March 25, 2003 -- While 2002 may have been a year of tragedy and loss for Quad/Graphics, those same tests demonstrated the company's unfailing will to overcome adversity. In recognition of our perseverance after the July 2002 fire at our Lomira plant and the death of Founder Harry V. Quadracci two weeks later, Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) association has honored Quad/Graphics with the "Hurdles Overcome" Special Award in its 2002 Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards competition. The "Hurdles Overcome" Special Award recognizes the challenges our company faced last year. Despite these hurdles, we went on to post our best earnings year ever and announced further growth, including the debut of our first plant west of the Mississippi, and new business for 2003. Quad/Graphics' ability to come together in a time of crisis shined through to judges, said Jim Haney, WMC president. "Quad/Graphics has distinguished itself among the best of the best in manufacturing through innovation, a commitment to excellence, dedication to employees and investment in Wisconsin communities," Jim said. "We are proud to have them on the WMC team." In total, 48 companies were nominated for awards. Quad/Graphics was among six Wisconsin-based manufacturers to receive 2002 special awards based on their exemplary contributions to manufacturing in the state. An independent panel of judges, including leaders in business, government, education and the business media, selected this year's winners. The WMC is a statewide, non-profit business association representing Wisconsin business. Currently, the association has nearly 4,300 members, including both large and small manufacturers, service companies, local chambers of commerce and specialized trade associations. The WMC's Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Award is an annual recognition of excellence in manufacturing. -- from Quad/Graphics