SUSSEX, Wisconsin -- Quad/Graphics announced that it is closing its direct mail facility on McCall Drive in Atlanta on or before 1 Feb. 2015.

The move, announced by the printer in a letter to suppliers, will result in the loss of about 100 jobs.

In the letter, David Blais, executive vice president of global procurement and platform strategy, told suppliers the Atlanta facility's presses were in need of "significant, costly upgrades to remain productive and competitive." The facility itself carries an expensive lease, is 50 years old and much too big for Quad/Graphics' purposes, he added.

Also, given that Quad's commingling capabilities are concentrated in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, it didn't really fit into the company's geographic scheme. Work being done in Atlanta will be transitioned to the company's other direct mail facilities starting in January, according to Claire Ho, director of corporate communications for Quad/Graphics.

The decision is not a reflection of the company's direct mail fortunes. Ho points out that Quad/Graphics has invested nearly $70 million in bolstering its direct mail platform during the past four years. Among the enhancements: an 11-unit, double-web inline press in Effingham, IL; three new inline presses in Pewaukee, WI; a rebuilt roll-to-roll press in Chalfont, PA; and a UV forms press in Westampton, NJ. Quad/Graphics also unveiled commingling super centers in Wisconsin and New Jersey.

"In the coming year, we will invest in additional platform enhancements to serve the direct marketing community, including another forms press, additional four-color and monochrome inkjet capabilities, and two First Class mail sorters to support high compliance programs," Ho said.