Its label interests include Label Double S in Bradford, Customark in Cradley Heath and Stampiton of Stockport. But Mail-Well would not confirm the fate of these companies. We cannot divulge any details of sales while deals are ongoing, said media relations manager Chuck Beck.

The company will concentrate on its two largest segments, envelopes and commercial printing.

Mail-Wells first-quarter 2002 combined sales, however, were down 9.5% on last year to 270.4m ($391.7m). Overall it recorded a net loss of 14.9m compared to a profit of 2.5m last year.

Mail-Wells labels and printed office products businesses had continued to operate well and generate results in accordance with expectations.