Deluxe announced that demand for its small business incorporation services increased 10 percent in 2020 over 2019. The increase was driven by incorporations of construction, trucking, cleaning services, online sales, consulting, food trucks, landscaping and real estate companies. The acceleration of entrepreneurship coincides with an increase in COVID-19 related unemployment and desire by more people to control their financial future by starting businesses. “Small business owners are starting new ventures and careers in the middle of a pandemic,” said Barry McCarthy, President and CEO of Deluxe. “We think the increased use of Deluxe incorporation services is a leading indicator of small business futures and shows optimism in the small business market going into 2021. These entrepreneurs are risking it all, even at such an uncertain time. Deluxe has proudly supported the incredible pioneering spirit of small business owners for 105 years.”

After three years of hard fought legislative sessions, the Great Lakes Graphics Association is pleased to announce that the Illinois Graphic Arts sales tax exemption has finally been restored. Because of GLGA’s efforts in Springfield, the Graphic Arts sales tax exemption became part of the Illinois Manufacturing Machinery and Equipment exemption. The amendment was part of the Illinois state budget bill, which was approved on July 6, 2017, by a state Senate vote overriding a veto by the Illinois governor. The law now establishes a permanent sales tax exemption for graphic arts and printing equipment, which at a minimum is equal to $6,254 for every $100,000 spent on covered equipment. Graphic arts equipment is defined in Illinois as “graphic arts machinery and equipment, including repair and replacement parts, … and includes chemicals acting as catalysts [that] effect a direct and immediate change upon a graphic arts product.” The exemption was effective July 1, 2017. Click Read More below for more of the story.

Royle Printing, a family-owned catalog and magazine printing business, will break ground on its Success Way facility expansion in May, with a groundbreaking ceremony on May 11 at 3 p.m. The expansion will add 175,000 square feet to Royle’s existing footprint. Once completed, the expanded facility will bring together office space, production, finishing and distribution operations under one roof. “This investment reflects our long-term commitment to our customers, our employees, and the future of print,” Chris Carpenter, president and owner of Royle Printing, said in a statement. “We are experiencing strong growth, and this expansion allows us to continue delivering the high level of service, quality and innovation that our partners expect.” The Success Way expansion will support Royle’s ongoing investments in advanced press technology, finishing capabilities and integrated mailing solutions. Community members, partners, and local officials are invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony at 1750 Success Way, Sun Prairie.