DUSSELDORF, DRUPA - 6 MAY 2004 - Pantone, Inc., the global authority on colour and provider of professional colour standards for the design industries, today announced the European availability of its revised PANTONE MATCHING SYSTEM, including the flagship PANTONE formula guide that revolutionized the graphic arts industry 40 years ago. Colours in the new formula guide and chips books have changed due to a shift to coated paper that is brighter and whiter, reflecting the general market trend established over the past decade. The new matte guide has a flatter finish than previous editions for greater differentiation from the coated paper. This trend has been driven by a combination of factors: designers have gained more influence over the paper that is specified for use on jobs; prices for premium grades of paper have fallen within a cost-effective range; and because of the competitive dynamics associated with globalisation and consolidation within the paper manufacturing industry. In addition, the coated paper is now provided in a heavier cover weight for improved durability and performance over the previous cover stock. "Our decision to move to a brighter, whiter paper was influenced by the evolving preferences of our designer customers and the trends in the paper industry," explained Richard Herbert, president of Pantone. "We also upgraded to a heavier, smoother paper for greater durability and a better feel, and made our matte paper flatter in response to the needs of our European customers." Herbert continued: "It's important for designers and printers to replace their guides every year. We hear of numerous colour miscommunications resulting from out-of-date formula guides. Pigments fade and paper yellows over time. If designers and printers are not both using a current guide, the colour may not be correct. Using an older guide could lead to costly discrepancies." Pricing New solid colour PANTONE formula guides and PANTONE solid chips are available immediately on the Pantone Web site at www.pantone.com and through select distribution partners. Prices range from €85 to €299 excluding VAT, but will be specially priced at Drupa from €68 to €269 excluding VAT.