Jan. 15, 2002--The nation's unemployment rate edged up to 5.8 percent in December 2001 as businesses cut 124,000 positions. The number of job cuts nationally last year pushed toward the 2 million mark. The printing industry is certainly no exception. However, one New England-based printer is growing despite the turbulent environment. The Artcraft Company is projecting a strong first quarter, and in response is planning to increase its workforce by nearly 33%. Earlier this week, one of The Artcraft Company's largest competitors, Woodbury and Co., Inc., informed its 50 employees that it would be closing its doors. In a unique move, and in keeping with Woodbury's 123-year commitment to customer service, its president David K. Woodbury has transitioned many of the company's projects to The Artcraft Company. Woodbury stated, "Artcraft is an exceptional engraving, lithography, and thermography firm. We have competed and collaborated with one another for close to 50 years. We have the highest respect for the Dumouchel family and their exceptional team.'' According to The Artcraft Company's owner and president John Dumouchel, "We are pleased that Woodbury values our company enough to recommend that we manage its customers needs.'' In order to meet continued growth, and in anticipation of increased traffic from Woodbury's customers, The Artcraft Company will increase its workforce by 33% in the coming months. "Our plan is to invite as many of the Woodbury employees as financially possible to join our organization,'' said Dumouchel. The Artcraft Company is a 63-year-old, family-owned printing business. Since 1939, the company has specialized in engraving and prides itself in its fine quality and the highest customer service. The company continually updates its equipment with the latest technology so that it can offer its customers the best the industry has to offer.