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Steady gains for the bottom line are expected in 1999 for the packaging and container industry by virture of acquisitions, improved efficiency, and cost cutting, even though margins have been under pressure from competition. Foreign operations of packaging companies have increased to take advantage of a larger customer base, especially in Europe. However, these stocks are expected to underperform the market in 1999, but some have potential through the years 2001-2003.

The packaging and container industry will continue to be competitive, especially in third-world countries, but merger activity in the industry has slowed considerably. In the beverage container sector, aluminum cans seem to have staked out a major portion of the soft-drink container market, leaving the upscale beverage market to glass container manufacturers. Investments in this industry have good prospects over the short and long term.

The European economic recovery and the favorable exchange rates from European currencies to US dollars is helping the finances of many US packaging and container industry companies. Business is also better in the US and the Pacific Rim as demand for the containers and packaging products has been high since 1992. The Far East is proving to be a strong market since it has a strong economy and a weak packaging industry.

Most packaging and container industry companies offer good investment prospects for the long-term investor. However, short-term prospects are not so good. Europe's weak demand for packaging products is hurting sales of many packaging and container companies. In addition, the currency exchange rate is also hurting US company finances.

Many multinational companies in the packaging and container industry are feeling the affects of the recessions in Europe and other countries making the industry less than desirable for investment. Companies in Latin America and the Pacific Rim are not faring as badly as some in Europe. Recessions, as well as low exchange rates, are hurting companies' profits.

Clacor has in 2002 achieved its 10th straight annual earnings record in its business of manufacturing industrial filters. Untimely shares are expected to earn steadily in 2003, 2004 and through to 2006-2008.

Clarcor Inc. started out as filter company with a packaging subsidiary and today it is a packaging company with a filter subsidiary company. It is contemplating but is not in a hurry to sell the filter company.

Clarcor Inc reported lower than expected earnings in Mar 1992. Its performance is expected to improve as orders for industrial filters and metal containers increase. Earnings for FY 1992 are expected to be $1.25 per share.