Development - future

The consolidation process in the printing industry

All around us, the process of consolidation amongst customers and suppliers continues unabated. The consolidation process is also taking place in our own industry. Increasing capital intensity, unabated demand for faster turnaround times and lower costs are resulting in the need for further enlargement. RSDB previously indicated that it is convinced that further enlargement in a European context for the production of large volume printed material is unavoidable. In response to this, research was carried out into the need for RSDB to participate in the consolidation process. The result is that RSDB is seeking to play an active role in the consolidation process and has identified potential collaboration partners. Exploratory talks have now taken place with possible candidates. RSDB's expertise in both the demerging of combined publishers/printers and in the area of true consolidation/integration has thereby proved to offer added value. Options will be assessed for opportunities for synergy, growth of market share in Europe and strengthening of the current healthy financial position.