BIC Bucks The Trend, No Midyear Price Bump

Clearwater, Florida-based BIC Graphic USA (BGU) announced the company has no plans to institute a midyear price increase, even with increased fuel costs driving manufacturing costs up in all industries. BGU believes in helping distributors maintain good customer relations and business strategies. According to Jack Teague, president BIC Group Graphic, “As 2008 reaches its midpoint, the promotional products industry is dealing with a very competitive and inflationary marketplace. BIC Graphic USA recognizes and respects the relationship our distributors have with their customers, and the annual pricing commitments distributors have made as part of their business plan.” The current pricing will be held in place through the remainder of 2008.

In addition, the company plans to institute new marketing efforts to help distributor businesses. Teague added, “To assist distributors in their sales efforts, BGU is launching a new “Stretch Your Dollar” promotion during the third quarter featuring over 15 items for less than $1 and is also offering distributor imprint sample offers at up to 35 percent off end-quantity pricing.”

Teague feels this approach provides a win-win situation for BGU and the distributors it serves. “Partnership is defined as working together to achieve common goals,” Teague concluded, “and BIC Graphic USA will continue to work to achieve mutual success.”

About BIC Graphic USA:

BIC Graphic USA , a division of BIC USA Inc., is a leading, world-class supplier of custom-imprinted products for the promotional products industry. Established in 1969 under the name BIC Special Markets Division, BIC Graphic USA now offers a wide-variety of custom-imprinted writing instruments and complementary products.