Industry News

Put Your Penmanship To The Test In Celebration Of National Handwriting Day, January, 2007
Certified Pencils Are the “Write” Choice, October 2006
When Buying For Back To School, Be Sure To Choose Safe, Certified Pencils, September 2006
WIMA Hosts First International Forum, May 2006
Rediscover the Written Word, January 2006
Writing Instrument Industry Continues to Grow, April 2005
National Handwriting Day - Get Back To Basics, January 2005
Leading Writing Instrument Professionals Gather in Orlando, August 2004
WIMA Recongizes Newest David Price/Frank King Award Recipient, June 2004
WIMA Debuts 2004 Online Directory, May 2004
Orlando Plays Host to 2004 International Write Show , February 2004
Celebrating the Written Word, January 2004
Writing Instruments Market Grows Despite Digital Revolution, October 2003
WIMA Celebrates 60th Anniversary, September 2003
Writing Instruments Remain an Important Part of Personal Communication, January 2003

PUT YOUR PENMANSHIP TO THE TEST IN CELEBRATION OF NATIONAL HANDWRITING DAY

MOUNT LAUREL, NJ, JANUARY 17, 2007 – In honor of National Handwriting Day on January 23, the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) is celebrating the importance of the written word, stressing its benefits, and encouraging you to observe the day by putting your penmanship skills to the test.

For many, picking up a pen and writing a letter may seem like an antiquated way of keeping in touch. In our technology savvy society, electronic communication has become second nature, and email and blogs appear to have taken precedence over good old fashioned penmanship.

“Although our society continues to change, one thing that will not is the power of the pen,” commented Robert Waller, Jr. Executive Vice President for WIMA. “Writing instruments and written words remain an import part of everyday communication. We’ve become so accustomed to quickness and convenience, and often we forget that the personal touch is still an important part of personal communication.”

The printed word has classic strengths like permanence, tangibility and friendliness. Although the technology of today continues to surge, so does the importance of personal communication through the handwritten word.

An added benefit of the written word often overlooked is health. Studies have proven that writing down your thoughts is a way to heal, both physically and mentally. Experts in the field of journaling now say writing can help with almost anything that causes stress and anxiety, including anger, depression and weight loss. This is important because stress can affect your immune system, raise blood pressure and skew hormonal function.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of National Handwriting Day, established by WIMA to alert the public to the importance of handwriting, stress the benefits of handwritten communication, promote good penmanship and encourage legible handwriting. WIMA sponsors National Handwriting Day every January 23 in conjunction with John Hancock’s birthday. Hancock, who would be 270 years old, was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence and is famous for his large, bold signature.

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) is a national trade association covering the $4.8 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers. Established in 1943, WIMA merged with the Pencil Maker’s Association in 1994 to strengthen the industry’s voice and promote the writing instrument industry worldwide and inform members of issues affecting the industry.

For more information on the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association or National Handwriting Day, email wima@ahint.com or visit the website at www.wima.org

CERTIFIED PENCILS ARE THE “WRITE” CHOICE
Make Safety the First Priority When Selecting Pencils

MOUNT LAUREL, NJ, OCTOBER 30, 2006 – When it comes to pencils, the PMA Certification Seal makes all the difference. That’s why the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) is proud to sponsor the Pencil Makers Association (PMA) certification program, designed to ensure the materials that make up your pencils are all at non-toxic levels.

Every year there are accidents involving pencils, which could result in serious injury depending on the types of materials used. Such materials are specifically excluded from WIMA/PMA-certified pencils.

Consumers, retailers and wholesalers can be assured the pencils they use, buy and sell are safe and non-toxic by buying from pencil manufacturers who are a part of the Pencil Certification Program. The PMA Certification Seal ensures that the products displaying the seal are non-toxic from immediate and long-term health points of view. Only pencils manufactured from materials that are free from toxins and do not cause harmful effects if chewed receive the seal of approval.

“Since its inception more than 35 years ago, WIMA’s pencil certification program has grown substantially, commented Robert Waller, Jr., WIMA’s Executive Vice President. “The program and logo are widely recognized, and have become an important factor in pencil purchases. We are proud of the program, as well as our member companies for their commitment to safety.”

PMA certification is open to all cased pencil manufacturers around the world. This voluntary program requires that all parts of the pencil be individually reviewed for toxicity, including the review of cores, slats, ferrules, erasers and lacquers to make sure they contain only non-toxic substances. Once assembled, the pencils are randomly tested again to ensure adherence to the requirements.

WIMA's leadership efforts are among a growing movement within the industry and government to require labeling and the banning of potential health hazards, especially to young children. Consumers can be assured that the pencils they use are safe and non-toxic by buying from pencil manufacturers who are a part of the Pencil Certification Program.

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $4.8 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers. Established in 1943, WIMA merged with the Pencil Maker's Association in 1994 to strengthen the industry's voice and promote the writing instrument industry worldwide and inform members of issues affecting the industry.

For more information on the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association or the Pencil Certification Program, email wima@ahint.com or visit the Web site at www.wima.org

WHEN BUYING FOR BACK TO SCHOOL, BE SURE TO CHOOSE SAFE, CERTIFIED PENCILS

MOUNT LAUREL, NJ, SEPTEMBER 2006 – This year, send your children back to school with safe, certified pencils. The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) is proud to sponsor the Pencil Makers Association (PMA) certification program, designed to ensure the materials that make up your pencils are all at non-toxic levels.

“Manufacturers in the Pencil Certification Program are committed to providing the safest product possible,” commented Robert Waller, Jr., WIMA’s Executive Vice President. “We are proud of the Pencil Certification Program, and admire the commitment of our member companies to protect the health of well being of consumers.”

For more information on the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association or the Pencil Certification Program, email wima@ahint.com or visit the Web site at www.wima.org.

WRITING INSTRUMENT MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION HOSTS FIRST INTERNATIONAL FORUM

Mt. Laurel , NJ , May 24, 2006 - The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) is pleased to announce the recent success of the 2006 International Forum. Hosted by WIMA, this first-of-its-kind meeting was designed to discuss key issues of mutual interest affecting the industry worldwide.

Attendees gained a better understanding of issues they face in their domestic markets, and learned how to improve international cooperation, trade and the communication amongst international writing instrument organizations.

Highlights included presentations from:

Joseph Mohorovic, Chief of Staff for the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission w ho addressed issues of global harmonization of mandatory standards and voluntary standards, including the use of third party certification programs
Roxanne Hercules, Public Affairs Officer and Dario Rocha, Import Specialist for the U.S. Customs & Border Protection who reviewed Customs' tools to combat products that fail to comply with CPSC laws and regulations, counterfeit products and fraudulent entries.
Ron Oleynik, Esq., Partner of Holland & Knight who discussed the role of the World Trade Organization and trade remedies developed by WTO members throughout the world.
Margee Ensign, Dean, School of International Studies for the University of the Pacific who discussed demographic trends affecting the sale/production of writing instruments world wide.

In addition, writing instrument associations such as the Japan Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (JWIMA), the China Writing Instrument Association (CWIA) and the Writing Instruments Manufacturers Organization, India (WIMO) presented information about their history, membership, program and services, and industry statistics.

“WIMA is pleased with the outcome of this inaugural International Forum and proud to be part of a network that is willing to prosper together for the good of the industry,” commented Robert B. Waller, Jr., executive vice president for WIMA. “We are hopeful this is the first of many International Forums for the writing instrument industry.”

For more information on WIMA, contact headquarters at: 15000 Commerce Parkway, Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525; e-mail: wima@ahint.com or visit www.wima.org.

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CELEBRATE NATIONAL HANDWRITING DAY ON JANUARY 23 AND REDISCOVER THE WRITTEN WORD

Mt. Laurel , NJ , January, 19, 2006 - The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) encourages all Americans this January 23 to rediscover the handwritten word and celebrate National Handwriting Day!

National Handwriting Day is held in conjunction with the birthday of John Hancock. This year marks, what would have been, the 269 th birthday of this infamous historical figure, known for being the first to put his bold signature on the Declaration of Independence.

“The focus that was once placed on the importance of handwriting has changed with the times,” Robert B. Waller, Jr., executive vice president for WIMA commented. “For this reason, WIMA continues to honor National Handwriting Day and urges the public to support the value of personal handwritten notes.”

Experts agree that handwriting is at the core of excellence by showing the value of legibility, attention to detail, neatness, and correctness. Additionally, scientists agree that writing down your thoughts is a way to heal, both physically and mentally. Experts say that journaling can help alleviate stress and anxiety, keeping you happier and healthier.

Sponsored annually by WIMA, National Handwriting Day was founded in 1977. The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $4.8 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers.

For more information on National Handwriting Day or WIMA, contact the WIMA office at 15000 Commerce Parkway , Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525; e-mail: wima@ahint.com or visit www.wima.org.

WRITING INSTRUMENTS MARKET CONTINUES TO GROW DESPITE ELECTRONIC AGE

MT. LAUREL, N.J. April 11, 2005– The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) announces consumer spending reached $4.8 billion for the U.S. writing instruments market in 2004. An increase over the $4.6 billion in 2003.

Pens make up 47% of the market at $2.5 billion in manufacturer sales. With 46% of the market, pencils reached $.84 billion. Markers and highlighters combined represent 7% of the industry or $.39 billion.

The growth of the market can be attributed to several factors; back –to-school purchases, New Year replenishment and ongoing purchases. In addition, this demand comes from essential business and educational tools, personal use, gifts, luxury, collectable items, memorabilia and specialty writing instruments.

Writing instruments continue to play an integral part in the life of practically all American businesses, schools and households. The advent of computers and related technologies has yet to make writing instruments obsolete. In fact, the writing instrument industry embraces the evolution of technology by incorporating it into new products and using it to enhance business aspects and client services.

“Pens, pencils and markers continue to be staples of American life and indispensable items for every day use,” remarks WIMA President, Billy Fox of National Pen Corp. “WIMA is dedicated to industry growth and manufacturers continue to push the envelope of design, innovation and functionality which is a true testament to our mission.”

For more information on WIMA, contact: 15000 Commerce Parkway, Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525; email: wima@ahint.com or visit www.wima.org.

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GET BACK TO BASICS - Celebrate National Handwriting Day
MOUNT LAUREL, NJ - In such a technology savvy society, the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) invites you to take time to get back to the basics and celebrate National Handwriting Day on January 23 rd!

Sponsored annually by WIMA, National Handwriting Day is held in conjunction with the birthday of John Hancock. This year marks, what would have been, the 268th birthday of this infamous historical figure, known for being the first to put his bold signature on the Declaration of Independence.

The purpose of National Handwriting Day is to alert the public to the importance of handwriting, stress the benefits of handwritten communication, promote good penmanship and encourage legible handwriting. The focus that was once placed on the importance of handwriting has changed with the times. Now, children are learning earlier how to type correctly and send email as opposed to the traditional lessons in proper penmanship. Sending email has become more common then sending letters and cards, and palm pilots are replacing pocket calendars and notebooks.

“Technology has become such a part of our lives, rarely do we even notice that we’ve drifted from traditional ways,” Robert B. Waller, Jr., executive vice president for WIMA commented. “As a society, we’ve become so accustomed to quickness and convenience, often we forget that the personal touch is still an important part of personal communication.”

Additionally, scientists agree that writing down your thoughts is a way to heal, both physically and mentally. Experts say that journaling can help alleviate stress and anxiety, keeping you happier and healthier.

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $4.5 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers.

For more information on National Handwriting Day or WIMA, contact the WIMA office at 15000 Commerce Parkway, Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525; e-mail: wima@ahint.com or visit www.wima.org.

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Leading Writing Instrument Professionals Gather In Orlando
Mount Laurel , NJ – The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) announces the 2004 International Write Show, September 20-22, in Orlando, Florida. Together, WIMA and the School, Home and Office Products Association (SHOPA) will partner to present their shows, bringing the biggest names in the industry to one arena.

For a third consecutive year, WIMA and SHOPA will combine venues to exhibit premier components used in the manufacturing of writing instruments. Although the organizations may be sharing exhibit space, WIMA and SHOPA’s trade shows will remain separate entities.

“This partnership benefits everyone in the writing instruments and school and office products arena,” says Robert Waller, Jr., WIMA Executive Vice President. “We’re thrilled to have everyone back for what promises to be an exceptional event.”

The International Write Show is the only one of its kind in the United States. Many component suppliers will be exhibiting products from a variety of categories, filling the Orange County Convention Center with inks, tips, clips, nibs, cartridges, caps, barrels, plugs and other components, as well as hot stamping, printing and assembly machinery.

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $4.5 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers.

For more information on WIMA or how to register for the upcoming International Write Show, contact the WIMA office at 17000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C, Mt. Laurel, NJ, 08054; 856-638-0426, e-mail wima@ahint.com, or visit www.wima.org.

The 2004 International Write Show is closed to the general public.

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Media are invited and welcome to attend.

WIMA Recognizes Newest David Price/Frank King Award Recipient

Tom Kelleher of BIC Corporation was recently awarded the 2004 David Price/Frank King Award for distinguished service to the writing instrument industry. Tom's exemplary dedication and service was recognized on behalf of the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) and the leadership of Messrs. Price and King.

Tom has been an active member of WIMA since 1996 and has played a key role in the success of the association and industry. Currently, Tom serves as Immediate Past President on the Board of Directors. Previous positions held include president, vice president, and chairman of the Product Safety Committee. In addition, he was involved in several strategic planning sessions.

In addition to his responsibilities with the association, Tom is Senior Vice President – Administration, General Counsel and Secretary of BIC Corporation, which he was elected to in 1996. Since joining BIC in 1988, Tom has held various positions of increasing responsibility.

In his current position, Tom oversees all legal, insurance/risk management, communications/public relations, government relations, and trade association/standards organization functions on behalf of BIC.

Prior to joining BIC, he was in-house counsel for a Fortune 500 company and with law firms in New York .

Tom received his law degree from Pace University School of Law and undergraduate degree, summa cum laude, from Fordham University .

“It is truly an honor to recognize Tom for such a distinguished award,” says Robert B. Waller Jr., Executive Vice President of WIMA. “He has been a valuable part of the association for a number of years and a great leader in the eyes of many in the industry.”

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $4.5 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers and recently celebrated its 60 th Anniversary in 2003. For more information on WIMA contact: 17000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C, Mt. Laurel, NJ, 08054; 856-638-0426, e-mail wima@ahint.com , or visit www.wima.org .

If you would like more information on Tom Kelleher or BIC Corporation, please contact: 500 BIC Drive Milford , CT 06460-5444 ; phone: 203-783-2000; fax: 203-783-2108; email: http://www.bicworldusa.com or visit www.bicworld.com

PAST AWARD WINNERS

Frank King
Forrest Beck
David Esterow
Ray Hannah
Randy Hagan

WIMA DEBUTS 2004 ONLINE DIRECTORY

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is pleased to present the newest edition of the Writing and Marking Instrument Industry Directory now online at www.wima.org .

This valuable resource tool provides an international listing of manufacturers supporting the writing and marking instrument industry. It is THE source for information worldwide!

Valuable Information
Manufacturers of finished writing instruments, component, machinery, or specialized service
Alphabetical company listings including company contacts and a brief profile
WIMA membership information
Descriptions of the certification programs
Links to companies
…and more

Log On and Click Away Today

Log onto www.wima.org . Click on “WIMA Directory” to open the door to useful industry information.

No user name needed
No password necessary

ORLANDO PLAYS HOST TO 2004 INTERNATIONAL WRITE SHOW
WIMA and SHOPA Team Up Once Again For the Good of the Industry

MT. LAUREL, N.J.- The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) is pleased to announce the 2004 International Write Show, September 20-22, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.

WIMA will once again partner with the School, Home, and Office Products Association (SHOPA) to offer the WRITE Show and SHOPA Show under one roof.

Its third year in the making, the show allows both trade organizations- although separate entities- to share the same venue to bring industry executives of school supplies, office products and writing instruments together into one forum.

“This event is an effective and efficient venue for everyone involved in the writing instruments and school and office products arena. It’s an event that places the needs, desires, and concerns of the market above all else,” said Billy Fox, WIMA President.

The International Write Show is the only show of its kind in the United States. It’s the industry’s premier trade exhibition of inks, tips, clips, nibs, cartridges, caps, barrels, plugs and other components used in the manufacturing of writing instruments, as well as decorating, hot stamping, printing and assembly machinery.

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $4.5 billion pen, pencil and marker industry.

For more information on the International Write Show or WIMA, please contact the WIMA office at 17000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; call 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525; e-mail: wima@ahint.com or visit www.wima.org.

The International Write Show is closed to the general public.

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Media are invited and welcome to attend.

CELEBRATING THE WRITTEN WORD
NATIONAL HANDWRITING DAY

MT. LAUREL, NJ - January 23, 2004 marks, what would have been, John Hancock's 267th birthday. The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) honors the founding father by celebrating National Handwriting Day.

Though it gets lost in the emergence of digital technology, handwriting still remains a constant in personal communication. With each phone message jotted down, each note secretly passed in class and each memo quickly written in a meeting, the printed word has become part of our subconscious. On January 23rd, WIMA wants to bring that idea to the forefront.

"Whether it is a focus on better penmanship or discovering the permanence and character of handwriting, this is the time to celebrate handwritten communication," said Robert B. Waller, Jr., executive vice president for WIMA.

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $4.5 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers.

For more information on National Handwriting Day or WIMA, contact the WIMA office at 17000 Commerce Parkway, Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525; e-mail: wima@ahint.com or visit www.wima.org.

October 2003

WRITING INSTRUMENTS MARKET GROWS DESPITE DIGITAL REVOLUTION

MT. LAUREL, N.J. – Writing instruments steadfastly remains a large part of society’s communications, despite the advancements and growth of popularity of the PC, Internet, PDAs and other such technology. As reported by the SHOPA (School, Home & Office Products Association) – WIMA (Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association) Flash Report, 2002 saw consumer spending reached $4.5 billion for the U.S. writing instruments market. The growth rate is approximately 3.7% over 2001’s sales figures. Projections for 2003 have an expected growth rate of 5% over 2002.

Robert B. Waller, Jr., executive vice president for WIMA said, “We were pleased to see the growth in the market, but what is most encouraging is that this comes at a time when focus has been turned to digital technology.”

Pens make up 50% of the market, with sales figures at $2.2 billion. With 25% of the market, markers and highlighters reached $940 million and $200 million, respectively. The rest of the market are made up of pencils (20% at $900 million), refills (4% at $200 million), and pen and pencil sets (1% at $50 million).

The growth of the market can be attributed to several factors; changes in the general business, educational environments and writing instruments industry, and the political and social outlook of the U.S. The most indicative sign of growth in the writing instruments market is the increase of the U.S. Gross Domestic Product. 2002’s GDP saw an escalation of 3.6% above the previous year, as the writing instruments market improved 3.7%.

Writing instruments have long been part of the everyday, and the familiarity that comes with it has provided loyal and dedicated consumers. With the increase of the market size, smaller businesses can discover and serve particular markets. The industry also allows for companies of varying sizes to enter the market and become good acquisition candidates. And the market is still discovering new niches, as with ergonomic-designed products, promotional/marketing items or luxury items.

In addition to the improvements of technology, there are other factors that may threaten the U.S. market. Such factors as a mature industry and international competition may stunt the growth of the market in the future. Because the writing instruments industry has achieved a well-developed and mature status, future domestic growth potential may be limited. Asia appears to be the chief challenger in the U.S. market, with China, India, Japan and Korea playing major roles.

The Writing Instrument Manufactures Association is a national trade association covering the $4.5 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers.
For more information on WIMA, contact: 17000 Commerce Parkway, Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525.

WIMA Celebrates 60th Anniversary -September 2003

MT. LAUREL, NJ – This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA). WIMA proudly celebrates this special occasion and honors the past six decades of association challenges, growth and industry recognition.

WIMA was established in 1943 to bring together the voices of the pen, marker and mechanical pencil industries. In 1994, the Pencil Makers Association merged with WIMA to strengthen the industry, making the impact of this association even stronger.

This specialized association takes pride in promoting the overall interest of the writing instrument industry in the United States, Canada and Mexico every day. To this end, WIMA strives to keep its members well-informed on issues which affect the industry and individual companies.

“Since its inception, the industry and the association have grown substantially,” notes Billy Fox, WIMA President. “Today, WIMA’s name and logo are widely recognized and have become synonymous with the industry.”

Writing instrument manufacturers, suppliers and media alike are invited to join WIMA to celebrate at the International Write Show, November 11-13, 2003 in Atlanta, Georgia. The International Write Show is the only show of its kind in the United States and is the premier trade exhibition of components used in the manufacturing of writing instruments.

The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $3 billion industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers.

For more information on WIMA or how to register for the upcoming International Write Show, contact 17000 Commerce Parkway, Suite C, Mt. Laurel, NJ, 08054; 856-638-0426, e-mail wima@ahint.com.

January 2003

Writing Instruments Remain an Important Part of Personal Communication
Celebrate National Handwriting Day

MT. LAUREL, N.J. – The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA) honors the birthday of John Hancock and urges everyone to take a break from the digital media revolution and celebrate National Handwriting Day on January 23.

The printed word has classic strengths like permanence, tangibility and friendliness. Although the technology of today continues to surge, so does the importance of personal communication through the handwritten word.
“WIMA has been sponsoring National Handwriting Day for more than 25 years,” said Robert B. Waller, Jr., executive vice president for WIMA. “And I truly believe through our efforts within the industry we have made it possible for the handwritten word and technology to co-exist harmoniously.”
The purpose of National Handwriting Day is to alert the public to the importance of handwriting, stress the benefits of handwritten communication, promote good penmanship and encourage legible handwriting. National Handwriting Day is a chance for everyone to re-explore the purity and power of handwriting.

WIMA sponsors National Handwriting Day every January 23 in conjunction with John Hancock’s birthday. Hancock was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence and is famous for his large, bold signature.
The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association is a national trade association covering the $3 billions industry of pen, pencil and marker manufacturers.

For more information on National Handwriting Day or WIMA, contact the WIMA office at 17000 Commerce Parkway, Ste. C, Mt. Laurel, NJ 08054; phone 856-638-0426; fax 856-439-0525; e-mail: wima@ahint.com or visit www.wima.org.