles will be responsible for all of Quebecor World's operations in North America and will report to Jean Neveu, President and CEO Quebecor World Inc.
"I am pleased to assume this role to lead the largest business group of Quebecor World, " said Mr. Boles. "My first priorities will be to clearly explain our new operating structure to all our customers and to further build on the excellent management teams already in place in all our business groups. Together, we will continue to develop our continental platform to provide maximum value to our customers and our shareholders."
Quebecor World's North American platform is the leading printer of magazines, catalogs, books, retail inserts and directories. Its full-service offering is further enhanced by complete pre-media and logistics services. Quebecor World North America has approximately 30,000 employees in more than 125 facilities and had 2002 revenues of approximately $5 billion.
Mr. Boles has 20 years of experience in the printing industry and was previously Co-Chief Operating Officer, Quebecor World North America. Previous to that appointment he was President of Quebecor World's North America Retail Insert and Sunday magazine Group.
"I am very pleased that David has agreed to take on these new responsibilities," said Jean Neveu, President and CEO Quebecor World Inc. "During his years at Quebecor World David has developed excellent relationships with many of our leading customers. This combined with his operational expertise makes him an excellent choice to lead our North American business going forward."
Quebecor World North America's other Co-Chief Operating Officer, John R. Paloian has left the Company. Mr. Neveu accepted his resignation and wished him well in his future endeavours.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSE: IQW) is the largest commercial printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Provides Outlook First Quarter 2003
MONTREAL, March 18, 2003--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW; TSX:IQW) expects net income for the first quarter to be in the range of $24 million to $29 million or between $0.12 and $0.15 per diluted share. This compares with $0.28 in the first quarter of 2002.
Management's expectation for first quarter results reflects a continuing weakness and decrease price in print market conditions in North America and Europe, combined with a significant increase in energy prices, and increased employee medical and retirement benefits in North America. In addition, the Company's French operations continue to underperform. Therefore the Company will continue to aggressively reduce its cost base to face this uncertain environment.
Advertising demand in North America continues to be adversely affected by fragile economic conditions, and geopolitical uncertainties. Printed advertising pages as reported by the U.S. Publisher's Information Bureau remain at levels which are resulting in overcapacity and price weakness in all industry segments. This situation has negatively impacted virtually all companies in our industry.
On February 3rd, 2003 Quebecor World announced restructuring initiatives aimed at reducing its cost structure, primarily in France. The Company's first quarter results will not yet reflect the savings expected to be realized under these initiatives. The underperforming French operations are expected to have a negative impact on the Company's first quarter operating earnings compared to the same period last year.
The first quarter is traditionally the seasonal low-point for Quebecor World, and we expect that this quarter's relative shortfall versus last year is unlikely to be as pronounced in subsequent quarters. Quebecor World will release its first quarter results on April 24th, 2003.
Except for historical information contained herein, the statements in this release are forward-looking and made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that may cause the Company's actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecasted results.
Those risks include, among others, changes in customers' demand for the Company's products, changes in raw material and equipment costs and availability, seasonal changes in customer orders, pricing actions by the Company's competitors, and general changes in economic conditions.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSE: IQW) is the largest commercial printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Announces Resignation of Michel Desbiens, Jean Neveu Appointed Interim CEO
MONTREAL, March 18, 2003--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW; TSX:IQW) announces that Michel Desbiens has resigned as President and CEO for personal reasons. Jean Neveu will replace him on an interim basis, effective immediately. Mr. Neveu has a long and successful history with the Company having served as President and CEO from 1989 until 1997 and as Chairman of the Board from 1989 until 2002.
Mr. Desbiens joined Quebecor World as CEO of International Operations in November, 2002. He was appointed President and CEO of Quebecor World Inc. in February of this year. "I was very pleased to take on this responsibility and looked forward to contributing to the future success of the world's largest commercial printer," said Mr. Desbiens. "However in recent weeks certain family issues have come to light that make it impossible for me to provide the required level of focus in this role."
The Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, Chairman of the Board of Quebecor World Inc. commented, "I want to thank Michel for his contributions to the Company during the last several months and although we would have preferred that he continue with us we understand that this decision is best for him and his family."
Mr. Neveu has more than 30 years of experience in the printing and media industry and was one of the main forces behind the development of Quebecor World. As a former CEO and Chairman of the Board, Mr. Neveu has been involved in all of the Company's major decisions during the last decade. He will serve on an interim basis until a new CEO is chosen.
"I am pleased that Jean has chosen to accept this position," said Mr. Mulroney. "His knowledge of the Company and the industry will be invaluable."
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars, books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories, digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 39,000 employees working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Adopts New Corporate Governance Practices
MONTREAL, February 14, 2003--Quebecor World Inc.
(NYSE:IQW) (TSX:IQW) announced today that its Board of Directors has
approved and adopted various new or revised corporate governance
practices following the comprehensive review of its corporate
governance undertaken in 2002. These new and revised corporate
governance practices were adopted by the Board of Directors in order
to best comply with the proposed TSX Disclosure and Continued Listing
Requirements and Guidelines (and other Canadian securities
legislation) as well as the NYSE proposed Corporate Governance Listing
Standards, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and other US securities legislation
to which the Company is subject.
"The Board of Directors considers good corporate governance
practices an important factor in the overall success of Quebecor World
Inc.," said the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney, Chairman of the Board
of Quebecor World Inc. Mr. Mulroney added, "The new corporate
governance practices adopted by the Board of Directors are the result
of an extensive review conducted by the Company of its current
practices and of the Board of Director's desire that Quebecor World
preserve and adhere to the highest standards of corporate governance."
Consequently, the Board of Directors of Quebecor World, at its
meeting held on February 3, 2003, approved and adopted the following
corporate governance practices:
-- The Board of Directors adopted a formal mandate for its Board
of Directors, which will be effective immediately following
Quebecor World's next annual meeting of shareholders to be
held on April 2, 2003. Assuming the election as directors of
the persons proposed in management's Proxy Circular at the
next annual meeting of shareholders, the Board of Directors
will be comprised of a majority of individuals who qualify as
unrelated and independent directors, as determined by the
Board, and a majority of directors who do not have interests
in or relationships with either Quebecor World or Quebecor
Inc. (Quebecor World's controlling shareholder). The Board of
Directors will be specifically responsible for the supervision
of the management of Quebecor World's business and affairs,
with the objective of increasing shareholder value. Although
Quebecor World's management will conduct the Company's
day-to-day operations, the Board of Directors has a duty of
stewardship and will regularly assess and monitor the
performance of management.
-- The Board of Directors has adopted a revised mandate for the
Audit Committee, which will be effective immediately following
Quebecor World's next annual meeting of shareholders. The
Audit Committee will be comprised of a minimum of three and a
maximum of five members, each of whom must qualify as an
unrelated and independent director, as determined by the
Board. Each member of this committee will be financially
literate and at least one member will be a financial expert.
The members of the Audit Committee will not receive any
compensation from Quebecor World other than compensation as
directors and committee members. The Audit Committee will
assist the Board of Directors of Quebecor World in overseeing
the Company's financial controls and reporting. The committee
will also monitor whether Quebecor World is in compliance with
its financial covenants and legal and regulatory requirements
governing financial disclosure matters and will review on a
regular basis and monitor Quebecor World's risk assessment and
management policies, including hedging policies through the
use of financial derivative transactions. The Audit Committee
will approve the appointment and termination (both subject to
shareholder approval) of the external auditors of the Company
and will monitor their qualifications, performance and
independence. It will also approve all audit and permitted
non-audit services to be provided by such external auditors.
Because of the demanding role and responsibilities of the
Audit Committee, the Nominating and Corporate Governance
Committee (described below) will review any invitation to
members of the Audit Committee to join the audit committee of
another entity. Where a member of the Audit Committee
simultaneously serves on the audit committee of more than
three public companies, including Quebecor World, the Board of
Directors will determine whether such simultaneous service
impairs the ability of such member to effectively serve on
Quebecor World's Audit Committee.
-- The Board of Directors approved the creation of a new
committee of the Board of Directors, namely the Nominating and
Corporate Governance Committee. The Board of Directors also
adopted a formal mandate for this committee, which mandate
will be effective immediately following Quebecor World's next
annual meeting of shareholders. The Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee will be composed of a minimum of three
and a maximum of five non-management directors, a majority of
whom will qualify as unrelated and independent directors, as
determined by the Board. This committee will be responsible
for assisting the Board in developing the Company's approach
to corporate governance issues, proposing new board nominees
and assessing the effectiveness of the Board, its committees,
their respective chairs and individual directors.
-- The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has been
renamed the "Human Resources and Compensation Committee" and a
revised mandate was adopted for this committee by the Board of
Directors, which will be effective immediately following
Quebecor World's next annual meeting of shareholders. The
Human Resources and Compensation Committee will be comprised
of a minimum of three and a maximum of five members, each of
whom will qualify as an unrelated and independent director, as
determined by the Board. This committee's responsibility will
be to assist the Board of Directors in discharging its
responsibilities relating to executive and other human
resources hiring, assessment, compensation and succession
planning. These responsibilities include senior management
succession planning, the hiring and assessment of senior
management and fixing the compensation of Quebecor World's
directors and senior management.
-- The Board of Directors has adopted a revised mandate for its
Pension Committee. The Pension Committee will be comprised of
a minimum of three and a maximum of five non-management
directors, a majority of whom will qualify as unrelated and
independent directors, as determined by the Board. The Pension
Committee will assist the Board of Directors in discharging
its responsibilities with respect to Quebecor World's pension
plans. These responsibilities include approving and monitoring
the funding policies for Quebecor World's pension plans as
well as the investment policy and investment objectives and
guidelines for these pension plans. The new mandate of the
Pension Committee will be effective immediately following
Quebecor World's next annual meeting of shareholders.
-- Effective immediately following Quebecor World's next annual
meeting of shareholders, the current Executive Committee will
be replaced by a new Executive Committee of the Board, for
which a new mandate has also been adopted. The new Executive
Committee of the Board will be comprised of a minimum of three
and a maximum of seven non-management directors, a majority of
whom will qualify as unrelated and independent directors, as
determined by the Board of Directors. The Executive Committee
will deal with such matters, subject to legal limitations, as
cannot be effectively dealt with by the Board of Directors in
a timely fashion.
-- A formal mandate for the non-executive Chairman of the Board
of Quebecor World has been adopted by the Board of Directors,
effective immediately following Quebecor World's next annual
meeting of shareholders. In accordance with such mandate, the
Board of Directors must be chaired by an outside director
responsible for the management, development and effective
performance of the Board of Directors. The Chairman of the
Board will be responsible for taking all reasonable measures
to ensure that the Board of Directors fully executes its
mandate and that directors clearly understand and respect the
boundaries between Board and management responsibilities. The
performance of the Chairman of the Board will be assessed
annually by the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee,
which will report to the Board of Directors.
-- The Board of Directors of Quebecor World has also adopted a
formal mandate for the Chief Executive Officer of the Company,
which will be effective immediately following the annual
meeting of shareholders. In accordance with his mandate, the
Chief Executive Officer is responsible for the management of
Quebecor World's strategic and operational agenda and for the
execution of the Board's decisions. Because of the Chief
Executive Officer's demanding role and responsibilities, the
Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee of the Board
will review any invitation to the Chief Executive Officer to
join an outside board of directors in order to ensure that
such directorship will not impair the Chief Executive
Officer's ability to fulfill the responsibilities incumbent
upon his position. In addition, the Human Resources and
Compensation Committee of the Board will review and annually
recommend to the Board of Directors the objectives which the
Chief Executive Officer is responsible for meeting, assess the
Chief Executive Officer in light of these objectives and
recommend to the Board of Directors what compensation he
should receive.
-- Effective February 3, 2003, the Board of Directors of Quebecor
World has approved a policy that prohibits both the extending
of any new personal loans to its directors or executive
officers as well as the renewal of, or material modification
to, any existing personal loans to such persons.
-- The Board of Directors of Quebecor World has adopted a policy
that provides that none of the following non-audit services
may be provided to Quebecor World by its external auditors:
i) bookkeeping or other services related to the accounting records
or financial statements of Quebecor World or its subsidiaries,
ii) financial information systems design and implementation,
iii) appraisal or valuation services, fairness opinions, or
contribution-in-kind reports,
iv) actuarial services,
v) internal audit outsourcing services,
vi) management functions or human resources services,
vii) broker or dealer, investment adviser, or investment banking
services,
viii) legal services;
ix) expert services unrelated to the audit, or
x) any other service that the Board of Directors determines by
resolution not to be permissible.
-- The Board of Directors also adopted a policy that, subject to
approval of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee,
permits individual members of the Board of Directors to seek
legal or expert advice from a source independent from
management at Quebecor World's expense and that, subject to
advising the Chairman of the Board, allows the Audit
Committee, the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee
and the Human Resources and Compensation Committee to likewise
hire outside expertise.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 40,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United
States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain,
Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru,
Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Michel Desbiens and Claude Helie Appointed CEO and CFO
MONTREAL, February 3, 2003--The Right Honourable
Brian Mulroney, Chairman of the Board of Quebecor World Inc.
(NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW), is pleased to announce the appointments of Michel
Desbiens as Chief Executive Officer and Claude Helie as Chief
Financial Officer of the Company. Mr. Desbiens is replacing Charles G.
Cavell who becomes Deputy Chairman of the Board. Mr. Helie is
replacing Christian Paupe who has announced his intention to pursue
other career opportunities.
"Last summer Mr. Cavell informed me of his wish to see his
responsibilities lightened while remaining associated with the growth
and success of the Company. Today, I am pleased to announce that
Charlie will work very closely with Michel thereby ensuring a smooth
transition," said Mr. Mulroney. He added: "Michel Desbiens and Claude
Helie formed a team that was highly regarded by everyone when they
drove the impressive growth of Donohue Inc. At Michel's invitation
Claude has accepted to rejoin him and assume the role of Chief
Financial Officer of Quebecor World. The combination of the skills of
these two individuals will ensure that the Company will continue to
grow and deliver value to all shareholders."
Mr. Mulroney said that, "Charlie has provided exceptional
leadership at Quebecor World Inc. and has greatly contributed to the
growth of the Company during the past 15 years. We are delighted with
Charlie's decision to accept a new appointment as Deputy Chairman of
the Board, thereby ensuring his ongoing valuable assistance to the new
management team."
The CEO of Quebecor Inc., the controlling shareholder of Quebecor
World, Pierre Karl Peladeau said, "In its day, Donohue was the model
in its sector of activity, arguably the best paper company in the
world. This success story had a lot to do with the leadership and hard
work of the two individuals that are being appointed today." Mr.
Peladeau added, "Quebecor World is very much part of the history of
Quebecor and these two men have been a major part of our success. I am
confident they will continue to deliver for our shareholders in their
new roles."
Mr. Desbiens' appointment is effective immediately. Mr. Helie's is
effective February 17. Messrs. Cavell, Paupe, Desbiens and Helie will
participate on the Quebecor World fourth quarter, year-end conference
call.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 40,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United
States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain,
Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru,
Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Management Profiles: Michel Desbiens and Claude Helie
MONTREAL, February 3, 2003--Quebecor World Inc.
(NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW)
Michel Desbiens
Chief Executive Officer, Quebecor World Inc.
Mr. Desbiens was educated at Laval University receiving a
Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1964. He began his
career in the paper industry, holding a number of engineering and
supervisory positions. In 1977, he joined Domtar as General Manager,
Manufacturing for the company's newsprint division. A few years later,
he was appointed Domtar's Vice-President and General Manager for
newsprint, commercial pulp and groundwood specialties. In 1985, Mr.
Desbiens became CEO of Chapelle-Darblay, a French pulp and paper
company. Returning to Canada in the late '80s, Mr. Desbiens held
several senior executive positions at Domtar in sales, marketing and
business development before moving to Donohue as Chief Operating
Officer in 1992. In 1994, he was appointed President and CEO of
Donohue, a position he held until the company was sold to Abitibi
Consolidated in 2000. Mr. Desbiens became a Director of Quebecor World
Inc. in April 2002 and was named CEO International Operations in
November 2002.
Claude Helie
Chief Financial Officer, Quebecor World Inc.
Mr. Claude Helie has been the Executive Vice-President and Chief
Financial Officer of Quebecor Inc. since April 2000. Prior to that, he
was Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer at the pulp and paper
company, Donohue Inc. From 1982 to 1994, Mr. Helie was Vice-President
Finance at the Societe generale de financement du Quebec, a Quebec
Crown Corporation. He is a graduate of l'Ecole des hautes etudes
commerciales and is a member of the Order of Chartered Accountants of
Quebec.
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Announces
Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year Results
MONTREAL, February 3, 2003--Quebecor World Inc.
(NYSE:IQW) (TSX:IQW) is pleased to announce 2002 year-end and fourth
quarter results. For the full year 2002, revenues were $6.2 billion
compared to $6.3 billion in 2001. Net income amounted to $279.3
million or $1.76 per diluted share compared to $22.4 million or $0.00
per diluted share for the years ended December 31, 2002 and 2001
respectively. For the full year 2002, restructuring and other special
charges amounted to $24.1 million compared to $226.3 million after
tax, in the prior year. Free cash flow increased to $320 million in
2002 from $287 million in 2001, an 11% increase.
Revenues for the fourth quarter 2002 increased 5% to $1.7 billion.
Operating income increased 7% to $160 million and earnings per share
increased 11% on a comparable basis (note: 1) to $0.61 per diluted
share.
Operating margin in the fourth quarter, before restructuring and
other charges, increased to 9.5% compared to 9.3% for the same period
last year. We recorded strong performance in our North American
Magazine/Catalog and Directory Groups that helped offset significantly
weaker results in our North American Commercial/Direct Group and in
our French operations. On a full year comparable basis operating
margin was 9.0% compared to 9.8% in 2001.
"During the first half of 2002 we realized lower revenues and
earnings, as expected. We experienced improvement in the last six
months and reduced financial expenses, allowing us to grow EPS on a
comparable basis in the third and fourth quarters," said Mr. Charles
G. Cavell, President and CEO Quebecor World. "This was achieved
despite price pressures as a result of the difficult economic climate
and excess capacity in the industry. We expect these conditions to
continue into 2003 thereby requiring a continued focus on cost
containment as we move forward."
During 2002 Quebecor World was successful in gaining new business
and renewing long-term contracts with existing customers especially in
our largest market, North America. Recently we announced contract wins
with such important retailers and publishers as USA WEEKEND, Simon &
Schuster, Albertsons, Rogers Publishing, and with Avon, Reader's
Digest, Telefonica and Abril in Latin America.
"These wins clearly demonstrate that our leading technological
platform and one-stop global shopping approach is of tremendous value
in the market place," added Mr. Cavell. "We are determined to continue
to be the low cost provider in our industry. This mix of a
high-technology, low cost platform, coupled with strong customer
service is what has made us the world leader and we will ensure this
continues to be the case in all our geographies."
During the fourth quarter the Company recognized restructuring and
other special charges of $19.6 million, pre-tax. The major components
of this restructuring charge include the cost of workforce reductions
in North America, Europe and Latin America, the write-off of an
investment in Q-Media, a CD ROM replication business, and idle or
impaired assets, for a total of $60 million. This is partially offset
by the reversal of unused reserves in the 2001 restructuring
initiatives amounting to $40 million.
Quebecor World's European operations, in countries outside of
France, grew revenues and operating income in 2002 in spite of
difficult print market conditions. Overall in Europe, revenues
increased in the quarter and on a year-to-date basis but operating
margins dropped because of our underperforming French operations. The
Company is committed to correcting this situation, as we indicated in
the third quarter, by significantly reducing costs in an effort to
improve our French results.
In Latin America our business continued its strong growth. Despite
a weaker fourth quarter, 2002 revenues increased 13% to $183 million.
On a comparable basis, operating margins in 2002 improved to 7.8% from
6.5% in 2001.
During the year Quebecor World significantly improved its
financial condition. For the year ending December 31, 2002, the net
repayment of long-term debt amounted to $380 million. For the year,
financial expenses were reduced by $39 million or 18% compared to
2001, due to reduced bank borrowings and lower rates of interest on
long-term debt and securitization. At the end of 2002 Quebecor World's
debt-to-capitalization stood at 40:60 compared to 46:54 at the end of
2001. This is also down from the high of 62:38 at the time of the
World Color merger in 1999.
The Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.13 per share on
Multiple Voting Shares and Subordinate Voting Shares. The Board also
declared a dividend of CDN$0.3845 per share on Series 3 Preferred
Shares, CDN$0.4219 per share on Series 4 Preferred Shares and
CDN$0.43125 on Series 5 Preferred Shares. The dividends are payable on
March 3, 2003 to shareholders of record at the close of business
February 14, 2003.
Quebecor World Inc. also announced today that it has filed its
quarterly report for the quarter ended December 31, 2002 with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. The report contains certifications
from Charles G. Cavell, President and Chief Executive Officer and
Christian M. Paupe, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative
Officer and Chief Financial Officer, that the periodic report fully
complies with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and that the
information contained in the report fairly presents, in all material
respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the
company. These certifications are in accordance with the requirements
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
Quebecor World To Webcast Investor Conference Call on
February 4, 2003
Quebecor World Inc. will broadcast its Fourth Quarter, Year-end
conference call live over the Internet on February 4, 2003 at
8:00 AM (EST).
The conference call, which will last approximately one hour, will
be webcast live and can be accessed on the Quebecor World web site:
http://www.quebecorworld.com/htmen/webcasts/Q402
Prior to the call please ensure that you have the appropriate
software. The Quebecor World web address listed above has instructions
and a direct link to download the necessary software, free of charge.
Anyone unable to attend this conference call may listen to the
replay tape by phoning (416) 695-5800 or (800) 408-3053 passcode
1359916, available from February 4, 2003 to February 10, 2003.
Except for historical information contained herein, the statements
in this release are forward-looking and made pursuant to the safe
harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of
1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and
uncertainties that may cause the Company's actual results in future
periods to differ materially from forecasted results.
Those risks include, among others, changes in customers' demand
for the Company's products, changes in raw material and equipment
costs and availability, seasonal changes in customer orders, pricing
actions by the Company's competitors, and general changes in economic
conditions.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 40,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United
States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain,
Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru,
Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Announces New Contract Wins in Latin America
MONTREAL, January 9, 2003--Quebecor World Inc.'s
(NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW) Latin American business continues to grow as the
Company develops new partnerships and builds on relationships with our
North American and European customers. Quebecor World is pleased to
announce several new agreements with existing customers who are
expanding their business in Latin America including Telefonica de
Espana, Reader's Digest, Avon and Abril.
Quebecor World signed a long-term agreement with Telefonica de
Espana to print directories in Brazil, Chile, Argentina and Peru. The
total value of this agreement may exceed $40 million. Quebecor World
will produce white and yellow page directories at its facilities in
Brazil, Peru, Argentina and Chile. The annual volume, in excess of 9
billion printed pages, represents approximately half the number of
directory pages Quebecor World prints in Canada.
"This agreement builds on our partnership with Telefonica in
Europe where we print their directories in Spain," said Guy Trahan,
President, Quebecor World Latin America. "European companies such as
Telefonica are choosing Quebecor World Latin America because they know
we have the expertise and the platform to produce a top quality
product for their customers throughout the region."
Quebecor World has also concluded a multi-year agreement to print
magazines for Reader's Digest. These monthly, quarterly and special
edition magazines will be distributed to Reader's Digest customers in
Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras,
Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama. The work will be produced at
Quebecor World's facility in Lima, Peru. Quebecor World also produces
books for Reader's Digest in Mexico.
Under a new agreement with Avon, Quebecor World is now
manufacturing all of its catalogs for distribution in Peru, Chile and
Bolivia. The work is produced at Quebecor World's facilities in Peru
and Chile.
"We are eager to expand our business with Avon," said Mr. Trahan.
"They are a valued customer of ours in North America and Europe and
this latest agreement further solidifies this relationship and will
help Avon reach even more customers in the Latin American market."
Finally, in December, Quebecor World Latin America signed a
long-term contract to print Editora Abril's sheet-fed printed products
in Brazil. This agreement covers inserts and short-run sections for
the monthly magazines that Abril prints in Sao Paulo. Quebecor World
and Editora Abril, Brazil's largest magazine publisher, have had a
close working relationship for several years and in 2000 signed an
agreement for Quebecor World to produce Abril's publications in the
North East of Brazil at a specially constructed plant in Recife.
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 40,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the United
States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, Spain,
Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina, Peru,
Colombia, Mexico and India.
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to headlines
Signs $CDN 270 Million
Long-Term Agreement to Print Directories for Bell ActiMedia
MONTREAL, December 17, 2002--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW)(TSX:IQW)
is pleased to announce it has signed a long-term agreement to print
yellow and white page directories for Yellow Pages Group Co. - formerly
known as Bell ActiMedia -, Canada's largest directory publisher.
Under the agreement Quebecor World will print approximately 18
billion directory pages per year for more than 100 different directories
in Ontario and Quebec. This represents approximately 40% of all
the directory pages printed in Canada.
"I am delighted we have been able to extend and enhance our mutually
beneficial relationship with Yellow Pages Group," said Charles G.
Cavell, President and CEO of Quebecor World Inc. "They are an important
customer of ours and this new agreement is a win-win for both companies."
"This new agreement will allow us to continue to serve our customers
by providing the most complete directories in the marketplace, "
said Marc P. Tellier, President and CEO, Yellow Pages Group. "Throughout
our long relationship Quebecor World has continued to improve service
so we are able to provide our advertisers with the best ROI media
in Canada"
"Our relationship with Yellow Pages Group is a model of how two
partners can work together to drive operational excellence to their
mutual benefit," said David Bragen, President Quebecor World Directory
Group. "We've been able to reduce production times and improve quality.
Our digital pre-press satellite technology is a great benefit to
a large customer like Yellow Pages Group, that operates on a level
of excellence on a global scale. We look forward to continuing this
ever evolving relationship."
Quebecor World's state-of-the-art heatset technology offers our
directory customers clear crisp quality, vibrant colours for true-to-life
reproductions producing a market leading, premier product. The directories
will be produced at Quebecor World's facilities in Bromont, Quebec,
Richmond Hill and Toronto, Ontario.
About Yellow Pages Group:
Yellow Pages Group Co. is the Canadian leader in the directories
business. Its mission is to connect buyers and sellers. The Group
markets and distributes print and electronic Yellow Pages(TM) products
including the White pages and Canada's leading electronic directories
www.YellowPages(TM).ca and www.Canada411(TM).ca. The Yellow Pages(TM)
are the most used and comprehensive directories found in 97% of
homes and businesses in Ontario and Quebec. Yellow Pages Group is
owned by Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co (KKR), Ontario Teachers' Merchant
Bank and Bell Canada.
About Quebecor World:
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 40,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the
United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium,
Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina,
Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Awarded Multi-year Contracts
From Simon & Schuster
GREENWICH, Conn. & NEW YORK, December 9, 2002-- Quebecor World
Inc. (NYSE:IQW) (TSX:IQW) has been awarded contracts for the exclusive
production of the majority of Simon & Schuster book product formats.
These multi-year contracts, having a total sales potential of $230
million, extend a longstanding relationship between Simon & Schuster
and Quebecor World.
"Our new, expanded relationship with Quebecor World highlights
the advantages of sole sourcing and mutual benefits of closely aligning
our production processes with one major player. We look forward
to working with them on advances in technology, streamlining operations,
and improving our time to market," said Sam Judd, Senior Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer of Simon & Schuster.
Jerry Allee, Quebecor World Book Service President, North America
stated "We are excited to have been awarded this contract to expand
our relationship with Simon & Schuster. They are one of the world's
largest publishers of best selling novels and at any one time their
titles make up approximately one-third of the top ten of the New
York Times best seller lists. It is our intent to continue to help
our customers leverage their own economies of scale, as we work
together to optimize the print production supply chain".
The majority of the production will take place at Quebecor World's
Buffalo, Fairfield and Martinsburg plants. Additionally, Quebecor
World has invested in a Digital Trade Module in its Martinsburg
facility. This module is completely operational and was established
to support the efficient production of run lengths of under 500
units.
"This unique, customized process allows Quebecor World to ensure
publishers such as Simon & Schuster that their titles will always
be in print," said Mr. Allee. "This is one more example of how we
are developing new services to respond to our customers ever changing
needs. Quebecor World's leading edge book printing technology guarantees
the life of our customers books and creates a whole new market opportunity
for them without increasing inventories."
About Simon & Schuster
Simon & Schuster, part of the entertainment operation of Viacom
Inc., is a global leader in the field of general interest publishing,
dedicated to providing the best in fiction and nonfiction for consumers
of all ages, across all printed, electronic and multi-media formats.
Its divisions include the Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Group,
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, Simon & Schuster New Media,
Simon & Schuster Online, Simon & Schuster U.K.. and Simon & Schuster
Australia.
About Quebecor World
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE; TSX: IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 40,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the
United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium,
Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina,
Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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Signs New $150 Million
Contract With Albertsons
GREENWICH, Conn., December 9, 2002--Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW)
(TSX:IQW) today announced it has signed a three-year $150 million
contract to print a majority of Albertsons (NYSE:ABS) weekly advertising
insert program. Albertsons is one of the world's largest food and
drug retailers with annual revenues of approximately $38 billion.
This new agreement expands on a previous partnership between Quebecor
World and Albertsons under which Quebecor World printed approximately
20 per cent of Albertsons' advertising inserts.
"This agreement is an excellent example of our retail insert strategy
of providing a coast-to-coast retail platform for major U.S. retailers,"
said David Boles, Co-Chief Operating Officer Quebecor World North
America. "We are pleased that a retailer of the size and scope of
Albertsons is placing its trust in Quebecor World to supply its
weekly advertising insert program. This also shows that our recent
acquisition of our Taunton, Mass. facility and the expansion of
our operations in Riverside, California were the right decisions
positioning us to grow our customer base and benefit our shareholders."
Quebecor World will produce approximately 40 million retail inserts
per week at its facilities in California, Arizona, Oklahoma, Tennessee,
Massachusetts and British Columbia. These retail inserts are placed
in more than 250 newspapers per week for delivery to Albertsons
customers across the U.S.
"This new partnership with Quebecor World reaffirms our company-wide
focus on aggressive cost and process control," said Pam Powell,
Group Vice President Marketing & Advertising. "Quebecor World's
combination of service and its extensive platform offer us the geographic
scope required by a Company of our size, as well as a significant
cost savings benefit."
About Albertsons
Albertsons is one of the world's largest food and drug retailers,
with annual revenues of approximately $38 billion. Based in Boise,
Idaho, the Company employs more than 200,000 associates and operates
approximately 2,300 retail stores in 33 states under the banners
including Albertsons, Jewel-Osco, Acme, Sav-on Drugs, Osco Drugs,
Albertsons-Osco, Albertsons-Sav-on, Max Foods and Super Saver.
About Quebecor World
Quebecor World Inc. (NYSE:IQW) (TSX:IQW) is the largest commercial
printer in the world. It is a market leader in most of its major
product categories which include magazines, inserts and circulars,
books, catalogs, specialty printing and direct mail, directories,
digital pre-media, logistics, mail list technologies and other value
added services. Quebecor World Inc. has approximately 40,000 employees
working in more than 160 printing and related facilities in the
United States, Canada, Brazil, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium,
Spain, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Finland, Chile, Argentina,
Peru, Colombia, Mexico and India.
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