News

November 3, 2001

Norwest Mezzanine Partners Supports National Print Group With Capital Investment

Strong Management Focuses on Enhancing Company as Premier Large-Format Printer

Norwest Mezzanine Partners announced today its investment in National Print Group, Inc (NPG). The Chattanooga, Tennessee-based company is a leading large-format commercial printer specializing in out-of-home/outdoor advertising and point-of-purchase displays, and the top U.S. provider of lithography-printed billboards.

The transaction closed on November 2, 2001, and Norwest Mezzanine invested $5,000,000 of senior subordinated debt with warrants. The transaction was structured as a recapitalization, and New York-based Long Point Capital is the equity sponsor. “Our philosophy of investing in high-quality, growth-oriented companies with excellent management teams is validated through our investment in National Print Group,” comments Bill Ughetta, partner at Long Point Capital. “We have assembled an investment group, which includes Norwest Mezzanine, that has the ability to support the growth-oriented strategic direction of the company.”

Michael Hall, partner with Norwest Mezzanine notes, “We’re excited to support National Print Group’s growth strategy with our acquisition experience and additional available capital. Our long and favorable relationship with Long Point Capital furthers our confidence in the company’s ability to generate shareholder value.”

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP) is a leading middle market investment focused on partnering with business owners and building companies into industry leaders. With a reputation for quality investments and exceptional financial returns since 1961, NEP manages nearly $5 billion of capital through a series of equity and mezzanine funds. Offering creative and flexible transaction solutions through management buyouts, recapitalizations and growth financings, NEP seeks $30-$150 million equity investment opportunities for growing and profitable companies within the agriculture, applied technology, business services, consumer products and services, distribution, healthcare and industrial industry sectors. NEP is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota; please visit nep.com for more information.