MORTSEL, BELGIUM—  ECO3 announces a global price increase for its offset printing plates and chemicals, effective March 1. The decision follows the continued rise in the cost of aluminum - the key component of offset plates - as well as the increasing cost of all aluminum-related treatments and processes. The price increase will reach double-digit levels, with the exact adjustment depending on the specific characteristics of each product. Customers will be contacted individually to discuss timing, planning and the expected impact, in full alignment with their contractual framework. Agfa Offset division sold to private equity group Aurelius has been rebrand  ECO3. ECO3's product range also includes an increasingly significant range of software and workflow tools, along with CTP systems, graphic arts film, proofing and chemicals. It's major competitors world wide are Fujifilm and Kodak. ECO3 distribution and employees in Canada remain the same as under Agfa.