AMERICAN PAD & PAPER CO
S-1/A, 1996-06-06
CONVERTED PAPER & PAPERBOARD PRODS (NO CONTANERS/BOXES)
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<PAGE>
 
      
   AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON JUNE 6, 1996     
                                                    
                                                 REGISTRATION NO. 333-4000     
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
                               ----------------
                                
                             AMENDMENT NO. 1     
                                       
                                    TO     
                                   FORM S-1
                            REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                     UNDER
                          THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
                               ----------------
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
            (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
                               ----------------
        DELAWARE                       2678                  04-3164298
     (STATE OR OTHER             (PRIMARY STANDARD        (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
     JURISDICTION OF                INDUSTRIAL           IDENTIFICATION NO.)
    INCORPORATION OR            CLASSIFICATION CODE
      ORGANIZATION)                   NUMBER)
 
                         17304 PRESTON ROAD, SUITE 700
                             DALLAS, TX 75252-5613
                                (214) 733-6200
  (ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF
                   REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
                               ----------------
                             CHARLES G. HANSON III
                            CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                         17304 PRESTON ROAD, SUITE 700
                             DALLAS, TX 75252-5613
                                (214) 733-6200
(NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE,
                             OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)
   COPIES OF ALL COMMUNICATIONS, INCLUDING COMMUNICATIONS SENT TO AGENT FOR
                          SERVICE, SHOULD BE SENT TO:
 
             LANCE C. BALK                       FRANCIS J. MORISON
           KIRKLAND & ELLIS                     DAVIS POLK & WARDWELL
          153 E. 53RD STREET                    450 LEXINGTON AVENUE
          NEW YORK, NY 10022                     NEW YORK, NY 10017
            (212) 446-4800                         (212) 450-4000
                               ----------------
  APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: As soon as
practicable after this Registration Statement becomes effective.
  If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on
a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933, check the following box. [_]
  If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following
box and list of the Securities Act registration statement number of the
earlier effective registration statement for the same offering. [_]
  If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. [_]
  If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434,
please check the following box. [_]
       
                               ----------------
  THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT
SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS
REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION 8(a) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING
PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(a), MAY DETERMINE.
 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
 
                             CROSS REFERENCE SHEET
 
         PURSUANT TO ITEM 501(b) OF REGULATION S-K SHOWING LOCATION IN
       PROSPECTUS OF INFORMATION REQUIRED BY ITEMS OF PART I OF FORM S-1.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
         REGISTRATION STATEMENT
         ITEM NUMBER AND CAPTION           CAPTION OR LOCATION IN PROSPECTUS
         -----------------------           ---------------------------------
 <C> <S>                              <C>
  1. Forepart of the Registration
      Statement and Outside Front
      Cover Page of Prospectus.....   Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus
  2. Inside Front and Outside Back
      Cover Page of Prospectus.....   Inside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                      Outside Back Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                      Additional Information
  3. Summary Information and Risk
      Factors......................   Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors
  4. Use of Proceeds...............   Prospectus Summary; Use of Proceeds;
                                      Management's Discussion and Analysis of
                                      Financial Condition and Results of
                                      Operations
  5. Determination of Offering        
      Price........................   Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                      Underwriters 

  6. Dilution......................   Dilution

  7. Selling Security Holders......   Principal and Selling Stockholders

  8. Plan of Distribution..........   Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;
                                      Underwriters

  9. Description of Securities to     
      Be Registered................   Prospectus Summary; Dividend Policy;  
                                      Capitalization; Description of Capital
                                      Stock                                 
 10. Interests of Named Experts and
      Counsel......................   Legal Matters

 11. Information with Respect to      
      the Registrant...............   Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus;   
                                      Prospectus Summary; Risk Factors; The     
                                      Company; Use of Proceeds; Dividend Policy;
                                      The Recapitalization; Capitalization;     
                                      Dilution; Selected Historical Consolidated
                                      Financial Data; Management's Discussion and
                                      Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
                                      of Operations; Industry; Business;        
                                      Management; Principal and Selling         
                                      Stockholders; Certain Relationships and   
                                      Related Transactions; Description of      
                                      Capital Stock; Legal Matters; Experts;   
                                      Index to Financial Statements             

 12. Disclosure of Commission
      Position on Indemnification
      for Securities Act
      Liabilities..................   Not Applicable
</TABLE>    
<PAGE>
 
                                EXPLANATORY NOTE
 
  This Registration Statement contains two forms of prospectus; one to be used
in connection with a United States offering (the "U.S. Prospectus") and one to
be used in a concurrent international offering (the "International
Prospectus"). The two prospectuses will be identical in all respects except for
the front cover pages.
 
  The form of the U.S. Prospectus is included herein and the form of the front
cover page of the International Prospectus follows the front cover page of the
U.S. Prospectus.
<PAGE>
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. A         +
+REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE   +
+SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY  +
+OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT        +
+BECOMES EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR   +
+THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE      +
+SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE    +
+UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF  +
+ANY SUCH STATE.                                                               +
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PROSPECTUS (Subject to Completion)
   
Issued June 5, 1996

                               15,625,000 Shares
                          American Pad & Paper Company
                               COMMON STOCK     
                                  ----------
   
OF THE 15,625,000 SHARES OF COMMON  STOCK OFFERED HEREBY, 12,500,000 SHARES ARE
 BEING  OFFERED  INITIALLY  IN  THE  UNITED STATES  AND  CANADA  BY  THE  U.S.
 UNDERWRITERS  AND 3,125,000  SHARES ARE BEING  OFFERED INITIALLY OUTSIDE  THE
  UNITED   STATES  AND   CANADA  BY   THE  INTERNATIONAL  UNDERWRITERS.   SEE
   "UNDERWRITERS." OF THE 15,625,000 SHARES  OF COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY,
   12,500,000 SHARES ARE  BEING SOLD BY THE COMPANY AND 3,125,000 SHARES ARE
    BEING  SOLD BY  THE SELLING  STOCKHOLDERS. SEE  "PRINCIPAL AND  SELLING
     STOCKHOLDERS." THE COMPANY WILL NOT  RECEIVE ANY OF THE PROCEEDS FROM
     THE  SALE OF THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK BY  THE SELLING STOCKHOLDERS.
      PRIOR  TO THE OFFERING,  THERE HAS  BEEN NO  PUBLIC MARKET  FOR THE
       COMMON STOCK OF  THE COMPANY. IT IS  CURRENTLY ESTIMATED THAT THE
       INITIAL  PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE PER SHARE WILL BE  BETWEEN $15 AND
        $17.  SEE  "UNDERWRITERS"  FOR  A  DISCUSSION  OF  THE  FACTORS
         CONSIDERED IN DETERMINING  THE INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING  PRICE.
             
                                  ----------
    
 THE COMMON STOCK HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR LISTING ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE,
      SUBJECT TO OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ISSUANCE, UNDER THE SYMBOL "AGP."     
                                  ----------
SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 11 OF THIS PROSPECTUS FOR INFORMATION THAT
                 SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS.
                                  ----------
 THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED  OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
   EXCHANGE COMMISSION  OR  ANY  STATE  SECURITIES  COMMISSION  NOR  HAS THE
    SECURITIES AND  EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE  SECURITIES COMMISSION
      PASSED  UPON THE  ACCURACY  OR  ADEQUACY  OF  THIS PROSPECTUS.  ANY
       REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
                                  ----------
                               PRICE $    A SHARE
                                  ----------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                UNDERWRITING              PROCEEDS TO
                                                      PRICE TO DISCOUNTS AND  PROCEEDS TO   SELLING
                                                       PUBLIC  COMMISSIONS(1) COMPANY(2)  STOCKHOLDERS
                                                      -------- -------------- ----------- ------------
<S>                                                   <C>      <C>            <C>         <C>
Per Share...........................................    $           $             $           $
Total(3)............................................   $           $             $           $
</TABLE>
- -----
  (1) The Company and the Selling Stockholders have agreed to indemnify the
      Underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under
      the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
  (2) Before deducting expenses payable by the Company estimated at
      $1,300,000.
  (3) The Selling Stockholders have granted the U.S. Underwriters an option,
      exercisable within 30 days of the date hereof, to purchase up to an
      aggregate of 2,343,750 additional shares at the price to public less
      underwriting discounts and commissions for the purpose of covering over-
      allotments, if any. If the U.S. Underwriters exercise such option in
      full, the total price to public, underwriting discounts and commissions
      and proceeds to Selling Stockholders will be $   , $    and $   ,
      respectively. See "Underwriters."
                                  ----------
  The Shares are offered, subject to prior sale, when, as and if accepted by
the Underwriters named herein and subject to the approval of certain legal
matters by Davis Polk & Wardwell, counsel for the Underwriters. It is expected
that delivery of the Shares will be made on or about    , 1996 at the office of
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, New York, N.Y., against payment therefor in
immediately available funds.
                                  ----------
MORGAN STANLEY & CO.
        INCORPORATED
    ALEX. BROWN & SONS
        INCORPORATED
         BT SECURITIES CORPORATION
            CS FIRST BOSTON
               GOLDMAN, SACHS & CO.
                  SALOMON BROTHERS INC
                    WASSERSTEIN PERELLA SECURITIES, INC.
 
    , 1996
<PAGE>
 
 
 
 
                              [PICTURES TO COME]
   
  IN CONNECTION WITH THIS OFFERING, THE UNDERWRITERS MAY OVER-ALLOT OR EFFECT
TRANSACTIONS WHICH STABILIZE OR MAINTAIN THE MARKET PRICE OF THE COMMON STOCK
AT A LEVEL ABOVE THAT WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE PREVAIL IN THE OPEN MARKET. SUCH
TRANSACTIONS MAY BE EFFECTED ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE ("NYSE"), IN THE
OVER-THE-COUNTER MARKET OR OTHERWISE. SUCH STABILIZING, IF COMMENCED, MAY BE
DISCONTINUED AT ANY TIME.     
   
  DURING THE OFFERING, CERTAIN PERSONS AFFILIATED WITH PERSONS PARTICIPATING
IN THE DISTRIBUTION MAY ENGAGE IN TRANSACTIONS FOR THEIR OWN ACCOUNTS OR FOR
THE ACCOUNTS OF OTHERS IN THE COMMON STOCK PURSUANT TO EXEMPTIONS FROM RULES
10B-6, 10B-7, AND 10B-8 UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934.     
 
                                       2
<PAGE>
 
   
  NO PERSON IS AUTHORIZED IN CONNECTION WITH ANY OFFERING MADE HEREBY TO GIVE
ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATION NOT CONTAINED IN THIS
PROSPECTUS, AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATION MUST NOT
BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE COMPANY, ANY SELLING
STOCKHOLDER OR ANY UNDERWRITER. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER
TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITY OTHER THAN THE
COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY TO BUY ANY OF THE SECURITIES OFFERED HEREBY TO ANY
PERSON IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH IT IS UNLAWFUL TO MAKE ANY SUCH OFFER OR
SOLICITATION TO SUCH PERSON. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR ANY
SALE MADE HEREBY SHALL UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE IMPLY THAT THE INFORMATION
HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF ANY DATE SUBSEQUENT TO THE DATE HEREOF.     
 
                               ----------------
   
  No action has been or will be taken in any jurisdiction by the Company, any
Selling Stockholder or any Underwriter that would permit a public offering of
the Common Stock or possession or distribution of this Prospectus in any
jurisdiction where action for that purpose is required, other than in the
United States. Persons into whose possession this Prospectus comes are
required by the Company and the Underwriters to inform themselves about, and
to observe any restrictions as to, the offering of the Common Stock and the
distribution of this Prospectus.     
 
                               ----------------
       
       
  Ampad(R), Century(TM), Embassy(R), Evidence(R), Gold Fibre(R), Huxley(TM),
Karolton(R), Kent(TM), Peel & Seel(R), SCM(TM), World Fibre(TM) and
Williamhouse(TM) are trademarks of the Company.
 
                               ----------------
   
  Until       , 1996 (25 days after commencement of the Offering), all dealers
effecting transactions in the Common Stock, whether or not participating in
this distribution, may be required to deliver a Prospectus. This delivery
requirement is in addition to the obligations of dealers to deliver a
Prospectus when acting as Underwriters and with respect to their unsold
allotments or subscriptions.     
 
                               ----------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                      PAGE
                                      ----
<S>                                   <C>
Prospectus Summary..................    4
Risk Factors........................   11
The Company.........................   15
Use of Proceeds.....................   15
Dividend Policy.....................   16
The Recapitalization................   17
Capitalization......................   18
Dilution............................   19
Selected Historical Consolidated
 Financial Data.....................   20
Management's Discussion and Analysis
 of Financial Condition and Results
 of Operations......................   22
Industry............................   30
Business............................   32
Management..........................   42
</TABLE>    
<TABLE>                           
<CAPTION>
                                     PAGE
                                     ----
<S>                                  <C>
Principal and Selling
 Stockholders......................   51
Certain Relationships and Related
 Transactions......................   53
Description of Certain
 Indebtedness......................   54
Description of Capital Stock.......   57
Shares Eligible for Future Sale....   60
Certain Material Federal Income Tax
 Consequences for Non-United
 States Holders....................   62
Underwriters.......................   65
Experts............................   68
Legal Matters......................   69
Additional Information.............   69
Unaudited Pro Forma Financial
 Data..............................   70
Index to Financial Statements......  F-1
</TABLE>    
 
 
                                       3
<PAGE>
 
                               PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
   
  The following summary is qualified in its entirety by more detailed
information and financial statements and notes thereto included elsewhere in
this Prospectus. Unless otherwise stated, the information contained in this
Prospectus (i) assumes no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment
option, (ii) reflects a 8.1192-for-one stock split of the existing Common Stock
and Common Stock equivalents and (iii) reflects the conversion of all shares of
preferred stock and preferred stock equivalents into shares of Common Stock and
Common Stock equivalents, respectively. See "The Recapitalization." Unless
otherwise stated in this Prospectus, references to (a) the "Company" shall mean
American Pad & Paper Company, its consolidated subsidiaries and their
respective predecessors; (b) "Williamhouse" shall mean the operations of
Williamhouse--Regency of Delaware, Inc. prior to its acquisition by the Company
on October 31, 1995 (the "Acquisition"); and (c) "Ampad" shall mean Ampad
Corporation, the former operating subsidiary of the Company, prior to Ampad's
merger with and into Williamhouse immediately prior to the Acquisition. On May
29, 1996, the Company executed a definitive agreement to purchase the Niagara
Envelope Company, Inc. ("Niagara"). Financial data presented herein on a pro
forma basis for the year ended December 31, 1995 gives effect to the
Acquisition, the other transactions related thereto, the acquisition of Niagara
and the Offering as if such transactions occurred on January 1, 1995. See
"Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data."     
 
                                  THE COMPANY
   
  The Company is one of the largest manufacturers and marketers of paper-based
office products (excluding computer forms and copy paper) in the $60 billion to
$70 billion North American office products industry. The Company offers a broad
product line including nationally branded and private label writing pads, file
folders, envelopes and other office products. Through its Ampad division, the
Company is among the largest and most important suppliers of pads and other
paper-based writing products, filing supplies and envelopes to many of the
largest and fastest growing office products distributors. Acquired in October
1995, the Company's Williamhouse division is the leading supplier of mill
branded, specialty and commodity envelopes to paper merchants/distributors. The
Company's strategy is to grow by focusing on the largest and fastest growing
office product distribution channels, making acquisitions, introducing new
product lines, broadening product distribution across its channels and
maintaining its position among the lowest-cost manufacturers in the industry.
As a result of this strategy, the Company's sales have grown at a compound
annual rate of approximately 34% from 1992 to 1995. For the year ended December
31, 1995, the Company had net sales of $617.2 million and income from
operations of $57.3 million on the pro forma basis described herein. See
"Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data."     
   
  Since the mid-1980s, the office products industry has experienced significant
changes in the channels through which office products are distributed such as
the emergence of new channels, including national office products superstores,
national contract stationers and mass merchandisers, and consolidation within
these and other channels. As a result of these changes, approximately 6,800
office product distributors existed in 1994 compared with approximately 13,300
in 1987. The channels through which office products are distributed from the
manufacturer to the end-user include retail channels such as national office
products superstores, mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs; commercial
channels such as national contract stationers; paper merchants/distributors;
and other channels such as regional distributors, school campuses and direct
mail. The Company believes that sales of office products through retail
channels are approximately $20 billion to $25 billion. The three dominant
national superstores (Office Depot, OfficeMax and Staples) have experienced
significant growth over the past three years and currently account for
approximately 17% of retail office products sales and approximately 6% of total
office products sales. The Company believes that sales of office products
through commercial channels are approximately $25 billion to $30 billion.
Principally through the acquisition of smaller, regional contract stationers,
national contract stationers (including Boise Cascade Office Products, BT
Office Products, Corporate Express, U.S. Office Products and the contract
stationer divisions of Office Depot and Staples) have grown more rapidly than
other commercial channels. These national contract stationers now account for
approximately 25% of commercial office products sales and approximately 11% of
total office products sales. Certain office products, particularly envelopes,
are sold predominantly through paper     
 
                                       4
<PAGE>
 
merchants/distributors or directly to end users. Paper merchants/distributors
currently account for approximately 30% of the envelope market. The three
largest paper merchants (ResourceNet, Unisource and Zellerbach) have
experienced significant growth primarily through consolidation.
   
  The Company has targeted and will continue to target those customers driving
consolidation in the retail, commercial and paper merchant distribution
channels and believes that it is uniquely positioned to meet the special
requirements of these customers. These customers seek suppliers, such as the
Company, who are able to offer broad product lines, higher value-added
innovative products, national distribution capabilities, low costs and reliable
service. Furthermore, as these customers continue to grow and as they
consolidate their supplier bases, the Company's ability to meet their special
requirements becomes an increasingly important competitive advantage.
Recognizing Ampad's potential for growth through the changing distribution
channels, Bain Capital, Inc. ("Bain Capital") and management formed the Company
and purchased Ampad from Mead Corporation ("Mead") in 1992. Since that time,
management has enhanced the Company's scale, broadened its product line,
expanded upon its national presence and strengthened its distribution
capabilities through acquisition and innovation while simultaneously delivering
higher customer service levels. As a result, the Company's net sales through
the most rapidly growing retail and commercial channels increased from $8.8
million in 1992 to $134.8 million ($164.5 million on a pro forma basis) in
1995.     
 
COMPETITIVE STRENGTHS
   
  The combination of the Company's products, customers and national scale
distinguishes it as a leading manufacturer and marketer of paper-based office
products (excluding computer forms and copy paper) in North America. The
Company attributes this position and its continued opportunities for growth and
profitability to the following competitive strengths:     
 
 . Market Leader. The Company has achieved market leadership in core products
  sold to customers in the largest and fastest growing office products channels
  by offering one of the broadest assortments of high quality products in the
  industry. Furthermore, the Company enjoys national brand awareness in many of
  its product lines, including Ampad, Century, Embassy, Evidence, Gold Fibre,
  Huxley, Karolton, Kent, Peel & Seel, SCM, Williamhouse and World Fibre.
   
 . Well-Positioned and Diversified Customer Base. The Company has substantial
  opportunities for growth within several distribution channels of the office
  products industry. The Company has focused on the largest and fastest growing
  office products channels. Several of the Company's largest customers, such as
  Boise Cascade Office Products, BT Office Products, Corporate Express, Office
  Depot, OfficeMax and Staples, are expected by industry analysts to experience
  annual revenue growth of 15% to 35% over the next five years. The Company's
  Williamhouse division maintains particularly strong relationships with the
  largest and fastest growing paper merchants/distributors in the market,
  including ResourceNet, Unisource and Zellerbach. The Company also maintains
  strong customer relationships across all of the other office products
  distribution channels, including mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs, office
  products wholesalers and independent dealers.     
 
 . National Scale and Service Capability. The Company's extensive product line,
  multiple brands and broad price point coverage provide significant advantages
  and economies of scale in selling to and servicing its customers. The Company
  has become an increasingly important strategic partner to its customers as
  they seek higher value-added products, simplify their purchasing
  organizations and consolidate their relationships among selected national
  suppliers. The Company's national presence and network of 22 strategically
  located facilities have enabled it to maintain rapid and efficient order
  fulfillment standards. In addition, the Company's advanced electronic data
  interchange ("EDI") capabilities enable it to meet its customers' EDI
  requirements, executing automated transactions rapidly, efficiently and
  accurately.
 
 . Innovation/New Products. The Company has introduced several innovative
  products as part of its marketing strategy to differentiate itself from other
  suppliers and enhance profitability. Recent examples include Gold Fibre
  classic and designer notebooks, Papers with a Purpose, World Fibre ground-
  wood writing pads and Peel
 
                                       5
<PAGE>
 
 & Seel envelopes. Products introduced since 1992 accounted for over $70
 million of the Company's 1995 net sales. The Company's brand recognition and
 presence with its national customers allows it to more easily introduce new or
 acquired product lines to those customers.
 
 . Low-Cost Manufacturer. The Company believes it is among the lowest-cost
  manufacturers of paper-based office products in the industry. The Company
  ensures its low-cost manufacturing position through its paper purchasing and
  distribution advantages as well as its maintenance of modern and efficient
  manufacturing technology and a high quality workforce. The Company has been
  successful in reducing costs with each of its acquisitions in the last three
  years by continually streamlining its manufacturing processes and overhead
  structure. From 1992 to 1995, the Company reduced its fixed manufacturing
  costs from 7.4% to 5.2% of net sales and its selling, general and
  administrative expenses from 10.5% to 7.2% of net sales. See "Management's
  Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--
  Overview."
 
 . Purchasing Advantages. The Company has strong relationships with most of the
  country's largest paper mills, many of which have been conducting business
  with the Company for more than 30 years. The Company is one of the largest
  purchasers of the principal paper grades used in its manufacturing
  operations. In addition, the Company has the largest number of designated
  mill relationships which involve some of the largest and most recognized
  paper mill brands such as Hammermill, Hopper, Neenah and Strathmore. These
  relationships afford the Company certain paper purchasing advantages,
  including stable supply and favorable pricing arrangements.
   
 . Proven Management Team With Successful Track Record. The Company's senior
  operating management team averages over 25 years each in the paper products
  industry. Management has succeeded in increasing sales and operating
  profitability by recognizing and acting on the transition to the fastest
  growing distribution channels, introducing higher value-added products,
  acquiring complementary product lines (Karolton in December 1993, SCM Office
  Supplies, Inc. ("SCM") in July 1994 and certain product lines of Huxley and
  Globe-Weis in July 1994 and August 1995, respectively), improving
  manufacturing processes and reducing overhead and administrative costs. Upon
  completion of the Offering, the Company's senior management team (Messrs.
  Hanson, Gard and Benson) will collectively own 865,516 shares of Common Stock
  (438,427 shares if the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised
  in full) and hold currently exercisable options to purchase an additional
  2,156,000 shares of Common Stock. Assuming an initial public offering price
  of $16.00 per share, these holdings represent on a fully-diluted basis
  approximately 10.3% of the outstanding Common Stock (8.9% if the U.S.
  Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised in full). See "Principal and
  Selling Stockholders."     
 
GROWTH STRATEGY
 
  The Company's strategy is to maintain and strengthen its leadership position
by focusing on the following:
   
 . Focus on Rapidly Growing Customers. The Company serves many of the largest
  and best positioned customers in the office products market segment including
  national office products superstores, mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs,
  national contract stationers and national paper merchants/distributors. For
  1995 on a pro forma basis, approximately 15.3% of the Company's net sales
  were to national office product superstores, 7.8% to mass merchandisers and
  warehouse clubs, 9.1% to national contract stationers and 19.7% to the three
  largest national paper merchants/distributors. Anticipating further
  consolidation in the office products industry, the Company expects that its
  national scope and broad product line will be increasingly important in
  meeting the needs of its customers. The Company will continue to target those
  customers driving consolidation in the office products industry.     
 
 . Continue to Introduce New Products.  New, higher value-added products give
  the Company a greater selection to offer its customers and improve product
  line profitability for both the Company and its customers. The Company plans
  to differentiate itself from other suppliers and improve profitability
  through product innovation, differentiation and line extensions.
   
 . Pursue Complementary Product Line and Strategic Acquisitions. The office
  products industry is highly fragmented despite continuing consolidation among
  its manufacturers. The Company is leading consolidation     
 
                                       6
<PAGE>
 
    
 among manufacturers of writing products, filing supplies and envelopes. The
 SCM and Williamhouse acquisitions broadened the Company's product line to
 include filing products and envelopes and enhanced its presence in the growing
 distribution channels. The Globe-Weis acquisition and the Company's agreement
 to acquire Niagara demonstrate its commitment to strengthening its competitive
 and strategic position within its markets. The Company believes that there are
 significant opportunities to acquire companies in both its existing and
 complementary product lines. In addition, the Company intends to enter new
 office products markets through acquisitions of established companies in those
 markets.     
          
 . Broaden Product Distribution. The Company's market presence and distribution
  strengths uniquely position it to sell new or acquired product lines across
  its distribution channels, including national office products superstores,
  national contract stationers, office product wholesalers and mass
  merchandisers. As an important part of its growth strategy, for example, the
  Company has successfully introduced the envelope product lines acquired in
  the Acquisition, previously distributed primarily through paper
  merchants/distributors, to the Ampad division's distribution channels under
  the Ampad and private label names. The Company estimates that this market
  opportunity is approximately $350 million in annual net sales.     
   
 . Continue to Reduce Costs. The Company has identified and is in the process of
  implementing cost reductions in connection with the Acquisition that are
  expected to result in approximately $7.4 million of annualized cost savings.
  In addition, management plans to implement further identified cost reductions
  beyond 1996.     
 
RECENT TRANSACTIONS
   
  On May 29, 1996, the Company executed a definitive agreement to acquire
Niagara for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $50 million, plus $5.0
million to be paid under a one-year consulting services agreement (the "Niagara
Acquisition"). Niagara supplies mill branded, specialty and commodity envelopes
to paper merchants/distributors through four manufacturing facilities located
near Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas and Denver. Niagara had 1995 net sales of
approximately $106 million and operating income of approximately $8.5 million.
The Company expects the Niagara Acquisition to be completed by the middle of
July 1996. The Company believes that the Niagara Acquisition will strengthen
the Company's distribution capabilities in the Midwest, provide additional
manufacturing capacity and provide opportunities to achieve operating
improvements through the consolidation of Niagara's operations with those of
the Company. The completion of the Niagara Acquisition is subject to certain
conditions.     
   
  In October 1995, the Company acquired Williamhouse for an aggregate purchase
price (including assumption of debt of approximately $152.9 million) of
approximately $300 million, plus reimbursement of certain expenses. In
connection with the Acquisition, the Company (i) refinanced an aggregate of
approximately $119.1 million of combined indebtedness of the Company and
Williamhouse, (ii) purchased for $109.0 million in cash all of the outstanding
11 1/2% Senior Subordinated Debentures due 2005 of Williamhouse (the "Old
Debentures"), together with accrued interest thereon of $5.3 million, (iii)
declared a stock dividend of $200 million in aggregate liquidation value of
preferred stock and preferred stock equivalents (collectively, the "Preferred
Stock") and subsequently redeemed approximately $70.6 million of such Preferred
Stock and declared a $4.5 million cash dividend on its Class P Common Stock,
(iv) paid approximately $34.2 million in related fees and expenses and (v) used
approximately $3.4 million for working capital purposes. To finance the
Acquisition and these related transactions, the Company's principal operating
subsidiary (i) incurred borrowings under a credit agreement (the "Bank Credit
Agreement") of approximately $245 million, (ii) issued $200 million in
aggregate principal amount of senior subordinated notes due 2005 (the "Notes"),
and (iii) received approximately $45 million from the establishment of a new
non-recourse, off-balance sheet accounts receivable securitization program (the
"Accounts Receivable Facility"). The Acquisition, the other transactions
entered into in connection therewith, and the financing thereof are
collectively referred to herein as the "Transactions."     
 
  The Company's management identified the personalizing business division of
Williamhouse (the "Personalizing Division") as a nonstrategic asset following
the Acquisition and has decided to pursue a sale of
 
                                       7
<PAGE>
 
   
the Personalizing Division. As a result, the financial statements of the
Company included elsewhere in this Prospectus reflect the Personalizing
Division as "Assets held for Sale" as of December 31, 1995 and March 31, 1996.
On April 17, 1996, the Company signed a letter of intent with a potential buyer
to sell the Personalizing Division. Under the terms of such letter, the Company
will receive approximately $60 million in gross proceeds (subject to certain
working capital adjustments) from the sale of the Personalizing Division, which
it expects to complete by the end of June 1996. To date, the Company has not
executed any definitive agreements with respect to such sale and, as a result,
no assurance can be given that the proposed sale will be completed or, if
completed, will be on the terms outlined herein. See "Management's Discussion
and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Overview."     
   
  Although the Company regularly engages in discussions with companies
regarding potential acquisitions, it currently does not have any agreements or
understandings relating to acquisitions other than the Niagara Acquisition.
    
                                THE OFFERING(1)
 
<TABLE>
    
<S>                      <C>
Common Stock offered by
  The Company........... 12,500,000 shares
  The Selling             
   Stockholders.........  3,125,000 shares 
    Total............... 15,625,000 shares
Common Stock offered
  U. S. Offering........ 12,500,000 shares
  International           
   Offering.............  3,125,000 shares 
    Total............... 15,625,000 shares
Common Stock to be
 outstanding after the
 Offering............... 26,925,272 shares(2)
Use of proceeds......... The net proceeds to be received by the Company from the
                         Offering will be used to repay certain outstanding bank
                         indebtedness and to redeem a portion of the Notes
                         issued by the Company's principal operating subsidiary
                         and to pay certain fees. The Company will not receive
                         any proceeds from the sale of shares by the Selling
                         Stockholders. See "Use of Proceeds."
Proposed NYSE symbol.... AGP
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Does not include the Underwriters' over-allotment option granted by the
    Selling Stockholders for an aggregate of 2,343,750 shares of Common Stock.
           
(2) Does not include 2,156,000 shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance
    upon the exercise of options outstanding as of June 5, 1996 and granted to
    members of management pursuant to the Company's 1992 Key Employees Stock
    Option Plan (the "1992 Stock Plan") or 2,100,000 shares of Common Stock
    reserved for issuance under the Company's 1996 Key Employees Stock
    Incentive Plan (the "1996 Stock Plan"), the Non-Employee Director Stock
    Option Plan (the "Non-Employee Director Plan") and the Management Stock
    Purchase Plan. See "Management--Stock Options."     
 
                                       8
<PAGE>
 
                             SUMMARY FINANCIAL DATA
   
  The summary historical consolidated financial data set forth below for the
years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995 have been derived from, and are
qualified by reference to, the audited consolidated financial statements of the
Company included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The summary historical
consolidated financial data set forth below for the three months ended March
31, 1995 and 1996 have been derived from the unaudited consolidated financial
statements of the Company, which, in the opinion of the Company, reflect all
adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a
fair presentation. Results for the three months ended March 31, 1996 are not
necessarily indicative of results for the full year. The summary historical
consolidated and unaudited pro forma financial data set forth below should be
read in conjunction with, and are qualified by reference to, "Selected
Historical Consolidated Financial Data," "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," "Unaudited Pro Forma
Financial Data" and the audited consolidated financial statements and
accompanying notes thereto included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                 THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
                          -----------------------------------------    -----------------------------------
                                  HISTORICAL                              HISTORICAL
                          ------------------------------               -----------------
                                                          PRO FORMA                       PRO FORMA
                            1993      1994        1995     1995(1)      1995      1996     1996(2)
                          --------  --------    --------  ---------    -------  --------  ---------
                            (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE
                                        AMOUNTS)                              (UNAUDITED)
<S>                       <C>       <C>         <C>       <C>          <C>      <C>       <C>         
INCOME STATEMENT
 DATA(3)(4)(5):
 Net sales............... $104,277  $120,443    $259,341  $617,167     $47,691  $121,418  $149,735
 Cost of sales(6)........   88,491   113,394     211,814   481,804      42,394    97,889   121,245
                          --------  --------    --------  --------     -------  --------  --------
 Gross profit............   15,786     7,049(6)   47,527   135,363       5,297    23,529    28,490
 Selling, general and
  administrative
  expenses...............   10,765    10,615      18,545    74,678(7)    2,749    11,026    14,493(7)
 Non-recurring
  compensation
  charge(8)..............      --        --       27,632     3,367         --        --
                          --------  --------    --------  --------     -------  --------  --------
 Income (loss) from
  operations.............    5,021    (3,566)      1,350    57,318       2,548    12,503    13,997
 Interest expense........    3,320     4,560      13,657    30,953       1,656    12,542     7,738
 Other (income) expense..     (167)      (90)       (735)     (642)        (65)     (269)     (265)
                          --------  --------    --------  --------     -------  --------  --------
 Income (loss) before
  income taxes...........    1,868    (8,036)    (11,572)   27,007         957       230     6,524
 Provision for (benefit
  from) income taxes.....       64      (488)     (6,538)    9,814         366       102     2,596
                          --------  --------    --------  --------     -------  --------  --------
 Income (loss) before
  extraordinary item.....    1,804    (7,548)     (5,034)   17,193         591       128     3,928
 Extraordinary loss from
  extinguishment of debt,
  net of income tax
  benefit................      --        --       (9,652)      --          --        --        --
                          --------  --------    --------  --------     -------  --------  --------
 Net income (loss)....... $  1,804  $ (7,548)   $(14,686) $ 17,193     $   591  $    128  $  3,928
                          ========  ========    ========  ========     =======  ========  ========
 Pro forma earnings
  (loss) per share(9)....                       $   (.95) $    .59              $    .01  $    .14
                                                ========  ========              ========  ========
 Pro forma weighted
  average number of
  common shares and
  common share
  equivalents
  outstanding(9).........                         15,540    29,063                16,562    29,063
                                                ========  ========              ========  ========
OTHER DATA:
 Depreciation and
  amortization........... $    159  $    942    $  4,248  $ 17,982     $   528  $  3,020  $  3,803
 Capital expenditures....    1,656       942       5,640    13,688       2,530     2,321     3,087
</TABLE>    
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                            MARCH 31, 1996
                                                       -------------------------
                                                                    PRO FORMA
                                                        ACTUAL   AS ADJUSTED(10)
                                                       --------  ---------------
<S>                                                    <C>       <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
 Working capital...................................... $109,238     $114,799
 Total assets.........................................  500,794      541,933
 Long-term debt, less current maturities(11)..........  440,453      319,295
 Stockholders' equity (deficit)(12)...................  (66,293)     100,650
</TABLE>    
                                                        (footnotes on next page)
                                       9
<PAGE>
 
          
 (1) The summary unaudited pro forma income statement and other data for the
     year ended December 31, 1995 give pro forma effect, in the manner
     described under "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data" and the notes
     thereto, to: (i) the Transactions, (ii) the Globe-Weis Acquisition (as
     defined), (iii) the pending disposal of the Personalizing Division, (iv)
     the transactions described under "The Recapitalization," (v) refinancing
     of the Bank Credit Agreement, (vi) the Niagara Acquisition and (vii) the
     Offering (assuming an initial public offering price of $16.00 per share)
     and the application of the net proceeds therefrom as described under "Use
     of Proceeds," as if each had occurred on January 1, 1995. The summary pro
     forma income statement data and other data do not (i) purport to represent
     what the Company's results of operations actually would have been if the
     foregoing transactions had actually occurred as of such date or what such
     results will be for any future periods or (ii) give effect to certain non-
     recurring charges expected to result from items (i), (v) and (vii) above,
     including certain non-cash compensation charges directly related to the
     Acquisition and an extraordinary charge for the write-off of deferred
     financing fees and direct expenses to retire and refinance existing
     Company debt. The final allocation of purchase price and the resulting
     amortization expense in the income statement data may differ somewhat from
     the preliminary estimates for the reasons described in more detail in
     "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data" and in Note 3 of the Notes to
     Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company.     
   
 (2) The summary unaudited pro forma income statement and other data for the
     three months ended March 31, 1996 give pro forma effect, in the manner
     described under "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data" and the notes
     thereto, to: (i) the pending disposal of the Personalizing Division, (ii)
     the transactions described under "The Recapitalization," (iii) refinancing
     of the Bank Credit Agreement, (iv) the Niagara Acquisition and (v) the
     Offering (assuming an initial public offering price of $16.00 per share)
     and the application of the net proceeds therefrom as described under "Use
     of Proceeds," as if each had occurred on January 1, 1996.     
   
 (3) Effective July 5, 1994, the Company acquired the assets and assumed
     certain liabilities of SCM Office Supplies, Inc. (the "SCM Acquisition").
     The acquisition has been accounted for under the purchase method of
     accounting and, accordingly, the operating results have been included with
     the Company's results since the date of acquisition. See "Management's
     Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations"
     and Note 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the
     Company included herein.     
   
 (4) Effective August 16, 1995, the Company acquired the inventories and
     certain equipment of the file folder and hanging file product lines of the
     Globe-Weis office products division ("Globe-Weis") of Atapco (as defined)
     (the "Globe-Weis Acquisition"). The acquisition has been accounted for
     under the purchase method of accounting and, accordingly, the operating
     results have been included in the Company's results since the date of
     acquisition. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
     Condition and Results of Operations," Note 3 of the Notes to Consolidated
     Financial Statements of the Company and the audited statements of Net
     Sales and Cost of Sales of Globe-Weis included herein.     
   
 (5) Effective October 31, 1995, the Company acquired Williamhouse in the
     Acquisition. The Acquisition has been accounted for under the purchase
     method of accounting and accordingly, the operating results of
     Williamhouse, except for the Personalizing Division, for the two-month
     period ended December 31, 1995 have been included in the Company's results
     for the year ended December 31, 1995. The Personalizing Division was held
     for sale at December 31, 1995 and March 31, 1996. As such, the operating
     results of the Personalizing Division are excluded from the results of
     operations for the two-month period ended December 31, 1995 (period
     subsequent to the Acquisition) and the three months ended March 31, 1996.
     See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
     Results of Operations," Note 3 of the Notes of Consolidated Financial
     Statements of the Company and the audited financial statements of
     Williamhouse included herein.     
   
 (6) Inventory cost is determined using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method
     of valuation. Gross profit in the fourth quarter of 1994 was adversely
     impacted by a significant increase in paper prices, resulting in a $5.4
     million charge for LIFO in advance of the Company's raising selling prices
     in the first quarter of 1995. Beginning in January 1995, the Company
     adopted new pricing policies enabling it to set product prices consistent
     with the Company's cost of paper at the time of shipment. The Company
     believes that it is now able to price its products so as to minimize the
     impact of price volatility on dollar margins. See "Management's Discussion
     and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Overview."
            
 (7) Includes charges under a one-year consulting services agreement to be
     entered into in connection with the Niagara Acquisition of $5.0 million
     and $1.25 million for the year ended December 31, 1995 and the three
     months ended March 31, 1996, respectively.     
   
 (8) Includes non-cash stock option compensation charges of $24.3 million
     directly related to the Acquisition as well as other non-recurring cash
     and non-cash charges aggregating $3.3 million. See Note 9 of Notes to
     Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company included herein.     
   
 (9) Pro forma earnings (loss) per common share and pro forma weighted average
     number of shares and share equivalents outstanding have been adjusted to
     give effect to (i) a 8.1192-for-one stock split of all existing Common
     Stock and Common Stock equivalents and (ii) the conversion of all shares
     of Preferred Stock and Preferred Stock equivalents into shares of Common
     Stock and Common Stock equivalents at the assumed offering price per share
     to the public. Common Stock equivalents were determined using the treasury
     stock method.     
          
(10)  The unaudited "Pro Forma As Adjusted" balance sheet data at March 31,
      1996 gives pro forma effect to (i) the transactions described under "The
      Recapitalization," (ii) the refinancing of the Bank Credit Agreement,
      (iii) the Niagara Acquisition and (iv) the sale by the Company of
      12,500,000 shares of Common Stock pursuant to the Offering, assuming an
      initial public offering price of $16.00 per share and the application of
      the estimated net proceeds to the Company therefrom as described under
      "Use of Proceeds," as if each had occurred on such date. See "Unaudited
      Pro Forma Financial Data."     
   
(11) Does not reflect the expected repayment of debt from the estimated
     proceeds from the sale of the Personalizing Division.     
   
(12) Includes $4.5 million to pay the liquidation preference, including the
     return of original cost, of the Company's Class P Common Stock and $70.6
     million to redeem a portion of its Preferred Stock. See "Dividend Policy."
         
                                       10
<PAGE>
 
                                 RISK FACTORS
 
  Prospective investors should consider carefully the following factors, in
addition to the other information contained in this Prospectus, in evaluating
an investment in the shares of Common Stock offered hereby.
   
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH SUBSTANTIAL INDEBTEDNESS     
   
  Following the Offering, the Company will continue to have substantial
indebtedness. Subject to the restrictions in the Bank Credit Agreement and the
indenture under which the Notes were issued (the "Indenture"), the Company may
incur additional indebtedness from time to time to finance acquisitions or
capital expenditures or for other purposes. The level of the Company's
indebtedness could have important consequences, given that (i) a substantial
portion of the Company's cash flow from operations must be dedicated to debt
service and will not be available for other purposes, (ii) the Company's
ability to obtain additional debt financing in the future for working capital,
capital expenditures or acquisitions may be limited and (iii) the Company's
level of indebtedness could limit its flexibility in reacting to changes in
the industry and conditions generally. Certain of the Company's competitors
currently operate on a less leveraged basis and have significantly greater
operating and financing flexibility than the Company.     
 
  The Company's ability to service its indebtedness will be dependent on its
future performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions
and financial, business and other factors, certain of which are beyond the
Company's control. The Company believes that, based upon current levels of
operations, it should be able to meet its debt service obligations when due.
If, however, the Company were unable to service its indebtedness, it would be
forced to pursue one or more alternative strategies such as selling assets,
restructuring or refinancing its indebtedness or seeking additional equity
capital (which may substantially dilute the ownership interest of holders of
Common Stock). There can be no assurance that any of these strategies could be
effected on satisfactory terms, if at all. See "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Liquidity and
Capital Resources."
   
  The Bank Credit Agreement and the terms of the Indenture impose certain
operating and financial restrictions on the Company's ability to (i) incur
additional debt, (ii) pay dividends, (iii) transact business with its
affiliates, (iv) sell assets, merge or consolidate, (v) prepay other
indebtedness, (vi) create liens and encumbrances and (vii) other restrictions
customarily found in such agreements. Contemporaneously with the Offering, the
Company intends to refinance its existing indebtedness under the Bank Credit
Agreement with a new senior credit facility (the "New Bank Credit Agreement").
The Company anticipates that the New Bank Credit Agreement will impose
operating and financial restrictions on the Company similar to those contained
in the Bank Credit Agreement. A failure to comply with the obligations in the
Bank Credit Agreement, the New Bank Credit Agreement or the Indenture, as the
case may be, could result in an event of default under such agreements, which,
if not cured or waived, could permit acceleration of the indebtedness
thereunder and acceleration of indebtedness under other instruments that may
contain cross-acceleration or cross-default provisions which could have a
material adverse effect on the Company. See "Description of Certain
Indebtedness."     
   
RISKS RELATING TO ACQUISITION STRATEGY     
   
  The Company expects to continue its strategy of identifying and acquiring
companies or assets that would enable the Company to offer complementary
product lines and that management considers likely to enhance the Company's
operations and profitability. In furtherance of this strategy, the Company
executed a definitive agreement to acquire Niagara on May 29, 1996. The
completion of the Niagara Acquisition is subject to certain conditions. While
the Company expects the Niagara Acquisition will be completed, no assurance
can be given that such conditions will be satisfied. In addition, there can be
no assurance that the Company will continue to acquire businesses or assets on
satisfactory terms or that any business or assets acquired by the Company will
be integrated successfully into the Company's operations or be able to operate
profitably.     
 
                                      11
<PAGE>
 
   
RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FLUCTUATIONS IN PAPER COSTS     
 
  The Company's principal raw material is paper. While paper prices have
increased by an average of less than 1% annually since 1989, certain commodity
grades have shown considerable price volatility during that period. This
volatility negatively impacted the Company's earnings in 1994, particularly in
the fourth quarter, as a result of the Company's inability to implement price
changes in many of its product lines without giving its customers advance
notification. Beginning in January 1995, the Company adopted new pricing
policies enabling it to set product prices consistent with the Company's cost
of paper at the time of shipment. To date, such policies have been accepted by
customers; however, no assurance can be given that the Company will continue
to be successful in maintaining such pricing policies or that future price
fluctuations in the price of paper will not have a material adverse effect on
the Company. Fluctuation in paper prices can have an effect on quarterly
comparisons of the results of operations and financial condition of the
Company. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Result of Operations--Overview."
 
SUPPLIER RELATIONSHIPS
 
  The Company has strong relationships with most of the country's largest
paper mills, many of which have been doing business with the Company for more
than 30 years. The Company is one of the largest purchasers of the principal
paper grades used in its manufacturing operations. In addition, the Company
has the largest number of designated mill relationships which involve some of
the largest and most recognized paper mill brands such as Hammermill, Hopper,
Neenah and Strathmore. These relationships afford the Company certain paper
purchasing advantages, including stable supply and favorable pricing
arrangements. While these relationships are stable, all but one of the
designated manufacturer arrangements are oral and terminable at will at the
option of either party. There can be no assurance that any of the supplier or
designated manufacturer relationships will not be terminated in the future.
While the Company has been able to obtain sufficient paper supplies during
recent paper shortages and otherwise, the Company is subject to the risk that
it will be unable to purchase sufficient quantities of paper to meet its
production requirements during times of tight supply. An interruption in the
Company's supply of paper could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's business. See "Business--Products and Services" and "Industry--
Distribution."
 
DEPENDENCE UPON SIGNIFICANT CUSTOMERS
   
  The Company's aggregate net sales to Sam's Warehouse Club/Wal-Mart and
Office Depot accounted for approximately 14.8% and 12.7% of the Company's net
sales for 1995, respectively. The Company's top five customers accounted for
approximately 50.3% of its net sales in 1995 (32.0% on a pro forma basis). A
significant decrease or interruption in business from Sam's Warehouse
Club/Wal-Mart or Office Depot or from any other of the Company's significant
customers could have a material adverse effect on the Company. See "Business--
Sales, Distribution and Marketing."     
   
INFLUENCE OF CERTAIN STOCKHOLDERS     
   
  Upon completion of the Offering (assuming an initial public offering price
of $16.00 per share), certain members of senior management and Bain Capital
and its related investors will beneficially own approximately 41.1% of the
outstanding Common Stock (approximately 32.6% if the U.S. Underwriters' over-
allotment option is exercised in full). By virtue of such stock ownership,
these stockholders will continue to have significant influence over all
matters submitted to a vote of the holders of Common Stock, including the
election of directors, amendments to the Company's Restated Certificate of
Incorporation and By-laws and approval of significant corporate transactions,
following the Offering. See "Description of Capital Stock." Such concentration
of ownership could also have the effect of delaying, deterring or preventing a
change in control of the Company that might otherwise be beneficial to
stockholders. See "Principal and Selling Stockholders."     
 
COMPETITION
 
  The paper-based office products market is highly competitive. The Company
competes with other national and local manufacturers in many product segments.
Certain of the Company's principal competitors are less
 
                                      12
<PAGE>
 
highly-leveraged than the Company and may be better able to withstand volatile
market conditions within the paper industry. There can be no assurance that
the Company will not encounter increased competition in the future, which
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business. See
"Business--Competition."
 
 
DEPENDENCE ON KEY EXECUTIVES
   
  The Company is dependent to a large degree on the services of its senior
management team and there can be no assurance that such individuals will
remain with the Company. The loss of any of these individuals could have a
material adverse effect on the Company. The Company has recently entered into
employment agreements with its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating
Officer. Upon completion of the Offering (assuming an initial public offering
price of $16.00 per share), the Company's senior management team will
collectively own 865,516 shares of Common Stock (438,427 shares if the U.S.
Underwriters' over-allotment is exercised in full) and hold currently
exercisable options to purchase 2,156,000 shares of Common Stock, representing
on a fully-diluted basis approximately 10.3% of the outstanding Common Stock
(8.9% if the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment is exercised in full). See
"Management."     
 
IMPACT OF ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATION
   
  The Company is subject to the requirements of federal, state, and local
environmental and occupational health and safety laws and regulations. There
can be no assurance that the Company is at all times in complete compliance
with all such requirements. The Company has made and will continue to make
capital and other expenditures to comply with environmental requirements. As
is the case with manufacturers in general, if a release of hazardous
substances occurs on or from the Company's properties or any associated
offsite disposal location, or if contamination from prior activities is
discovered at any of the Company's properties, the Company may be held liable
and the amount of such liability could be material. The Company's Ampad
division has been named a potentially responsible party for cleanup costs
under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
Liability Act at five waste disposal sites and is aware that Niagara has been
named as a potentially responsible party at one site. See "Business--
Environmental, Health and Safety Matters."     
 
DIVIDEND POLICY; RESTRICTIONS ON PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS
 
  The Company currently intends to retain earnings to support its growth
strategy and reduce indebtedness and does not anticipate paying dividends in
the foreseeable future. As a holding company, the ability of the Company to
pay dividends in the future is dependent upon the receipt of dividends or
other payments from its principal operating subsidiary, American Pad & Paper
Company of Delaware, Inc. ("APPC"). The payment of dividends by APPC to the
Company for the purpose of paying dividends to holders of Common Stock is
prohibited by the Bank Credit Agreement and is restricted under the Indenture.
The Company expects that the New Bank Credit Agreement will likewise restrict
the payment of dividends by APPC to the Company for such purpose. See
"Dividend Policy."
 
ABSENCE OF PRIOR PUBLIC MARKET; SUBSTANTIAL DILUTION
   
  Prior to the Offering, there has been no public market for the Common Stock.
The initial public offering price of the Common Stock will be determined by
negotiations among the Company, the Selling Stockholders and the
Representatives and may not be indicative of the market price for shares of
the Common Stock after the Offering. For a description of factors considered
in determining the initial public offering price, see "Underwriters." There
can be no assurance that an active trading market for the Common Stock will
develop or if developed, that such market will be sustained. The market price
for shares of the Common Stock may be significantly affected by such factors
as quarter-to-quarter variations in the Company's results of operations, news
announcements or changes in general market conditions. In addition, broad
market fluctuations and general economic and political conditions may
adversely affect the market price of the Common Stock, regardless of the
Company's actual performance. Purchasers of the Common Stock in the Offering
will be subject to immediate and substantial dilution. See "Dilution."     
 
                                      13
<PAGE>
 
   
POTENTIAL ADVERSE IMPACT OF SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE     
   
  Upon completion of the Offering (assuming an initial public offering price
of $16.00 per share), the Company expects to have 26,925,272 shares of Common
Stock outstanding. Of these shares, the 15,625,000 shares of Common Stock
(17,968,750 shares if the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option is
exercised in full) sold in the Offering will be freely tradeable without
restriction under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities
Act"), except any such shares which may be acquired by an "affiliate" of the
Company. Subject to certain 180-day "lock up" agreements described herein,
approximately 11,300,272 shares of Common Stock will be eligible for sale in
the public market, subject to compliance with the resale volume limitations
and other restrictions of Rule 144 under the Securities Act, beginning 90 days
after the date of this Prospectus. Beginning 180 days after the completion of
the Offering, the holders of an aggregate of approximately 11,078,256 shares
of Common Stock will have certain rights to register their shares of Common
Stock under the Securities Act at the Company's expense. Future sales of the
shares of Common Stock held by existing stockholders could have an adverse
effect on the price of the Common Stock. See "Shares Eligible for Future
Sale."     
 
CERTAIN ANTI-TAKEOVER EFFECTS
   
  Certain provisions of the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation
and By-laws may inhibit changes in control of the Company not approved by the
Company's Board of Directors. These provisions include (i) a classified Board
of Directors, (ii) a prohibition on stockholder action through written
consents, (iii) a requirement that special meetings of stockholders be called
only by the Board, (iv) advance notice requirements for stockholder proposals
and nominations, (v) limitations on the ability of stockholders to amend,
alter or repeal the Company's By-laws and (vi) the authority of the Board to
issue without stockholder approval preferred stock with such terms as the
Board may determine. The Company will also be afforded the protections of
Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law, which could have similar
effects. See "Description of Capital Stock."     
 
  In addition, the Indenture provides that upon a "change of control," each
Note holder will have the right to require the Company to purchase all or a
portion of such holder's Notes at a purchase price of 101% of the principal
amount thereof, together with accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date
of such redemption. Such obligation, if it arose, could have a material
adverse effect on the Company. Such provision could delay, deter or prevent a
takeover attempt. See "Description of Certain Indebtedness--Notes."
 
                                      14
<PAGE>
 
                                  THE COMPANY
   
  Established in 1888, the Company's Ampad division has been a leading
supplier of pads and other paper-based writing products throughout its
history. The Company is one of the largest manufacturers and marketers of all
paper-based office products (excluding computer forms and copy paper) in the
$60 billion to $70 billion North American office products industry. The
Company offers a broad product line including writing pads, file folders,
envelopes and other office products. Through its Ampad division, the Company
is among the largest and most important suppliers of pads and other paper-
based writing products, filing supplies and envelopes to many of the largest
and fastest growing office products distributors. Acquired in October 1995,
the Company's Williamhouse division is the leading supplier of mill branded,
specialty and commodity envelopes to paper merchants/distributors. The Company
maintains several nationally-recognized brand names such as Ampad, Century,
Embassy, Evidence, Gold Fibre, Huxley, Karolton, Kent, Peel & Seel, SCM,
Williamhouse and World Fibre. The Company's strategy is to grow by focusing on
the largest and fastest growing office product distribution channels,
acquiring and introducing new product lines, broadening product distribution
across its channels and maintaining its position among the lowest-cost
manufacturers in the industry.     
 
  From 1986 to 1992, Ampad operated as a subsidiary of Mead. On July 31, 1992,
the Company acquired Ampad from Mead in an acquisition led by Bain Capital and
senior management. Since the acquisition, new management has enhanced the
Company's scale, broadened its product line, expanded upon its national
presence and strengthened its distribution capabilities through acquisition
and innovation while simultaneously delivering higher customer service levels.
In July 1994, the Company acquired the assets and assumed certain liabilities
of SCM, one of the industry leaders in hanging files and writing products. In
August 1995, the Company acquired the file folder and file product lines of
American Trading and Production Corporation's ("Atapco") Globe-Weis office
products division. Prior to the acquisition, Atapco was one of the leading
providers of file folders and hanging files to office product superstores. The
acquisitions of the SCM and Globe-Weis product lines further strengthened the
Company's position in the filing supplies and writing products categories.
   
  In October 1995, the Company acquired Williamhouse for an aggregate purchase
price (including assumption of debt of approximately $152.9 million) of
approximately $300.0 million, plus reimbursement of certain expenses. In
connection with the Acquisition, the Company (i) refinanced an aggregate of
approximately $119.1 million of combined indebtedness of the Company and
Williamhouse, (ii) purchased for $109.0 million in cash all of the Old
Debentures, together with accrued interest thereon of $5.3 million, (iii)
declared a stock dividend of $200 million in aggregate liquidation value of
Preferred Stock and subsequently redeemed approximately $70.6 million of such
Preferred Stock and declared a $4.5 million cash dividend on its Class P
Common Stock, (iv) paid approximately $34.2 million in related fees and
expenses and (v) used approximately $3.4 million for working capital purposes.
To finance the Acquisition and these related transactions, the Company's
principal operating subsidiary (i) incurred borrowings under the Bank Credit
Agreement of approximately $245.0 million, (ii) issued Notes in the aggregate
principal amount of $200.0 million and (iii) received approximately $45.0
million from the establishment of the Accounts Receivable Facility.     
   
  On May 29, 1996, the Company executed a definitive agreement to acquire
Niagara for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $50 million, plus
$5.0 million to be paid under a one-year consulting services agreement. See
"Business--Recent Acquisitions."     
   
  The Company's principal executive offices are located at 17304 Preston Road,
Suite 700, Dallas, Texas 75252 and its telephone number is (214) 733-6200.
    
                                USE OF PROCEEDS
   
  The net proceeds to the Company from the Offering (after deducting
applicable underwriting discounts and estimated expenses payable by the
Company) are estimated to be approximately $187 million (assuming an initial
public offering price of $16.00 per share). The Company intends to use such
net proceeds to (i) repay     
 
                                      15
<PAGE>
 
   
approximately $107 million of the indebtedness incurred under the Bank Credit
Agreement, (ii) allow APPC to redeem approximately $70 million aggregate
principal amount of Notes outstanding, (iii) allow APPC to pay approximately
$8 million in redemption premiums on the Notes and (iv) pay Bain Capital a fee
of approximately $2 million in connection with the Offering. See "Certain
Relationships and Related Transactions--Management Advisory Agreement." The
Company expects that the reduction in indebtedness from the application of
such net proceeds will enhance its ability to make future acquisitions.     
   
  The indebtedness to be repaid under the Bank Credit Agreement consists of
multi-tranche term loans (the "Term Loans") with principal payments scheduled
in varying amounts from 1996 through 2004. Such Term Loans bear interest at
varying rates based, at the Company's option, on either the Eurodollar Rate
(as defined in the Bank Credit Agreement) plus 275 to 400 basis points or the
bank base rate (as defined in the Bank Credit Agreement) plus 175 to 300 basis
points. The applicable basis points vary per tranche. The overall effective
interest rate for such indebtedness at March 31, 1996 was 9.0%. See
"Description of Certain Indebtedness--Bank Credit Agreement."     
   
  The Notes are scheduled to mature on November 15, 2005 and bear interest at
13.0% per annum, payable semi-annually in cash on May 15 and November 15 of
each year. The Company used borrowings under the Bank Credit Agreement to pay
the cash portion of the purchase price of Williamhouse and the net proceeds
from the sale of the Notes to (i) repurchase the Old Debentures of
Williamhouse, (ii) to redeem a portion of the Preferred Stock, (iii) to pay a
cash dividend on the Class P Common Stock, (iv) to pay related fees and
expenses and (v) to provide for working capital. See "Description of Certain
Indebtedness--Description of Notes."     
 
  In connection with the Offering, the Company expects to refinance its
remaining indebtedness under the Bank Credit Agreement after the application
of the net proceeds of the Offering as described above. See "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--
Liquidity and Capital Resources" and "Description of Certain Indebtedness--New
Bank Credit Agreement."
   
  The Company will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of 3,125,000
shares of Common Stock by the Selling Stockholders.     
 
                                DIVIDEND POLICY
   
  Except as described below, the Company has not declared or paid any cash or
other dividends on its Common Stock and does not expect to pay dividends for
the foreseeable future. Instead, the Company currently intends to retain
earnings to support its growth strategy and reduce indebtedness. As a holding
company, the ability of the Company to pay dividends in the future is
dependent upon the receipt of dividends or other payments from its principal
operating subsidiary, APPC. The payment of dividends by APPC to the Company
for purposes of paying dividends to holders of Common Stock is prohibited by
the Bank Credit Agreement and restricted by the Indenture. The Company
anticipates that the New Bank Credit Agreement will likewise prohibit the
payment of dividends by APPC to the Company for such purpose. Any future
determination to pay dividends will be at the discretion of the Company's
Board of Directors and will depend upon, among other factors, the Company's
results of operations, financial condition, capital requirements and
contractual restrictions. See "Risk Factors--Dividend Policy; Restrictions on
Payment of Dividends" and "Description of Certain Indebtedness."     
   
  In October 1995, the Company declared a stock dividend on its outstanding
capital stock of one share of Preferred Stock for each ten shares of Class P
Common Stock and Common Stock (the "Preferred Stock Dividend"). In December
1995, the Company paid a cash dividend on its then outstanding Class P Common
Stock equal to approximately $8.10 per share (after giving effect to the
Recapitalization). Immediately thereafter, all outstanding shares of Class P
Common Stock were converted on a share-for-share basis into shares of existing
Common Stock. Prior to such conversion, the Class P Common Stock was entitled
to a preferential payment upon any distribution by the Company to its holders
of capital stock (whether by dividend, liquidating distribution or otherwise)
equal to the original cost of such shares plus an amount which accrued on a
daily basis at a rate of 15.0% per annum on such cost and the amount so
accrued in prior quarters (the "Preference Amount"). The cash dividend
returned such Preference Amount to the holders of the Class P Common Stock.
    
                                      16
<PAGE>
 
                             THE RECAPITALIZATION
   
  Prior to the Offering, the Company had two classes of issued and outstanding
stock, the Preferred Stock and the Common Stock. See "Description of Capital
Stock." The Preferred Stock has a liquidation value of $1,948.50 per share and
was issued by the Company in October 1995 in the form of a dividend to the
then-existing stockholders of the Company. Prior to the completion of the
Offering, an 8.1192-for-one stock split will be effected as to all of the then
outstanding shares of Common Stock and Common Stock equivalents and all of the
outstanding Preferred Stock and Preferred Stock equivalents will be converted
into shares of Common Stock (collectively, the "Recapitalization"). Each share
of Preferred Stock will be converted into a number of shares of Common Stock
determined by dividing the per share liquidation value of the Preferred Stock
by the initial public offering price of the Common Stock in the Offering.
Based on an assumed initial public offering price of $16.00 per share, an
aggregate of 7,118,002 shares of Common Stock will be issued as a result of
the as a result of the conversion of the Preferred Stock in the
Recapitalization. After giving effect to the Recapitalization, the Company
will have an aggregate of 14,425,272 shares of outstanding Common Stock prior
to the Offering. In addition, all outstanding options for Preferred Stock and
Common Stock held by members of senior management will be converted into
options for Common Stock based upon the initial public offering price and the
exercise price thereof will be adjusted so as to maintain such holder's
economic value. See "Management--Stock Options." Fractional shares otherwise
issuable as a result of the Recapitalization will be rounded to the nearest
whole number. No consideration will be paid for in lieu of fractions that are
rounded down.     
 
                                      17
<PAGE>
 
                                CAPITALIZATION
   
  The following table sets forth at March 31, 1996, (i) the actual
capitalization of the Company and (ii) the pro forma capitalization of the
Company after giving effect to (a) the Recapitalization, (b) the refinancing
of the Bank Credit Agreement and (c) the Niagara Acquisition, and as adjusted
to reflect the sale by the Company of 12,500,000 shares of Common Stock
pursuant to the Offering, assuming an initial public offering price of $16.00
per share, and the application of the net proceeds therefrom as described
under "Use of Proceeds." This table should be read in conjunction with
"Selected Historical Consolidated Financial Data" and "Unaudited Pro Forma
Financial Data" included elsewhere in this Prospectus.     
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                   MARCH 31, 1996
                                               --------------------------
                                                             PRO FORMA
                                                 ACTUAL     AS ADJUSTED
                                               -----------  -------------
                                               (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                            <C>          <C>
Short-term debt:
 Current maturities of long-term debt......... $    13,066   $     2,116 (1)
                                               ===========   ===========
Long-term debt, net of current maturities:
  Revolving credit facility...................         --        176,867 (1)(2)
  Term loans..................................     231,625           --  (1)
  IRBs and other indebtedness.................       8,828        12,428 (3)
  Notes.......................................     200,000       130,000 (4)
                                               -----------   -----------
    Total long-term debt......................     440,453       319,295
                                               -----------   -----------
Stockholders' equity (5):
  Preferred Stock, $0.01 par value, 150,000
   shares authorized; 58,449 shares issued on
   an actual basis; and no shares issued on a
   pro forma, as adjusted basis...............     113,887           --
  Common Stock, $0.01 par value, 75,000,000
   shares authorized; 900,000 shares issued on
   an actual basis; 26,925,272 shares issued
   on a pro forma, as adjusted basis..........           9           269
  Additional paid-in capital..................      14,240       313,067
  Retained earnings (deficit).................    (194,429)     (212,686)(6)
                                               -----------   -----------
    Total stockholders' equity (deficit)......     (66,293)      100,650
                                               -----------   -----------
      Total capitalization.................... $   374,160   $   419,945
                                               ===========   ===========
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Reflects (i) the use of approximately $107,500 of the net proceeds to the
    Company to repay borrowings on the Term Loans under the Bank Credit
    Agreement after reclassification of $11,250 of current maturities of Term
    Loans to long-term debt and to pay certain expenses associated with, and
    funded from, the bank refinancing, (ii) use of approximately $135,375 of
    proceeds to the Company under the New Bank Credit Agreement to repay
    borrowings on the Term Loans under the Bank Credit Agreement, (iii)
    additional borrowings of $32,992 under the New Bank Credit Agreement to
    partially fund the Niagara Acquisition and (iv) additional borrowings of
    $8,500 to fund debt issuance costs and other expenses related thereto.
           
(2) Does not reflect the expected repayment of debt from the estimated
    proceeds from the sale of the Personalizing Division.     
          
(3) Reflects debt to be assumed in the Niagara Acquisition of $3,900, less the
    current portion of $300.     
   
(4) Reflects the use of $70,000 of the net proceeds to the Company to
    partially redeem the Notes.     
   
(5) Does not include 2,156,000 shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance
    upon the exercise of options outstanding as of June 5, 1996 or 2,100,000
    shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance under the 1996 Stock Plan,
    the Non-Employee Director Plan and the Management Stock Purchase Plan. See
    "Management--Stock Options."     
   
(6) Includes an after-tax extraordinary loss of approximately $18.3 million
    ($30.4 million pretax) related to writeoff of deferred financing costs
    from the repayment of debt and payment of the $7.7 million call premium on
    the partial redemption of the Notes with the net proceeds to the Company.
        
                                      18
<PAGE>
 
                                   DILUTION
   
  The following table presents certain information concerning the pro forma
net tangible book value per share of Common Stock as of March 31, 1996,
assuming the consummation of the Recapitalization and the Niagara Acquisition,
and as adjusted to reflect the sale of 12,500,000 shares of Common Stock by
the Company in the Offering, at an assumed initial public offering price of
$16.00 per share, after deducting the estimated offering expenses and
underwriting discounts and commissions:     
 
<TABLE>     
   <S>                                                       <C>      <C>
   Assumed initial public offering price per share..........          $ 16.00
   Pro forma net tangible book value per share before the
    Offering(1)............................................. $(17.81)
   Increase per share attributable to payments by new
    investors............................................... $ 14.47
   Adjusted pro forma net tangible book value per share
    after the Offering......................................          $ (3.34)
                                                                      -------
   Dilution per share to new investors(2)...................          $(19.34)
                                                                      =======
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Net tangible book value per share of Common Stock is determined by
    dividing the Company's pro forma tangible net worth at March 31, 1996 of
    $(256.8) million by the aggregate number of shares of Common Stock
    outstanding.     
(2) Dilution is determined by subtracting net tangible book value per share
    after the Offering from the initial public offering price per share.
   
  The following table summarizes, on a pro forma basis, as of March 31, 1996,
the difference between the existing stockholders and the new investors with
respect to the number of shares of Common Stock purchased (or to be purchased)
from the Company, the total consideration paid (or to be paid) and the average
price per share paid (or to be paid) by the existing stockholders and new
investors, at an assumed initial public offering price of $16.00 per share,
before deducting the estimated offering expenses and underwriting discounts
and commissions:     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                               SHARES PURCHASED  TOTAL CONSIDERATION   AVERAGE
                              ------------------ --------------------   PRICE
                                NUMBER   PERCENT    AMOUNT    PERCENT PER SHARE
                              ---------- ------- ------------ ------- ---------
<S>                           <C>        <C>     <C>          <C>     <C>
Existing stockholders(1)..... 14,425,272    54%  $  3,130,000     2%    $ .22
New investors(2)............. 12,500,000    46    200,000,000    98%    16.00
                              ----------   ---   ------------   ---
  Total...................... 26,925,272   100%  $203,130,000   100%
                              ==========   ===   ============   ===
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Does not include 2,156,000 shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance
    upon the exercise of options outstanding as of June 5, 1996 or 2,100,000
    shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance under the 1996 Stock Plan,
    the Non-Employee Director Plan and the Management Stock Purchase Plan. See
    "Management--Stock Options."     
   
(2) Sales of Common Stock by the Selling Stockholders in the Offering will
    reduce the number of shares of Common Stock held by existing stockholders
    to 11,300,272, or approximately 42% of the total shares of Common Stock
    outstanding after the Offering (8,956,522 shares, or approximately 33% if
    the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised in full), and
    will increase the number of shares held by new investors to 15,625,000, or
    approximately 58% of the total shares of Common Stock outstanding after
    the Offering (17,968,750 shares, or approximately 67% if the U.S.
    Underwriters' over-allotment option is exercised in full). See "Principal
    and Selling Stockholders."     
 
                                      19
<PAGE>
 
                SELECTED HISTORICAL CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
   
  The selected historical consolidated financial data set forth below for the
years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995 have been derived from, and are
qualified by reference to the audited consolidated financial statements of the
Company, included elsewhere in this Prospectus. The selected historical
consolidated financial data set forth for the period August 1, 1992 to
December 31, 1992 have been derived from the Company's audited financial
statements not included in this Prospectus. The selected historical
consolidated financial data set forth below for the three months ended March
31, 1995 and 1996 have been derived from the unaudited consolidated financial
statements of the Company which, in the opinion of the Company, reflect all
adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a
fair presentation. Results for the three months ended March 31, 1996 are not
necessarily indicative of results for the full year. Effective July 31, 1992,
the Company acquired Ampad (the "Predecessor") from Mead. As such, the
selected historical consolidated financial data set forth below for the period
from January 1, 1992 through July 31, 1992 and the year ended December 31,
1991 have been derived from the Predecessor's unaudited financial statements,
not included herein, and include all adjustments, consisting only of normal
recurring adjustments, which management considers necessary for a fair
presentation of the results of the Predecessor for such periods. The selected
historical consolidated financial data for the Predecessor are not comparable
in certain respects to the selected historical consolidated financial data of
the Company due to the effects of the acquisition of the assets of the
Predecessor described in the notes hereto. The selected historical
consolidated financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction
with, and is qualified by reference to, "Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and the audited consolidated
financial statements and accompanying notes thereto included elsewhere in this
Prospectus.     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                              PREDECESSOR                           THE COMPANY
                          -------------------- -----------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                           THREE MONTHS
                                       PERIOD   PERIOD          YEAR ENDED                    ENDED
                           YEAR ENDED   FROM     FROM          DECEMBER 31,                 MARCH 31,
                          DECEMBER 31, 1/1/92- 8/1/92-  -------------------------------  -----------------
                              1991     7/31/92 12/31/92   1993      1994        1995      1995      1996
                          ------------ ------- -------- --------  --------    ---------  -------  --------
                                  (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)                 (UNAUDITED)
<S>                       <C>          <C>     <C>      <C>       <C>         <C>        <C>      <C>
INCOME STATEMENT
 DATA(1)(2)(3):
 Net sales..............    $107,964   $63,238 $43,526  $104,277  $120,443    $ 259,341  $47,691  $121,418
 Cost of sales(4).......      96,959    55,737  37,610    88,491   113,394      211,814   42,394    97,889
                            --------   ------- -------  --------  --------    ---------  -------  --------
 Gross profit...........      11,005     7,501   5,916    15,786     7,049(4)    47,527    5,297    23,529
 Selling, general and
  administrative
  expenses..............       9,466     5,838   4,561    10,765    10,615       18,545    2,749    11,026
 Nonrecurring
  compensation
  charge(5).............         --        --      --        --        --        27,632      --        --
                            --------   ------- -------  --------  --------    ---------  -------  --------
 Income (loss) from
  operations............       1,539     1,663   1,355     5,021    (3,566)       1,350    2,548    12,503
 Interest expense.......       2,204     1,337   1,311     3,320     4,560       13,657    1,656    12,542
 Other (income)
  expense...............      (2,820)      --      --       (167)      (90)        (735)     (65)     (269)
                            --------   ------- -------  --------  --------    ---------  -------  --------
 Income (loss) before
  income taxes..........       2,155       326      44     1,868    (8,036)     (11,572)     957       230
 Provision for (benefit
  from) income taxes....         862       130      33        64      (488)      (6,538)     366       102
                            --------   ------- -------  --------  --------    ---------  -------  --------
 Income (loss) before
  extraordinary item....       1,293       196      11     1,804    (7,548)      (5,034)     591       128
 Extraordinary loss from
  extinguishment of
  debt, net of income
  tax benefit...........         --        --      --        --        --        (9,652)     --        --
                            --------   ------- -------  --------  --------    ---------  -------  --------
 Net income (loss)......    $  1,293   $   196 $    11  $  1,804  $ (7,548)   $ (14,686) $   591  $    128
                            ========   ======= =======  ========  ========    =========  =======  ========
 Pro forma income (loss)
  per share(6)..........                                                      $    (.95)          $    .01
                                                                              =========           ========
 Pro forma weighted
  average number of
  common shares and
  common share
  equivalents
  outstanding(6)........                                                         15,540             16,562
                                                                              =========           ========
OTHER DATA:
 Depreciation and
  amortization..........    $  3,385   $ 1,936 $    79  $    159  $    942    $   4,248      528  $  3,020
 Capital expenditures...       1,243       647     948     1,656       942        5,640    2,530     2,321
</TABLE>    
 
                                      20
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                          PREDECESSOR                   THE COMPANY
                          ------------ -----------------------------------------------
                             AS OF          AS OF DECEMBER 31,         AS OF MARCH 31,
                          DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------  ---------------
                              1991      1992   1993   1994     1995         1996
                          ------------ ------ ------ ------  --------  ---------------
                               (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)                    (UNAUDITED)
<S>                       <C>          <C>    <C>    <C>     <C>       <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA (AT
 END OF PERIOD):
 Working capital........    $22,720    $8,774 $8,248 $1,170  $108,924     $109,238
 Total assets...........     65,659    42,305 47,893 68,233   504,356      500,794
 Long-term debt, less
  current
  maturities(7).........        --     11,301 10,806 19,889   443,794      440,453
 Stockholders' equity
  (deficit)(8)..........     54,769     3,011  4,815 (2,733)  (66,421)     (66,293)
</TABLE>    
- --------
(1) Effective July 5, 1994, the Company acquired the assets and assumed
    certain liabilities of SCM. The acquisition has been accounted for under
    the purchase method of accounting and, accordingly, the operating results
    have been included with the Company's results since the date of
    acquisition. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
    Condition and Results of Operations" and Note 3 of the Notes to
    Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company included herein.
(2) Effective August 16, 1995, the Company acquired the inventory and certain
    equipment of the file folder and hanging file product lines of the Globe-
    Weis office products division of Atapco. The acquisition has been
    accounted for under the purchase method of accounting and, accordingly,
    the operating results have been included in the Company's results since
    the date of acquisition. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
    Financial Condition and Results of Operations," Note 3 of the Notes to the
    Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company and the audited
    statements of Net Sales and Cost of Sales of Globe-Weis included herein.
(3) Effective October 31, 1995, the Company acquired Williamhouse in the
    Acquisition. The Acquisition has been accounted for under the purchase
    method and, accordingly, the operating results of Williamhouse, except for
    the Personalizing Division, for the two-month period ended December 31,
    1995 have been included in the Company's results for the year ended
    December 31, 1995. The Personalizing Division was held for sale at
    December 31, 1995. As such, the operating results of the Personalizing
    Division are excluded from the results of operations for the two-month
    period ended December 31, 1995 (period subsequent to the Acquisition). See
    "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
    of Operations," Note 3 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
    of the Company and the audited financial statements of Williamhouse
    included herein.
(4) Inventory cost is determined using the LIFO method of valuation. Gross
    profit in the fourth quarter of 1994 was adversely impacted by a
    significant increase in paper prices resulting in a $5.4 million charge
    for LIFO in advance of the Company's raising selling prices in the first
    quarter of 1995. Beginning in January 1995, the Company adopted new
    pricing policies enabling it to set product prices consistent with the
    Company's cost of paper at the time of shipment. The Company believes that
    it is now able to price its products so as to minimize the impact of price
    volatility on dollar margins. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
    Financial Condition and Results of Operations--Overview."
(5) Includes non-cash stock option compensation charges of $24.3 million
    directly related to the Acquisition as well as other non-recurring cash
    and non-cash charges aggregating $3.3 million. See Note 9 of the Notes to
    Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company included herein.
   
(6) Pro forma earnings (loss) per share and pro forma weighted average number
    of shares and share equivalents outstanding have been adjusted to give
    effect to the Recapitalization. Common Stock equivalents have been
    determined using the treasury stock method.     
          
(7) Does not reflect the expected repayment of debt with the proceeds from the
    sale of the Personalizing Division for the year ended December 31, 1995
    and the three months ended March 31, 1996.     
   
(8) For 1995, includes $4.5 million to pay the liquidation preference,
    including the return of original cost, of the Company's Class P Common
    Stock and $70.6 million to redeem a portion of its Preferred Stock.     
 
                                      21
<PAGE>
 
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
OVERVIEW
   
  The Company is one of the largest manufacturers and marketers of nationally
branded and private label paper-based office products (excluding computer
forms and copy paper) in the $60 billion to $70 billion North American office
products industry. The Company offers a broad assortment of products including
writing pads, file folders, envelopes and other paper-based products. Through
its Ampad division, the Company is among the largest and most important
suppliers of pads and other paper-based writing products, filing supplies and
envelopes to many of the largest and fastest growing office products
distributors. Through its Williamhouse division, the Company is the leading
supplier of mill branded, specialty and commodity envelopes to paper
merchants/distributors. The Company believes that its future operating results
will not be directly comparable to its historical operating results because of
its strategic acquisitions and the expected cost savings from integration of
the Acquisition. The Company's business has not generally been seasonal in
nature. Certain factors which have affected, and may affect prospectively, the
operating results of the Company are discussed below.     
 
  Strategic Acquisitions. On October 31, 1995, the Company acquired
Williamhouse, a leading supplier of envelopes to many of the largest and
fastest growing distributors, for an aggregate purchase price (including
assumption of debt) of approximately $300 million plus reimbursement of
certain expenses to the sellers. On July 5, 1994, the Company acquired the
assets and assumed certain liabilities of SCM, one of the industry leaders in
hanging files and writing products. The aggregate acquisition consideration of
$14.4 million, including fees and expenses, was financed through the
incurrence of bank debt. On August 16, 1995, the Company acquired the file
folder and hanging file product lines of Atapco's Globe-Weis office products
division. Atapco was one of the leading providers of file folders and hanging
files to office products superstores. The aggregate acquisition consideration
of $19.7 million, including fees and expenses, was financed through the
incurrence of bank debt and seller notes. The SCM Acquisition and the Globe-
Weis Acquisition further strengthened the Company's position in the filing
supplies and writing products categories.
 
  On December 20, 1993, Williamhouse acquired the principal assets of
Kimberly-Clark Corporation's Karolton envelope business. The Karolton envelope
business manufactures high quality envelopes made from fine and specialty
grades of paper and Tyvek (R) (a high density polyurethane-based product made
by Du Pont). The aggregate acquisition consideration of $9.6 million was
financed through the incurrence of bank debt. On July 29, 1994, Williamhouse
acquired the giant and X-ray envelope product lines from Huxley Envelope Corp.
The aggregate acquisition consideration of $4.2 million, including a seller
note, was principally financed through the incurrence of bank debt.
 
  Purchase Accounting Effects. The Company's acquisitions have been accounted
for using the purchase accounting method. The Acquisition has currently
affected, and will prospectively affect, the Company's results of operations
in certain significant respects. The aggregate acquisition cost (including
assumption of debt) of approximately $300 million was allocated to the net
assets acquired based on the fair market value of such net assets. The
preliminary allocation of the purchase price resulted in an increase in the
historical book value of certain Williamhouse assets such as property, plant
and equipment and intangible assets, including goodwill, which results, on a
pro forma basis, in incremental annual depreciation and amortization expense
of $7.0 million as of December 31, 1995.
 
  Potential Operating Improvements. The Company has identified and is in the
process of implementing cost reductions in connection with the Acquisition
that are expected to result in approximately $7.4 million of annual cost
savings following the adoption of such measures. In addition, management plans
to implement further identified cost reductions which are expected to improve
operations beyond 1996. The most significant cost reduction actions involve
closing Williamhouse's New York City headquarters, contractual changes in
employee benefit and other insurance plans and the consolidation of sales and
marketing and other administrative functions to eliminate duplicative
functions, sales programs and sales personnel. However, because these
improvements have not yet been fully implemented and Williamhouse's selling,
general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses have historically been a higher
percentage of net sales than those of the Company prior to the Acquisition,
the Company's aggregate SG&A expenses may rise as a percentage of net sales in
the near term.
 
                                      22
<PAGE>
 
   
  Sale of Personalizing Division. The Company's management identified the
Personalizing Division of Williamhouse as a nonstrategic asset following the
Acquisition and has decided to pursue its sale. As a result, the financial
statements of the Company included elsewhere in this Prospectus reflect the
Personalizing Division as "Assets held for Sale" as of December 31, 1995 and
March 31, 1996. On April 17, 1996, the Company signed a letter of intent with
a potential buyer to sell the Personalizing Division. Under the terms of such
letter, the Company will receive approximately $60 million in gross proceeds
(subject to certain working capital adjustments) from the sale of the
Personalizing Division, which it expects to complete by the end of June 1996.
To date, the Company has not executed any definitive agreements with respect
to such sale and, as a result, no assurance can be given that the proposed
sale will be completed or, if completed, will be on the terms outlined herein.
       
  SCM Work Stoppage. Prior to the consummation of the SCM Acquisition,
management was aware that work rules and associated costs at the SCM plant in
Indiana were less favorable than those at other plants of the Company. As a
result of management's efforts to bring the labor agreement at the Indiana
plant more in line with market labor agreements, a labor strike occurred on
September 1, 1994. Consequently, the Company closed the Indiana plant on
February 15, 1995, and moved the equipment to other facilities operated by the
Company. By July 1995, all machinery and equipment previously operated in
Indiana was available for production in other Company facilities. Accordingly,
the Company does not believe that such plant closure has had an ongoing
material impact on the Company's operations.     
   
  Paper Prices. Paper represents a majority of the Company's cost of goods
sold. While paper prices have increased by an average of less than 1% annually
since 1989, certain commodity grades have shown considerable price volatility
during that period. This volatility negatively impacted the Company's earnings
in 1994, particularly in the fourth quarter, as a result of the Company's
inability to implement price changes in many of its product lines without
giving its customers advance notification. Beginning in January 1995, the
Company adopted new pricing policies enabling it to set product prices
consistent with the Company's cost of paper at the time of shipment. The
Company believes that it is now able to price its products so as to minimize
the impact of price volatility on dollar margins. In addition, as a result of
acquisitions and new product introductions, the Company offers a broader and
more diverse product mix which is less susceptible to paper price
fluctuations. See "Risk Factors--Risks Associated with Fluctuations in Paper
Costs."     
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
   
  The following table summarizes the Company's historical results of
operations as a percentage of net sales for the years ended December 31, 1993,
1994, and 1995 and the three month periods ended March 31, 1995 and 1996. The
results of operations for the year ended December 31, 1995 reflect the
historical annual results of the Company and the results of Williamhouse for
the two-month period ended December 31, 1995:     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                   THREE
                                                                  MONTHS
                                                                   ENDED
                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,       MARCH 31,
                                   --------------------------   -------------
                                    1993     1994      1995     1995    1996
                                   -------  -------   -------   -----   -----
<S>                                <C>      <C>       <C>       <C>     <C>
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
  Net sales.......................   100.0%   100.0%    100.0%  100.0%  100.0%
                                   =======  =======   =======   =====   =====
  Gross profit....................    15.1      5.9      18.3    11.1    19.4
  Selling, general and administra-
   tive expenses..................    10.3      8.9       7.2     5.8     9.1
  Non-recurring compensation
   charge.........................     --       --       10.6     --      --
                                   -------  -------   -------   -----   -----
  Income (loss) from operations...     4.8     (3.0)      0.5     5.3    10.3
  Interest expense, net...........     3.2      3.8       5.2     3.4    10.3
  Other (income) expense..........    (0.2)    (0.1)     (0.2)   (0.1)   (0.2)
                                   -------  -------   -------   -----   -----
  Income (loss) before taxes......     1.8     (6.7)     (4.5)    2.0     0.2
  Provision for (benefit from) in-
   come taxes.....................     0.1     (0.4)     (2.5)    0.8     --
                                   -------  -------   -------   -----   -----
  Income from continuing opera-
   tions before extraordinary
   item...........................     1.7     (6.3)     (2.0)    1.2     0.2
  Extraordinary loss from extin-
   guishment of debt, net of in-
   come tax benefit...............     --       --       (3.7)    --      --
                                   -------  -------   -------   -----   -----
  Net income (loss) from continu-
   ing operations.................     1.7%    (6.3)%    (5.7)%   1.2 %   0.2 %
                                   =======  =======   =======   =====   =====
</TABLE>    
 
 
                                      23
<PAGE>
 
   
THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
1995     
   
  Net sales for the three months ended March 31, 1996 increased by $73.7
million, or 155%, to $121.4 million from $47.7 million for the three months
ended March 31, 1995. Of this net sales increase, $64.3 million is related to
the Acquisition and $15.9 million is related to the Globe-Weis Acquisition.
Ampad division net sales, exclusive of Globe-Weis, decreased by $6.5 million
in the first quarter of 1996 compared to the unusually strong first quarter of
1995. The strong 1995 first quarter was due to certain of the Company's
customers increasing inventory levels in anticipation of price increases and
supply shortages.     
   
  Gross Profit for the three months ended March 31, 1996 increased by $18.2
million, or 343%, to $23.5 million from $5.3 million for the three months
ended March 31, 1995. Approximately $15.5 million of the increase in gross
profit is attributable to the Acquisition and $2.0 million is attributable to
the Globe-Weis Acquisition. The gross profit from the Ampad division,
exclusive of Globe-Weis, increased by $.7 million, due to increased gross
margins. Gross profit margin increased to 19.4% for the three months ended
March 31, 1996 from 11.1% for the three months ended March 31, 1995. The
increase in gross profit margin is related to unfavorable inventory valuation
of $2.6 million in the first quarter of 1995 due to rising paper prices. In
addition, the Company's ability to maintain its dollar margins in the first
quarter of 1996 despite a falling price environment led to higher margin
percentages.     
   
  SG&A expenses for the three months ended March 31, 1996 increased $8.2
million, or 302%, to $11.0 from $2.8 million for the three months ended March
31, 1995. Approximately $7.3 million of the increase is attributable to the
Acquisition and includes $1.0 million of amortization of goodwill and
intangibles and $.3 million of costs related to the off balance sheet
financing of receivables. The remaining $.9 million of the increase is
attributable to the Ampad division, primarily related to shifting of corporate
activities from the Williamhouse division. As a percentage of net sales, SG&A
expenses increased to 9.1% for the first three months of 1996 from 5.8% in the
comparable period for the prior year as a result of higher SG&A expenses as a
percentage of net sales of the Williamhouse division (11.0% for the period)
compared to the Ampad division (5.6% for the period).     
   
  Interest Expense for the three months ended March 31, 1996 increased $10.9
million to $12.5 million from $1.6 million for the three months ended March
31, 1995. The increase is attributable primarily to increased borrowings as a
result of the sale of the Notes in December 1995, the Acquisition in October
1995 and the Globe-Weis Acquisition in August 1995.     
   
  The income tax provision for the three month period ended March 31, 1996
reflects an effective tax rate of 44.4%, versus an effective tax rate of 38.3%
for the three month period ended March 31, 1995. The increase is attributable
primarily to the nondeductible goodwill amortization resulting from the
Acquisition.     
 
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994
 
  Net sales for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased by $138.9 million,
or 115%, to $259.3 million from $120.4 million for the year ended December 31,
1994. Of this net sales increase, $46.6 million, or 33%, is related to the
Acquisition and $29.4 million, or 21%, is related to the Globe-Weis
Acquisition. The remaining increase of $62.9 million, or 46%, is related to
increased net sales in the base business, primarily as a result of price
increases and, to a lesser extent, a change in product mix, partially offset
by a decline in sales through non-strategic channels, particularly independent
dealers. Net sales to independent dealers declined to less than 2% of net
sales in the year ended December 31, 1995, compared to 8.5% in 1994. Net sales
in the emerging channels (national office products superstores, national
contract stationers and mass merchandisers) represented 52.0% of total net
sales (63.4% of Ampad division sales) in the year ended December 31, 1995 as
compared to 45.7% of total net sales (45.7% of Ampad division sales) in the
year ended December 31, 1994.
 
  Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased by $40.5
million, or 575%, to $47.5 million, from $7.0 million for the year ended
December 31, 1994. Approximately $13.6 million of the increase in gross
 
                                      24
<PAGE>
 
   
profit is attributable to the Acquisition and an estimated $3.8 million
increase is due to the Globe-Weis Acquisition. The remainder of the increase
in gross profit is due to (i) higher variable margins associated with the
gains in unit sales, product mix and pricing; (ii) lower fixed manufacturing
costs primarily as a result of the SCM plant closure; and (iii) lower rate of
paper price increases in 1995 compared with 1994 and the timing of the
Acquisition, resulting in lower LIFO charges of approximately $2.5 million in
1995. Fixed manufacturing costs as a percentage of net sales declined as a
result of the successful integration of the Globe-Weis manufacturing
operations and the closing of the Indiana facility.     
   
  Gross profit margin increased in the year ended December 31, 1995 to 18.3%
from 5.9% in 1994. The increase is principally a result of higher variable
margins, lower fixed manufacturing costs and lower LIFO charges. Excluding
acquisitions, gross profit margin would have increased to 16.4% for the period
ended December 31, 1995.     
   
  SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased by $7.9
million, or 74%, to $18.5 million, from $10.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 1994. Approximately $5.9 million of this increase related to the
Acquisition. The balance of such increase related to higher amortization costs
as a result of the Acquisition and the costs associated with the Accounts
Receivable Facility. SG&A as a percentage of net sales for the year ended
December 31, 1995 decreased to 7.2% from 8.9% in 1994, as a result of higher
revenues and cost efficiencies achieved from the successful integration of SCM
and Globe-Weis operations into the Company's existing sales and administrative
structure, combined with improved control of operating expenses.     
 
  The non-recurring compensation charge of $27.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 1995 was primarily the result of the issuance of options for
Preferred Stock granted to existing option holders in order to maintain such
holders' economic value in previously issued options for Common Stock as a
result of the Preferred Stock Dividend and the grant of additional options in
December 1995 at an exercise price below the fair market value at the date of
grant. See Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of the
Company included herein.
   
  Income (loss) from operations for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased
by $4.9 million to $1.3 million from ($3.6) million in 1994, for the reasons
stated above. Income (loss) from operations as a percentage of net sales for
the year ended December 31, 1995 increased to .5% from (3.0)% for the year
ended December 31, 1994.     
       
  Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased $9.1
million, or 198%, to $13.7 million from $4.6 million for the year ended
December 31, 1994. The increase is attributable primarily to increased
borrowings as a result of the Acquisition and the Globe-Weis Acquisition.
 
  Income tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 1995 reflects an
effective tax rate of 46.9%, versus a 6.1% effective tax rate in 1994. The
difference between the effective rate and the statutory rate in 1995 is due to
a reduction in the SFAS No. 109 deferred tax valuation allowance resulting
from improved operating results.
 
  Extraordinary item representing an after tax loss on extinguishment of debt
of $9.6 million ($16.1 million pretax) was recognized as a result of $10.8
million of redemption premiums and prepayment penalties associated with the
repurchase of the Old Debentures and the Company's bank debt and the write off
of $5.3 million of unamortized deferred financing costs in connection with the
redemption of the Old Debentures and the Company's debt refinancings.
 
  Supplemental 1995 Williamhouse Data. Although only two months of
Williamhouse's post-Acquisition results are included in the Company's
consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 1995, the
Company believes that the following combined twelve month unaudited
comparative information is useful in evaluating the expected future
contribution of the Williamhouse division to the Company's results of
operations. Net sales for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased 6.9% to
$265.2 million from $248.0 million for the year ended December 31, 1994. The
increased sales are a result of both increased selling prices on commodity
 
                                      25
<PAGE>
 
and mill branded envelopes and increased sales volume of Christmas card
product lines due to product expansion and more aggressive sales efforts.
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased by $7.5 million,
or 10.1%, to $82.0 million from $74.5 million for the year ended December 31,
1994 as a result of higher pricing offset partially by higher costs. Gross
profit margin for the year ended December 31, 1995 increased slightly to 30.9%
from 30.0% for the year ended December 31, 1994, as a result of price
increases on selected products, partially offset by higher raw material costs
for mill branded and commodity paper. SG&A expenses for the year ended
December 31, 1995 increased to $48.0 million as compared to $45.2 million for
the year ended December 31, 1994. EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 1995
increased by $9.4 million, or 23.8%, to $48.9 million from $39.5 million for
the year ended December 31, 1994. EBITDA as a percentage of net sales for the
year ended December 31, 1995 increased to 18.4% from 15.9% for the year ended
December 31, 1994, as a result of the factors discussed above.
 
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1994 COMPARED TO YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993
 
  Net sales for the year ended December 31, 1994 increased by $16.2 million,
or 15.5%, to $120.4 million from $104.3 million for the year ended December
31, 1993. The net sales increase is related to the SCM Acquisition in July
1994, which contributed $21.0 million through the end of 1994. Excluding the
SCM Acquisition, net sales decreased by $4.8 million as a result of the
discontinuation of the copy paper brokerage business ($10 million), partially
offset by continued sales growth in the emerging distribution channels, which
contributed 45% of sales during 1994 compared to 30% in 1993. Net sales from
SCM operations were negatively affected as a result of the Indiana plant
strike that occurred in the third quarter of 1994. As a result of the work
stoppage at the Indiana plant, sales from that plant were $10.4 million for
the period between September 1, 1994 through December 31, 1994 as compared to
$22.8 million for the same period in 1993.
   
  Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 1994 decreased by $8.8 million,
or 55.7%, to $7.0 million from $15.8 million for the year ended December 31,
1993. Gross profit margins decreased to 5.9% in 1994, from 15.1% in 1993.
Gross profit margin decreased primarily as a result of a $7.0 million
increase, or 5.8%, in the LIFO reserve and delayed implementation of price
changes subsequent to increased raw material paper costs. Management believes
that pricing delays negatively impacted gross profit margin by approximately
2.1%. In addition, as the Company began shifting its customer base to the
emerging channels, it incurred certain non-recurring expenses. Such expenses
were related to removing competitive products from customers' inventory,
revising the Company's packaging and increasing the breadth of products
offered by the Company in those channels. Furthermore, as a result of the work
stoppage at the Indiana plant, gross profit at that plant decreased from $2.4
million for the period between September 1, 1993 and December 31, 1993, to
$(.5) million for the same period in 1994.     
   
  SG&A expenses for the year ended December 31, 1994 decreased by $.2 million,
or 1.4%, to $10.6 million from $10.8 million for the year ended December 31,
1993. SG&A as a percentage of net sales in 1994 decreased to 8.9% from 10.3%
in 1993 as a result of management's efforts to successfully integrate SCM's
operations into the Company's existing sales and administrative structure.
    
  Income (loss) from operations for the year ended December 31, 1994 decreased
by $8.6 million to $(3.6) million from $5.0 million for the year ended
December 31, 1993. Income (loss) from operations as a percentage of net sales
decreased to (3.0)% in 1994 from 4.8% in 1993 primarily as a result of the
factors discussed above.
       
  Management believes that the Company's 1994 historical earnings are not
comparable to the ongoing level of operations of the business which now
reflect the full impact of the SCM, Globe-Weis and Williamhouse acquisitions.
A prolonged work stoppage at SCM's Indiana plant (see "--Overview--SCM Work
Stoppage") prevented the Company from operating the acquired assets at full
capacity until 1995. Furthermore, with respect to Globe-Weis, the previous
owner allocated to it corporate and other fixed overhead costs at levels
higher than those allocated to it by the Company. The Company has operated the
Globe-Weis assets profitably since their acquisition. Management believes
Globe-Weis can contribute to improved overall ongoing results as compared to
1994 levels of business. Finally, the Company's former pricing policies
delayed the aligning of the price the Company charged for its products with
the market price for paper.
 
                                      26
<PAGE>
 
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
   
  Net cash provided by operating activities for the three months ended March
31, 1996 was $7.6 million compared to a use of cash of $10.3 million for the
three months ended March 31, 1995. The $7.6 million of cash provided in the
first quarter of 1996 was primarily due to an income tax refund of $3.6
million, a decrease in accounts receivable of $7.5 million, partially offset
by a decrease in accounts payable ($.4 million) and accrued expenses ($1.5
million) and an increase in prepaid expenses ($1.1 million). The use of cash
of $10.3 million in the first quarter of 1995 was primarily due to an increase
in accounts receivable ($5.0 million) and inventories ($5.7 million) and a
decrease in accrued expenses ($2.2 million), partially offset by an increase
in accounts payable ($1.7 million).     
 
  Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31,
1995 was $8.3 million compared to $1.9 million used by operations for the year
ended December 31, 1994. The net cash provided for the year ended December 31,
1995 resulted primarily from an increase of $5.0 million in accounts payable,
an increase in accrued expenses of $4.9 million, a decrease in inventories and
increased margins on sales. The increase was partially offset by an increase
in accounts receivable due to increased sales. Cash used by operations for the
years ended December 31, 1994 and 1993 was $1.9 million and $1.7 million,
respectively. The use of cash for the year ended December 31, 1994 was
primarily due to an increase in inventories offset by an increased LIFO charge
due to rising paper prices, and a decrease in accrued expenses, offset by an
increase in accounts payable. The use of cash for the year ended December 31,
1993 resulted from increased inventories offset by an increase in accounts
payable.
   
  Cash used in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 1996
and 1995 and the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, was $3.0
million, $.7 million, $131.2 million, $14.6 million and $.5 million,
respectively. The use of cash for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and
1995 was primarily due to purchases of property and equipment. The use of cash
for the year ended December 31, 1995, was due to the Acquisition ($122.7
million), the Globe-Weis Acquisition ($7.0 million) and purchase of equipment
($3.9 million). The use of cash for the year ended December 31, 1994, was due
primarily to the SCM Acquisition ($14.4 million). The use of cash for the year
ended December 31, 1993, was due to purchases of equipment offset by proceeds
from the sale of the dated goods products line.     
   
  Cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31,
1995 and for the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, was $11.1
million, $144.9 million, $16.5 million and $2.2 million, respectively,
primarily due to periodic financings incurred in connection with the various
acquisitions. Cash used in financing activities for the three months ended
March 31, 1996 was $2.9 million due to repayments of debt, partially offset by
proceeds from the issuance of long-term debt.     
   
  Capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, in the three months ended
March 31, 1996 and the years ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 were $2.3
million, $3.9 million, $.9 million and $1.7 million, respectively. The Company
expects that combined capital expenditure requirements will be approximately
$12 million for 1996. The Company believes these capital expenditure levels
will be sufficient to maintain competitiveness and to provide sufficient
manufacturing capacity. The Company expects to fund capital expenditures
primarily from cash generated from operating activities.     
   
  As a result of the Transactions, the debt service costs associated with the
borrowings under the Bank Credit Agreement and the Notes significantly
increased the Company's liquidity requirements. Additional borrowings are
available under the $45 million revolving credit facility portion of the Bank
Credit Agreement. As of March 31, 1996, the Company did not have any
borrowings under the revolving credit facility portion of the Bank Credit
Agreement. The Bank Credit Agreement and the Indenture impose certain
restrictions on the Company, including restrictions on its ability to incur
indebtedness, pay dividends, make investments, grant liens, sell its assets
and engage in certain other activities. In addition, the indebtedness of the
Company under the Bank Credit Agreement is secured by substantially all of the
assets of the Company, including the Company's real and personal property,
inventory, accounts receivable, intellectual property and other intangibles.
See "Description of Certain     
 
                                      27
<PAGE>
 
Indebtedness--Bank Credit Agreement." The Company expects that cash flows from
operating activities together with borrowings available under the Bank Credit
Agreement or the New Bank Credit Agreement, as the case may be, will be
sufficient to fund working capital needs, capital spending requirements,
restructuring costs incurred in connection with the Acquisition and debt
service requirements of the Company's capital structure for the foreseeable
future. Concurrently with the Acquisition, the Company entered into the $45
million Accounts Receivable Facility.
   
  Management believes that based on current levels of operations and
anticipated internal growth, cash flow from operations, together with other
available sources of funds including borrowings under the Bank Credit
Agreement or the New Bank Credit Agreement, as the case may be, and available
cash on hand at March 31, 1996 of $20.1 million, will be adequate for the
foreseeable future to make required payments of principal and interest on the
Company's indebtedness, to fund anticipated capital expenditures and working
capital requirements, including the aforementioned restructuring costs, and to
enable the Company and its subsidiaries to comply with the terms of their debt
agreements. However, actual capital requirements may change, particularly as a
result of any acquisitions which the Company may make. The ability of the
Company to meet its debt service obligations and reduce its total debt will be
dependent, however, upon the future performance of the Company and its
subsidiaries which, in turn, will be subject to general economic conditions
and to financial, business and other factors, including factors beyond the
Company's control. A portion of the consolidated debt of the Company bears
interest at floating rates; therefore, its financial condition is and will
continue to be affected by changes in prevailing interest rates. The Company
has entered into an interest rate protection agreement to minimize the impact
from a rise in interest rates.     
 
  The proceeds received by the Company from the Offering will be used to
prepay certain of the Term Loans under the Bank Credit Agreement, to redeem
certain of the Notes and to pay certain expenses. See "Use of Proceeds."
   
  Contemporaneously with the Offering, the Company intends to refinance and
retire all remaining indebtedness under the Bank Credit Agreement with the
proceeds of the loans under the New Bank Credit Agreement. Although the
Company has not finalized the terms of the definitive New Bank Credit
Agreement, Bankers Trust Company has, subject to certain conditions, committed
to provide the facility. Although there can be no assurances that the Company
will be successful in negotiating the New Bank Credit Agreement, or if
successful, the terms of such facility, the Company anticipates that the New
Bank Credit Agreement will provide a revolving credit facility of $300 million
subject to the following principal terms: Loans made under the New Bank Credit
Agreement will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at the Company's
option, (i) the Base Rate plus the Applicable Margin or (ii) the Eurodollar
Rate plus the Applicable Margin (as each term is defined in the New Bank
Credit Agreement). The Applicable Margin for Base Rate loans will vary from 0%
to .75% and the Applicable Margin for the Eurodollar Loans will vary from .75%
to 1.75%, each based on the Company's consolidated level of debt as compared
to consolidated EBITDA ("Leverage Ratio") and the type of loan. Availability
under the New Bank Credit Agreement will be subject to an unused commitment
fee which will be a percentage of the unutilized revolving loan commitment.
This percentage will vary from .3% to .5% based on the Company's Leverage
Ratio. Availability under the New Bank Credit Agreement will generally be
reduced to the extent of the net proceeds of a sale of assets by the Company,
the net proceeds of an issuance of debt by the Company or 50% of the net
proceeds of an issuance of equity by the Company. Availability will also be
reduced by $50 million in 1999 and $50 million in 2000. The New Bank Credit
Agreement is expected to terminate in 2001. The Company will be permitted to
make acquisitions under the New Bank Credit Agreement up to $25 million per
acquisition without consent of the Required Banks (as defined in the New Bank
Credit Agreement) and up to $50 million per acquisition if, on a pro forma
basis giving effect to such acquisition, the Company's Leverage Ratio is less
than 3.0 to 1.0. If the New Bank Credit Agreement had been in place on March
31, 1996, the initial interest rate would have been 7.5%. As a result of the
New Bank Credit Agreement, the Company's effective interest rate under its
senior credit facility is expected to be reduced by 156 basis points
contemporaneously with the Offering.     
 
                                      28
<PAGE>
 
   
  On May 29, 1996, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire
Niagara for a purchase price of approximately $50 million. In addition, the
Company will enter into a one-year consulting services agreement with the
former chief executive officer of Niagara pursuant to which the Company will
make a $5.0 million payment at the closing of the Niagara Acquisition. The
Company expects the Niagara Acquisition to be completed by the middle of July
1996. The Company expects to use existing cash balances as well as borrowings
under New Bank Credit Agreement to fund the Niagara Acquisition. In the event
the sale of the Personalizing Division is completed prior to the Offering, the
Company has obtained the consent of its lenders under the Bank Credit
Agreement to use the net proceeds from the sale to fund substantially all of
the Niagara Acquisition. Otherwise, the Company will use the proceeds from the
sale of the Personalizing Division to repay indebtedness.     
       
INFLATION
 
  The Company believes that inflation has not had a material impact on its
results of operations for the three years ended December 31, 1995.
 
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
 
  The Company has elected not to early adopt the provisions of Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 "Accounting for Stock Based
Compensation." The Company will adopt the reporting provisions of SFAS 123 in
1996. The Company expects the adoption to have no effect on its financial
condition or results of operations.
 
                                      29
<PAGE>
 
                                   INDUSTRY
 
OFFICE PRODUCTS
   
  The North American office products industry, excluding contract office
furniture and business machines, generates approximately $60 billion to $70
billion in annual sales at retail prices. The Company believes that the market
has grown at an approximate average annual rate of 4% from 1992 to 1995.
Office products include paper, envelopes, writing products, writing
instruments, mailroom supplies, filing supplies, organizers, desktop
accessories, business forms, binders, tape, printed products, staples and
fastening products and other consumable items. The Company believes that the
market for these products is approximately $30 billion to $35 billion at
wholesale prices.     
   
  The Company participates in the writing products, filing supplies and
envelope segments of the industry. The writing products segment includes
writing pads, notebooks, jotter pads, easels, flip charts, data pads, message
pads, wire notebooks, certain business forms, specialty computer forms,
business machine paper and other categories, including a wide range of stock
keeping units ("SKUs") based on size, quality, finish, thickness,
reusability/refillability and various customized features. The key raw
materials for writing products are tablet and form grades of paper. The
Company estimates that the writing products segment at wholesale prices is
approximately $2.87 billion in size.     
 
  The filing supplies segment includes suspension (hanging) files, expandable
folders, manila folders, index cards, labels and related products. Estimated
by the Company at approximately $1.5 billion at wholesale prices, the filing
supplies segment is characterized by manufacturers with national brand
coverage, large-scale production capabilities, wide-area distribution systems
and standardized products. The key raw materials for filing supplies are
paperboard, bristols, metal and plastics, all of which are available from a
large number of suppliers.
   
  The envelope segment includes both standard size and specialty envelopes
such as catalog mailing envelopes, envelopes closable by metal clasp or
button-and-string, and giant, X-ray, remittance and overnight delivery
envelopes. Envelopes are made from mill branded and commodity grades of paper
or from Tyvek (R) (a high density polyurethane-based product made by Du Pont)
and other non-woven material. According to the Envelope Manufacturers
Association of America, the United States envelope market in 1995 was
estimated to be approximately $2.8 billion dollars in net sales or 168.6
billion units at the manufacturers' level. The historical growth rate for
envelopes has shown high correlation with that of Gross Domestic Product
("GDP").     
 
  The Company believes that demand for writing products, filing supplies and
envelopes has not been significantly affected by the growth in electronic
office tools such as e-mail and personal digital assistants and the Company
does not expect these tools to have a significant impact on such demand for
the foreseeable future.
 
DISTRIBUTION
   
  Office products are distributed from the manufacturer to the end-user
through several different channels, including retail channels such as national
office product superstores, mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs; commercial
channels such as national contract stationers; paper merchants/distributors;
and other channels such as regional distributors, school campuses and direct
mail. Office products, including writing products, filing supplies and a
relatively small portion of envelopes, were traditionally distributed through
contract stationers, wholesalers and independent dealers. Envelopes have been
distributed primarily through paper merchants/distributors. Since the mid-
1980s, the office products industry has experienced significant changes in the
channels through which office products are distributed such as the emergence
of new channels, including national office product superstores, national
contract stationers and mass merchandisers, and consolidation within these and
other channels. As a result of these changes, approximately 6,800 office
product distributors existed in 1994 compared with approximately 13,300 in
1987.     
   
  Retail Channels. The Company estimates that total 1995 sales of office
products to end-users in North America through retail channels were
approximately $20 billion to $25 billion. Office products retailers typically
serve small and medium-sized businesses, home offices and individuals. The
national office products superstores     
 
                                      30
<PAGE>
 
   
have experienced significant consolidation in recent years, with today's three
dominant operators (Office Depot, OfficeMax and Staples) emerging from
approximately 17 different superstore operators in 1986. Over the past three
years, Office Depot, OfficeMax and Staples have each experienced average
annual growth rates in excess of 30%. In addition, mass merchandisers (such as
Wal-Mart) and warehouse clubs (such as Sam's Warehouse Club) are significant
and growing retailers of office products, although both carry a smaller
assortment than do the superstores. The three dominant national office
superstores currently account for approximately 17% of total retail office
products sales and approximately 6% of total office products sales. In
addition to the growth experienced by these operators within the retail
channel, the retail channel as a whole has also captured significant market
share from other distribution channels.     
   
  Commercial Channels. The Company estimates that total 1995 sales of office
products to end-users in North America through commercial channels were
approximately $25 billion to $30 billion. Commercial distributors typically
serve large and medium-sized business customers through product catalogs and
direct sales forces. Generally, commercial distributors stock products in
distribution centers and deliver them to customers on a next-day basis against
orders received electronically, by telephone or fax, or taken by a salesperson
on the customer's premises. A growing segment within commercial channels is
the contract stationer channel. Major contract stationers purchase in large
quantities directly from manufacturers, rely upon wholesaler intermediaries to
only a limited extent for inventory backup and product breadth, and offer
significant volume-related discounts and a high level of service to their
customers. Most contract stationers operate in only one or very few major
metropolitan areas. There has been significant consolidation of contract
stationers into national companies in recent years, and the Company expects
this consolidation trend to continue. Major national participants include
Boise Cascade Office Products, BT Office Products, Corporate Express, U.S.
Office Products and the contract stationer divisions of Office Depot and
Staples. These national contract stationers now account for approximately 25%
of commercial office products sales and approximately 11% of total office
products sales. Given this consolidation and opportunity for growth, suppliers
capable of distributing a broad and deep product line nationwide, such as the
Company, are best positioned to serve major contract stationers.     
 
  Paper Merchants/Distributors Channel. According to industry sources, the
paper merchant/distributor channel has been experiencing 6% to 7% growth over
the past three years. Paper merchants/distributors sell a wide range of
products including stationery, envelopes, and invitations and announcements to
printers, thermographers, office products companies and large end-users. Total
1995 net sales of envelopes by the paper merchant/distributor channel are
estimated to have been approximately $855 million. Envelopes, invitations and
announcements made from branded paper are purchased from manufacturers that
have been "designated" by paper mills to convert their proprietary paper into
such products. A paper mill generally "designates" two manufacturers for its
mill branded paper. A "designated" manufacturer has an advantage in purchasing
branded paper directly from the mills at more favorable prices than from paper
merchants/distributors and in accessing a dependable paper supply. Envelope
manufacturers which supply a complete product offering of mill branded,
specialty and commodity envelopes are best positioned to serve these paper
merchants/distributors. The paper merchant/distributor channel has also
experienced, and is continuing to experience, significant consolidation, with
ResourceNet, Unisource and Zellerbach emerging as the channel's leaders.
   
  Other Channels. The Company estimates that total sales of office products to
end-users in North America through other channels, such as regional
distributors, school campuses and direct mail, are approximately $5 billion to
$10 billion.     
 
  The Company's strategy with respect to each of these distribution channels
is to focus on the most rapidly growing customers, particularly dominant
industry participants leading the trend towards consolidation such as Office
Depot, OfficeMax, Staples, Wal-Mart and Sam's Warehouse Club in the retail
channel; Boise Cascade Office Products, BT Office Products, Corporate Express,
U.S. Office Products and the contract stationer divisions of Office Depot and
Staples in the contract stationers channel; and ResourceNet, Unisource and
Zellerbach in the paper merchant/distributor channel. The Company also
believes there is significant opportunity to distribute envelope product lines
through the rapidly growing retail channel under the Ampad and private label
names. Prior to the Acquisition, Williamhouse sold envelopes primarily through
the paper merchant/distributor channel. See "Business--Growth Strategy."
 
                                      31
<PAGE>
 
                                   BUSINESS
   
  The Company is one of the largest manufacturers and marketers of nationally
branded and private label paper-based office products (excluding computer
forms and copy paper) in the $60 billion to $70 billion North American office
products industry. The Company offers a broad product line including writing
pads, file folders, envelopes and other office products. Through its Ampad
division, the Company is among the largest and most important suppliers of
pads and other paper-based writing products, filing supplies and envelopes to
many of the largest and fastest growing office products distributors. Acquired
in October 1995, the Company's Williamhouse division is the leading supplier
of mill branded, specialty and commodity envelopes to paper
merchants/distributors. The Company's strategy is to grow by focusing on the
largest and fastest growing office product distribution channels, making
acquisitions, introducing new product lines, broadening product distribution
across its channels and maintaining its position among the lowest-cost
manufacturers in the industry. As a result of this strategy, the Company's
sales have grown at a compound annual rate of approximately 34% from 1992 to
1995. For the year ended December 31, 1995, the Company had net sales of
$617.2 million and income from operations of $57.3 million on the pro forma
basis described herein. See "Unaudited Pro Forma Financial Data."     
 
COMPETITIVE STRENGTHS
   
  The combination of the Company's products and customers distinguishes it as
a leading manufacturer and marketer of paper-based office products (excluding
computer forms and copy paper) in North America. The Company attributes this
position and its continued opportunities for growth and profitability to the
following competitive strengths:     
 
 . Market Leader. The Company has achieved market leadership in core products
  sold to customers in the largest and fastest growing office products
  channels by offering one of the broadest assortments of high quality
  products in the industry. Furthermore, the Company enjoys national brand
  awareness in many of its product lines, including Ampad, Century, Embassy,
  Evidence, Gold Fibre, Huxley, Karolton, Kent, Peel & Seel, SCM, Williamhouse
  and World Fibre.
   
 . Well-Positioned and Diversified Customer Base. The Company has substantial
  opportunities for growth within several distribution channels of the office
  products industry. The Company has focused on the largest and fastest
  growing office products channels. Several of the Company's largest
  customers, such as Boise Cascade Office Products, BT Office Products,
  Corporate Express, Office Depot, OfficeMax and Staples, are expected by
  industry analysts to experience annual revenue growth of 15% to 35% over the
  next five years. The Company's Williamhouse division maintains particularly
  strong relationships with the largest and fastest growing paper
  merchants/distributors in the market, including ResourceNet, Unisource and
  Zellerbach. The Company also maintains strong customer relationships across
  all of the other office products distribution channels, including mass
  merchandisers, warehouse clubs, office products wholesalers and independent
  dealers.     
 
 . National Scale and Service Capability. The Company's extensive product line,
  multiple brands and broad price point coverage provide significant
  advantages and economies of scale in selling to and servicing its customers.
  The Company has become an increasingly important strategic partner to its
  customers as they seek higher value-added products, simplify their
  purchasing organizations and consolidate their relationships among selected
  national suppliers. The Company's national presence and network of 22
  strategically located facilities have enabled it to maintain rapid and
  efficient order fulfillment standards. In addition, the Company's advanced
  EDI capabilities enable it to meet its customers' EDI requirements,
  executing automated transactions rapidly, efficiently and accurately.
 
 . Innovation/New Products. The Company has introduced several innovative
  products as part of its marketing strategy to differentiate itself from
  other suppliers and enhance profitability. Recent examples include Gold
  Fibre classic and designer notebooks, Papers with a Purpose, World Fibre
  ground-wood writing pads and Peel
 
                                      32
<PAGE>
 
 & Seel envelopes. Products introduced since 1992 accounted for over $70
 million of the Company's 1995 net sales. The Company's brand recognition and
 presence with its national customers allows it to more easily introduce new or
 acquired product lines to those customers.
 
 . Low-Cost Manufacturer. The Company believes it is among the lowest-cost
  manufacturers of paper-based office products in the industry. The Company
  ensures its low-cost manufacturing position through its paper purchasing and
  distribution advantages as well as its maintenance of modern and efficient
  manufacturing technology and a high quality workforce. The Company has been
  successful in reducing costs with each of its acquisitions in the last three
  years by continually streamlining its manufacturing processes and overhead
  structure. From 1992 to 1995, the Company reduced its fixed manufacturing
  costs from 7.4% to 5.2% of net sales and its selling, general and
  administrative expenses from 10.5% to 7.2% of net sales. See "Management's
  Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations--
  Overview."
 
 . Purchasing Advantages. The Company has strong relationships with most of the
  country's largest paper mills, many of which have been conducting business
  with the Company for more than 30 years. The Company is one of the largest
  purchasers of the principal paper grades used in its manufacturing
  operations. In addition, the Company has the largest number of designated
  mill relationships which involve some of the largest and most recognized
  paper mill brands such as Hammermill, Hopper, Neenah and Strathmore. These
  relationships afford the Company certain paper purchasing advantages,
  including stable supply and favorable pricing arrangements.
   
 . Proven Management Team With Successful Track Record. The Company's senior
  operating management team averages over 25 years each in the paper products
  industry. Management has succeeded in increasing sales and operating
  profitability by recognizing and acting on the transition to the fastest
  growing distribution channels, introducing higher value-added products,
  acquiring complementary product lines (Karolton in December 1993, SCM in July
  1994 and certain product lines of Huxley and Globe-Weis in July 1994 and
  August 1995, respectively), improving manufacturing processes and reducing
  overhead and administrative costs. Upon completion of the Offering, the
  Company's senior management team will collectively own 865,516 shares of
  Common Stock (438,427 shares if the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment is
  exercised in full) and hold currently exercisable options to purchase an
  additional 2,156,000 shares of Common Stock. Assuming an initial public
  offering price of $16.00 per share, these holdings represent on a fully-
  diluted basis approximately 10.3% of the outstanding Common Stock (8.9% if
  the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment is exercised in full).     
 
GROWTH STRATEGY
 
  The Company's strategy is to maintain and strengthen its leadership position
by focusing on the following:
   
 . Focus on Rapidly Growing Customers. The Company serves many of the largest
  and best positioned customers in the office products market segment including
  national office products superstores, mass merchandisers and warehouse clubs,
  national contract stationers and national paper merchants/distributors. For
  1995 on a pro forma basis, approximately 15.3% of the Company's net sales
  were to national office product superstores, 7.8% to mass merchandisers and
  warehouse clubs, 9.1% to national contract stationers and 19.7% to the three
  largest national paper merchants/distributors. Anticipating further
  consolidation in the office products industry, the Company expects that its
  national scope and broad product line will be increasingly important in
  meeting the needs of its customers. The Company will continue to target those
  customers driving consolidation in the office products industry.     
 
 . Continue to Introduce New Products. New, higher value-added products give the
  Company a greater selection to offer its customers and improve product line
  profitability for both the Company and its customers. The Company plans to
  differentiate itself from other suppliers and improve profitability through
  product innovation, differentiation and line extensions.
   
 . Pursue Complementary Product Line and Strategic Acquisitions. The office
  products industry is highly fragmented despite continuing consolidation among
  its manufacturers. The Company is leading consolidation among manufacturers
  of writing products, filing supplies and envelopes. The SCM and Williamhouse
      
                                       33
<PAGE>
 
    
 acquisitions broadened the Company's product line to include filing products
 and envelopes and enhanced its presence in the growing distribution channels.
 The Globe-Weis acquisition and the Company's agreement to acquire Niagara
 demonstrate its commitment to strengthening its competitive and strategic
 position within its markets. The Company believes that there are significant
 opportunities to acquire companies in both its existing and complementary
 product lines. In addition, the Company intends to enter new office products
 markets through acquisitions of established companies in those markets.     
          
 . Broaden Product Distribution.  The Company's market presence and
  distribution strengths uniquely position it to sell new or acquired product
  lines across its distribution channels, including national office products
  superstores, national contract stationers, office product wholesalers and
  mass merchandisers. As an important part of its growth strategy, for
  example, the Company has successfully introduced the envelope product lines
  acquired in the Acquisition, previously distributed primarily through paper
  merchants/distributors, to the Ampad division's distribution channels under
  the Ampad and private label names. The Company estimates that this market
  opportunity is approximately $350 million in annual net sales.     
 
 . Continue to Reduce Costs. The Company has identified and is in the process
  of implementing cost reductions in connection with the Acquisition that are
  expected to result in approximately $7.4 million of annual cost savings
  following the adoption of such measures. In addition, management plans to
  implement further identified cost reductions beyond 1996.
   
RECENT ACQUISITION     
   
  On May 29, 1996, the Company executed a purchase agreement to acquire
Niagara for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $50 million, plus
$5.0 million to be paid under a one-year consulting services agreement.
Niagara supplies mill branded, specialty and commodity envelopes to paper
merchants/distributors through four manufacturing facilities located near
Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas and Denver. Niagara had 1995 net sales of
approximately $106 million and operating income of approximately $8.5 million.
The Company expects the Niagara Acquisition to be completed by the middle of
July 1996. The Company believes that the Niagara Acquisition will strengthen
the Company's distribution capabilities in the Midwest, provide additional
manufacturing capacity and opportunities to achieve operating improvements
through the consolidation of Niagara's operations with those of the Company.
The completion of the Niagara Acquisition is subject to certain conditions.
Although the Company regularly engages in discussions with companies regarding
potential acquisitions, it currently does not have any agreements or
understandings relating to acquisitions other than the Niagara Acquisition.
    
SALE OF PERSONALIZING DIVISION
   
  The Company's management identified the Personalizing Division of
Williamhouse as a nonstrategic asset following the Acquisition and has decided
to pursue a sale of the Personalizing Division. As a result, the financial
statements of the Company included elsewhere in this Prospectus reflect the
Personalizing Division as "Assets held for Sale" as of December 31, 1995 and
March 31, 1996. On April 17, 1996, the Company signed a letter of intent with
a potential buyer to sell the Personalizing Division. Under the terms of such
letter, the Company will receive approximately $60 million in gross proceeds
(subject to certain working capital adjustments) from the sale of the
Personalizing Division, which it expects to complete by the end of June 1996.
To date, the Company has not executed any definitive agreements with respect
to such sale and, as a result, no assurance can be given that the proposed
sale will be completed or, if completed, will be on the terms outlined herein.
See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
of Operations--Overview."     
 
PRODUCTS AND SERVICES
   
  Pads and Other Paper-Based Writing Products. The Company is the largest
manufacturer and marketer of paper-based writing products (excluding computer
forms and copy paper) in North America, offering more than 2,200 SKUs of
writing pads, notebooks and specialty papers. Many of the Company's writing
products are     
 
                                      34
<PAGE>
 
available in multiple sizes, grades of paper (including recycled), and colors
and with glued, perforated tops or wire binding. All writing products are
offered under the Ampad brand name or a retailer's private label. During the
past three years, the Company has focused on the introduction of new and
innovative products such as Gold Fibre classic and designer notebooks, Papers
with a Purpose and World Fibre ground-wood writing pads. The Company has also
created innovative packaging, especially for sale through warehouse clubs
(bulk and crate packaging), superstores and mass merchandisers.
 
  Filing Supplies. The Company is one of the three largest manufacturers of
filing supplies in North America. The product line includes more than 800 SKUs
of filing supplies including file folders, hanging files, index cards and
expandable folders under the SCM and Globe-Weis brand names. The Company has
been expanding its market share in filing supplies by focusing its sales
efforts on large retail customers and contract stationers, where its writing
products enjoy the leading market share position.
 
  Envelopes. The Company is the largest manufacturer of envelopes serving the
paper merchant/distributor channel and sold over 10 billion envelopes in 1995.
The Company's broad envelope product line includes products manufactured from
mill branded paper, which is paper unique in color and texture to a particular
mill, typically with an identifying watermark. The Company is the designated
envelope manufacturer for 33 mill brands, which is approximately twice as many
as its nearest competitor. These brands include the Hammermill, Strathmore and
Beckett divisions of International Paper Company, the Hopper division of
Georgia Pacific Corporation, the Neenah division of Kimberly-Clark Corporation
and the Gilbert division of Mead.
 
  The Company also produces a wide variety of standard size and specialty
envelopes made from commodity paper and Tyvek (R) (a high density polyurethane
based product made by Du Pont), including booklet and catalog mailing
envelopes, envelopes closable by metal clasp or button-and-string, Peel & Seel
(pressure sensitive adhesion) envelopes, and giant, X-ray and remittance
envelopes. The Company offers in excess of 30,000 SKUs of envelopes (which the
Company believes is more than any of its competitors), providing its customers
with a wide choice of paper grades, colors and sizes.
 
  Invitations and Announcements. The Company is among the largest
manufacturers of invitations and announcements, Christmas and holiday cards,
and presentation folders. These products are sold principally to paper
merchants/distributors, personalizing businesses (including the Personalizing
Division), and other wholesale outlets throughout the United States. The
Company offers a wide variety of such products, primarily made from the same
mill branded grades of paper used in manufacturing envelopes.
 
                                      35
<PAGE>
 
  The following chart illustrates the Company's principal products and
customers and selected brands in its primary business segments:
 
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
 
 
           AMPAD DIVISION                   WILLIAMHOUSE DIVISION
 
                                  Products
           ------------------------------------------------------
           .Pads and Notebooks              . Envelopes
                                            . Invitations
           .Filing Supplies
                                            . Announcements
           .Envelopes
                                            . Christmas and Holiday
                                              Cards
 
                                 Customers
           ------------------------------------------------------
           .Retailers                       . Paper
                                              Merchants/Distributors
                                            . Jobbers
           .Contract Stationers
                                            . Personalizing Businesses
           .Wholesalers
           .Buying Groups
 
                              Selected Brands
           ------------------------------------------------------
           .Ampad(R)                        . Century(TM)
                                            . Huxley(TM)
           .Embassy(R)
                                            . Karolton(R)
           .Evidence(R)
                                            . Kent(R)
           .Globe-Weis(R)
                                            . Peel & Seel(R)
           .Gold Fibre(R)
                                            . Williamhouse(TM)
              
           .SCM(TM)     
           .World Fibre(TM)
 
SALES, DISTRIBUTION AND MARKETING
 
  The Company markets its broad range of products to a wide variety of
customers. In 1995, only two customers accounted for more than ten percent of
the Company's net sales. The Company's aggregate net sales to Sam's Warehouse
Club/Wal-Mart and Office Depot accounted for approximately 14.8% and 12.7% of
the Company's net sales for 1995, respectively.
   
  The Company markets its writing products and filing supplies through
virtually every channel of distribution for paper-based office products
including the largest mass merchant retailers, office product superstores,
warehouse clubs, major contract stationers, paper merchants/distributors and
other traditional outlets for office supplies such as office product
wholesalers, independent dealers, buying groups and mail order firms.     
 
  The Company sells its envelopes principally to paper merchants/distributors
and other wholesale outlets throughout the United States, primarily through an
in-house sales force. In addition, mill branded products are
 
                                       36
<PAGE>
 
sold directly to personalizing businesses (including the Personalizing
Division). The Company currently employs sales representatives at 20 locations
throughout the United States and sells products to over 2,000 paper
merchants/distributors in the United States and Canada. As an important part
of its growth strategy, the Company has successfully introduced the envelope
product lines acquired in the Acquisition, previously distributed primarily
through paper merchants, to its existing office products distribution channels
under the Ampad and private label names. The Company estimates that this
market opportunity is approximately $350 million in net sales.
 
  The following chart illustrates some of the Company's key customers:
 
                                 KEY CUSTOMERS
 
     Office Products          Mass Merchandisers: Paper Merchants/Distributors:
      Superstores:                 Wal-Mart                ResourceNet
      Office Depot                                          Unisource
        OfficeMax                                          Zellerbach
         Staples
 
  Contract Stationers:          Office Products         Warehouse Clubs:
   Boise Cascade Office          Wholesalers:         Sam's Warehouse Club
         Products                S.P. Richards
   BT Office Products          United Stationers
    Corporate Express
      Office Depot*
        Staples*
- --------
* Contract stationers division
   
  The Company has targeted and will continue to target those customers driving
consolidation in the office products industry and believes that it is uniquely
positioned to meet the special requirements of these customers in the growing
distribution channels of the office products industry. These customers seek
suppliers, such as the Company, who are able to offer broad product lines,
higher value-added innovative products, national distribution capabilities,
low costs and reliable service. Furthermore, as these customers continue to
grow and they consolidate their supplier bases, the Company's ability to meet
their special requirements will be an increasingly important competitive
advantage. Recognizing Ampad's potential for growth through the changing
distribution channels, Bain Capital and management purchased the Company from
Mead in 1992. Since that time, management has enhanced the Company's scale,
broadened its product line, expanded upon its national presence and
strengthened its distribution capabilities through acquisition and innovation
while simultaneously delivering higher customer service levels. As a result,
the Company's sales through the most rapidly growing retail and commercial
channels increased from $8.8 million in 1992 to $134.8 million ($164.5 million
on a pro forma basis) in 1995. For the same period, the Company's sales to the
three largest paper merchants/distributors increased from $75.6 million to
$100.6 million.     
 
COMPETITION
 
  The markets for the Company's products are highly competitive. Competition
is based largely on a company's ability to offer a broad range of products on
a regional or national scale at competitive prices and to deliver these
products on a timely basis. The Company has many local and regional
competitors. The markets in which the Company operates have become
increasingly characterized by a limited number of large companies selling
under recognized trade names. These larger companies, including the Company,
have the economies of scale, national presence, management information systems
and breadth of product line required by the major customers. In addition to
branded product lines, manufacturers also produce private-label products,
especially in the context of broader supply relationships with office product
superstores and contract stationers.
   
  The writing products industry is fragmented, ranging from large national
manufacturers to localized jobbers and printers. A few manufacturers,
including the Company, have developed strong brand name recognition for a
limited number of product lines. Other national companies include Mead, the
Tops division of Wallace Computer Services, the Stuart Hall division of Newell
Co. and Pen-Tab Industries.     
 
                                      37
<PAGE>
 
  In the filing supplies segment, the Company's key domestic competitors
include Smead Manufacturing and Esselte A.B.
   
  Envelope manufacturers compete in three distinct channels. In the paper
merchant/distributor channel, where the Company competes, manufacturers sell a
wide variety of mill branded, specialty and commodity envelope products to
paper merchants/distributors. The Company's principal competitor in this
channel is New York/National Envelope Group of National Envelope Corporation,
a private company. Other competitors in this channel include Niagara (pending
acquisition by the Company) and Murray Envelope Corp. In the direct channel,
manufacturers sell customized envelopes directly to high volume corporate
users and mass mailers. Mail-Well is the leading company in this channel. In
the office products channel, manufacturers including Westvaco and Quality Park
produce commodity mailing envelopes for retail sale.     
 
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
 
  The Company registers some of its material trademarks, tradenames and
copyrights and has acquired patent protection for some of its proprietary
processes. In the opinion of management, the Company has current trademark
rights to conduct its business as now constituted. The Company has the right
to use the Globe-Weis(R) name on a non-exclusive basis through August 1998,
pursuant to the Company's purchase of certain file folder and hanging file
assets from Atapco. The Company does not expect that the loss of the right to
use the Globe-Weis name will have a material adverse effect on its results of
operations.
 
EMPLOYEES
   
  As of March 31, 1996, the Company employed a total of 3,198 full-time
persons, including 3,170 manufacturing, sales and administrative personnel and
28 corporate staff members. In addition, the Personalizing Division (currently
held as "Assets Held for Sale") had 1,832 employees at March 31, 1996. The
Company expects to add approximately 650 employees as a result of the Niagara
Acquisition (including 140 employees covered by a collective bargaining
agreement). All the Company's operations are non-union except for the
operations at the facilities located in Fresno, California; Scottdale,
Pennsylvania; Miamisburg, Ohio; and Appleton, Wisconsin which have, in total,
approximately 900 union employees. The collective bargaining contracts
covering the Company's employees will expire as follows: the Miamisburg
contract expires December 31, 1996; the Appleton contract expires March 31,
1997; and the Scottdale contract expires April 30, 1998. The Company is
currently in the process of closing its Fresno facility, at which
approximately 74 unionized members are employed. With the exception of a
strike at the Company's Indiana plant, as described below, there have been no
work stoppages at any Company facility during the last five years. The Company
believes that its relations with its employees and unions are satisfactory.
    
  In July 1994, the Company acquired the writing products and filing supplies
assets of SCM. Work rules and associated costs at SCM's plant in Indiana were
less favorable than those at other plants of the Company. As a result of
management's effort to bring the labor agreement at the Indiana plant more in
line with market labor agreements, a labor strike occurred on September 1,
1994. Consequently, the Company closed the Indiana plant on February 15, 1995
and moved the equipment to other facilities operated by the Company. By July
1995, all machinery and equipment previously operated in Indiana was available
for production in other facilities of the Company.
 
PROPERTIES AND FACILITIES
   
  As of March 31, 1996, the Company operated manufacturing, distribution,
office and warehouse space in the United States with a total floor area of
approximately 3,499,716 square feet. Of this footage, approximately 989,500
square feet are leased and approximately 2,510,216 square feet are owned. The
Personalizing Division operates through 10 primary facilities with a total
floor space of approximately 736,500 square feet. As a result of the Niagara
Acquisition, the Company expects to acquire four manufacturing facilities and
two warehouses with a total floor area of approximately 470,000 square feet.
The manufacturing facilities are located near Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas and
Denver and the warehouses are located near Denver and Kent, Washington.     
 
                                      38
<PAGE>
 
  To provide a cost efficient supply of products to its customers, the Company
maintains centralized management of nationwide manufacturing and distribution
facilities. Since 1992, the Company has consolidated ten manufacturing and
distribution facilities into five facilities. The Company's management is
evaluating the potential closure of additional space acquired pursuant to the
Acquisition. All of the Company's owned facilities are pledged as collateral
under the Bank Credit Agreement and are expected to be similarly pledged under
the New Bank Credit Agreement.
   
  The Company believes that substantially all of its property and equipment is
in good condition and that it has sufficient capacity to meet its current and
projected manufacturing and distribution needs in the foreseeable future. The
following table describes the principal properties of the Company (other than
sales service centers, sales office space, temporary warehouse space and
facilities associated with the Personalizing Division) as of March 31, 1996:
    
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                              BUSINESS    OWNED OR   EXPIRATION OF      SQUARE
           LOCATION          DIVISION (1)  LEASED      LEASE (2)          FEET
           --------         ------------- -------- -----------------    -------
   <S>                      <C>           <C>      <C>                  <C>
   CALIFORNIA
     Fresno................       A        Leased        1997(a)         42,900
     Fresno................       A        Leased        1997(a)         84,200
     City of Industry......       W        Owned                         85,000
     City of Industry......       W        Leased        2008(b)(c)     105,000
     West Sacramento.......       W        Leased        2000(c)         37,000
     Rancho Cucamonga......       W        Leased        1996(c)         12,800
   COLORADO
     Denver................       W        Leased        1998(c)         21,100
   GEORGIA
     Moultrie..............       W        Owned                         50,000
   ILLINOIS
     Mattoon...............       A        Leased   month-to-month       29,200
     Mattoon...............       A        Owned                        261,800
     Mattoon...............       A        Leased  3 month renewable     25,200
                                                         term
     Mattoon...............       A        Leased        1996(c)         58,900
     Chicago...............       W        Leased        1996(c)         33,000
     Chicago...............       W        Owned          (d)           200,000
   MASSACHUSETTS
     Westfield.............       A        Owned                        128,000
     Holyoke...............       A        Owned          (d)           572,416
     Millbury..............       W        Leased        1996(c)         30,100
   MISSISSIPPI
     Kosciusko.............       A        Leased        1997(a)(c)(e)   70,600
   NEW JERSEY
     Bloomfield............       W        Leased        2003            94,000
   NEW YORK
     New York City.........       W        Leased        2009            22,000
   OHIO
     Miamisburg............       W        Leased        1998(c)(f)     177,000
   PENNSYLVANIA
     Scottdale.............       W        Owned                        400,000
     Mt. Pleasant..........       W        Leased        1999(c)         11,000
   TENNESSEE
     Morristown............       W        Owned                        140,000
</TABLE>    
 
                                      39
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                      BUSINESS    OWNED OR EXPIRATION OF SQUARE
               LOCATION              DIVISION (1)  LEASED    LEASE (2)     FEET
               --------             ------------- -------- ------------- -------
   <S>                              <C>           <C>      <C>           <C>
   TEXAS
     Dallas........................   Corporate    Leased      1998       14,500
                                    Headquarters
     Corsicana.....................       W        Owned                 250,000
   UTAH
     North Salt Lake City..........       A        Owned                 110,000
     North Salt Lake City..........       A        Leased      2001(g)    97,000
   WASHINGTON
     Kent..........................       W        Leased      1999       24,000
   WISCONSIN
     Appleton......................       W        Owned                 313,000
</TABLE>    
- --------
(1) "A" indicates operations associated with the Company's Ampad division and
    "W" indicates operations associated with the Company's Williamhouse
    division.
   
(2) (a)Sublease.     
     
  (b)Lease contains option to purchase.     
     
  (c)Lease or sublease contains an extension or renewal option.     
     
  (d)Two properties owned at this location.     
            
  (e)Sublease contains option to assume prime lease.     
            
  (f)Lease contains a right of first refusal.     
     
  (g)Two leases at this location.     
 
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
 
  The Company is a party to various litigation matters incidental to the
conduct of its business. Management does not believe that the outcome of any
of the matters in which it is currently involved will have a material adverse
effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the Company. See
"--Environmental, Health and Safety Matters."
 
ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY MATTERS
   
  The Company is subject to federal, state, and local environmental and
occupational health and safety laws and regulations. Such laws and regulations
impose limitations on the discharge of pollutants and establish standards for
management of waste. While there can be no assurance that the Company is at
all times in complete compliance with all such requirements, the Company has
made and will continue to make capital and other expenditures to comply with
such requirements. The Company spent approximately $7,200 in 1995 on
environmental capital projects. The Company estimates that its environmental
capital expenditures will be approximately $100,000 in each of 1996 and 1997.
In 1996, the Company expects to make capital expenditures to upgrade waste
water treatment equipment at one of its facilities. Thereafter, the Company
expects to incur moderate environmental capital expenditures, which will be
higher than historical levels as a result of the Company's increased size. As
is the case with manufacturers in general, if a release of hazardous
substances occurs on or from the Company's properties or any associated
offsite disposal location, or if contamination from prior activities is
discovered at any of the Company's properties, the Company may be held liable
and the amount of such liability could be material.     
   
  The City of Industry, California facility of the Company's Williamhouse
division is located within an area of regional groundwater contamination
designated as the San Gabriel Valley National Priority List Area. The Company
does not believe its operations have contributed to the contamination and to
date the Company has not received a notice of potential liability with respect
to that site.     
   
  The Company is aware that one of Niagara's facilities has been the subject
of certain soil and groundwater investigations and that the prior owner of
such facility has indemnified Niagara for certain environmental     
 
                                      40
<PAGE>
 
   
liabilities associated with historical use of the property. The Company
currently believes that any environmental liabilities associated with such
facility would not be material.     
   
  The Company's Ampad division has been named a potentially responsible party
("PRP") under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation
and Liability Act of 1980, as amended ("CERCLA"), at five waste disposal
sites. The Company settled its liability at four of these sites as a de
minimis party. At the Spectron site in Elkton, Maryland, the Company paid
approximately $1,300 in 1989 as a de minimis settlement for an initial removal
action at the site. In 1995, the Company received a notice of a remedial
action at the site, and based upon its allocation in 1989, expects to be
eligible for a de minimis or de micromis settlement. The Company is aware that
Niagara has been named a PRP at the Envirotek II site in Tonawanda, New York
with respect to which Niagara expects to be eligible for a de minimis
settlement. Although the Company endeavors to manage its wastes carefully,
because CERCLA liability is strict and retroactive, it is possible that in the
future the Company may be identified as a PRP with respect to other waste
disposal sites.     
 
                                      41
<PAGE>
 
                                  MANAGEMENT
 
DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND KEY EMPLOYEES
 
  The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the
Directors and executive officers of the Company.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
NAME                                    AGE                POSITION
- ----                                    ---                --------
<S>                                     <C> <C>
Charles G. Hanson, III(1)..............  55 Chief Executive Officer and Director
Russell M. Gard(1).....................  48 Chief Operating Officer and Director
Gregory M. Benson......................  41 Executive Vice President, Chief
                                             Financial Officer, Director of
                                             Strategic Planning and Acquisitions,
                                             Secretary and Director
Timothy E. Needham.....................  47 Executive Vice President
John J. Grymes.........................  38 President--Williamhouse Division
H. Craig Stoudt........................  40 President--Ampad Division
Robert C. Gay(1)(2)....................  44 Director
Jonathan S. Lavine(3)..................  30 Director
Marc B. Wolpow(1)(2)(3)................  37 Director
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Member of the Executive Committee.     
   
(2) Member of the Compensation Committee.     
   
(3) Member of the Audit Committee.     
          
  The Company anticipates that at least two additional Directors will be
appointed by the Board of Directors following the completion of the Offering.
The Company expects that one or more of such Directors will also be appointed
to the Audit and Compensation Committees.     
 
  CHARLES G. HANSON, III has served as Chief Executive Officer and Director of
the Company since 1992. From 1992 to 1995, Mr. Hanson also served as Chairman
of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Ampad Corporation. Mr.
Hanson was formerly the President and Chief Operating Officer of Stuart Hall
Co. Inc. and Group Vice President of Pen-Tab Industries, Inc.
 
  RUSSELL M. GARD has served as Chief Operating Officer and Director of the
Company since 1992. From 1992 to 1995, Mr. Gard also served as President,
Chief Operating Officer and Director of Ampad Corporation. From 1990 to 1992,
Mr. Gard was the Executive Vice President of Pen-Tab Industries, Inc. Mr. Gard
served as the Chief Executive Officer of Herlitz International from 1988 to
1990.
   
  GREGORY M. BENSON has served as Executive Vice President and Director of
Strategic Planning and Acquisitions since May 1996 and as Chief Financial
Officer, Secretary and Director of the Company since 1992. From 1992 to 1995,
Mr. Benson served as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Administrative Officer and
Director of Ampad Corporation. Mr. Benson was at GE Capital Corporation from
1977 to 1992.     
   
  TIMOTHY E. NEEDHAM has served as Executive Vice President since 1995. Mr.
Needham served as Chairman of the Board of Williamhouse prior to the
Acquisition and as a director from 1993 to 1995. From 1987 to 1995, Mr.
Needham served as President of Williamhouse and from 1992 to 1995, as Chief
Operating Officer of Williamhouse.     
          
  JOHN J. GRYMES has served as President of the Company's Williamhouse
division since May 1996 and served as Vice President of Sales--Williamhouse
from November 1995 to May 1996. Mr. Grymes served as Vice President and
National Sales Manager of Williamhouse Sales prior to the Acquisition from
1991 to 1995. From 1987 to 1991, Mr. Grymes served as Eastern Regional Sales
Manager of Williamhouse Sales.     
 
 
                                      42
<PAGE>
 
   
  H. CRAIG STOUDT has served as President of the Company's Ampad division
since May 1996 and served as Vice President, Sales and Marketing of the
Company since 1994. From 1990 to 1994, prior to the SCM Acquisition, Mr.
Stoudt served as Vice President, Sales of SCM Office Supplies, Inc. Mr. Stoudt
served as Director of Sales, Boorum Division of Esselte Pendaflex from 1989 to
1990.     
 
  ROBERT C. GAY has served as Director of the Company since 1992. Mr. Gay has
been a Managing Director of Bain Capital since 1993 and has been a General
Partner of Bain Venture Capital since 1989. From 1988 through 1989, Mr. Gay
was a principal of Bain Venture Capital. Mr. Gay is Vice Chairman of the Board
of Directors of IHF Capital, Inc., parent of ICON Health & Fitness Inc. In
addition, Mr. Gay is a director of Alliance Entertainment Corp., GT Bicycles,
Inc., GS Industries, Inc. and its subsidiary GS Technologies Operating Co.,
Inc., and Physio-Control International Corporation.
   
  JONATHAN S. LAVINE has served as Director of the Company since 1995. Mr.
Lavine has been a Principal at Bain Capital since 1995 and was an associate at
Bain Capital from 1993 to 1995. In 1992, Mr. Lavine was a consultant at
McKinsey & Co. Mr. Lavine attended the Harvard Business School from 1990 to
1992. Previously, Mr. Lavine worked in the mergers and acquisitions department
of Drexel Burnham Lambert, Incorporated. Mr. Lavine is also a director of
Clarity Telecom, Inc.     
 
  MARC B. WOLPOW has served as Director of the Company since 1995. Mr. Wolpow
has been a Managing Director of Bain Capital since 1993 and was a Principal of
Bain Venture Capital from 1990 through 1992. From 1988 to 1990, Mr. Wolpow was
a Vice President in the corporate finance department of Drexel Burnham
Lambert, Incorporated. Mr. Wolpow is also a director of Waters Corporation and
FTD, Inc.
   
  Directors of the Company are currently elected annually by its stockholders
to serve during the ensuing year or until a successor is duly elected and
qualified. Executive officers of the Company are duly elected by the Board of
Directors to serve until their respective successors are elected and
qualified. There are no family relationships between any of the Directors or
executive officers of the Company.     
   
  Prior to the completion of the Offering, the Board will be divided into
three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible, with each Director
serving a three year term and one class being elected at each year's annual
meeting of stockholders. Messrs. Lavine and Benson will be in the class of
directors whose term expires at the 1997 annual meeting of the Company's
stockholders. Messrs. Wolpow and Gard and one of the additional directors
anticipated to be appointed by the Board following the Offering will be in the
class of directors whose term expires at the 1998 annual meeting of the
Company's stockholders. Messrs. Gay and Hanson and one of the additional
directors anticipated to be appointed by the Board following the Offering will
be in the class of directors whose term expires at the 1999 annual meeting of
the Company's stockholders. At each annual meeting of the Company's
stockholders, successors to the class of Directors whose term expires at such
meeting will be elected to serve for three year terms and until their
successors are elected and qualified.     
 
                                      43
<PAGE>
 
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
 
  The following table sets forth information concerning the compensation
earned for years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995 (as applicable) for
the Chief Executive Officer and each of the four other most highly compensated
executive officers of the Company as of the end of the last fiscal year. The
amounts shown include compensation for services in all capacities that were
provided to the Company.
 
                          SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                          LONG TERM COMPENSATION
                                ANNUAL COMPENSATION               AWARDS
                             -------------------------    ----------------------  ALL OTHER
                                                          SECURITIES UNDERLYING  COMPENSATION
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION  YEAR SALARY ($) BONUS ($)         OPTIONS (#)          ($)(7)
- ---------------------------  ---- ---------- ---------    ---------------------- ------------
<S>                          <C>  <C>        <C>          <C>                    <C>
Charles G. Hanson, III....   1995  $250,000  $809,859(4)          55,801(5)        $10,595
  Chief Executive Officer
Russell M. Gard...........   1995   225,000   723,837(4)          55,409(5)          7,553
  Chief Operating Officer
Gregory M. Benson.........   1995   175,000   400,000(4)          53,386(5)          6,683
  Executive Vice President
   and Chief
  Financial Officer
Timothy E. Needham(1)(2)..   1995   300,000    75,000                 62(6)          2,012
  Executive Vice President   1994   280,000   105,000                  0             1,912
                             1993   260,000    58,500                 48(6)          2,169
Edward Norton(1)(3).......   1995   300,000    75,000                152(6)          4,342
                             1994   192,500    39,375                  0             4,973
                             1993   175,000    40,000                 90(6)          3,869
</TABLE>    
- --------
(1) For the first ten months of fiscal year 1995 (i.e., before the
    Transactions), Williamhouse paid the compensation for Messrs. Needham and
    Norton. After the Transactions, the Company paid such compensation. The
    compensation stated in the table for these executive officers includes
    amounts received from both the Company and Williamhouse for fiscal year
    1995. Prior to its Acquisition, Williamhouse filed periodic reports under
    the Exchange Act and in connection therewith was previously required to
    disclose the compensation of Messrs. Needham and Norton for 1994 and 1993.
    As a result, such information is included herein.
 
(2) Prior to November 1995, Mr. Needham was Chairman of the Board of
    Williamhouse.
   
(3) Prior to November 1995, Mr. Norton was President of Williamhouse.
    Effective May 1996, Mr. Norton resigned his position with the Company.
           
(4) Bonus levels were established by the Board based on the Company
    substantially exceeding operating targets established at the beginning of
    the year.     
   
(5) Such options were granted prior to the Recapitalization. Number shown
    incorporates the effects of the stock split and the Preferred Stock
    conversion pursuant to the Recapitalization. See "The Recapitalization."
           
(6) Options were for common stock of WR Acquisition, Inc., the former parent
    corporation of Williamhouse ("WR Acquisition").     
   
(7) The amounts shown for "All Other Compensation" for Messrs. Hanson, Gard
    and Benson include $4,595, $1,553 and $683, respectively, representing
    life insurance premiums paid by the Company for such individuals, and
    $6,000 representing a car allowance for each such individual. The amounts
    shown for 1995 for Mr. Norton include $3,992, representing the taxable
    portion of split dollar life insurance paid by Williamhouse; the amount
    for Mr. Needham includes $1,662, representing the taxable portion of group
    life insurance premiums paid by Williamhouse for Mr. Needham. All other
    amounts shown for Messrs. Needham and Norton represent a $350 contribution
    made by the Company on the behalf of each such individuals to
    Williamhouse's 401(k) Plan.     
 
  The amounts shown for "All Other Compensation" for 1994 for Mr. Norton
  include $4,723, representing the taxable portion of split dollar life
  insurance premiums paid by Williamhouse; the amounts for
 
                                      44
<PAGE>
 
  Mr. Needham include $1,662, representing the taxable portion of group term
  life insurance premiums paid by Williamhouse for Mr. Needham. All other
  amounts shown ($250 for each of Messrs. Needham and Norton) represent
  amounts contributed by Williamhouse on behalf of the named individuals to
  Williamhouse's 401(k) Plan.
 
  The amounts shown for "All Other Compensation" for 1993 for Mr. Norton
  include $3,719, representing the taxable portion of split dollar life
  insurance premiums paid by Williamhouse; the amounts for Mr. Needham
  include $2,019 representing the taxable portion of group term life
  insurance premiums paid by Williamhouse for Mr. Needham. All other amounts
  shown ($150 for each of Messrs. Needham and Norton) represent amounts
  contributed by Williamhouse on behalf of the named individuals to
  Williamhouse's 401(k) Plan.
       
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
   
  The following table sets forth information regarding stock options granted
by the Company or WR Acquisition, as the case may be, to Mr. Hanson and the
other named executives who received stock options during the last fiscal year.
    
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                                              POTENTIAL REALIZABLE VALUE
                                                                                               AT ASSUMED ANNUAL RATES
                                                                                             OF STOCK PRICE APPRECIATION
                                             INDIVIDUAL GRANTS                                    FOR OPTION TERM(6)
                          -----------------------------------------------------------------  ----------------------------
                                          % OF TOTAL
                           NUMBER OF        OPTIONS                  MARKET
                          SECURITIES      GRANTED TO                PRICE ON
                          UNDERLYING       EMPLOYEES  EXERCISE OR    DATE OF
                            OPTIONS           IN      BASE PRICE      GRANT      EXPIRATION
          NAME            GRANTED (#)     FISCAL YEAR   ($/SH)      ($/SH)(5)       DATE      0%($)    5%($)     10%($)
          ----            -----------     ----------- -----------   ---------    ----------  -------- -------- ----------
<S>                       <C>             <C>         <C>           <C>          <C>         <C>      <C>      <C>
Charles G. Hanson, III..    55,801(1)(2)     33.9%     $    0.02(2)     $9.08(2)        (3)  $505,557 $768,051 $1,241,918
Russell M. Gard.........    55,409(1)(2)     33.7           0.02(2)      9.08(2)        (3)   502,006  762,655  1,233,193
Gregory M. Benson.......    53,386(1)(2)     32.4           0.02(2)      9.08(2)        (3)   483,677  734,810  1,188,169
Timothy E. Needham......      62.0(4)        11.2       1,312.50     2,625.00       2005        --       --        --
Edward Norton...........     152.0(4)        27.4       1,312.50     2,625.00       2005        --       --        --
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Options for Common Stock of the Company.     
(2) Such options were granted prior to the Recapitalization. Number shown
    incorporates the effect of the stock split and the Preferred Stock
    conversion pursuant to the Recapitalization. See "The Recapitalization."
   
(3) Options will expire 15 months after the date of the termination of the
    executive officer's employment with the Company or any of its subsidiaries
    for any reason.     
   
(4) Options for common stock of WR Acquisition, the former parent corporation
    of Williamhouse.     
(5) Market price was determined in good faith by the Company's Board of
    Directors on the date of grant.
   
(6) Amounts reflect certain assumed rates of appreciation set forth in the
    executive compensation disclosure rules of the Securities and Exchange
    Commission (the "Commission"). Actual gains, if any, on stock options
    exercises depend on future performance of the Company's stock and overall
    market conditions. For purposes of this calculation, the option terms were
    assumed to be ten years. See Note (3). The potential realizable value at
    assumed appreciation rates on options for common stock of WR Acquisition
    held by Messrs. Needham and Norton were not calculated. All such options
    were exercised immediately prior to the Acquisition.     
 
 
                                      45
<PAGE>
 
FISCAL YEAR-END OPTION VALUES
   
  The following table sets forth information concerning options exercised
during or held outstanding at the end of the last fiscal year by Mr. Hanson
and the other named executives. All outstanding options are currently
exercisable. There were no options exercised in the last fiscal year for
securities of the Company. The options listed in the table under the heading
"Shares Acquired on Exercise" were sold to the Company in connection with the
Transactions and the amounts received as a result of such sales are listed in
the table under the heading "Value Realized." See "Stock Options--Option
Repurchases."     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                             NUMBER OF SECURITIES
                              SHARES                              UNDERLYING         VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
                             ACQUIRED                        UNEXERCISED OPTIONS         IN-THE-MONEY
       NAME               ON EXERCISE (#) VALUE REALIZED ($)   AT FY-END (#)(3)   OPTIONS AT FY-END ($)(1)(3)
       ----               --------------- ------------------ -------------------- ---------------------------
<S>                       <C>             <C>                <C>                  <C>
Charles G. Hanson, III..     1,780.25(2)      $3,406,400           813,937                $7,245,267
Russell M. Gard.........     1,690.95(2)       3,251,379           773,115                 6,918,791
Gregory M. Benson.......     1,244.42(2)       2,401,584           568,947                 5,112,134
Timothy E. Needham......       372.00(4)       1,737,238              --                      --
Edward Norton...........       302.00(4)       1,371,708              --                      --
Martin R. Lewis.........       448.00(4)       2,045,895              --                      --
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
(1) Assumes a fair market value for the Common Stock at December 31, 1995
    equal to $9.08 after giving effect to the Recapitalization.     
(2) Number represents options for shares of Preferred Stock repurchased by the
    Company in connection with the Transactions and does not take into effect
    the Recapitalization.
(3) Such options were granted prior to the Recapitalization. Number shown
    incorporates the effects of the stock split and the Preferred Stock
    conversion pursuant to the Recapitalization. See "The Recapitalization."
   
(4) Options for common stock of WR Acquisition, the former parent corporation
    of Williamhouse.     
 
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION
   
  Directors of the Company currently do not receive a salary or an annual
retainer for their services. The Company expects that following the Offering,
non-employee Directors will be paid an annual retainer of approximately
$20,000, plus reimbursement for expenses incurred in attending Board meetings.
In addition, such Directors will receive options to purchase Common Stock
under the Company's Non-Employee Director Plan. Directors who are also
employees of the Company will not receive any additional compensation for
serving on the Board.     
 
COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
   
  The Board of Directors currently has three standing committees: (i) an Audit
Committee; (ii) a Compensation Committee; and (iii) an Executive Committee.
       
  The Audit Committee will make recommendations to the Board of Directors
regarding the independent auditors to be nominated for election by the
stockholders and will review the independence of such auditors, approve the
scope of the annual audit activities of the independent auditors, approve the
audit fee payable to the independent auditors and review such audit results.
Price Waterhouse LLP presently serves as the independent auditors of the
Company. The Audit Committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Lavine and
Wolpow. The Company expects that one or more of the two additional Directors
will be appointed to the Audit Committee following the Offering.     
 
  The duties of the Compensation Committee will be to provide a general review
of the Company's compensation and benefit plans to ensure that they meet
corporate objectives. In addition, the Compensation Committee will review the
Chief Executive Officer's recommendations on (i) compensation of all officers
of the Company and (ii) adopting and changing major Company compensation
policies and practices, and report its recommendations to the whole Board of
Directors for approval and authorization. The Board may also establish
 
                                      46
<PAGE>
 
   
other committees to assist in the discharge of its responsibilities. The
Compensation Committee is currently comprised of Messrs. Gay and Wolpow. The
Company expects that one or more of the two additional Directors will be
appointed to the Compensation Committee following the Offering.     
   
  The Executive Committee reviews the Company's strategic planning processes
and has the power to exercise the authority of the Board on specific matters
assigned to it by the Board from time to time. The Executive Committee is
currently comprised of Messrs. Hanson, Gard, Gay and Wolpow.     
 
COMPENSATION COMMITTEE INTERLOCKS AND INSIDE PARTICIPATION
   
  The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors is currently comprised
of Messrs. Gay and Wolpow, each of which formerly served as an officer of the
Company. Messrs. Gay and Wolpow are both Managing Directors of Bain Capital,
which is a party to Management Advisory Agreement with the Company. See
"Certain Relationships and Related Transactions--Management Advisory
Agreement."     
 
MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS
          
  Employment Agreements. In June 1996, the Company and Mr. Hanson entered into
an employment agreement (the "Employment Agreement"), pursuant to which Mr.
Hanson agreed to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Company for a
period of three years. Under the Employment Agreement, Mr. Hanson will receive
(i) an annual base salary equal to at least $450,000, (ii) an annual bonus up
to 100% of his annual base salary (upon the Company achieving certain
operating targets) and (iii) certain fringe benefits. Mr. Hanson will be
entitled to receive a payment of $2.5 million upon a "change of control" of
the Company (defined to include a person or group (other than Bain Capital)
becoming an owner of more than 50% of the outstanding Common Stock or
nominating a majority of the Directors who are then elected to the Board). If
Mr. Hanson's employment is terminated for any reason prior to the termination
of such agreement other than for Cause (as defined therein) or his
resignation, he will be entitled to receive his base salary and fringe
benefits for 24 months following such termination in addition to 50% of his
bonus for the year in which his employment was terminated if the termination
is during the first six months of the year or 100% if such termination was
during the last six months of the year. Mr. Hanson has agreed not to compete
with the Company for a period of two years following his termination of
employment with the Company and not to disclose any confidential information
at any time without the prior written consent of the Company.     
   
  Mr. Hanson will participate on a pro rata basis in the over-allotment option
granted to the U.S. Underwriters in the Offering. Except with respect to
foregoing, Mr. Hanson has agreed under the Employment Agreement not to
participate in any secondary offering of Common Stock or exercise any
registration rights granted to him under the Registration Agreement (as
defined) for a period ending on the earlier of (i) one year following the
Offering or (ii) upon completion of a secondary offering. During such period,
Mr. Hanson's estate may require the Company to purchase certain of his shares
of Common Stock in the event Mr. Hanson dies during such period.     
   
  Mr. Gard has entered into an employment agreement with the Company
containing substantially similar terms. Under such agreement, Mr. Gard has
agreed to serve as the Chief Operating Officer of the Company for (i) an
annual base salary equal to at least $400,000, (ii) an annual bonus up to 100%
of his annual base salary (upon the Company achieving certain operating
targets) and (iii) certain fringe benefits. In addition, Mr. Gard will
likewise participate on a pro rata basis in the over-allotment option granted
to the U.S. Underwriters in the Offering and has also agreed not to
participate in any secondary offering of Common Stock or exercise any
registration rights granted to him under the Registration Agreement.     
 
  1992 Management Agreements. The Company, Mr. Hanson, and Tyler Capital Fund,
L.P., Tyler Massachusetts, L.P., and Tyler International, L.P.-II
(collectively, the "Tyler Entities") entered into a Management Agreement,
dated as of December 31, 1992 (the "Management Agreement"), pursuant to which
Mr. Hanson purchased from the Tyler Entities (i) 1,800 shares of Class P
Common Stock, (ii) 16,200 shares of Common Stock, and (iii) 15% subordinated
Ampad promissory notes ("Ampad Notes") in the aggregate
 
                                      47
<PAGE>
 
          
principal amount of $46,034.53, for an aggregate purchase price of
$106,034.53. The Management Agreement also contained certain provisions
relating to the terms of Mr. Hanson's employment, which have been superseded
by the terms of the Employment Agreement. In connection with Mr. Hanson's
relocation from New York to Dallas, Mr. Hanson received a $117,000 loan from
the Company. At December 31, 1995, an aggregate of $112,000 remained
outstanding under the loan (the largest amount during the last fiscal year).
Interest on the loan accrues at an annual rate of 6.19%. In June 1996, the
loan was forgiven in lieu of a bonus payment Mr. Hanson was otherwise entitled
to receive.     
   
  Messrs. Gard and Benson entered into similar management agreements with the
Company and the Tyler Entities. Pursuant to their agreements, Messrs. Gard and
Benson each purchased from the Tyler Entities (i) 1,800 shares of Class P
Common Stock, (ii) 16,200 shares of Common Stock, and (iii) Ampad Notes in the
aggregate principal amount of $40,000, for an aggregate purchase price of
$100,000. Mr. Gard's management agreement has been superseded by his
employment agreement. Mr. Benson's management agreement entitles him to
receive an annual base salary of at least $175,000, a bonus of up to 100% of
his average base salary and a severance payment if Mr. Benson's employment is
terminated either without cause or due to death or permanent disability. Mr.
Benson has agreed to certain restrictions on his ability to compete with the
Company following his termination of employment.     
   
  1992 IRA Note Purchases. The Company, Mr. Hanson, the Tyler Entities and Mr.
Hanson's Individual Retirement Account ("IRA") entered into a Note Purchase
Agreement dated as of December 31, 1992 (the "IRA Note Purchase Agreement")
pursuant to which Mr. Hanson's IRA purchased on his behalf from the Tyler
Entities Ampad Notes in the aggregate principal amount of $13,965.47.
Covenants contained in the IRA Note Purchase Agreement are similar to those in
the Management Agreement described above. Messrs. Gard and Benson entered into
similar IRA note purchase agreements with the Company, the Tyler Entities and
their respective IRAs. Pursuant to Messrs. Gard's and Benson's agreements, the
IRA of each purchased on their behalf from Tyler Entities Ampad Notes in the
aggregate principal amount of $20,000.00.     
   
  Change in Control Agreements. Prior to the Acquisition, WR Acquisition, the
former parent corporation of Williamhouse, entered into change in control
agreements (the "Change in Control Agreements") with Timothy E. Needham,
Edward Norton and certain other officers of Williamhouse. As a result of the
Acquisition, WR Acquisition became a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company.
The term of each Change in Control Agreement will continue until the
expiration of thirty-six (36) months after the Acquisition. Generally, each
officer or employee is entitled to receive, upon termination of employment
during the term of the Change in Control Agreements (unless such termination
is because of death or disability, by the Company for "Cause" (as defined in
the Change in Control Agreements), or by the officer or employee other than
for "Good Reason" (as defined in the Change in Control Agreements)), (i) a
lump sum severance payment equal to thirty-six (36) months of his or her
current annual base salary, as it may subsequently be increased, (ii) all
amounts accrued (but not paid) under any compensation plan of the Company plus
a lump sum payment equal to three times the average annual amount accrued
under any such plan for the three fiscal years preceding such termination,
(iii) continued coverage for three years under Company's medical and
disability plans and (iv) certain other specified payments. To date, the
Company has paid approximately $2.25 million under such Change in Control
Agreements and believes, based on current compensation levels, that the
maximum amount of the severance payments that could be paid under the Change
in Control Agreements will not exceed $11 million.     
       
STOCK OPTIONS
 
  1992 Key Employees Stock Option Plan. On July 31, 1992, the Board of
Directors of the Company adopted the Ampad Holding Corporation 1992 Key
Employees Stock Option Plan, which authorizes grants of stock options
(including options that are intended to qualify as "incentive stock options"
within the meaning of
 
                                      48
<PAGE>
 
   
Section 422 of the Internal Revenue Code) and the sales of Common Stock to
current or future employees, directors, consultants or advisers of the Company
or its subsidiaries. The 1992 Stock Plan authorizes the granting of stock
options for up to an aggregate of 200,000 shares of Common Stock (without
giving effect to the Recapitalization). The number of shares issuable under
the 1992 Stock Plan is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain
events (including, but not limited to, reorganizations, recapitalizations and
stock dividends) to prevent any dilution or expansion of the rights of
participants that might otherwise result from the occurrence of such events.
Under the 1992 Stock Plan, the Board is authorized to grant options for, or
sell any class or classes of Common Stock at any time prior to the termination
of the 1992 Stock Plan in such quantity, at such price, on such terms and
subject to such conditions as established by the Board. The Company has not
sold any shares of Common Stock under the 1992 Stock Plan.     
   
  Currently, all options granted pursuant to the 1992 Stock Plan are
exercisable and expire 15 months after the termination of the option holder's
employment with the Company or any of its subsidiaries. Furthermore, pursuant
to all existing agreements under which options have been granted under the
1992 Stock Plan, option holders are required to consent to a sale of all or
substantially all of the assets or outstanding capital stock of the Company to
any person or entity if such sale is approved by the Board or the holders of a
majority of the Common Stock then outstanding. After giving effect to the
Recapitalization, the following options issued under the 1992 Stock Plan will
be outstanding: Mr. Hanson--options to purchase 813,937 shares of Common Stock
at a weighted average purchase price of $.20 per share; Mr. Gard--options to
purchase 773,115 shares of Common Stock at a weighted average purchase price
of $.15 per share; and Mr. Benson--options to purchase 568,947 shares of
Common Stock at a weighted average purchase price of $.11 per share. See
"Fiscal Year-End Option Values."     
   
  At the time of the issuance of the Preferred Stock, the Company granted
options to purchase Preferred Stock to its existing option holders pursuant to
the anti-dilution provisions of the 1992 Stock Plan. In December 1995, the
Company repurchased certain of these options in connection with the Company's
redemption of a portion of its Preferred Stock. Messrs. Hanson, Gard and
Benson received approximately $3.4 million, $3.3 million and $2.4 million,
respectively, as a result of such repurchases. All outstanding options to
purchase Preferred Stock will be converted into options to purchase shares of
Common Stock in connection with the Recapitalization.     
   
  1996 Stock Plan. Prior to the consummation of the Offering, the Company
plans to adopt the American Pad & Paper Company 1996 Key Employees Stock
Incentive Plan. The 1996 Stock Plan will provide for the granting to employees
and other key individuals who perform services for the Company the following
types of incentive awards: options to purchase Common Stock, stock
appreciation rights with respect to the Common Stock, restricted shares of
Common Stock, performance grants and other types of awards that the
Compensation Committee deems to be consistent with the purposes of the 1996
Stock Plan. The 1996 Stock Plan will afford the Company flexibility in
tailoring incentive compensation to support corporate and business objectives,
and to anticipate and respond to changing business environments and
competitive compensation practices.     
   
  An aggregate of 1,500,000 shares of Common Stock of the Company will be
reserved for issuance under the 1996 Stock Plan. Except for any other
adjustments made by the Board of Directors relating to a stock split or
certain other changes in the number of shares of Common Stock, or to reflect
extraordinary corporate transactions, further increases in the number of
shares authorized for issuance under the 1996 Stock Plan must be approved by
the stockholders of the Company.     
   
  Non-Employee Director Plan. Prior to the consummation of the Offering, the
Company plans to adopt the American Pad & Paper Company Non-Employee Director
Stock Option Plan. Pursuant to the Non-Employee Director Plan, each Director
(other than Directors who are employees of the Company) will receive a one-
time option grant to purchase 25,000 shares of Common Stock upon effectiveness
of the Non-Employee Director Plan or, for new Directors, upon being elected to
the Board. In addition, each Director will receive an annual grant of options
to purchase 2,000 shares of Common Stock beginning on such Director's fourth
anniversary of being elected to the Board. The initial one-time grants will
vest over three years with 50% vesting in the first year and 25% in the
remaining two years. The annual grants will vest in three equal installments.
The exercise price for     
 
                                      49
<PAGE>
 
   
all options granted under the Non-Employee Director Plan will be at fair
market value as of the time of such grant. Options granted under the Non-
Employee Director Plan will generally terminate ten years after the date of
the grant. An aggregate of 350,000 shares of Common Stock will be reserved for
issuance under the Non-Employee Director Plan.     
          
STOCK PURCHASE PLAN     
   
  Prior to consummation of the Offering, the Company expects to adopt the
American Pad & Paper Company Management Stock Purchase Plan (the "Purchase
Plan"). The Purchase Plan is designed to provide equity incentives to selected
members of the Company's management, including employee Directors and
executive officers. The eligible participants will be selected by the
Compensation Committee upon the recommendation of the Company's Chief
Executive Officer. It is currently anticipated that approximately 35
management employees will initially be eligible to participate in the Purchase
Plan. Under the Purchase Plan, eligible participants will be able to elect to
purchase shares of Common Stock in lieu of up to 25% of their annual incentive
bonuses. The Common Stock will be sold under the Purchase Plan at a 15%
discount from the fair market value on the date of purchase. The aggregate
maximum number of shares of Common Stock that will be reserved and available
for issuance under the Purchase Plan will be 250,000 shares.     
       
                                      50
<PAGE>
 
                      PRINCIPAL AND SELLING STOCKHOLDERS
   
  The table below sets forth certain information regarding the equity
ownership of the Company as of June 1, 1996 and immediately following the
Offering, assuming in each case the effectiveness of the Recapitalization, by
(i) each person or entity who beneficially owns five percent or more of the
Common Stock, (ii) each Director and executive officer named in the Summary
Compensation Table, (iii) all Directors and current executive officers of the
Company as a group and (iv) each Selling Stockholder. Unless otherwise stated,
each of the persons named in the table has sole voting and investment power
with respect to the securities beneficially owned by it or him as set forth
opposite its or his name. Beneficial ownership of the Common Stock listed in
the table has been determined in accordance with the applicable rules and
regulations promulgated under the Exchange Act.     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                             COMMON STOCK OWNED                         COMMON STOCK OWNED
                           PRIOR TO THE OFFERING                      AFTER THE OFFERING (1)
                          ---------------------------                ------------------------
                          NUMBER OF     PERCENTAGE OF SHARES BEING   NUMBER OF  PERCENTAGE OF
    NAME AND ADDRESS        SHARES         SHARES     OFFERED (1)      SHARES      SHARES
    ----------------      ----------    ------------- ------------   ---------- -------------
<S>                       <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>        <C>
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS:
Bain Capital Funds......  13,151,040(2)     91.2%      3,030,807(3)  10,120,233     37.6%
c/o Bain Venture Capital
Two Copley Place
Boston, Massachusetts
 02116
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS:
Charles G. Hanson, III
 (4)(5).................   1,102,442         7.2             --       1,102,442      4.0
Russell M. Gard (4)(6)..   1,061,621         7.0             --       1,061,621      3.8
Gregory M. Benson
 (4)(7).................     857,453         5.7             --         857,453      3.1
Robert C. Gay (8)(9)....  13,151,040        91.2       3,030,807     10,120,233     37.6
Jonathan S. Lavine
 (8)(10)................     986,309         6.8         227,306        759,003      2.8
Marc B. Wolpow (8)(11)..     986,309         6.8         227,306        759,003      2.8
Timothy E. Needham......         --          --              --             --       --
Edward Norton...........         --          --              --             --       --
All Directors and
 executive officers as a
 group (9 persons)(12)..  16,172,556        97.5%      3,030,807     13,141,748     45.2
OTHER SELLING STOCKHOLD-
 ERS:
Karl E. Lutz (13).......     120,211          *           27,704         92,507        *
Frederick H. Potts......     288,505         2.0%         66,489        222,016        *
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
  * Represents less than one percent.     
          
 (1) Assumes no exercise of the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment option and
     does not give effect to any purchases, if any, by such persons named in
     the table in the Offering. The Selling Stockholders (including Messrs.
     Hanson, Gard and Benson) have granted the U.S. Underwriters an option to
     purchase up to an aggregate of 2,343,750 additional shares to cover over-
     allotments, if any.     
   
 (2) Includes 9,617,552 shares held by Tyler Capital Fund, L.P.; 1,970,570
     shares held by Tyler Massachusetts, L.P.; 576,609 shares held by Tyler
     International, L.P.-II; 820,854 shares held by BCIP Associates ("BCIP
     Associates"); and 165,455 shares held by BCIP Trust Associates, L.P.
     ("BCIP Trust" and, collectively with BCIP Associates and the Tyler
     entities, the "Bain Capital Funds").     
   
 (3) Bain Capital Funds will sell their shares in the Offering on a pro rata
     basis.     
   
 (4) The address of such person is c/o the Company, 17304 Preston Road,
     Dallas, Texas 75252.     
   
 (5) Includes 813,937 shares of Common Stock that can be acquired through
     currently exercisable options.     
   
 (6) Includes 773,115 shares of Common Stock that can be acquired through
     currently exercisable options.     
   
 (7) Includes 568,947 shares of Common Stock that can be acquired through
     currently exercisable options.     
   
 (8) The address of such person is c/o Bain Venture Capital, Two Copley Place,
     Boston, Massachusetts 02116.     
   
 (9) Mr. Gay is a Director of the Company. Mr. Gay is also a general partner
     of Bain Venture Capital, the general partner of the Tyler entities, and a
     general partner of BCIP Associates and BCIP Trust. Accordingly, Mr. Gay
     may be deemed to beneficially own shares owned by the Bain Capital Funds,
     although Mr. Gay disclaims beneficial ownership of any such shares.     
   
(10) Mr. Lavine is a Director of the Company. Mr. Lavine is also a general
     partner of BCIP Associates and BCIP Trust. Accordingly, Mr. Lavine may be
     deemed to beneficially own shares owned by BCIP Associates and BCIP
     Trust, although Mr. Lavine disclaims beneficial ownership of any such
     shares.     
 
                                      51
<PAGE>
 
   
(11) Mr. Wolpow is a Director of the Company. Mr. Wolpow is also a general
     partner of BCIP Associates and BCIP Trust. Accordingly, Mr. Wolpow may be
     deemed to beneficially own shares owned by BCIP Associates and BCIP
     Trust, although Mr. Wolpow disclaims beneficial ownership of any such
     shares.     
   
(12) Includes shares which may be deemed to be beneficially owned by Messrs.
     Gay, Lavine and Wolpow as a result of their relationships with the Bain
     Capital Funds and shares that Messrs. Hanson, Gard and Benson can acquire
     through currently exercisable options.     
   
(13) Karl E. Lutz, P.C. is partner of Kirkland & Ellis. Kirkland & Ellis has
     provided legal services to the Company over the past three years and
     expects to continue to do so in the future. Certain of Mr. Lutz's shares
     are held by an individual retirement account for his sole benefit.     
   
  The Selling Stockholders (including Messrs. Hanson, Gard and Benson) have
granted the U.S. Underwriters an option to purchase up to an aggregate of
2,343,750 additional shares to cover over-allotments, if any. The following
table sets forth certain information regarding the equity ownership of the
Company assuming the U.S. Underwriters' option is exercised in full:     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                    COMMON STOCK
                               NUMBER OF     OWNED AFTER THE OFFERING(1)
                            SHARES OFFERED   --------------------------------
                           IN OVER-ALLOTMENT  NUMBER OF        PERCENTAGE OF
      NAME                      OPTION         SHARES             SHARES
      ----                 ----------------- ---------------- ---------------
<S>                        <C>               <C>              <C>
Bain Capital Funds........     1,858,889            8,261,344            30.7%
Charles G. Hanson, III....       155,829              946,613             3.4
Russell M. Gard...........       150,059              911,561             3.3
Gregory M. Benson.........       121,201              736,252             2.7
Karl E. Lutz..............        16,992               75,516              *
Fredrick H. Potts.........        40,780              181,236              *
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
 *  Represents less than one percent.     
   
(1) Assumes the U.S. Underwriters' over-allotment is exercised in full.     
   
  The Company has agreed to pay all of the expenses of the Selling
Stockholders in the Offering other than underwriting discounts and
commissions. In the event the Underwriters' over-allotment is not exercised in
full, the number of shares to be sold by the Selling Stockholders named above
will be reduced proportionally.     
 
                                      52
<PAGE>
 
                CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
 
ACQUISITION ARRANGEMENTS
   
  In connection with the Acquisition, members of Williamhouse's management
received substantial payments for their equity interests in Williamhouse.
Messrs. Needham and Norton received approximately $1,737,238 and $1,371,708,
respectively, at the closing of the Acquisition for their shares of
Williamhouse and pursuant to other equity-based arrangements. Bain Capital was
paid a fee of $5 million by the Company for, among other things, its services
in analyzing, negotiating and arranging the financing for the Acquisition.
Prior to the Acquisition, the Company recapitalized its Common Stock and Class
P Common Stock into Common Stock, Class P Common Stock and approximately $200
million aggregate liquidation value of Preferred Stock. In connection with
such recapitalization, the Company declared a dividend on its Class P Common
Stock and Common Stock of one share of Preferred Stock for each ten shares of
Class P Common Stock and Common Stock. In December 1995, the Company redeemed
on a pro rata basis a portion of such Preferred Stock with an aggregate
liquidation value of approximately $70.6 million. At the same time, the
Company declared a cash dividend of approximately $4.5 million on its Class P
Common Stock and, thereafter, converted all outstanding Class P Common Stock
on a share-for-share basis into Common Stock. The executive officers of the
Company received an aggregate of 5,400 shares of Preferred Stock as a result
of the Preferred Stock Dividend and cash consideration of approximately
$267,819 as a result of the redemption of certain of their shares of Preferred
Stock. In addition, approximately $8,901,520 was used by the Company to
repurchase from the executive officers of the Company options to acquire
Preferred Stock. See "Management--Stock Options--1992 Key Employees Stock
Option Plan."     
   
MANAGEMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT     
   
  In October 1995, the Company entered into a ten-year Management Advisory
Agreement (the "Advisory Agreement") with Bain Capital to replace Bain
Capital's prior agreement with the Company. Pursuant to the Advisory
Agreement, Bain Capital will provide management consulting, advisory services
and support, negotiation and analysis of financial alternatives, acquisitions
and dispositions and other services agreed upon by the Company and Bain
Capital. Under the Advisory Agreement, the Company (i) paid Bain Capital in
connection with the offering of the Notes, in the aggregate, a cash financial
advisory fee of $2.0 million, plus its out-of-pocket expenses and (ii) will
pay Bain Capital an aggregate annual fee of no less than $2.0 million, plus
its out-of-pocket expenses. The Company will also pay Bain Capital an
aggregate fee of approximately $2.0 million, plus its out of pocket expenses,
in connection with the Offering and an aggregate fee of approximately $3.0
million, plus its out of pocket expenses, in connection with the entering into
of the New Bank Credit Agreement. In addition, the Company expects to pay Bain
Capital a fee of approximately $300,000 for its services rendered in
connection with the sale of the Personalizing Division and $550,000 for its
services rendered in connection with the Niagara Acquisition. For the years
ended December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993, the Company paid Bain Capital
$937,000, $684,000 and $431,000, respectively, in financial advisory fees
pursuant to the Advisory Agreement or the prior agreement. Prior to the
completion of the Offering, the Company and Bain Capital expect to amend the
term of the Advisory Agreement to provide for an initial period of four years,
subject to automatic one-year extensions beyond the initial term (not to
exceed an aggregate of eight years) on each anniversary of the effective date
of such amendment so long as Bain Capital continues to own at least 5% of the
outstanding Common Stock. The Company believes that the fees received for the
professional services rendered are at least as favorable to the Company as
those which could be negotiated with a third party.     
 
                                      53
<PAGE>
 
                      DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INDEBTEDNESS
 
BANK CREDIT AGREEMENT
   
  On October 31, 1995, the Company and APPC entered into a Bank Credit
Agreement with Bankers Trust Company, as agent for various lending
institutions thereto (the "Agent"), providing for Term Loans of $245.0 million
in the form of a multi-tranche facility, a revolving credit facility of $45.0
million and an IRB Letter of Credit facility of approximately $13.4 million.
The Company used borrowings under the Bank Credit Agreement to provide funding
necessary to consummate the Acquisition, with the revolving credit facility
being used for working capital needs. Indebtedness under the Bank Credit
Agreement is guaranteed by the Company and all current and future domestic
subsidiaries of the Company except for the SPC (as defined), and is secured by
(i) a perfected security interest in substantially all the assets and property
(other than certain equipment secured by purchase money security interests) of
the Company and its subsidiaries except for the SPC, and (ii) a first priority
perfected pledge of all capital stock of the immediate parent corporation of
APPC, the Company and its current subsidiaries except for the SPC.     
   
  The maturity and interest rates of the Term Loans under the Bank Credit
Agreement vary by tranche. The overall effective interest rate for borrowings
under the Term Loans as of March 31, 1996 was 9.0%. The revolving credit
facility is a five-year facility bearing interest at a floating rate based, at
the Company's option, on either the Eurodollar plus 275 basis points (subject
to an interest rate reduction of 25 to 50 basis points if the Company meets
certain financial ratios) or the bank base rate plus 175 basis points (subject
to an interest rate reduction of 25 to 50 basis points if the Company meets
certain financial ratios). The revolving credit facility includes a letter of
credit sublimit of $20 million. APPC is required to pay the lenders under the
Bank Credit Agreement in the aggregate a commitment fee equal to 0.5% per
annum, payable on a quarterly basis, on the daily average unused portion of
this facility. As of March 31, 1996, the Company did not have any outstanding
borrowings under the revolving credit facility.     
 
  The Bank Credit Agreement requires APPC to meet certain financial tests,
including minimum levels of consolidated EBITDA (as defined therein), minimum
interest coverage and maximum leverage ratio. The Bank Credit Agreement also
contains covenants which, among other things, limit the incurrence of
additional indebtedness, payment of dividends, transactions with affiliates,
asset sales, acquisitions, mergers, prepayments of other indebtedness, liens
and encumbrances and other matters customarily restricted in such agreements.
 
  The Bank Credit Agreement contains customary events of default, including
payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant defaults,
cross-defaults to certain other indebtedness, certain events of bankruptcy and
insolvency, ERISA, judgment defaults, failure of any guaranty or security
agreement supporting the Bank Credit Agreement to be in full force and effect
and change of control of the Company.
 
NEW BANK CREDIT AGREEMENT
   
  Contemporaneously with the Offering, the Company intends to (i) refinance
and retire all remaining indebtedness under the Bank Credit Agreement with a
portion of the proceeds of the Offering, and (ii) enter into the New Bank
Credit Agreement. The New Bank Credit Agreement will be a revolving credit
facility with a maximum availability of $300 million with the following
principal terms: Loans will be made under the New Bank Credit Agreement
directly to APPC and will be guaranteed by the Company and each of its
subsidiaries (other than the SPC). Loans made under the New Bank Credit
Agreement will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at the Company's
option, (i) the Base Rate plus the Applicable Margin or (ii) the Eurodollar
Rate plus the Applicable Margin (as each term is defined in the New Bank
Credit Agreement). The Applicable Margin for the Base Rate loans will vary
from 0% to .75% and the Applicable Margin for Eurodollar Loans will vary from
 .75% to 1.75%, each based on the Company's Leverage Ratio and the type of
loan. Availability under the New Bank Credit Agreement will be subject to an
unused commitment fee which will be a percentage of the unutilized revolving
loan commitment. This percentage will vary from .3% to .5% based on the
Company's Leverage Ratio.     
   
  Availability under the New Bank Credit Agreement will generally be reduced
to the extent of the net proceeds of a sale of assets by the Company, the net
proceeds of an issuance of debt by the Company or 50% of the net proceeds of
an issuance of equity by the Company. Availability will also be reduced by $50
million in 1999 and $50 million in 2000. The New Bank Credit Agreement is
expected to terminate in 2001. The Company     
 
                                      54
<PAGE>
 
   
will be permitted to make acquisitions under the New Bank Credit Agreement up
to $25 million per acquisition without the consent of the Required Banks and
up to $50 million per acquisition if, on a pro forma basis giving effect to
such acquisition, the Company's Leverage Ratio is less than 3.0 to 1.0. The
New Bank Credit Agreement will be secured to the same extent as the Bank
Credit Agreement and will contain similar restrictive covenants, financial
tests and events of default. The foregoing description of the material terms
of the New Bank Credit Agreement is qualified in its entirety by reference by
the executed term sheet relating to the New Bank Credit Agreement, which has
been filed as an exhibit to the registration statement to which this
Prospectus is a part.     
 
NOTES
   
  The Notes were issued pursuant to the Indenture, dated as of December 1,
1995, by and among APPC, certain subsidiary guarantors and IBJ Schroder Bank &
Trust Company, as Trustee (the "Trustee"). The net proceeds to APPC from the
sale of the Notes were approximately $194 million (after deducting the initial
purchasers' discount and certain fees and expenses). The net proceeds of such
sale were used to (i) repurchase the Old Debentures of Williamhouse, (ii) to
pay a cash dividend on the Class P Common Stock, (iii) to redeem a portion of
the Preferred Stock, (iv) to pay related fees and expenses and (v) to provide
for working capital. The Notes are limited in aggregate principal amount to
$200 million and mature on November 15, 2005. Interest on the Notes accrues at
the rate of 13% per annum and will be payable semi-annually in cash on each
May 15 and November 15 commencing on May 15, 1996.     
 
  The Notes are redeemable, at APPC's option, in whole at any time or in part
from time to time, on and after November 15, 2000, upon not less than 30 nor
more than 60 days' notice, at the following redemption prices (expressed as
percentages of the principal amount thereof) if redeemed during the twelve-
month period commencing on November 15 of the year set forth below, plus, in
each case, accrued interest to the date of redemption:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              YEAR                      PERCENTAGE
              ----                      ----------
              <S>                       <C>
              2000.....................  106.500%
              2001.....................  104.333
              2002.....................  102.167
              2003 and thereafter......  100.000
</TABLE>
 
  At any time, or from time to time, on or prior to November 15, 1998, APPC
may, at its option, use the net cash proceeds of one or more public equity
offerings (as defined in the Indenture) to redeem up to 35% of the aggregate
principal amount of Notes originally issued at the following redemption prices
(expressed as percentages of the principal amount thereof) if redeemed during
the twelve-month period commencing on November 15 of the year set forth below,
plus, in each case, accrued interest to the date of redemption:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              YEAR                      PERCENTAGE
              ----                      ----------
              <S>                       <C>
              1995.....................   111.0%
              1996.....................   113.0
              1997.....................   113.0
</TABLE>
 
provided that at least $100 million aggregate principal amount of Notes
remains outstanding immediately after any such redemption.
   
  The Notes are unsecured obligations of APPC, ranking subordinate in right of
payment to all Senior Debt of APPC. As of March 31, 1996, APPC had
approximately $253.5 million of Senior Debt and the Subsidiary Guarantors (as
defined) had approximately $8.6 million of Senior Debt (excluding guarantees
of Senior Debt). As of March 31, 1996, the Company had approximately $45.7
million available to be drawn under the revolving credit portion and letter of
credit facility of the Bank Credit Agreement. Each subsidiary of APPC (other
than the SPC) (collectively, the "Subsidiary Guarantors") has fully and
unconditionally guaranteed, on a senior subordinated basis, jointly and
severally, the performance of APPC's obligations under the Indenture and the
Notes. The guarantees are subordinated to Senior Debt of the Subsidiary
Guarantors on the same basis as the Notes are subordinated to the Senior Debt
of APPC. Under the Indenture (without giving effect to the restrictions in the
Bank Credit Agreement), the Company could have incurred approximately $74
million of additional indebtedness, including indebtedness senior in right of
payment to the Notes, at March 31, 1996.     
 
                                      55
<PAGE>
 
  The Indenture provides that upon the occurrence of a "change of control,"
each holder will have the right to require that APPC purchase all or a portion
of such holder's Notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal
amount thereof plus accrued interest to the date of purchase. "Change of
Control" is defined under the Indenture to mean: (i) any sale, lease, exchange
or other transfer of all or substantially all of the assets of the Company
(other than to Bain Capital and certain related parties); (ii) the liquidation
or dissolution of the Company; (iii) any person or group (other than Bain
Capital and certain related parties) becoming the owner of shares representing
more than 50% of the aggregate ordinary voting power represented by the issued
and outstanding capital stock of the Company; or (iv) the replacement of a
majority of the Board of Directors of the Company over a two-year period from
the directors who constituted such Board of Directors at the beginning of such
period without the approval of a majority of such Board of Directors then
still in office.
 
  The Indenture governing the Notes contains certain covenants, including
limitations on the incurrence of indebtedness, the making of restricted
payments, transactions with affiliates, the existence of liens, disposition of
proceeds of asset sales, the making of guarantees by subsidiaries, transfer
and issuances of stock of subsidiaries, the imposition of dividend or other
payment restrictions on subsidiaries, certain mergers and sales of assets, the
application of proceeds from an initial public offering, and the ability of
APPC to pay dividends to the Company. See "Risk Factors--Dividend Policy;
Restrictions on Payment of Dividends." Such provisions of the Indenture may,
in certain circumstances, make it more difficult or discourage a takeover of
the Company, whether favored or opposed by management of the Company.
   
  The foregoing description of the material terms of the Indenture is
qualified in its entirety by reference to the Indenture, which has been filed
on an exhibit to the registration statement to which this Prospectus is a
part.     
 
ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE FACILITY
   
  The Accounts Receivable Facility was established simultaneously with the
consummation of the Acquisition. Pursuant to the Accounts Receivable Facility,
the Company and its subsidiaries are deemed to have sold to a wholly owned
special purpose corporation of the Company (the "SPC") all of the receivables
generated by the Company and its subsidiaries upon the creation of such
receivables. The SPC then transfers the receivables purchased from the Company
and its subsidiaries each day to a master trust (the "Trust"). The SPC is
operated in a fashion intended to ensure that its assets and liabilities are
distinct from those of the Company and its other affiliates, and that its
assets are not available to satisfy claims of creditors of the Company and its
subsidiaries.     
   
  At the time of the Acquisition, the Company sold all of its receivables to
the SPC. The SPC, in turn, transferred the receivables to the Trust in
exchange for a "Variable Funding Certificate" and a "Transferor Certificate,"
each representing an undivided interest in the securities and other assets of
the Trust. Immediately thereafter, the SPC sold the Variable Funding
Certificate to Bankers Trust Company.     
   
  The Trust has issued an aggregate principal amount of $60 million Class A
Variable Rate Trade Receivables Backed Certificates, Series 1996-1 (the "Class
A Certificates") and Class Board Variable Rate Trade Receivables Backed
Certificates, Series 1996-1 (the "Class B Certificates"). The Class A
Certificates are "revolving" certificates, the principal amount of which may
be increased or decreased by the SPC, subject to certain standard conditions
precedent. The Class B Certificates have a fixed principal amount and are
subordinated to the Class A Certificates. The Class A Certificates and the
Class B Certificates have a term of approximately 4 1/2 years until their
scheduled amortization dates. The interest rate of the Class A Certificates is
equal to a reserve-adjusted Eurodollar rate or an alternate base rate plus a
given spread. The interest rate of the Class B Certificates is equal to a
reserve-adjusted Eurodollar rate plus a given spread. The Company expects that
the Class A Certificates have been rated AAA and the Class B Certificates have
been rated BBB by Standard & Poor's Rating Group. The SPC used the proceeds of
the issuance of the Class A Certificates and Class B Certificates to repay the
Variable Funding Certificate described in the preceding paragraph.     
 
                                      56
<PAGE>
 
                         DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
 
GENERAL MATTERS
   
  At the time of the Offering the total amount of authorized capital stock of
the Company will consist of 75,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value $0.01
per share, and 150,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share
(the "Serial Preferred Stock"). Upon completion of the Offering, 26,925,272
shares of Common Stock will be issued and outstanding and no shares of
Preferred Stock will be issued and outstanding. As of March 31, 1996, there
were 900,000 shares of Common Stock and 58,449 shares of Preferred Stock
outstanding (each before giving effect to the Recapitalization) and each were
held by 11 holders of record. The discussion herein describes the Company's
capital stock, the Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws as
anticipated to be in effect upon consummation of the Offering. The following
summary of certain provisions of the Company's capital stock describes all
material provisions of, but does not purport to be complete and is subject to,
and qualified in its entirety by, the Restated Certificate of Incorporation
and the By-laws of the Company that are included as exhibits to the
Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a part and by the
provisions of applicable law.     
 
  The Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws will contain certain
provisions that are intended to enhance the likelihood of continuity and
stability in the composition of the Board of Directors and which may have the
effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a future takeover or change in
control of the Company unless such takeover or change in control is approved
by the Board of Directors.
   
COMMON STOCK     
   
  The issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock are, and the shares of
Common Stock being offered by the Company will be upon payment therefor,
validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable. Subject to the prior rights of
the holders of any Serial Preferred Stock, the holders of outstanding shares
of Common Stock are entitled to receive dividends out of assets legally
available therefor at such time and in such amounts as the Board of Directors
may from time to time determine. See "Dividend Policy." The shares of Common
Stock are not convertible and the holders thereof have no preemptive or
subscription rights to purchase any securities of the Company. Upon
liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, the holders of Common
Stock are entitled to receive pro rata the assets of the Company which are
legally available for distribution, after payment of all debts and other
liabilities and subject to the prior rights of any holders of Serial Preferred
Stock then outstanding. Each outstanding share of Common Stock is entitled to
one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of stockholders. There is no
cumulative voting.     
   
  The Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE, subject to
official notice of issuance, under the symbol "AGP."     
       
SERIAL PREFERRED STOCK
   
  The Company currently has an aggregate of 58,449 shares of Preferred Stock
outstanding. All of the outstanding Preferred Stock will be converted into
shares of Common Stock prior to the completion of the Offering contemplated
hereby. See "The Recapitalization."     
 
  The Company's Board of Directors may, without further action by the
Company's stockholders, from time to time, direct the issuance of shares of
Serial Preferred Stock in series and may, at the time of issuance, determine
the rights, preferences and limitations of each series. Satisfaction of any
dividend preferences of outstanding shares of Serial Preferred Stock would
reduce the amount of funds available for the payment of dividends on shares of
Common Stock. Holders of shares of Serial Preferred Stock may be entitled to
receive a preference payment in the event of any liquidation, dissolution or
winding-up of the Company before any payment is made to the holders of shares
of Common Stock. Under certain circumstances, the issuance of shares of Serial
Preferred Stock may render more difficult or tend to discourage a merger,
tender offer or proxy contest, the assumption of control by a holder of a
large block of the Company's securities or the removal of incumbent
 
                                      57
<PAGE>
 
management. Upon the affirmative vote of a majority of the total number of
directors then in office, the Board of Directors of the Company, without
stockholder approval, may issue shares of Serial Preferred Stock with voting
and conversion rights which could adversely affect the holders of shares of
Common Stock. Upon consummation of the Offering, there will be no shares of
Serial Preferred Stock outstanding, and the Company has no present intention
to issue any shares of Serial Preferred Stock.
 
CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF THE RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS
 
  The Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides for the Board to be
divided into three classes, as nearly equal in number as possible, serving
staggered terms. Approximately one-third of the Board will be elected each
year. See "Management." Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, directors
serving on a classified board can only be removed for cause. The provision for
a classified board could prevent a party who acquires control of a majority of
the outstanding voting stock from obtaining control of the Board until the
second annual stockholders meeting following the date the acquiror obtains the
controlling stock interest. The classified board provision could have the
effect of discouraging a potential acquiror from making a tender offer or
otherwise attempting to obtain control of the Company and could increase the
likelihood that incumbent directors will retain their positions.
 
  The Restated Certificate of Incorporation provides that stockholder action
can be taken only at an annual or special meeting of stockholders and cannot
be taken by written consent in lieu of a meeting. The Restated Certificate of
Incorporation and the By-laws provides that, except as otherwise required by
law, special meetings of the stockholders can only be called pursuant to a
resolution adopted by a majority of the Board of Directors or by the chief
executive officer of the Company. Stockholders will not be permitted to call a
special meeting or to require the Board to call a special meeting.
 
  The By-laws establish an advance notice procedure for stockholder proposals
to be brought before an annual meeting of stockholders of the Company,
including proposed nominations of persons for election to the Board.
 
  Stockholders at an annual meeting may only consider proposals or nominations
specified in the notice of meeting or brought before the meeting by or at the
direction of the Board or by a stockholder who was a stockholder of record on
the record date for the meeting, who is entitled to vote at the meeting and
who has given to the Company's Secretary timely written notice, in proper
form, of the stockholder's intention to bring that business before the
meeting. Although the By-laws do not give the Board the power to approve or
disapprove stockholder nominations of candidates or proposals regarding other
business to be conducted at a special or annual meeting, the By-laws may have
the effect of precluding the conduct of certain business at a meeting if the
proper procedures are not followed or may discourage or defer a potential
acquiror from conducting a solicitation of proxies to elect its own slate of
directors or otherwise attempting to obtain control of the Company.
   
  The Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-laws provide that the
affirmative vote of holders of at least 80% of the total votes eligible to be
cast in the election of directors is required to amend, alter, change or
repeal certain of their provisions. This requirement of a super-majority vote
to approve amendments to the Restated Certification of Incorporation and By-
laws could enable a minority of the Company's stockholders to exercise veto
power over any such amendments.     
 
CERTAIN PROVISIONS OF DELAWARE LAW
 
  Following the consummation of the Offering, the Company will be subject to
the "Business Combination" provisions of the Delaware General Corporation Law.
In general, such provisions prohibit a publicly held Delaware corporation from
engaging in various "business combination" transactions with any "interested
stockholder" for a period of three years after the date of the transaction
which the person became an "interested stockholder," unless (i) the
transaction is approved by the Board of Directors prior to the date the
"interested stockholder" obtained such status, (ii) upon consummation of the
transaction which resulted in the stockholder becoming an "interested
stockholder," the "interested stockholder," owned at least 85% of the voting
stock of
 
                                      58
<PAGE>
 
the corporation outstanding at the time the transaction commenced, excluding
for purposes of determining the number of shares outstanding those shares
owned by (a) persons who are directors and also officers and (b) employee
stock plans in which employee participants do not have the right to determine
confidentially whether shares held subject to the plan will be tendered in a
tender or exchange offer, or (iii) on or subsequent to such date the "business
combination" is approved by the board of directors and authorized at an annual
or special meeting of stockholders by the affirmative vote of at least 66 2/3%
of the outstanding voting stock which is not owned by the "interested
stockholder." A "business combination" is defined to include mergers, asset
sales and other transactions resulting in financial benefit to a stockholder.
In general, an "interested stockholder" is a Person who, together with
affiliates and associates, owns (or within three years, did own) 15% or more
of a corporation's voting stock. The statute could prohibit or delay mergers
or other takeover or change in control attempts with respect to the Company
and, accordingly, may discourage attempts to acquire the Company.
 
LIMITATIONS ON LIABILITY AND INDEMNIFICATION OF OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
 
  The Restated Certificate of Incorporation limits the liability of Directors
to the fullest extent permitted by the Delaware General Corporation Law. In
addition, the Restated Certificate of Incorporation will provide that the
Company shall indemnify Directors and officers of the Company to the fullest
extent permitted by such law. The Company anticipates entering into
indemnification agreements with its current Directors and executive officers
prior to the completion of the Offering.
 
TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
   
  The Transfer Agent and Registrar for the Common Stock is First National Bank
of Boston.     
 
                                      59
<PAGE>
 
                        SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
   
  Prior to the Offering there has been no market for the Common Stock of the
Company. The Company can make no predictions as to the effect, if any, that
sales of shares or the availability of shares for sale will have on the market
price prevailing from time to time. Nevertheless, sales of significant amounts
of the Common Stock in the public market, or the perception that such sales
may occur, could adversely affect prevailing market prices. See "Risk
Factors--Potential Adverse Impact of Shares Eligible for Future Sale."     
   
  Upon completion of the Offering, the Company expects to have 26,925,272
shares of Common Stock outstanding. In addition, 2,156,000 shares of Common
Stock will be issuable upon the exercise of outstanding stock options. Of the
shares outstanding after the Offering, the 15,625,000 shares of Common Stock
(17,968,750 shares if the Underwriters' over-allotment is exercised in full)
sold in the Offering will be freely tradeable without restriction under the
Securities Act, except for any such shares which may be acquired by an
"affiliate" of the Company (an "Affiliate"), as that term is defined in Rule
144 under the Securities Act, which shares will be subject to the volume
limitations of Rule 144. An aggregate of 11,300,272 shares of Common Stock
held by existing stockholders upon completion of the Offering will be
"restricted securities" (as that phrase is defined in Rule 144) and may not be
resold in the absence of registration under the Securities Act or pursuant to
exemptions from such registration, including among others, the exemption
provided by Rule 144 under the Securities Act.     
   
  In general, under Rule 144 as currently in effect, beginning 90 days after
the date of this Prospectus, if a period of at least two years has elapsed
since the later of the date the "restricted securities" were acquired from the
Company and the date they were acquired from an Affiliate, then the holder of
such restricted securities (including an Affiliate) is entitled to sell a
number of shares within any three-month period that does not exceed the
greater of 1% of the then outstanding shares of the Common Stock
(approximately 269,253 shares immediately after the Offering) or the average
weekly reported volume of trading of the Common Stock on the NYSE during the
four calendar weeks preceding such sale. The holder may only sell such shares
through unsolicited brokers' transactions. Sales under Rule 144 are also
subject to certain requirements pertaining to the manner of such sales,
notices of such sales and the availability of current public information
concerning the Company. Affiliates may sell shares not constituting restricted
shares in accordance with the foregoing volume limitations and other
requirements but without regard to the two-year holding period. Under Rule
144(k), if a period of at least three years has elapsed between the later of
the date restricted securities were acquired from the Company and the date
they were acquired from an Affiliate, as applicable, a holder of such
restricted securities who is not an Affiliate at the time of the sale and has
not been an Affiliate for at least three months prior to the sale would be
entitled to sell the shares immediately without regard to the volume
limitations and other restrictions described above. In June 1995, the
Commission proposed reducing the two and three year bidding periods under Rule
144 described above to one and two years respectively. Ninety days after the
date of this Prospectus, approximately 11,300,272 shares of Common Stock will
be eligible for sale in the public market pursuant to Rule 144, subject to the
volume limitations and other restrictions described above.     
   
  Any employee of the Company who purchased his or her shares of Common Stock
or received an option to purchase Common Stock pursuant to a written
compensation plan or contract while the Company was not subject to the
reporting requirements of the Exchange Act may be entitled to rely on the
resale provisions of Rule 701 under the Securities Act, which permits
nonaffiliates to sell their Rule 701 shares without having to comply with the
current public information, holding period, volume limitation or notice
provisions of Rule 144 and permits Affiliates to sell their Rule 701 shares
without having to comply with the holding period provision of Rule 144, in
each case beginning 90 days after the Company became subject to the reporting
requirements of the Exchange Act. All of the outstanding options are currently
exercisable by the holders thereof. The shares of Common Stock issuable upon
the exercise of the outstanding options will be eligible for sale in the
public market 90 days after the date of this Prospectus pursuant to Rule 701
under the Securities Act, subject to the volume limitations and other
restrictions of Rule 144 described above.     
 
 
                                      60
<PAGE>
 
   
  Notwithstanding the foregoing, in connection with the Offering, the
Company's executive officers, Directors and certain existing stockholders of
the Company, who own in aggregate approximately 13,456,272 shares of Common
Stock (including 2,156,000 shares which can be acquired through currently
exercisable options), have agreed that, without the prior written consent of
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated ("Morgan Stanley") on behalf of the
Underwriters, they will not (a) offer, pledge, sell contract to sell, sell any
option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant
any option, right or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of,
directly or indirectly, any shares of Common Stock or any securities
convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock (whether such
shares or any such securities are then owned by such person or are thereafter
acquired directly from the Company), or (b) enter into any swap or similar
agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, any of the economic
consequences of ownership of the Common Stock, whether any such transaction
described in clause (a) or (b) of this paragraph is to be settled by delivery
of such Common Stock or such other securities, in cash or otherwise, for a
period of 180 days after the date of this Prospectus, other than (i) the sale
to the Underwriters of the shares of Common Stock under the Underwriting
Agreement (as defined), (ii) the issuance by the Company of shares of Common
Stock upon the exercise of an option sold or granted pursuant to an existing
benefit plan of the Company and outstanding on the date of this Prospectus or
(iii) transfer of shares of Common Stock in a bona fide charitable
distribution or any estate planning distribution.     
 
REGISTRATION AGREEMENT
   
  The Company and substantially all of its existing stockholders, including
the Bain Capital Funds and management, have entered into a registration
agreement (the "Registration Agreement"). Under the Registration Agreement,
the holders of a majority of the registrable securities owned by the Bain
Capital Funds and related investors have the right at any time, subject to
certain conditions, to require the Company to register any or all of their
shares of Common Stock under the Securities Act on Form S-1 (a "Long-Form
Registration") on three occasions at the Company's expense and on Form S-2 or
Form S-3 (a "Short-Form Registration") on an unlimited number of occasions at
the Company's expense. The Company is not required, however, to effect any
such Long-Form Registration or Short-Form Registration within six months after
the effective date of a prior demand registration and may postpone the filing
of such registration for up to six months if the holders of a majority of the
registrable securities agree that such a registration would likely have a
material adverse effect on the Company. In addition, all holders of
registrable securities are entitled to request the inclusion of any shares of
Common Stock subject to the Registration Agreement in any registration
statement at the Company's expense whenever the Company proposes to register
any of its securities under the Securities Act, subject to certain conditions.
In connection with all such registrations, the Company has agreed to indemnify
all holders of registrable securities against certain liabilities, including
liabilities under the Securities Act. Beginning 180 days after the date of the
Prospectus, the holders of an aggregate of 11,078,256 shares of Common Stock
will have demand registration rights pursuant to the Registration Agreement.
    
                                      61
<PAGE>
 
                      
                   CERTAIN MATERIAL FEDERAL INCOME TAX     
                   CONSEQUENCES TO NON-UNITED STATES HOLDERS
 
GENERAL
   
  The following is a general discussion of the material United States federal
income and estate tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of Common
Stock by a Non-U.S. Holder. For this purpose, the term "Non-U.S. Holder" is
defined as any person or entity that is, for United States federal income tax
purposes, a foreign corporation, a non-resident alien individual, a foreign
partnership or a non-resident fiduciary of a foreign estate or trust. This
discussion does not address all aspects of United States federal income and
estate taxes and does not deal with foreign, state and local consequences that
may be relevant to such Non-U.S. Holders in light of their personal
circumstances. Furthermore, this discussion is based on provisions of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), existing and proposed
regulations promulgated thereunder and administrative and judicial
interpretations thereof, as of the date hereof, all of which are subject to
change either retroactively or prospectively. EACH PROSPECTIVE PURCHASER OF
COMMON STOCK IS ADVISED TO CONSULT A TAX ADVISOR WITH RESPECT TO CURRENT AND
POSSIBLE FUTURE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF ACQUIRING, HOLDING AND DISPOSING OF COMMON
STOCK AS WELL AS ANY TAX CONSEQUENCES THAT MAY ARISE UNDER THE LAWS OF ANY
U.S. STATE, MUNICIPALITY OR OTHER TAXING JURISDICTION.     
 
  Proposed United States Treasury Regulations were issued on April 15, 1996
(the "Proposed Regulations") which, if adopted, would affect the United States
taxation of dividends paid to a Non-United States Holder on Common Stock. The
Proposed Regulations are generally proposed to be effective with respect to
dividends paid after December 31, 1997, subject to certain transition rules.
The discussion below is not intended to be a complete discussion of the
provisions of the Proposed Regulations, and prospective investors are urged to
consult their tax advisors with respect to the effect the Proposed Regulations
would have if adopted.
 
  An individual may, subject to certain exceptions, be deemed to be a resident
alien (as opposed to a nonresident alien) by virtue of being present in the
United States for at least 31 days in the calendar year and for an aggregate
of at least 183 days during the current calendar year and the two preceding
calendar years (counting for such purposes all of the days present in the
current year, one-third of the days present in the immediately preceding year,
and one-sixth of the days present in the second preceding year). Resident
aliens are subject to U.S. federal tax as if they were U.S. citizens.
 
DIVIDENDS
 
  The Company currently does not intend to pay dividends on the Common Stock.
See "Dividend Policy." In the event that dividends are paid on shares of
Common Stock, dividends paid to a Non-U.S. Holder of Common Stock will be
subject to withholding of United States federal income tax at a 30% rate or
such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty, unless
the dividends are effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or
business of the Non-U.S. Holder within the United States and an Internal
Revenue Service Form 4224 (or, if and when the Proposed Regulations become
effective, an Internal Revenue Service Form W-8) is filed with the payor.
Dividends that are effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or
business within the United States are subject to United States federal income
tax on a net income basis at applicable graduated individual or corporate
rates. A foreign corporation receiving effectively connected dividends may,
under certain circumstances, be subject to an additional "branch profits tax"
at a rate of 30% (or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable
income tax treaty) of the foreign corporation's effectively connected earnings
and profits, subject to certain adjustments.
 
  Under current United States Treasury regulations, dividends paid to an
address outside the United States are presumed to be paid to a resident of
such country for purposes of the withholding discussed above, and, under the
current interpretation of United States Treasury regulations, for purposes of
determining the applicability of a tax treaty rate. Under the Proposed
Regulations, to obtain a reduced rate of withholding under a treaty, a Non-
United States Holder would generally be required to provide an Internal
Revenue Service Form W-8 certifying such Non-United States Holder's
entitlement to benefits under a treaty. The Proposed Regulations would also
 
                                      62
<PAGE>
 
provide special rules to determine whether, for purposes of determining the
applicability of a tax treaty, dividends paid to a Non-United States Holder
that is an entity should be treated as paid to the entity or those holding an
interest in that entity. Certain certification and disclosure requirements
must be complied with in order to be exempt from withholding under the
effectively connected income exemption.
 
  A Non-U.S. Holder of Common Stock eligible for a reduced rate of United
States withholding tax pursuant to an income tax treaty may obtain a refund of
any excess amounts withheld by filing an appropriate claim for refund with the
IRS.
 
GAIN ON DISPOSITION OF COMMON STOCK
 
  A Non-U.S. Holder will generally not be subject to United States federal
income tax with respect to gain recognized on a sale or other disposition of
Common Stock unless (i) the gain is effectively connected with a trade or
business of the Non-U.S. Holder in the United States, (ii) in the case of a
Non-U.S. Holder who is an individual and holds the Common Stock as a capital
asset, such holder is present in United States for 183 or more days in the
taxable year of the sale or other disposition and certain other conditions are
met, or (iii) the Company is or has been a "U.S. real property holding
corporation" for United States federal income tax purposes within the shorter
of the five-year period preceding such disposition or such holder's holding
period. The Company is not and does not anticipate becoming a "U.S. real
property holding corporation" for United States federal income tax purposes.
 
  If an individual Non-U.S. Holder falls under clause (i) above, he or she
will be taxed on his or her net gain derived from the sale at regular
graduated U.S. federal income tax rates. If an individual Non-U.S. Holder
falls under clause (ii) above, he or she will be subject to a flat 30% tax on
the gain derived from the sale which gain may be offset by U.S. capital
losses. If a Non-U.S. Holder that is a foreign corporation falls under clause
(i) above, it will be taxed on its gain at regular graduated U.S. federal
income tax rates and may also, under certain circumstances, be subject to an
additional "branch profits tax" at a 30% rate or such lower rate as may be
specified in an applicable income tax treaty. If the Company is a "U.S. real
property holding corporation" at any time during the five-year period ending
on the date of the disposition, a Non-U.S. Holder who has held more than 5% of
the Common Stock at any time during the shorter of the five-year period ending
on the date of the disposition (taking into account certain attribution rules)
or such holder's holding period will be taxed on its gain at regular graduated
U.S. federal income tax rates or, if higher, the graduated rates used for
alternative minimum tax purposes.
 
FEDERAL ESTATE TAX
 
  An individual Non-U.S. Holder who is treated as the owner of or has made
certain lifetime transfers of an interest in the Common Stock will be required
to include the value thereof in his gross estate for U.S. federal estate tax
purposes, and may be subject to U.S. federal estate tax unless an applicable
estate tax treaty provides otherwise.
 
INFORMATION REPORTING AND BACKUP WITHHOLDING TAX
 
  Under Treasury regulations, the Company must report annually to the IRS and
to each Non-U.S. Holder the amount of dividends paid to such holder and the
tax withheld, if any, with respect to such dividends. These information
reporting requirements apply even if withholding was not required because the
dividends were effectively connected with a trade or business in the United
States of the Non-U.S. Holder or withholding was reduced or eliminated by an
applicable income tax treaty. Copies of the information returns reporting such
dividends and withholding may also be made available to the tax authorities in
the country in which the Non-U.S. Holder resides under the provisions of an
applicable income tax treaty.
 
  Backup withholding (which generally is a withholding tax imposed at the rate
of 31% on certain payments to persons that fail to furnish certain information
under the United States information reporting requirements)
 
                                      63
<PAGE>
 
will generally not apply to dividends paid to Non-U.S. Holders outside the
United States that are either subject to the 30% withholding discussed above
or that are not so subject because a tax treaty applies that reduces or
eliminates such 30% withholding. In that regard, under temporary United States
Treasury regulations, backup withholding will not apply to dividends paid on
Common Stock to a Non-U.S. Holder at an address outside the United States
unless the payor has actual knowledge that the payee is a U.S. person. Backup
withholding and information reporting generally will apply to dividends paid
to addresses inside the United States on shares of Common Stock to beneficial
owners that are not "exempt recipients" or have failed to provide, in the
manner required, certain identifying information.
 
  In general, backup withholding and information reporting will not apply to a
payment of the proceeds of a disposition of Common Stock by or through a
foreign office of a broker. If, however, such broker is, for United States
federal income tax purposes, a U.S. person, a controlled foreign corporation,
or a foreign person that derives 50% or more of its gross income for certain
periods from the conduct of a trade or business in the United States, such
payments will not be subject to backup withholding but will be subject to
information reporting, unless (1) such broker has documentary evidence in its
records that the beneficial owner is a Non-U.S. Holder and certain other
conditions are met, or (2) the beneficial owner otherwise establishes an
exemption.
 
  Payment by a United States office of a broker of the proceeds of a
disposition of Common Stock is subject to both backup withholding and
information reporting unless the beneficial owner certifies under penalties of
perjury that it is a Non-U.S. Holder, or otherwise establishes an exemption.
   
  The Proposed Regulations would, if adopted, alter the foregoing rules in
certain respects. Among other things, the Proposed Regulations would provide
certain presumptions under which a Non-United States Holder would be subject
to backup withholding in the absence of the required certification.     
 
  Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a
refund or a credit against such holder's U.S. federal income tax liability
provided the required information is furnished to the IRS.
 
                                      64
<PAGE>
 
                                 UNDERWRITERS
   
  Under the terms and subject to the conditions in the Underwriting Agreement,
dated the date of this Prospectus (the "Underwriting Agreement"), the Company
and the Selling Stockholders have agreed to sell 12,500,000 and 3,125,000
shares, respectively, of the Company's Common Stock and the U.S. Underwriters
named below, for whom Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, Alex. Brown & Sons
Incorporated, BT Securities Corporation, CS First Boston Corporation, Goldman,
Sachs & Co., Salomon Brothers Inc and Wasserstein Perella Securities, Inc. are
serving as U.S. Representatives, have severally agreed to purchase, and the
International Underwriters named below, for whom Morgan Stanley & Co.
International Limited, Alex. Brown & Sons Incorporated, Bankers Trust
International PLC, CS First Boston Limited, Goldman Sachs International,
Salomon Brothers International Limited and Wasserstein Perella Securities,
Inc. are serving as International Representatives, have severally agreed to
purchase, the respective number of shares of Common Stock set forth opposite
their names below:     
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      NUMBER OF
                                    NAME                                SHARES
                                    ----                              ----------
       <S>                                                            <C>
       U.S. Underwriters:
         Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated...........................
         Alex. Brown & Sons Incorporated.............................
         BT Securities Corporation...................................
         CS First Boston Corporation.................................
         Goldman, Sachs & Co. .......................................
         Salomon Brothers Inc........................................
         Wasserstein Perella Securities, Inc. .......................
                                                                      ----------
           Subtotal.................................................. 12,500,000
                                                                      ----------
       International Underwriters:
         Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited..................
         Alex. Brown & Sons Incorporated.............................
         Bankers Trust International PLC.............................
         CS First Boston Limited.....................................
         Goldman Sachs International.................................
         Salomon Brothers International Limited......................
         Wasserstein Perella Securities, Inc. .......................
                                                                      ----------
           Subtotal..................................................  3,125,000
                                                                      ----------
           Total..................................................... 15,625,000
                                                                      ==========
</TABLE>
   
  The U.S. Underwriters and the International Underwriters are collectively
referred to as the "Underwriters". The Underwriting Agreement provides that
the obligations of the several Underwriters to pay for and accept delivery of
the shares of Common Stock offered hereby are subject to the approval of
certain legal matters by counsel and to certain other conditions. The
Underwriters are obligated to take and pay for all the shares of Common Stock
offered hereby (other than those covered by the over-allotment option
described below) if any such shares are taken.     
 
  Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
U.S. Underwriter has represented and agreed that, with certain exceptions, (a)
it is not purchasing any U.S. Shares (as defined below) being sold by it for
the account of anyone other than a United States or Canadian Person (as
defined below) and (b) it has not offered or sold, and will not offer or sell,
directly or indirectly, any U.S. Shares or distribute any prospectus relating
to the U.S. Shares outside the United States or Canada or to anyone other than
a United States or Canadian Person. Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and
International Underwriters, each International Underwriter has represented and
agreed that, with certain exceptions, (a) it is not purchasing any
International Shares (as defined below) being sold by it for the account of
any United States or Canadian Person and (b) it has
 
                                      65
<PAGE>
 
   
not offered or sold, and will not offer or sell, directly or indirectly, any
International Shares or distribute any prospectus relating to the
International Shares within the United States or Canada or to any United
States or Canadian Person. With respect to any Underwriter that is a U.S.
Underwriter and an International Underwriter, the foregoing representations
and agreements (i) made by it in its capacity as a U.S. Underwriter shall
apply only to shares purchased by it in its capacity as a U.S. Underwriter,
(ii) made by it in its capacity as an International Underwriter shall apply
only to shares purchased by it in its capacity as an International
Underwriter, and (iii) do not restrict its ability to distribute any
prospectus relating to the shares of Common Stock to any person. The foregoing
limitations do not apply to stabilization actions or to certain other
transactions specified in the Agreement Between U.S. and International
Underwriters. As used herein, "United States or Canadian Person" means any
national or resident of the United States or Canada or any corporation,
pension, profit-sharing or other trust or other entity organized under the
laws of the United States or Canada or of any political subdivision thereof
(other than a branch located outside the United States and Canada of any
United States or Canadian Person) and includes any United States or Canadian
branch of a person who is otherwise not a United States or Canadian Person.
All shares of Common Stock to be purchased by the U.S. Underwriters and the
International Underwriters under the Underwriting Agreement are referred to
herein as the U.S. Shares and the International Shares, respectively.     
   
  Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters, sales
may be made between the U.S. Underwriters and International Underwriters of
any number of shares of Common Stock to be purchased pursuant to the
Underwriting Agreement as may be mutually agreed. The per share price of any
shares so sold shall be the Price to Public set forth on the cover page
hereof, in United States dollars, less an amount not greater than the per
share amount of the concession to dealers set forth below.     
   
  Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
U.S. Underwriter has represented that it has not offered or sold, and has
agreed not to offer or sell, any shares of Common Stock, directly or
indirectly, in Canada in contravention of the securities laws of Canada or any
province or territory thereof and has represented that any offer of shares of
Common Stock in Canada will be made only pursuant to an exemption from the
requirement to file a prospectus in the province or territory of Canada in
which such offer is made. Each U.S. Underwriter has further agreed to send to
any dealer who purchases from it any shares of Common Stock a notice stating
in substance that, by purchasing such shares of Common Stock, such dealer
represents and agrees that it has not offered or sold, and will not offer or
sell, directly or indirectly, any of such shares of Common Stock in Canada or
to, or for the benefit of, any resident of Canada in contravention of the
securities laws of Canada or any province or territory thereof and that any
offer of shares of Common Stock in Canada will be made only pursuant to an
exemption from the requirement to file a prospectus in the province of Canada
in which such offer is made, and that such dealer will deliver to any other
dealer to whom it sells any of such shares of Common Stock a notice to the
foregoing effect.     
   
  Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
International Underwriter has represented and agreed that (a) it has not
offered or sold and will not, during the period of six months from the date of
the Offering, offer or sell any shares of Common Stock in the United Kingdom
except to persons whose ordinary activities involve them in acquiring,
holding, going or disposing of investments (as principal or agent) for the
purposes of their businesses or otherwise in circumstances which have not
resulted and will not result in an offer to the public in the United Kingdom
within the meaning of the Public Offers of Securities Regulations (1995) (the
"Regulations"); (b) it has complied and will comply with all applicable
provisions of the Financial Services Act 1986 and the Regulations with respect
to anything done by it in relation to the shares of Common Stock offered
hereby in, from or otherwise involving the United Kingdom; and (c) it has only
issued or passed on and will only issue or pass on to any person in the United
Kingdom any document received by it in connection with the issue of the shares
of Common Stock if that person is of a kind described in Article 11(3) of the
Financial Services Act 1986 (Investment Advertisements) (Exemptions) Order
1988, or to any person to whom the document may lawfully be issued or passed
on.     
 
                                      66
<PAGE>
 
   
  Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. and International Underwriters, each
International Underwriter has represented and agreed that it has not offered
or sold, and agrees not to offer or sell, directly or indirectly, in Japan or
to or for the account of any resident thereof, any of the shares of Common
Stock acquired in connection with the distribution contemplated hereby, except
for offers or sales to Japanese International Underwriters or dealers and
except pursuant to any exemption from the registration requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Law of Japan. Each International Underwriter further
agrees to send to any dealer who purchases from it any of the shares of Common
Stock a notice stating in substance that, by purchasing such shares, such
dealer represents and agrees that it has not offered or sold and will not
offer or sell any of such shares, directly or indirectly in Japan or to or for
the account of any resident thereof except pursuant to any exemption from the
registration requirements of the Securities and Exchange Law of Japan, and
that such dealer will send to any other dealer whom it sells any of such
shares of Common Stock a notice containing substantially the same statement as
contained in the foregoing.     
   
  The Underwriters propose to offer part of the shares of Common Stock
directly to the public at the Price to Public set forth on the cover page
hereof and part to certain dealers at a price which represents a concession
not in excess of $    a share below the public offering price. The
Underwriters may allow, and such dealers may reallow, a concession not in
excess of $     a share to other Underwriters or to certain dealers. After the
initial offering of the shares of Common Stock, the offering price and other
selling terms may from time to time be varied by the Underwriters.     
   
  At the request of the Company, the U.S. Underwriters have reserved for sale,
at the initial public offering price, up to 781,250 shares to be issued by the
Company and offered hereby for Directors, officers, employees, business
associates and related persons of the Company. The number of shares of Common
Stock available for sale to the general public will be reduced to the extent
such persons purchase such reserved shares. Any reserved shares which are not
so purchased will be offered by the Underwriters to the general public on the
same basis as the other shares offered hereby.     
   
  Pursuant to the Underwriting Agreement, the Selling Stockholders have
granted the U.S. Underwriters an option, exercisable for 30 days from the date
of this Prospectus, to purchase up to 2,343,750 additional shares of Common
Stock at the Price to Public set forth on the cover page hereof, less
underwriting discounts and commissions. The U.S. Underwriters may exercise
such option to purchase solely for the purpose of covering over-allotments, if
any, made in connection with the Offering of the shares of Common Stock
offered hereby. To the extent such option is exercised, each U.S. Underwriter
will become obligated, subject to certain conditions, to purchase
approximately the same percentage of such additional shares of Common Stock as
the number set forth next to such U.S. Underwriter's name in the preceding
table bears to the total number of shares of Common Stock offered by the U.S.
Underwriters hereby.     
   
  The Company, all of the Company's executive officers and Directors and
certain other stockholders of the Company, who will own after the Offering in
the aggregate approximately 13,456,272 shares of Common Stock (including
2,156,000 shares which can be acquired through currently exercisable options)
have agreed that, without the prior written consent of Morgan Stanley, they
will not (a) offer, pledge, sell contract to sell, sell any option or contract
to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right
or warrant to purchase, or otherwise transfer or dispose of, directly or
indirectly, any shares of Common Stock or any securities convertible into or
exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock (whether such shares or any such
securities are then owned by such person or are thereafter acquired), or (b)
enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part,
any of the economic consequences of ownership of the Common Stock, whether any
such transaction described in clause (a) or (b) of this paragraph is to be
settled by delivery of such Common Stock or such other securities, in cash or
otherwise, for a period of 180 days after the date of this Prospectus, other
than (i) the sale to the Underwriters of the shares of Common Stock under the
Underwriting Agreement; (ii) the issuance by the Company of shares of Common
Stock upon the exercise of an option sold or granted pursuant to an existing
employee benefit plan of the Company and outstanding on the date of this
Prospectus or (iii) transfer of shares of Common Stock in a bona fide
charitable distribution or any estate planning distribution.     
 
                                      67
<PAGE>
 
  The Company, the Selling Stockholders and the Underwriters have agreed to
indemnify each other against certain liabilities, including liabilities under
the Securities Act.
   
  The Common Stock has been approved for listing on the NYSE, subject to
official notice of issuance, under the symbol "AGP." In order to meet the
requirements for listing of the Common Stock on that exchange, the U.S.
Underwriters have undertaken to sell lots of 100 or more shares to a minimum
of 2,000 beneficial owners.     
   
  The rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (the
"NASD") provide that no NASD member shall participate in a public offering of
an issuer's securities where more than 10% of the net offering proceeds are
intended to be paid to members participating in the distribution of the
offering or associated or affiliated persons of such members, unless a
"qualified independent underwriter" shall have been engaged on the terms
provided in such rules. BT Securities Corporation ("BT Securities") may be
deemed to be participating in such a transaction if greater than 10% of the
net proceeds from the sale of the Common Stock is used to repay outstanding
indebtedness of the Company to Bankers Trust Company, an affiliate of BT
Securities, under the Bank Credit Agreement.     
   
  In view of such potential use of proceeds, the Offering is being conducted
in accordance with the rules of the NASD and Morgan Stanley is acting as
"qualified independent underwriter" within the meaning of such rules. In
connection therewith, Morgan Stanley has participated in the preparation of
the Registration Statement of which this Prospectus forms a part. It has
exercised its usual standards of "due diligence" with respect thereto and has
recommended the maximum price at which the Common Stock may be offered hereby.
Morgan Stanley will receive no separate fee for its services as qualified
independent underwriter, although the Company has agreed to reimburse its
expenses incurred as a result of such engagement. Pursuant to the provisions
of Schedule E, NASD members may not execute transactions in Common Stock
offered hereby to any accounts over which they exercise discretionary
authority without the prior written approval of the customer, in accordance
with Section 12 of Schedule E of the NASD Bylaws.     
 
  BT Securities and its affiliates have from time to time in recent years
performed various investment banking, banking and other financial advisory
services for the Company for which it has received customary compensation.
Such services included BT Securities acting as placement agent for the private
placement of the Notes of APPC and for the private placement of Class A and
Class B Variable Funding Certificates of the SPC. Bankers Trust Company, an
affiliate of BT Securities, is the holder of the outstanding Variable Funding
Certificates of the SPC. Wasserstein Perella Securities, Inc. has also
received certain fees in connection with financial advisory services performed
in connection with the Acquisition and related financings and acted as
placement agent for the private placement of the Notes.
 
PRICING OF OFFERING
   
  Prior to the Offering, there has been no public market for the shares of
Common Stock of the Company. Consequently, the initial public offering price
was determined by negotiation among the Company, the Selling Stockholders and
the Representatives. Among the factors considered in determining the initial
public offering price were the Company's record of operations, the Company's
current financial condition and future prospects, the experience of its
management, the economics of the industry in general, the general condition of
the equity securities market and the market prices of similar securities of
companies considered comparable to the Company. There can be no assurance that
a regular trading market for the shares of Common Stock will develop after the
Offering or, if developed, that a public trading market can be sustained.
There can also be no assurance that the prices at which the Common Stock will
sell in the public market after the Offering will not be lower than the price
at which it is issued by the Underwriters in the Offering.     
 
                                    EXPERTS
 
  The Company's consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 1994 and
1995 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995
included in this Prospectus have been so included in reliance upon the report
of Price Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants, given on the authority of
said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
 
                                      68
<PAGE>
 
  The WR Acquisition, Inc. consolidated balance sheets as of October 31, 1995
and December 31, 1994, and the statements of operations, cash flows and
changes in stockholders' equity (deficiency) for the ten months ended October
31, 1995 and each of the two years ended December 31, 1993 and 1994 have been
included in this Prospectus in reliance upon the report of KPMG Peat Marwick
LLP, independent accountants, appearing elsewhere herein, on the authority of
said firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
 
  The Globe-Weis statements of net sales and cost of sales for the nine months
ended July 31, 1994 and the twelve months ended July 31, 1995 included in this
Prospectus have been so included in reliance upon the report of Price
Waterhouse LLP, independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm
as experts in auditing and accounting.
   
  The consolidated financial statements of Niagara Envelope Company, Inc. at
December 31, 1995 and 1994, and for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1995, appearing in this Prospectus and registration
statement have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent auditors, as set
forth in their report thereon appearing elsewhere herein, and are included in
reliance upon such reports given upon the authority of such firm as experts in
accounting and auditing.     
 
                                 LEGAL MATTERS
   
  The validity of the Common Stock offered hereby will be passed upon for the
Company by Kirkland & Ellis, New York, New York (a partnership which includes
professional corporations). Certain legal matters will be passed upon for the
Underwriters by Davis Polk & Wardwell, New York, New York. Karl E. Lutz, whose
professional corporation is a partner of Kirkland & Ellis, beneficially owns
120,211 shares of Common Stock and is a Selling Stockholder.     
 
                            ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
   
  The Company has filed with the Commission a Registration Statement (of which
this Prospectus is a part and which term shall encompass any amendments
thereto) on Form S-1 pursuant to the Securities Act with respect to the Common
Stock being offered in the Offering. This Prospectus does not contain all the
information set forth in the Registration Statement and the exhibits and
schedules thereto, certain portions of which are omitted as permitted by the
rules and regulations of the Commission. Statements made in this Prospectus as
to the contents of any contract, agreement or other document referred to are
not necessarily complete; with respect to any such contract, agreement or
other document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement, reference is
made to the exhibit for a more complete description of the matter involved,
and each such statement shall be deemed qualified in its entirety by such
reference. For further information about the Company and the securities
offered hereby, reference is made to the Registration Statement and to the
financial statements, schedules and exhibits filed as a part thereof.     
   
  Upon completion of the Offering, the Company will be subject to the
information requirements of the Exchange Act, and, in accordance therewith,
will file reports and other information with the Commission. In addition, APPC
and certain of its wholly owned subsidiaries are expected to be subject to the
information requirements of the Exchange Act upon the effectiveness of their
Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Commission File No. 333-3006) ("Exchange
Offer Registration Statement") relating to the offering to exchange of the
Notes for Notes registered under the Securities Act. The Registration
Statement and the Exchange Offer Registration Statement, the exhibits and
schedules forming a part thereof and the reports and other information filed
by the Company or APPC with the Commission in accordance with the Exchange Act
may be inspected and copied at the public reference facilities maintained by
the Commission at Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the following regional offices of the
Commission: 7 World Trade Center, 13th Floor, New York, New York 10048 and
Northwestern Atrium Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago,
Illinois 60661-2511. Copies of such material or any part thereof may also be
obtained by mail from the Public Reference Section of the Commission, 450
Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549 at prescribed rates. Such material
may also be accessed electronically by means of the Commission's home page on
the Internet at http://www.sec.gov.     
 
  The Company intends to furnish its stockholders with annual reports
containing audited financial statements and to make available quarterly
reports containing unaudited summary financial information for the first three
fiscal quarters of each fiscal year.
 
                                      69
<PAGE>
 
                      UNAUDITED PRO FORMA FINANCIAL DATA
   
  The Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of Income for the year ended
December 31, 1995 gives effect to (i) the Transactions, (ii) the Globe-Weis
Acquisition, (iii) the pending sale of the Personalizing Division, (iv) the
Recapitalization, (v) the refinancing of the Bank Credit Agreement, (vi) the
Niagara Acquisition and (vii) the Offering and the application of the net
proceeds therefrom as described under "Use of Proceeds," as if they had
occurred on January 1, 1995. The Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statement of
Income for the three months ended March 31, 1996 gives effect to (i) the
Recapitalization, (ii) the refinancing of the Bank Credit Agreement, (iii) the
pending sale of the Personalizing Division, (iv) the Niagara Acquisition and
(v) the Offering and the application of the net proceeds therefrom as
described under "Use of Proceeds," as if they had occurred on January 1, 1996.
The unaudited pro forma financial data are based on the historical financial
statements of the Company, Williamhouse and Niagara and the assumptions and
adjustments described in the accompanying notes. The Unaudited Pro Forma
Consolidated Statements of Income do not (a) purport to represent what the
Company's results of operations actually would have been if the foregoing
transactions occurred as of the dates indicated or what such results will be
for any future periods, or (b) give effect to certain non-recurring charges
resulting from the Transactions, the refinancing of the Bank Credit Agreement
and the Offering, including certain non-cash compensation charges directly
related to the Acquisition and an extraordinary charge from the write-off of
deferred financing fees and direct expenses resulting from the refinancing of
the Bank Credit Agreement, a portion of the Notes and existing Ampad,
Williamhouse and Niagara debt.     
   
  The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet at March 31,
1996 gives effect to (i) the Recapitalization, (ii) the refinancing of the
Bank Credit Agreement, (iii) the Niagara Acquisition and (iv) the Offering and
the application of the net proceeds therefrom to the Company as described
under "Use of Proceeds," as if such transactions had occurred as of March 31,
1996. The historical financial statements of the Company already reflect (i)
the Transactions, (ii) the Globe-Weis Acquisition and (iii) the pending
disposal of the Personalizing Business as of March 31, 1996. The historical
financial statements and the Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of
Income reflect the preliminary allocation of purchase price to the Company's
tangible and intangible assets and liabilities. The final allocation of
purchase price, and the resulting amortization expense may differ somewhat
from the preliminary estimates primarily due to the final allocation being
based on the actual proceeds to be received from the disposal of the
Personalizing Division. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" and Note 3 of the Notes to Consolidated
Financial Statements of the Company included herein.     
   
  The unaudited pro forma financial data are based upon assumptions that the
Company believes are reasonable and should be read in conjunction with the
Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company, Williamhouse and Niagara and
the accompanying notes thereto included elsewhere in this Prospectus.     
 
                                      70
<PAGE>
 
              UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995
                    (IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                        HISTORICAL
                                                       WILLIAMHOUSE  HISTORICAL
                          THE COMPANY                    FOR THE      NIAGARA
                          FOR THE YEAR                  TEN-MONTH     FOR THE
                             ENDED       GLOBE-WEIS    PERIOD ENDED  YEAR ENDED  TRANSACTIONS
                          DECEMBER 31,  ACQUISITION    OCTOBER 31,  DECEMBER 31,  AND OTHER         COMPANY
                              1995     ADJUSTMENTS(1)      1995         1995     ADJUSTMENTS       PRO FORMA
                          ------------ --------------  ------------ ------------ ------------      ---------
<S>                       <C>          <C>             <C>          <C>          <C>               <C>
Net sales...............    $259,341      $32,600        $219,366     $105,860     $   --          $617,167
Cost of sales...........     211,814       32,860         152,781       82,193        (375)(4)      481,804
                                                                                     2,339 (6)
                                                                                     1,108 (6)
                                                                                      (916)(13)
                            --------      -------        --------     --------     -------         --------
Gross profit............      47,527         (260)         66,585       23,667      (2,156)         135,363
Selling, general and
 administrative
 expenses...............      18,545          358          39,866       15,187       1,820 (2(b))    74,678
                                                                                     1,000 (3)
                                                                                     2,862 (3)
                                                                                    (7,029)(5)
                                                                                     1,063 (10)
                                                                                    (1,828)(11)
                                                                                      (974)(11)
                                                                                     5,000 (12)
                                                                                      (192)(13)
                                                                                    (1,000)(14)
Non-recurring
 compensation charge....      27,632          --            9,544                  (33,809)(9)        3,367
                            --------      -------        --------     --------     -------         --------
Income (loss) from
 operations.............       1,350         (618)         17,175        8,480      30,931           57,318
Interest expense........      13,657          --           11,615          922       4,759 (2(a))    30,953
Other (income) expense..        (735)         --             (124)         217         --              (642)
                            --------      -------        --------     --------     -------         --------
Income (loss) before
 income taxes...........     (11,572)        (618)          5,684        7,341      26,172           27,007
Provision for (benefit
 from) income taxes.....      (6,538)        (247)(7)       2,224        2,762      11,613 (8)        9,814
                            --------      -------        --------     --------     -------         --------
Net income (loss) from
 continuing operations
 and before
 extraordinary items....    $ (5,034)     $  (371)       $  3,460     $  4,579     $14,559         $ 17,193
                            ========      =======        ========     ========     =======         ========
Pro forma net earnings per common and common equivalent share from continuing operations
 and before extraordinary items(15)........................................................            $.59
                                                                                                   ========
Pro forma weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding(15)...          29,063
                                                                                                   ========
</TABLE>    
       
                            See accompanying notes.
 
 
                                       71
<PAGE>
 
              UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
                        
                     THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996     
                    (IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                           THE COMPANY    NIAGARA
                          FOR THE THREE   FOR THE
                             MONTHS     THREE MONTHS
                              ENDED        ENDED     TRANSACTIONS
                            MARCH 31,    MARCH 31,    AND OTHER        COMPANY
                              1996          1996     ADJUSTMENTS      PRO FORMA
                          ------------- ------------ ------------     ---------
<S>                       <C>           <C>          <C>              <C>
Net sales...............    $121,418      $28,317                     $149,735
Cost of sales...........      97,889       23,314       $  277 (6)     121,245
                                                          (235)(13)
                            --------      -------       ------        --------
Gross profit............      23,529        5,003          (42)         28,490
Selling, general and
 administrative
 expenses...............      11,026        2,423           93 (3)      14,493
                                                         1,250 (12)
                                                           (49)(13)
                                                          (250)(14)
                            --------      -------       ------        --------
Income from operations..      12,503        2,580       (1,086)         13,997
Interest expense........      12,542          147       (4,951)(2(a))    7,738
Other (income) expense..        (269)           4                         (265)
                            --------      -------       ------        --------
Income before income
 taxes..................         230        2,429        3,865           6,524
Provision for income
 taxes..................         102          911        1,583 (8)       2,596
                            --------      -------       ------        --------
Net income from
 continuing operations
 and before
 extraordinary items....    $    128      $ 1,518       $2,282        $  3,928
                            ========      =======       ======        ========
Pro forma net earnings per common and common equivalent
 share(15)......................................................          $.14
                                                                      ========
Pro forma weighted average number of common and common
 equivalent shares outstanding(15)..............................        29,063
                                                                      ========
</TABLE>    
       
                            See accompanying notes.
 
 
                                       72
<PAGE>
 
         
      NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME     
     
  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND THE THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1996     
                            (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
   
  The Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income give effect to the
following unaudited pro forma adjustments:     
 
  (1) Reflects the inclusion of Globe-Weis unaudited historical results of
      operations for the seven and one-half months ended August 15, 1995.
      Globe-Weis' results after August 15, 1995 are included in the Company's
      historical results. Operating data for preacquisition periods for Globe-
      Weis are set forth below:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  YEAR ENDED
                                                               DECEMBER 31, 1995
                                                               -----------------
       <S>                                                     <C>
       Net sales..............................................      $32,600
       Cost of sales(a).......................................       32,860
                                                                    -------
       Gross profit (loss)....................................         (260)
       Selling, general and administrative expenses(a)........          358
                                                                    -------
       Income (loss) from operations..........................      $  (618)
                                                                    =======
</TABLE>
- --------
(a) Certain reclassifications were made to the unaudited historical results of
    operations to conform to the Company's presentation.
   
(2(a)) Addition to pro forma interest expense is summarized below. The
       adjustments set forth below adjust historical interest expense for the
       year ended December 31, 1995 and the period ended March 31, 1996 to
       reflect use of the proceeds from the Offering, the assumption and
       contemporaneous refinancing of all but $3,900 of Niagara's
       indebtedness, and the refinancing of the Bank Credit Agreement with the
       proceeds from the New Bank Credit Agreement.     
 
<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>
                                                  YEAR ENDED      PERIOD ENDED
                                               DECEMBER 31, 1995 MARCH 31, 1996
                                               ----------------- --------------
     <S>                                       <C>               <C>
     Elimination of Ampad, Williamhouse and
      Niagara historical interest expense....      $(26,194)        $(12,689)
                                                   --------         --------
     Interest on the Notes after retirement
      of $70,000 from proceeds of the Offer-
      ing....................................        16,900            4,225
     Interest on $10,628 of existing IRB and
      other debt (Avg. 5.175%)...............           550              137
     Interest on net borrowings of $176,867
      under New Bank Credit Agreement at
      LIBOR (5.50%) plus 1.75% (including
      additional borrowings of $32,992
      related to the Niagara Acquisition)....        12,823            3,206
     Interest on $3,900 of IRB debt assumed
      in Niagara Acquisition.................           205               51
     Bank fees on IRB letters of credit at
      2.00% on $8,049 of outstanding debt....           161               40
     Interest on unused New Bank Credit
      Agreement commitment of $115,084 at
      0.50%..................................           575              144
     Annual administrative fee on New Bank
      Credit Agreement.......................           200               50
     Interest on amount of debt to be repaid
      from the proceeds from the sale of the
      Personalizing Division ($46,800 at an
      interest rate of LIBOR (5.50%) plus
      1.75%). (The Company has signed a
      letter of intent to sell the
      Personalizing Division and is required,
      pursuant to the Bank Credit Agreement,
      to use any proceeds from asset sales to
      pay down debt.)........................        (3,393)            (848)
                                                   --------         --------
     Cash interest expense...................        28,021            7,005
     Amortization of debt issuance costs on
      New Bank Credit Agreement ($8,500 over
      five years)............................         1,700              425
     Amortization of remaining debt issuance
      costs from Notes after write-off of
      debt issuance costs of Notes repaid
      ($6,135 over ten years)................           614              153
     Amortization of debt issuance costs from
      Accounts Receivable Facility ($2,676
      over five years).......................           535              134
     Amortization of other debt issuance
      costs..................................            83               21
                                                   --------         --------
     Pro forma interest expense..............        30,953            7,738
                                                   --------         --------
     Adjustment for net increase (decrease)..      $  4,759         $ (4,951)
                                                   ========         ========
</TABLE>    
 
                                      73
<PAGE>
 
     
  NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME--(CONTINUED)
                                            
(2(b)) In conjunction with entering into the Bank Credit Agreement, the
       Company also entered into a $45,000 off-balance sheet Accounts
       Receivable Facility. The interest rate on this facility is LIBOR
       (5.50%) plus 0.563% (6.063%) per annum. In accordance with SFAS No. 77,
       this discount rate on $45,000 equates to an annual charge of $2,728 to
       selling, general and administrative expenses as a "loss on sale" on
       receivables. The pro forma adjustment reflects the incremental charge
       above the historical discount recorded in 1995 by the Company ($423),
       offset by a $485 decrease in the discount that will result from an
       estimated $8,000 reduction in the Accounts Receivable Facility arising
       from the sale of the Personalizing Division.     
   
(3) Reflects the annual goodwill amortization ($2,988) and annual trade names
    amortization ($1,200) resulting from the purchase of Williamhouse and the
    annual goodwill amortization resulting from the Niagara Acquisition
    ($372). The Williamhouse acquisition resulted in an allocation of $37,900
    to trade names and to goodwill of approximately $119,500. The Niagara
    Acquisition is expected to result in additional goodwill of $14,887. Trade
    names are being amortized over periods ranging from fifteen to forty
    years. Goodwill is being amortized over a forty year period. The pro forma
    adjustment for the year ended December 31, 1995 represents amortization
    expense for the ten-month period prior to the Williamhouse acquisition
    plus the annual amortization expense from the Niagara Acquisition. The
    adjustment for the three months ended March 31, 1996 represents
    amortization expense for the period resulting from the Niagara
    Acquisition.     
   
(4) Reflects the estimated recurring cost savings relating to manufacturing
    operations from conforming health, welfare and other employee benefit
    programs (assumed to be 50% allocated to cost of sales) related to the
    Williamhouse acquisition. The Company capped the cost of the employee
    benefit programs by increasing the use of managed care, obtaining a
    contractually guaranteed premium and increasing employee contributions to
    the plan.     
 
(5) Reflects the estimated recurring cost savings relating to selling, general
    and administrative ("SG&A") activities from management's consolidation
    plans as described below:
 
<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>
                                                        YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                                 1995
                                                        -----------------------
     <S>                                                <C>
     Elimination of Williamhouse's New York City
      headquarters facility, including the facility's
      occupancy and maintenance costs as well as
      workforce reductions, primarily executive,
      legal, accounting and tax functions and
      associated direct overhead costs (net of
      increase in Ampad's Dallas, Texas headquarters
      staff)..........................................          $4,912
     Consolidation of regional data processing centers
      from three to one locations and elimination of
      redundant regional administrative positions by
      consolidating accounting, accounts payable,
      credit and collections functions in either
      Williamhouse's regional headquarters or Ampad's
      Dallas headquarters.............................             729
     Consolidation of sales and marketing
      organizations, along with sales distribution and
      promotional activity program changes(a).........           1,013
     Cost reductions arising from conforming health,
      welfare and other employee benefit programs
      (assumed to be 50% allocated to SG&A) (See (4)
      above)..........................................             375
                                                                ------
                                                                $7,029
                                                                ======
</TABLE>    
    --------
       
    (a) The staff reductions in the sales and marketing organization
        principally represents excess sales force. The Williamhouse sales
        force had not been reduced in recognition of the continuing
        consolidation in the industry. Management does not expect to
        experience any decline in sales volumes or revenues as a result of
        these actions.     
 
                                      74
<PAGE>
 
     
  NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME--(CONTINUED)
                                            
 (6) Represents additional depreciation expense resulting from the write-up of
     property, plant and equipment to fair market value for the Williamhouse
     acquisition and the Niagara Acquisition as summarized below:     
 
<TABLE>         
<CAPTION>
                                              ESTIMATED              ADDITIONAL
                                             USEFUL LIFE FAIR VALUE    ANNUAL
                                              IN YEARS    WRITE-UP  DEPRECIATION
                                             ----------- ---------- ------------
       <S>                                   <C>         <C>        <C>
       Williamhouse:
         Land...............................     --       $ 1,443      $  --
         Buildings..........................      40        1,664          42
         Machinery and Equipment............      12       33,178       2,765
                                                          -------      ------
                                                          $36,285      $2,807
                                                          =======      ======
</TABLE>    
       
    The adjustment for the Niagara Acquisition represents the additional
    depreciation on the write-up of Niagara's historical fixed assets and the
    additional depreciation on assets Niagara will acquire from affiliated
    parties prior to closing of the acquisition as follows:     
 
<TABLE>         
<CAPTION>
                                              ESTIMATED              ADJUSTMENT
                                             USEFUL LIFE FAIR VALUE  TO ANNUAL
                                              IN YEARS   ADJUSTMENT DEPRECIATION
                                             ----------- ---------- ------------
       <S>                                   <C>         <C>        <C>
       Historical Niagara assets:
         Buildings..........................      40      $(2,204)     $  (55)
         Machinery and equipment............      12        6,266         522
         Furniture and fixtures.............       5         (170)        (34)
         Other..............................       3          (90)        (30)
       Affiliated party assets:
         Land...............................     --         1,501         --
         Buildings..........................      40        3,932          98
         Machinery and equipment............      12        7,269         607
                                                          -------      ------
                                                          $16,504      $1,108
                                                          =======      ======
</TABLE>    
       
    The adjustment for the year ended December 31, 1995 represents the
    additional depreciation expense on the write-up of the Williamhouse assets
    for the ten months prior to acquisition plus the annual additional
    depreciation expense related to Niagara. The adjustment for the period
    ended March 31, 1996 represents one quarter of the additional annual
    depreciation expense resulting from the Niagara Acquisition.     
   
 (7) Reflects tax provision for pro forma adjustments to income before income
     taxes using an estimated effective income tax rate of 40%, which
     approximates the Company's combined statutory rate.     
          
 (8) Reflects the income tax adjustment required to result in a pro forma
     provision (benefit) based on: (i) Ampad's, Williamhouse's and Niagara's
     respective historical tax provisions (benefit) using historical amounts
     and (ii) the direct tax effects of the pro forma adjustments described
     herein. The primary reason for the difference between the historical rate
     and the pro forma effective rate is that the goodwill resulting from the
     Williamhouse acquisition and the Niagara Acquisition is not tax
     deductible and, pursuant to SFAS No. 109, deferred taxes are not
     recognized on non-tax deductible goodwill in purchase accounting.     
   
 (9) Represents the elimination of a portion of non-recurring stock option-
     related compensation expense to certain members of the Company's
     management directly related to the Williamhouse acquisition.     
 
(10) Represents the additional annual management fee above the historical fee
     paid by Ampad to equal an agreed upon prospective annual fee of $2,000 to
     be charged by Bain Capital for consulting and financial services to be
     provided to the Company.
 
(11) Represents the elimination of historical amortization of Williamhouse
     deferred financing fees of $974 (which Williamhouse historically
     classified in SG&A) and the elimination of the one-time charge of $1,828
     to write-off the remaining balance relating to refinanced debt.
 
                                      75
<PAGE>
 
       
          
(12) Represents the annual and one quarter amounts, respectively, of
     amortization of the purchase price allocated to a one year management
     services agreement resulting from the Niagara Acquisition. The Company
     does not expect this charge to be recurring.     
   
(13) Represents the elimination of historical rent expense related to property
     and equipment leased by Niagara from affiliated parties. Such assets will
     be acquired by Niagara contemporaneously with the Niagara Acquisition
     (see note (6) above).     
   
(14) Represents reductions to selling, general and administrative expenses
     resulting from the elimination of certain Niagara executive compensation
     and related benefits.     
   
(15) Pro forma net earnings per share from continuing operations and before
     extraordinary items has been computed using the weighted average number
     of common shares and common share equivalents outstanding during the
     period presented, adjusted for the Recapitalization and the Offering.
     Common share equivalents result from outstanding options to purchase
     Common Stock and have been determined using the treasury stock method.
         
                                      76
<PAGE>
 
           UNAUDITED PRO FORMA AS ADJUSTED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                             (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                              MARCH 31, 1996
                                 ---------------------------------------------
                                     HISTORICAL
                                 -------------------
                                  AMERICAN
                                 PAD & PAPER         TRANSACTION      COMPANY
                                   COMPANY   NIAGARA ADJUSTMENTS     PRO FORMA
                                 ----------- ------- -----------     ---------
 <S>                             <C>         <C>     <C>             <C>        <C>
             ASSETS
 Current assets:
  Cash.........................   $  20,108  $   606  $(20,108)(1)   $    606
  Restricted cash..............      10,759                            10,759
  Accounts receivable, net.....      18,407   11,202                   29,609
  Inventories..................      93,166   11,028     2,668 (3)    106,862
  Prepaid expenses and other
   current assets..............       2,026      372                    2,398
  Assets held for sale.........      43,572                            43,572
  Management services agree-
   ment........................                          5,000 (4)      5,000
  Deferred income taxes, net...      14,744      216                   14,960
                                  ---------  -------  --------       --------
    Total current assets.......     202,782   23,424   (12,440)       213,766
 Property and equipment, net...     106,758   11,326    16,504 (5)    134,588
 Intangible assets, net........      37,392      316                   37,708
 Debt issuance costs, net......      32,524            (14,228)(6)     18,296
 Goodwill, net.................     119,655             14,887 (2)    134,542
 Other.........................       1,683    1,350                    3,033
                                  ---------  -------  --------       --------
    Total......................   $ 500,794  $36,416  $  4,723       $541,933
                                  =========  =======  ========       ========
 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS'
        EQUITY (DEFICIT)
 Current liabilities:
  Current portion of long-term
   debt........................   $  13,066  $   650  $(11,600)(7)   $  2,116
  Accounts payable.............      36,689    6,782                   43,471
  Accrued expenses.............      43,271    2,638     6,000 (2)     51,909
  Income taxes payable.........         518      953                    1,471
                                  ---------  -------  --------       --------
    Total current liabilities..      93,544   11,023    (5,600)        98,967
  Long-term debt...............     440,453    6,725  (127,883)(7)    319,295
  Deferred income taxes........      29,911      439   (11,983)(8)     18,367
  Other........................       3,179    1,475                    4,654
                                  ---------  -------  --------       --------
    Total liabilities..........     567,087   19,662  (145,466)       441,283
                                  ---------  -------  --------       --------
 Commitments and contingen-
  cies.........................
 Stockholders' equity (defi-
  cit):
  Niagara stockholders'
   equity......................               16,754   (16,754)(9)
  Preferred stock, 150,000
   shares authorized, 58,449
   shares issued and
   outstanding and no shares
   outstanding on a pro forma,
   as adjusted basis...........     113,887           (113,887)(10)       --
  Common stock, voting, $.01
   par value, 75,000,000
   shares authorized, 900,000
   shares issued and
   outstanding and 26,925,272
   outstanding on a pro forma,
   as adjusted basis...........           9                260 (11)       269
  Additional paid-in capital...      14,240            298,827 (11)   313,067
  Accumulated (deficit)........    (194,429)           (18,257)(12)  (212,686)
                                  ---------  -------  --------       --------
    Total stockholders' equity
     (deficit).................     (66,293)  16,754   150,189        100,650
                                  ---------  -------  --------       --------
    Total liabilities and
     stockholders' equity (def-
     icit).....................   $ 500,794  $36,416  $  4,723       $541,933
                                  =========  =======  ========       ========
</TABLE>    
 
                            See accompanying notes.
 
                                       77
<PAGE>
 
      
   NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA AS ADJUSTED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET     
                             
                          (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)     
   
  The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet gives effect to
the following unaudited pro forma adjustments:     
   
(1) Represents Company cash-on-hand used in the Niagara Acquisition (see notes
    (2) and (7) below).     
   
(2) Reflects management's preliminary allocation of purchase price for the
    Niagara Acquisition in accordance with the purchase method of accounting
    as follows:     
 
<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>
      Purchase price:
      <S>                                                           <C>
        Cash portion of purchase price (including $5,000 payment
        for management services agreement)........................  $ 55,000
        Estimated fees and expenses...............................     2,000
        Less purchase price reduction for debt assumed:
         Niagara historical debt..................................    (7,375)
         Incremental debt incurred to acquire assets of affiliated
         parties (see note (7) below).............................   (12,702)(a)
                                                                    --------
           Total..................................................  $ 36,923
                                                                    ========
<CAPTION>
      Allocated as follows:
      <S>                                                           <C>
        Existing book value of Niagara............................  $ 16,754
        Increase in inventory to estimated fair market value (see
         note (3) below)..........................................     2,668
        Estimated increase in property and equipment to fair mar-
         ket value (see note (5) below)...........................     3,802
        Acquisition of property and equipment from Niagara affili-
         ated parties contemporaneously with the acquisition (see
         note (5) below)..........................................    12,702 (a)
        Assumption of incremental debt issued by Niagara to ac-
         quire property and equipment from affiliated parties con-
         temporaneously with the acquisition (see note (7) be-
         low).....................................................   (12,702)(a)
        Management services agreement (see note (4) below)........     5,000
        Transaction related liabilities including severance and
         change in control benefits...............................    (6,000)
        Increase in net deferred tax liabilities (see note (8) be-
         low).....................................................      (188)
        Increase in goodwill......................................    14,887
                                                                    --------
           Total..................................................  $ 36,923
                                                                    ========
</TABLE>    
 
     --------
        
     (a) Contemporaneously with the Niagara Acquisition, Niagara will
         acquire certain assets currently used in operations that are
         leased from affiliated parties. Niagara will incur debt, pre-
         closing, under its existing credit facilities to acquire the
         assets.     
   
(3) Represents the estimated write-up of work-in-progress and finished goods
    inventory in connection with the purchase price allocation. Since the
    Company calculates inventory under the LIFO method, this write-up will not
    result in a charge to cost of sales in any period following the Niagara
    Acquisition unless base year inventory levels are reduced. In any event,
    any resulting one-time charge would not be reflected in the accompanying
    Unaudited Pro Forma Consolidated Statements of Income due to its unusual,
    non-recurring nature.     
   
(4) Represents the contractual payment at closing of $5,000 for a one-year
    management services agreement in connection with the Niagara Acquisition.
           
(5) Represents the estimated write-up in value of property and equipment to
    fair market value in connection with the purchase price allocation for the
    Niagara Acquisition of $3,802. Also represents the value of property and
    equipment to be acquired from affiliated parties of Niagara
    contemporaneously with the Niagara Acquisition of $12,702.     
       
                                      78
<PAGE>
 
          
(6) Represents elimination of $22,728 of unamortized debt issuance costs
    related to early extinguishment of Term Loans under the Bank Credit
    Agreement and partial redemption of the Notes offset by incurrence of
    $8,500 of new debt issuance costs related to, and funded by, borrowings
    under the New Bank Credit Agreement.     
   
(7) Represents the change in long-term debt (and reclassification of current
    portion to long-term debt) as a result of the Refinancing, Offering and
    Niagara Acquisition as follows:     
 
<TABLE>       
      <S>                                                           <C>
      Sources of funds:
        Net cash proceeds from the Offering........................ $185,200
        Net cash proceeds from the New Bank Credit Agreement
         (including $32,992) of incremental borrowings to fund a
         portion of the Niagara Acquisition........................  176,867(a)
        Borrowings under Niagara facilities, pre-closing, to fund
         purchase of property and equipment from affiliated
         parties...................................................   12,702(a)
        Cash on hand used to fund Niagara Acquisition..............   20,108
                                                                    --------
          Total sources of funds................................... $394,887
                                                                    ========
      Uses of funds:
        Repayment of Term Loans under Bank Credit Agreement as of
         March 31, 1996............................................ $242,875(a)
        Repayment of a portion of the Notes........................   70,000(a)
        Payment of redemption premium on the Notes.................    7,700
        Repayment of Niagara debt assumed..........................   16,177(a)
        Debt issuance costs related to the New Bank Credit Agree-
         ment......................................................    8,500
        Purchase of affiliated party property and equipment by Ni-
         agara.....................................................   12,702
        Niagara cash purchase price (see note (2) above)...........   36,923
                                                                    --------
          Total uses of funds...................................... $394,887
                                                                    ========
</TABLE>    
- --------
   
  (a) The sum of the net decrease of indebtedness amounts to $139,483.     
   
(8) Represents the federal income tax benefit on the $22,728 extraordinary
    loss for write-off of debt issuance costs and the $7,700 call premium on
    the Notes of $12,171 (see note (6) above). Additionally reflects the net
    amount of deferred tax liabilities resulting from the allocation of
    purchase price for the Niagara Acquisition of $188 (see note (2) above).
           
(9) Represents elimination of Niagara's historical stockholders' equity
    resulting from the application of purchase accounting in connection with
    the Niagara Acquisition.     
   
(10) Adjusted to give effect to the Recapitalization (see note (11) below).
            
(11) Represents the estimated net proceeds from the Offering to the Company of
     $187,200 less $2,000 of fees (reduction in additional paid-in capital) to
     be paid to Bain Capital in connection with the Offering. Also reflects
     conversion of $113,887 of Preferred Stock to Common Stock to give effect
     to the Recapitalization (see note (10) above).     
   
(12) Represents the extraordinary loss of $22,728 of debt issuance costs
     write-off (see note (6) above), and $7,700 call premium on the Notes, net
     of $12,171 of related federal income tax benefit (at a 40% effective tax
     rate).     
 
                                      79
<PAGE>
 
                   INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                                AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                          PAGE
                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                       <C>
Report of Independent Accountants........................................  F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1994 and 1995 and March 31,
 1996 (unaudited)........................................................  F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31,
 1993, 1994 and 1995 and for the three months ended March 31, 1995 and
 1996 (unaudited)........................................................  F-4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31,
 1993, 1994 and 1995 and for the three months ended March 31, 1995 and
 1996 (unaudited)........................................................  F-5
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) for
 the years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995 and for the three
 months ended March 31, 1996 (unaudited).................................  F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...............................  F-7
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                          PAGE
                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                       <C>
Independent Auditors' Report............................................. F-29
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1994 and October 31, 1995.... F-30
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended December 31,
 1993 and 1994 and for the ten months ended October 31, 1995............. F-32
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity (Deficiency) for the
 years ended December 31, 1993 and 1994 and for the ten months ended Oc-
 tober 31, 1995.......................................................... F-33
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31,
 1993 and 1994 and for the ten months ended October 31, 1995............. F-34
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................... F-35
 
                                   GLOBE-WEIS
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                          PAGE
                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                       <C>
Report of Independent Accountants........................................ F-53
Statements of Net Sales and Cost of Sales for the nine months ended July
 31, 1994 and twelve months ended July 31, 1995.......................... F-54
Notes to Statements of Net Sales and Cost of Sales....................... F-55
 
                         NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                          PAGE
                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                       <C>
Report of Independent Accountants........................................ F-56
Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 1994 and 1995................ F-57
Consolidated Statements of Income and Retained Earnings for the years
 ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995.................................. F-58
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31,
 1993, 1994 and 1995..................................................... F-59
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements............................... F-60
Consolidated Balance Sheets at March 31, 1995 and 1996 (unaudited)....... F-67
Consolidated Statements of Income and Retained Earnings for the three
 months ended March 31, 1995 and 1996 (unaudited)........................ F-68
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the three months ended March
 31, 1995 and 1996 (unaudited)........................................... F-69
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)................... F-70
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-1
<PAGE>
 
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of 
American Pad & Paper Company
(formerly Ampad Holding Corporation)
 
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related
consolidated statements of operations, of cash flows, and of changes in
stockholders' equity (deficit) present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of American Pad & Paper Company (formerly Ampad Holding
Corporation) and its subsidiaries at December 31, 1995 and 1994, and the
results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years
in the period ended December 31, 1995, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. These financial statements are the responsibility of
the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these
statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards which
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance
about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An
audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and
disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.
 
/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP

PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
   
Dallas, Texas March 19, 1996, except as to Note 16
which is as of May 29, 1996 and the 
pro forma equity presentation in Note 2 
which is as of June 4, 1996.     
 
                                      F-2
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                      (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
               (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                       PRO FORMA
                                                                                                        EQUITY
                                                                                                       MARCH 31,
                                                       DECEMBER 31,                                      1996
                                    ----------------------------------------------------   MARCH 31,  (UNAUDITED)
            A S S E T S                       1994                       1995                1996      (NOTE 2)
            -----------             ----------------------------------------------------  ----------- -----------
                                                                                          (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                 <C>                       <C>                         <C>         <C>
Current assets:
  Cash............................  $                      4  $                   18,341   $  20,108
  Restricted cash (Note 2)........                        60                       3,619      10,759
  Accounts receivable, net (Note
   4).............................                    16,965                      25,943      18,407
  Refundable income taxes.........                                                 3,657
  Inventories (Note 5)............                    32,974                      93,061      93,166
  Prepaid expenses and other
   current assets.................                       831                         927       2,026
  Assets held for sale (Note 3)...                       724                      42,578      43,572
  Deferred income taxes, net (Note
   11)............................                                                15,009      14,744
                                    ------------------------  --------------------------   ---------
    Total current assets..........                    51,558                     203,135     202,782
Property and equipment, net (Notes
 3 and 6).........................                     8,889                     106,768     106,758
Intangible assets, net of
 accumulated amortization of $200
 and $508, respectively (Note 3)..                                                37,700      37,392
Deferred income taxes, net (Note
 11)..............................                     4,312
Debt issuance costs, net of
 accumulated amortization of
 $1,430, $846 and $2,054,
 respectively (Note 8)............                       958                      32,929      32,524
Goodwill, net of accumulated
 amortization of $114, $793 and
 $1,521, respectively (Note 3)....                     2,409                     120,383     119,655
Other.............................                       107                       3,441       1,683
                                    ------------------------  --------------------------   ---------
    Total.........................                   $68,233                    $504,356   $ 500,794
                                    ========================  ==========================   =========
<CAPTION>
 L I A B I L I T I E S  A N D  S T O C K H O L D E R S'  E Q U I T Y  (D E F I C I T)
 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                 <C>                       <C>                         <C>         <C>
Current liabilities:
  Revolving line of credit (Note
   8).............................                   $22,767  $                            $
  Current portion of long-term
   debt (Note 8)..................                     2,772                      11,834      13,066
  Accounts payable................                    15,240                      37,048      36,689
  Accrued expenses (Note 7).......                     7,928                      44,835      43,271
  Income taxes payable............                                                   494         518
  Deferred income taxes, net (Note
   11)............................                     1,681
                                    ------------------------  --------------------------   ---------
   Total current liabilities......                    50,388                      94,211      93,544
Long-term debt (Note 8)...........                    19,889                     443,794     440,453
Deferred income taxes (Note 11)...                                                30,070      29,911
Other.............................                       689                       2,702       3,179
                                    ------------------------  --------------------------   ---------
   Total liabilities..............                    70,966                     570,777     567,087
                                    ------------------------  --------------------------   ---------
Commitments and contingencies
 (Note 12)
Stockholders' equity (deficit)
 (Note 9)
  Preferred stock, 150,000 shares
   authorized, 58,449 shares
   issued and outstanding.........                                               113,887     113,887
  Class P common stock, $.01 par
   value; 100,000 shares
   authorized, 90,000 shares
   outstanding at December 31,
   1994 and no shares outstanding
   at December 31, 1995 and March
   31, 1996.......................                         1
  Common stock, voting, $.01 par
   value, 2,000,000 shares
   authorized, 810,000, 900,000
   and 900,000 shares,
   respectively, issued and
   outstanding on an actual basis
   and 75,000,000 shares
   authorized and 14,425,272
   shares issued and outstanding
   on a pro forma basis...........                         8                           9           9        144
  Additional paid-in capital......                     2,991                      14,240      14,240    127,992
  Accumulated deficit.............                    (5,733)                   (194,557)   (194,429)  (194,429)
                                    ------------------------  --------------------------   ---------   --------
   Total stockholders' equity
    (deficit).....................                    (2,733)                    (66,421)    (66,293)   (66,293)
                                    ------------------------  --------------------------   ---------   --------
   Total liabilities and
    stockholders' equity
    (deficit).....................                   $68,233  $                  504,356   $ 500,794
                                    ========================  ==========================   =========
</TABLE>    
 
  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
                                  statements.
 
                                      F-3
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                      (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
               (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                               THREE MONTHS
                                                                  ENDED
                              YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,          MARCH 31,
                            ------------------------------  -------------------
                              1993      1994       1995      1995       1996
                            --------  --------  ----------  -------  ----------
                                                               (UNAUDITED)
<S>                         <C>       <C>       <C>         <C>      <C>
Net sales.................  $104,277  $120,443    $259,341  $47,691    $121,418
Cost of sales.............    88,491   113,394     211,814   42,394      97,889
                            --------  --------  ----------  -------  ----------
  Gross profit............    15,786     7,049      47,527    5,297      23,529
Operating expenses:
  Selling and marketing...     4,920     5,059       6,254    1,162       3,328
  General and
   administrative.........     5,845     5,556      12,291    1,587       7,698
  Nonrecurring
   compensation charge
   (Note 9)...............                          27,632
                            --------  --------  ----------  -------  ----------
Income (loss) from
 operations...............     5,021    (3,566)      1,350    2,548      12,503
Other income (expense):
  Interest................    (3,320)   (4,560)    (13,657)  (1,656)    (12,542)
  Other income, net.......       167        90         735       65         269
                            --------  --------  ----------  -------  ----------
Income (loss) before
 income taxes.............     1,868    (8,036)    (11,572)     957         230
Provision (benefit) for
 income taxes.............        64      (488)     (6,538)     366         102
                            --------  --------  ----------  -------  ----------
Income (loss) before
 extraordinary item.......     1,804    (7,548)     (5,034)     591         128
Extraordinary loss from
 extinguishment of debt
 (net of income tax
 benefit of $6,434).......                          (9,652)
                            --------  --------  ----------  -------  ----------
Net income (loss).........  $  1,804  $ (7,548) $  (14,686) $   591  $      128
                            ========  ========  ==========  =======  ==========
Pro forma income (loss)
 per share (unaudited):
  Income (loss) before
   extraordinary item
   (unaudited)............                      $     (.33)          $      .01
  Extraordinary item
   (unaudited)............                            (.62)
                                                ----------           ----------
  Net income (loss)
   (unaudited)............                      $     (.95)          $      .01
                                                ==========           ==========
Pro forma weighted average
 shares outstanding
 (unaudited)..............                      15,539,989           16,562,493
                                                ==========           ==========
</TABLE>    
 
 
  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
                                  statements.
 
                                      F-4
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                      (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                 (IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                             THREE MONTHS
                                                                 ENDED
                              YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,         MARCH 31,
                             ----------------------------  ------------------
                              1993      1994      1995       1995      1996
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
                                                              (UNAUDITED)
<S>                          <C>      <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>
Cash flows from operating
 activities:
 Net income (loss).......... $ 1,804  $ (7,548) $ (14,686) $    591  $    128
 Adjustments to reconcile
  net income (loss) to net
  cash provided by (used in)
  operating activities:
 Depreciation...............     159       828      3,369       490     1,984
 Amortization of goodwill
  and intangible assets.....               114        879        38     1,036
 Noncash portion of
  nonrecurring compensation
  charge....................                       25,998
 Extraordinary loss on
  extinguishment of debt....                        9,652
 Noncash interest expense
  and accretion of
  discount..................     584       135                   32
 Amortization of debt
  issuance costs............     619       696      1,538       206     1,208
 Gain on sale of assets.....    (159)      (83)      (140)      (68)      (16)
 Changes in assets and
  liabilities, net of
  effects of acquisitions:
  Decrease (increase) in
   restricted cash..........     (48)      (12)    (3,559)      (19)   (7,140)
  Decrease (increase) in
   accounts receivable......    (944)    2,457    (18,466)   (5,038)    7,536
  Decrease in refundable
   income taxes.............                          101               3,657
  Decrease (increase) in
   inventories..............  (5,006)    1,655      2,256    (5,728)     (105)
  Decrease (increase) in
   prepaid expenses and
   other....................   1,173      (302)       905      (712)   (1,099)
  Decrease (increase) in
   deferred tax asset,
   net......................      64      (488)   (13,141)      347       106
  Increase (decrease) in
   accounts payable ........   2,565     3,433      4,979     1,747      (359)
  Increase (decrease) in
   accrued expenses ........  (2,225)   (2,782)     4,877    (2,174)   (1,540)
  Decrease (increase) in
   other assets.............    (250)                 154               1,756
  Increase (decrease) in
   other liabilities .......     (92)       11         (7)      (26)      477
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
   Net cash provided by
    (used in) operating
    activities..............  (1,756)   (1,886)     4,709   (10,314)    7,629
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
Cash flows from investing
 activities:
 Purchase of the stock of
  WR, including acquisition
  costs.....................                     (122,655)
 Purchases of property and
  equipment.................  (1,656)     (942)    (3,919)     (809)   (2,321)
 Purchase of net assets,
  including acquisition
  costs.....................           (13,744)    (7,046)
 Proceeds from sale of
  assets....................   1,166        83        140        68        16
 Net cash generated from
  (used by) assets held for
  sale......................                        2,213                (646)
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
   Net cash used in
    investing activities....    (490)  (14,603)  (131,267)     (741)   (2,951)
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
Cash flows from financing
 activities:
 Proceeds from sale of
  accounts receivable.......                       45,000
 Net borrowings (repayments)
  under line of credit......   3,937     7,057    (22,767)   11,813
 Proceeds from long-term
  debt......................            11,252    430,052              25,272
 Repayment of long-term
  debt......................  (1,725)   (1,192)  (186,546)     (758)  (27,380)
 Redemption premiums and
  penalties included in
  extraordinary loss........                      (10,812)
 Debt issuance costs........              (628)   (35,032)               (803)
 Redemption of preferred
  stock.....................                      (61,478)
 Redemption of Class P
  common stock .............                       (4,464)
 Redemption of preferred
  stock options.............                       (9,188)
 Proceeds from exercise of
  preferred stock options...                          130
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
   Net cash provided by
    (used in) financing
    activities..............   2,212    16,489    144,895    11,055    (2,911)
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
   Net increase (decrease)
    in cash.................     (34)      --      18,337       --      1,767
Cash, beginning of period...      38         4          4         4    18,341
                             -------  --------  ---------  --------  --------
Cash, end of period......... $     4  $      4  $  18,341  $      4  $ 20,108
                             =======  ========  =========  ========  ========
Supplemental disclosure of
 cash flow information:
 Cash paid during the period
  for:
 Interest................... $ 2,113  $  3,575  $   9,127  $    203  $  4,578
                             =======  ========  =========  ========  ========
 Income taxes............... $   --   $     29  $      99  $      3  $     23
                             =======  ========  =========  ========  ========
Supplemental disclosure of
 noncash investing and
 financing activities:
 Payment-in-kind interest
  expense................... $   482  $    --   $     --   $    --   $    --
                             =======  ========  =========  ========  ========
 Notes payable issued in
  consideration of purchase
  price..................... $   --   $    --   $  36,115  $    --   $    --
                             =======  ========  =========  ========  ========
 Notes payable issued in
  consideration for
  equipment ................ $   --   $    544  $   1,721  $  1,721  $    --
                             =======  ========  =========  ========  ========
</TABLE>    
  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
                                  statements.
 
                                      F-5
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                      (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIT)
 
                      (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                CLASS P                                RETAINED
                          PREFERRED STOCK     COMMON STOCK    COMMON STOCK             EARNINGS
                          -----------------  --------------- -------------- PAID-IN  (ACCUMULATED
                          SHARES    AMOUNT   SHARES   AMOUNT SHARES  AMOUNT CAPITAL    DEFICIT)    TOTAL
                          -------  --------  -------  ------ ------- ------ -------  ------------ --------
<S>                       <C>      <C>       <C>      <C>    <C>     <C>    <C>      <C>          <C>
Balance at December 31,
 1992...................           $          90,000   $ 1   810,000  $ 8   $ 2,991   $      11   $  3,011
Net income..............                                                                  1,804      1,804
                          -------  --------  -------   ---   -------  ---   -------   ---------   --------
Balance at December 31,
 1993...................                      90,000     1   810,000    8     2,991       1,815      4,815
Net loss................                                                                 (7,548)    (7,548)
                          -------  --------  -------   ---   -------  ---   -------   ---------   --------
Balance at December 31,
 1994...................                      90,000     1   810,000    8     2,991      (5,733)    (2,733)
Preferred stock dividend
 (Note 9)...............   90,000   175,365                                  (2,991)   (172,374)
Grant of stock options
 (Note 9)...............                                                     25,998                 25,998
Redemption of preferred
 stock (Note 9).........  (31,551)  (61,478)                                                       (61,478)
Accrual of preferential
 distribution on Class P
 common stock...........                                                      1,764      (1,764)
Redemption of Class P
 common stock (Note 9)..                     (90,000)   (1)   90,000    1    (4,464)                (4,464)
Redemption of preferred
 stock options (Note
 9).....................                                                     (9,188)                (9,188)
Proceeds from exercise
 of preferred stock
 options (Note 9).......                                                        130                    130
Net loss................                                                                (14,686)   (14,686)
                          -------  --------  -------   ---   -------  ---   -------   ---------   --------
Balance at December 31,
 1995...................   58,449   113,887                  900,000    9    14,240    (194,557)   (66,421)
Net income (unaudited)..                                                                    128        128
                          -------  --------  -------   ---   -------  ---   -------   ---------   --------
Balance at March 31,
 1996 (unaudited).......   58,449  $113,887      --    --    900,000   $9   $14,240   $(194,429)  $(66,293)
                          =======  ========  =======   ===   =======  ===   =======   =========   ========
</TABLE>    
 
 
 
  The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial
                                  statements.
 
                                      F-6
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
              (IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT SHARE AND PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
 
1. ORGANIZATION, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND BUSINESS
 
 Organization and Basis of Presentation
 
  American Pad & Paper Company (formerly Ampad Holding Corporation and
referred to hereafter as "the Company") was incorporated on June 2, 1992 as a
holding company to acquire all of the outstanding stock of Ampad Corporation
("Ampad"), the surviving entity from the merger between Ampad Acquisition
Corporation and Ampad. The Company had no operations through July 31, 1992.
 
  On October 3, 1995, the Company agreed to acquire in a merger transaction
all of the outstanding stock of WR Acquisition, Inc. ("WR") (the
"Acquisition"). In a series of transactions, the Company exchanged 100% of the
stock of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ampad, for newly-issued shares of WR. WR
then contributed Ampad to its wholly-owned subsidiary, Williamhouse-Regency of
Delaware, Inc., renamed American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. (
referred to hereafter on a pre-October 31, 1995 basis as "Williamhouse-
Regency" and on a post-October 31, 1995 basis as "Delaware") in exchange for a
right to receive $140 million of merger consideration. The Company,
principally using bank borrowings by Delaware aggregating $245 million, funded
WR's right to receive the merger consideration and WR in turn repurchased 100%
of the WR shares not owned by the Company. The transaction was accounted for
as a purchase of the stock of WR by the Company. As a result of the
transactions, the Company now owns 100% of WR which in turn owns 100% of
Delaware.
 
  The financial statements of the Company now present 100% of the historical
accounts and operations of the Company and Ampad as well as the newly-acquired
accounts of Williamhouse-Regency and its wholly-owned subsidiaries as of
October 31, 1995, along with Williamhouse-Regency's consolidated operating
results for the post-October 31, 1995 period (Note 3). Additionally, the
consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Notepad Funding
Corporation, a special purpose corporation utilized in the accounts receivable
facility (Note 4). All significant intercompany balances have been eliminated.
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified for comparative purposes.
 
  Bain Capital, Inc. (Bain Capital) and its related investors, along with
certain members of management, own all of the voting capital stock and
preferred stock of the Company.
 
 Business
   
  The Company is one of the largest manufacturers and marketers of paper-based
office products (excluding computer forms) in North America. It offers a broad
assortment of products through two complementary businesses: Ampad (writing
pads, file folders and other paper-based office products) and Williamhouse
(envelopes). The Regency business (personalized stationery and invitations and
greeting cards) was identified by the Company's management as of the
acquisition date as a nonstrategic business to be sold and is consequently
being held for sale as of December 31, 1995 and March 31, 1996 (unaudited)
(Note 3). The Company's products are distributed through large mass merchant
retailers, office product superstores, warehouse clubs, major contract
stationers, office products wholesalers and independent dealers. Substantially
all sales are to customers within the United States.     
   
 Interim Financial Information     
   
  The financial statements for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1995
are unaudited but include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring
adjustments) that the Company considers necessary for a fair presentation.
Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 1996 are not
necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending
December 31, 1996. Financial disclosures herein relating to matters subsequent
to March 19, 1996 are unaudited.     
 
                                      F-7
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
  Significant accounting policies followed in the preparation of the
consolidated financial statements are as follows:
 
 Use of Estimates
 
  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
       
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
 Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash     
   
  The Company considers all highly-liquid, interest-bearing instruments with
an original maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Restricted cash of $3,619 as of December 31, 1995 and $10,759 as of March 31,
1996 (unaudited) represents funds the Company, as servicer, has made available
to the trustee of the trust that purchased the Company's trade accounts
receivable (Note 4), in the event of nonperformance, defaults or other losses
related to such receivables.     
 
 Revenue Recognition
   
  The Company recognizes revenue upon shipment of the product. All risks and
rewards of ownership pass to the customer upon shipment. Damaged or defective
products may be returned to the Company for replacement or credit. The Company
also offers sales rebates to customers based on level of sales activity. The
effects of returns and discounts are estimated and recorded at the time of
shipment. Volume rebates are estimated and recorded based on sales activity.
    
 Concentration of Credit Risk
 
  The Company sells its products into various wholesale and retail channels,
primarily for the commercial office products marketplace. Management believes
its credit policies are prudent and reflect normal industry terms and business
risks. The Company performs credit evaluations of its customers and does not
require collateral. Historically, the Company has not experienced significant
losses related to individual customers or groups of customers in any
particular industry or geographic area. An allowance is maintained at a level
which management believes is sufficient to cover potential credit losses
including potential losses on receivables sold.
 
 Inventories
 
  Inventories, which consist primarily of paper and converted paper products,
are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined by the last-in,
first-out (LIFO) method.
 
 Property and Equipment
 
  Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is provided using
the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the individual
assets. Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred.
 
 Goodwill and Intangible Assets
   
  Goodwill represents the cost in excess of fair value of the net assets of
companies acquired in purchase transactions. Goodwill is amortized using the
straight-line method over periods ranging from 20 to 40 years (Note 3).
Intangible assets represent trade names acquired in the WR acquisition (Note
3). Trade names are amortized     
 
                                      F-8
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
using the straight-line method. Trade names in the aggregate gross amount of
$31,700 are amortized over 40 years. Trade names in the aggregate gross amount
of $6,200 are amortized over 15 years. The Company periodically reviews
goodwill and other intangible assets to assess recoverability. Impairment is
measured based on the expected undiscounted cash flows of the operations
giving rise to the goodwill and other intangible assets compared to the
carrying cost of the related assets including goodwill and other intangible
assets. Based upon its most recent analysis, the Company believes that no
impairment of goodwill or intangible assets exists at December 31, 1995.
Amortization expense was $114 in 1994, $879 in 1995 and $38 and $1,036 for the
three months ended March 31, 1995 and 1996, respectively (unaudited). There
was no amortization expense in 1993.     
 
 Debt Issuance Costs
   
  Costs associated with debt issuances are capitalized and amortized to
interest expense using the effective interest method over the terms of the
related debt agreements (Note 8).     
 
 Income Taxes
 
  The Company accounts for income taxes following the liability method, as set
forth in Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, "Accounting for
Income Taxes" (FAS 109). FAS 109 prescribes an asset and liability approach
that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the
future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's
financial statements or tax returns. Deferred tax assets are recognized, net
of any valuation allowance, for deductible temporary differences and tax
operating loss and credit carryforwards. Deferred tax expense represents the
change in the deferred tax asset or liability balances.
 
 Derivatives
   
  Premiums paid for interest rate cap agreements are amortized as interest
expense over the term of the agreement. Amounts receivable under interest rate
cap agreements are recorded as a reduction of interest expense (Note 8).     
 
 Fair Value of Financial Instruments
 
  Carrying values of cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued
expenses approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these
assets and liabilities. The carrying value of senior bank debt bearing
interest at floating rates approximates fair value. The carrying value at
December 31, 1995 of the 13% Senior Subordinated Notes approximates fair value
as the notes were issued in a private placement offering near the end of 1995.
 
 Earnings per share (unaudited)
 
  Given the changes in the Company's capital structure to be effected in
connection with the anticipated initial public offering of the Company's
common stock, historical earnings per common share amounts are not presented
in the consolidated financial statements as they are not considered to be
meaningful. Pro forma earnings per share (unaudited) is presented and reflects
conversion of the preferred stock into common stock for the same periods
outstanding as the underlying common stock on which the preferred stock was
issued (Note 9).
   
  The pro forma weighted average shares outstanding (unaudited) gives effect
to the 8.1192-for-one stock split and has been adjusted to reflect as
outstanding, using the treasury stock method at the estimated initial public
    
                                      F-9
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
offering price, all shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options granted
subsequent to April 25, 1995 (one year prior to the initial public offering
filing date pursuant to the Securities and Exchange Commission's rules). The
1992 and 1994 stock option grants were not included in the 1995 calculation
because they are antidilutive.     
   
 Pro Forma Equity Presentation (unaudited)     
   
  Pro forma stockholders' equity (unaudited) as of March 31, 1996 is presented
to reflect, upon the closing of the initial public offering of the Company's
common stock, the effect of the 8.1192-for-one stock split and the conversion
of the preferred stock into common stock at a conversion rate based on an
assumed initial public offering price of $16.00 per share. The pro forma
stockholders' equity (unaudited) does not reflect the estimated net offering
proceeds.     
 
3. ACQUISITIONS
 
 WR Acquisition, Inc./Williamhouse-Regency
   
  The Company acquired WR and its wholly-owned subsidiary Williamhouse-Regency
through a merger transaction effective October 31, 1995 (Note 1). The
transaction was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting.
Accordingly, the aggregate acquisition cost was allocated to the net assets
acquired based on the fair market value of such net assets in accordance with
Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) No. 16. The aggregate acquisition
cost totaled $147,853 and consisted of cash of $140,000 and direct acquisition
costs of $7,853. The acquisition was entirely financed through the Bank Credit
Agreement (Note 8) and an off-balance sheet accounts receivable facility (Note
4). The aggregate acquisition cost has been preliminarily allocated to the
assets acquired and liabilities assumed as follows: accounts receivable of
$39,174; inventories of $49,496; prepaid expenses and other assets of $8,699;
net assets held for sale of $40,851; property and equipment of $88,688;
identifiable intangible assets of $37,900; deferred income tax liability of
$27,644; accounts payable of $17,518; accrued expenses of $36,482; noncurrent
liabilities of $2,019 and assumed debt of $152,905. The aggregate acquisition
costs exceeded fair market value of the net assets acquired by $119,613.
Accordingly, goodwill was recorded in accordance with APB No. 16 and is being
amortized over 40 years. The operating results of Delaware have been included
in the accompanying consolidated financial statements since the date of
acquisition. The businesses acquired include the Williamhouse division, a
manufacturer of a wide range of mill branded, specialty and commodity
envelopes; and the Regency division, which provides custom imprinting
services.     
   
  The Regency personalized stationery and invitations division (the
Personalizing Division) acquired in the Acquisition was held for sale at
December 31, 1995 and March 31, 1996 (unaudited). The purchase price allocated
to the net assets acquired includes the expected proceeds from sale plus the
net cash flows expected to be generated from the Personalizing Division from
date of acquisition through the expected date of sale (the holding period),
offset by interest expense incurred during the holding period on debt incurred
to finance the purchase of the Personalizing Division. During the period from
acquisition through December 31, 1995 and the three month period ended March
31, 1996 (unaudited), the Personalizing Division had an operating loss of $913
and operating income of $2,011, respectively, and interest carrying costs of
$556 and $942, respectively, which have been excluded from the statement of
operations and included as adjustments to the carrying amount of the net
assets held for sale in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 1995
and March 31, 1996 (unaudited). On April 17, 1996, the Company signed a letter
of intent with a potential buyer to sell the Personalizing Division. The
Company expects the Personalizing Division will be sold prior to October 31,
1996.     
 
                                     F-10
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  Certain costs are expected to be incurred in connection with integrating and
consolidating certain plant, administrative and sales functions of
Williamhouse-Regency with the Company, and the closure of Williamhouse-
Regency's corporate headquarters and the associated net reduction of
approximately 200 employees. Such costs, aggregating $17,500, include lease
termination expenses, severance and contractual change of control benefits,
the liability for which was included in the purchase price allocation within
accrued expenses. Substantially all such actions are expected to be completed
prior to October 31, 1996.
 
 Globe-Weis
 
  Effective August 16, 1995, the Company acquired the inventories and certain
equipment of the file folder and hanging file folder product lines of Globe-
Weis's ("Globe") office products division from Globe's parent. For financial
reporting purposes, this acquisition was accounted for under the purchase
method of accounting. Accordingly, the aggregate acquisition cost was
allocated to the net assets acquired based on the fair value of such net
assets in accordance with APB No. 16. The aggregate acquisition costs totaled
$19,669 and consisted of cash of $6,622, notes issued to the seller of $10,958
and direct acquisition and financing costs of $2,089. The Company principally
financed the acquisition through its financing arrangement with a commercial
lender as described in Note 8 and notes issued to the seller. The allocation
of the aggregate acquisition costs was as follows: inventories of $12,848,
equipment of $5,156, and debt issuance costs of $1,665. The purchase agreement
provides for a purchase price adjustment mechanism pending receipt of final
priced inventory listings from Globe. The purchase price has not yet been
finalized. The purchase price allocation was based on management's estimate of
the final purchase price. Management does not believe the actual purchase
price will vary significantly from their estimate. The operating results of
this acquisition have been included in the accompanying consolidated financial
statements since the date of acquisition.
 
 SCM Office Supplies
   
  Effective July 5, 1994, the Company acquired the assets and assumed certain
liabilities of SCM Office Supplies, Inc. For financial reporting purposes,
this acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting.
Accordingly, the aggregate acquisition cost was allocated among the net assets
acquired based on the fair market value of such net assets in accordance with
APB No. 16. The aggregate acquisition cost totaled $14,372 and consisted of
cash of $12,880 and direct acquisition and financing costs of $1,492. The
Company principally financed the acquisition through its financing arrangement
with a commercial lender as described in Note 8. The allocation of the
aggregate acquisition cost to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed was
as follows: accounts receivable of $7,922, inventories of $6,857, prepaid
expenses and other assets of $16, debt issuance costs of $628, property and
equipment of $5,441, net deferred income tax assets of $1,553, accounts
payable of $4,235, and accrued liabilities of $6,333. The aggregate
acquisition cost exceeded fair market value of the net assets acquired by
approximately $2,523. Accordingly, goodwill was recorded in accordance with
APB No. 16. The goodwill is being amortized over 20 years. The operating
results of this acquisition have been included in the accompanying
consolidated financial statements since the date of acquisition.     
 
  The following summary presents the results of operations for the years ended
December 31, 1994 and 1995, on an unaudited pro forma basis, as if the WR,
Globe and SCM acquisitions had occurred as of January 1, 1994 (with
appropriate adjustments for amortization of intangible assets, interest
expense, elimination of duplicate selling and administrative expenses and the
related income tax effects). The pro forma operating results are for
illustrative purposes only and do not purport to be indicative of the actual
results which would have occurred had the transactions been consummated as of
those earlier dates, nor are they indicative of results of operations which
may occur in the future.
 
                                     F-11
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             YEARS ENDED
                                                             DECEMBER 31,
                                                          -------------------
                                                            1994       1995
                                                          ---------  --------
                                                             (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                                    <C>        <C>
   Net sales.............................................  $454,667  $511,307
                                                          =========  ========
   Income (loss) before income taxes and extraordinary
    item................................................. $ (25,700) $  4,108
                                                          =========  ========
   Net income (loss) before extraordinary item........... $ (18,300) $  3,428
                                                          =========  ========
   Net income (loss) from continuing operations after
    extraordinary item................................... $ (18,300) $ (6,224)
                                                          =========  ========
</TABLE>
 
4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
 
  Accounts receivable consist of the following:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                  DECEMBER 31,
                                                ------------------   MARCH 31,
                                                  1994      1995       1996
                                                --------  --------  -----------
                                                                    (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                          <C>       <C>       <C>
   Accounts receivable--trade..................  $17,376   $25,539    $17,263
   Accounts receivable--other..................       64     2,013      2,795
   Less allowance for doubtful accounts and
    reserves for customer deductions and cash
    discounts..................................     (475)   (1,609)    (1,651)
                                                --------  --------    -------
                                                $ 16,965  $ 25,943    $18,407
                                                ========  ========    =======
</TABLE>    
   
  The Company sold an undivided ownership interest in a revolving pool of
trade accounts receivable for $45,000 in October 1995. The sold accounts
receivable are excluded from receivables in the accompanying balance sheets.
The full amount of the allowance for doubtful accounts has been retained
because the Company has retained substantially the same risk of credit loss as
if the receivables had not been sold through the recourse provision of the
receivable sale agreement. Under the agreement, the maximum amount of the
purchaser's investment is subject to change based on the level of eligible
receivables and restrictions on concentrations of receivables.     
          
  The total cost of the program was $423 in 1995 and $323 for the three months
ended March 31, 1996 (unaudited) and is included in general and administrative
expenses in the consolidated statement of operations. The agreement expires in
2000.     
   
  Bad debt expense for 1993, 1994, 1995 and for the three months ended March
31, 1995 and 1996 (unaudited) was immaterial.     
 
5. INVENTORIES
 
  Inventories consist of the following:
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                 DECEMBER 31,
                                               ------------------   MARCH 31,
                                                 1994      1995       1996
                                               --------  --------  -----------
                                                                   (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                         <C>       <C>       <C>
   Raw materials and semi-finished goods .....  $15,784   $36,129    $33,368
   Work in process............................    2,689     7,114      9,203
   Finished goods.............................   20,467    60,266     59,409
                                               --------  --------    -------
                                                 38,940   103,509    101,980
   LIFO reserve...............................   (5,966)  (10,448)    (8,814)
                                               --------  --------    -------
                                               $ 32,974  $ 93,061    $93,166
                                               ========  ========    =======
</TABLE>    
 
 
                                     F-12
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

  In connection with the Acquisition (Note 3), Williamhouse-Regency's total
inventories for financial accounting purposes were written up by $13,948 to
fair market value at October 31, 1995, including reversal of $6,695 related to
Williamhouse-Regency's historical LIFO reserves. Since the Company is on the
LIFO method of accounting, such write-up will form the historical base year
cost for the acquired inventories and will not impact the statement of
operations unless a decrement of base inventory quantities occurs. During the
two months subsequent to October 31, 1995, certain acquired inventory
quantities were liquidated and $453 of the fair value write-up was charged to
cost of sales.
   
  Inventory quantities of Ampad were reduced during 1995 which resulted in
liquidation of LIFO inventory layers carried at lower costs which prevailed in
prior years. The effect of the liquidation of Ampad inventory in 1995 was to
decrease cost of sales by $557 and to increase net income by $334. There were
no liquidations of LIFO inventories in 1994 or 1993.     
 
6. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
 
  Property and equipment consist of the following:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                   ESTIMATED      DECEMBER 31,
                                USEFUL LIVES IN -----------------   MARCH 31,
                                     YEARS       1994      1995       1996
                                --------------- -------  --------  -----------
                                                                   (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                          <C>             <C>      <C>       <C>
   Land........................                 $    31  $  4,949   $  4,961
   Buildings...................         40          642    22,997     22,866
   Machinery and equipment.....      10-12        6,274    71,094     70,302
   Office furniture and fix-
    tures......................        3-5        2,891     5,747      6,432
   Construction in progress....                     261     6,560      8,760
                                                -------  --------   --------
                                                 10,099   111,347    113,321
   Less accumulated deprecia-
    tion and amortization......                  (1,210)   (4,579)    (6,563)
                                                -------  --------   --------
                                                $ 8,889  $106,768   $106,758
                                                =======  ========   ========
</TABLE>    
 
 
  In connection with the Acquisition (Note 3), acquired property, plant and
equipment was appraised at $36,285 in excess of historical book value as of
October 31, 1995, including $1,443, $1,664 and $33,178 allocated to land,
buildings and machinery and equipment, respectively.
   
  Depreciation expense was $159 in 1993, $828 in 1994, $3,369 in 1995 and $490
and $1,984 for the three months ended March 31, 1995 and 1996, respectively
(unaudited).     
 
                                     F-13
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                      (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
7. ACCRUED EXPENSES
 
  Accrued expenses consist of the following:
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                       DECEMBER 31,
                                                      --------------  MARCH 31,
                                                       1994   1995      1996
                                                      ------ ------- -----------
                                                                     (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                   <C>    <C>     <C>
Acquisition integration costs........................ $2,003 $17,567   $15,534
Sales volume discounts...............................  2,436  11,414     5,211
Salaries and wages...................................  1,148   6,682     5,395
Interest.............................................    472   3,748    10,651
Other................................................  1,869   5,424     6,480
                                                      ------ -------   -------
                                                      $7,928 $44,835   $43,271
                                                      ====== =======   =======
</TABLE>    
 
8. BORROWINGS
 
  Long-term debt of the Company, which was incurred entirely by Delaware and is
subject to mandatory repayments under certain conditions (as described below),
consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                  DECEMBER 31,
                                                -----------------   MARCH 31,
                                                 1994      1995       1996
                                                -------  --------  -----------
                                                                   (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                             <C>      <C>       <C>
Senior bank debt:
  Term Loan A due 1996-2000.................... $        $ 69,843   $ 92,875
  Term Loan B due 1996-2002....................            65,000     65,000
  Term Loan C due 1996-2003....................            45,000     45,000
  Term Loan D due 1996-2004....................            40,000     40,000
13% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005.........           200,000    200,000
WR seller notes payable due January 1996.......            25,157
Industrial revenue bonds.......................             8,049      8,049
Capitalized lease obligations..................             2,579      2,480
Floating rate bank debt........................  16,458
15% subordinated notes payable to stockholders
 and management................................   3,563
8.5% to 15% Ampad seller notes.................   2,485
Other..........................................     155                  115
                                                -------  --------   --------
                                                 22,661   455,628    453,519
Less: current portion..........................  (2,772)  (11,834)   (13,066)
                                                -------  --------   --------
                                                $19,889  $443,794   $440,453
                                                =======  ========   ========
</TABLE>    
 
Future maturities of long-term debt at December 31, 1995 are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
   <S>                                                                  <C>
   1996................................................................ $ 11,834
   1997................................................................   16,787
   1998................................................................   21,179
   1999................................................................   27,654
   2000................................................................   31,162
   Thereafter..........................................................  347,012
                                                                        --------
                                                                        $455,628
                                                                        ========
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-14
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
 Senior Bank Debt
   
  The Company entered into a bank credit agreement effective October 31, 1995
consisting of $245,000 of term loans in the form of a multitranche facility, a
$45,000 revolving credit facility and an IRB Letter of Credit Facility of
$13,400 (the "Bank Credit Agreement"). Interest rates on the term loans are
floating and based, at the Company's option, on either the Eurodollar rate (as
defined in the agreement) plus 275 to 400 basis points or the bank base rate
(as defined in the agreement) plus 175 to 300 basis points. The basis point
additions vary by tranche. Interest is payable quarterly under the bank base
rate option and on the last day of the selected interest period under the
Eurodollar rate option. If the interest period on Eurodollar loans exceeds
three months, then interest payments are due every three months (at December
31, 1995, the Company selected the Eurodollar rate option). The effective
interest rates by tranche at December 31, 1995 and March 31, 1996 (unaudited)
are as follows:     
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                              MARCH 31, 1996
                                     DECEMBER 31, 1995         (UNAUDITED)
                                   ---------------------- ----------------------
                                   EURODOLLAR  BANK BASE  EURODOLLAR  BANK BASE
                                     OPTION   RATE OPTION   OPTION   RATE OPTION
                                   ---------- ----------- ---------- -----------
   <S>                             <C>        <C>         <C>        <C>
   Term Loan A....................    8.66%      10.25%      8.22%      10.07%
   Term Loan B....................    9.28%      10.88%      8.72%      10.75%
   Term Loan C....................    9.66%      11.25%      9.10%      11.13%
   Term Loan D....................    9.91%      11.75%      9.34%      11.38%
</TABLE>    
   
  The revolving credit facility is a five-year facility bearing interest at a
floating rate based, at the Company's option, on either the Eurodollar rate
plus 275 basis points or the bank base rate plus 175 basis points, or an
effective rate of 8.66% at December 31, 1995 and 8.13% at March 31, 1996
(unaudited) under the Eurodollar rate option and 10.25% at December 31, 1995
and 10.00% at March 31, 1996 (unaudited) under the bank base rate option,
respectively. A commitment fee of 0.5% is payable quarterly on the unused
portion of the facility. The revolving credit facility includes a letter of
credit sublimit of $20,000. There were no borrowings outstanding under this
facility at December 31, 1995 or March 31, 1996 (unaudited).     
 
  The Bank Credit Agreement requires the Company to meet certain financial
tests, including minimum levels of EBITDA (as defined in the agreement),
minimum interest coverage and maximum leverage ratio. The agreement also
contains covenants which, among other things, limit the incurrence of
additional indebtedness, dividends, transactions with affiliates, asset sales,
acquisitions, mergers, and other matters customarily restricted in such
agreements. The Bank Credit Agreement contains customary events of default,
including payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant
defaults, cross-defaults to certain other indebtedness, certain events of
bankruptcy and insolvency, ERISA, judgment defaults, failure of any guaranty
or security agreement supporting the bank credit agreement to be in full force
and effect and change of control.
 
  The Bank Credit Agreement required the Company to purchase an interest rate
cap covering a portion of the outstanding balance under the agreement. In
January 1996, the Company entered into a four-year agreement that entitles the
Company to receive from the counterparty on a quarterly basis the amount, if
any, by which LIBOR exceeds 6.5% for the first two years of the agreement and
7.5% for the last two years on a notional principal amount of $100,000. The
counterparty to this agreement is a large financial institution.
 
  The Bank Credit Agreement provides for mandatory prepayment, subject to
certain exceptions, upon the occurrence of certain events including, but not
limited to, asset sales (including the net assets held for sale as described
in Note 3), certain debt and equity issuances, insurance recovery events and
the accumulation of Excess Cash Flows, as defined (with a requirement to pay
50% of Excess Cash Flow for the period ended December 31, 1995 and 75% of
Excess Cash Flow per annum thereafter).
 
                                     F-15
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
  The Bank Credit Agreement is guaranteed by the Company and all its
subsidiaries, except for Notepad Funding Corporation, and is secured by
substantially all assets of Delaware and a pledge of all capital stock of
Delaware and its subsidiaries.     
 
 Senior Subordinated Notes
 
  Delaware issued $200,000 of 13% Senior Subordinated Notes through a private
placement in December 1995. The notes are unsecured and subordinated to all
senior bank debt. Interest is payable semi-annually on May 15 and November 15.
The notes are redeemable after November 15, 2000, at Delaware's option, at
redemption prices ranging from 106.5% of the face value of the notes in 2000
to 100% of the face value of the notes in 2003 or thereafter. Additionally, at
any time on or prior to November 15, 1998, Delaware may, at its option, use
the proceeds of public equity offerings of the Company or Delaware to redeem
up to 35% of the notes at redemption prices ranging from 111% to 113% of the
face value of the notes.
 
  The notes require Delaware to file a registration statement with the
Securities Exchange Commission within 120 days of issuance to exchange the
notes for new notes (the Exchange Notes) of Delaware having terms
substantially identical to the notes. Delaware must use its best efforts to
cause such registration statement to be declared effective within 180 days
after issuance of the notes and consummate the exchange within 225 days after
issuance of the notes.
 
  The notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by all subsidiaries of
Delaware, except for Notepad Funding Corporation, on a joint and several and
senior subordinated basis (Note 14), however, no guarantee from the Company
exists. The notes contain restrictive covenants which, among other things,
limit dividends, repurchase of capital stock and investments, incurrence of
additional indebtedness, transactions with affiliates and other matters
customarily restricted in such agreements.
 
 Other
 
  WR seller notes in the amount of $25,157 outstanding at December 31, 1995,
were repaid in January 1996 from the proceeds of the remaining borrowings
issuable under Term Loan A of the Bank Credit Agreement. The WR seller notes
bore interest at 1% and are classified as long-term in the consolidated
balance sheet at December 31, 1995 since such debt was refinanced with long-
term debt.
   
  At December 31, 1995, the Company's subsidiaries had outstanding various
industrial revenue bonds in the aggregate amount of $8,049. The industrial
revenue bonds bear interest at rates ranging from 5.10% to 5.25%. Aggregate
annual principal payments ranging from $350 to $2,970 are due through 2010.
Payment of principal and interest on the industrial revenue bonds are
guaranteed by the Company or various wholly-owned subsidiaries. The industrial
revenue bonds are secured by letters of credit. At December 31, 1995 and March
31, 1996 (unaudited), letters of credit in the aggregate amount of $15,800 and
$12,677, respectively, were outstanding.     
 
  At December 31, 1994, the Company had outstanding notes payable to various
lenders in the aggregate amount of approximately $22,700 with effective
interest rates ranging from 8% to 15%. All of the notes payable outstanding at
December 31, 1994, were either refinanced with the proceeds of the Bank Credit
Agreement or repaid in accordance with their terms.
 
  At December 31, 1994, the Company had a revolving line of credit with a
commercial lender with an outstanding balance of $22,767. The revolving line
of credit carried an interest rate of 1.5% above the bank's prime rate (an
effective rate of 10% at December 31, 1994). The facility was repaid and
terminated in 1995 and replaced by the Bank Credit Agreement.
 
                                     F-16
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  The proceeds from the Bank Credit Agreement were used to consummate the
Acquisition (Note 3), and refinance existing indebtedness of the Company and
Williamhouse-Regency.
 
  On December 1, 1995, $200,000 of proceeds were received from the 13% Senior
Subordinated Notes which were used to repurchase $100,000 of publicly-held
notes of Williamhouse-Regency assumed in the Acquisition and redeem preferred
stock, preferred stock equivalents, and Class P common stock in the aggregate
amount of $75,000 (Note 9).
   
  The Company incurred fees related to the transactions of approximately
$33,200, which have been deferred and are being amortized using the effective
interest method over the respective lives of the agreements.     
   
  An extraordinary after-tax loss on extinguishment of debt of $9,652 ($16,086
pretax) is reflected in the statement of operations for the year ended
December 31, 1995 as a result of $10,812 of prepayment penalties associated
with the repurchase of Williamhouse-Regency's $100,000 of notes and Ampad's
bank debt and the write-off of $5,274 of unamortized deferred financing costs
in connection with Williamhouse-Regency's notes redemption and Ampad's debt
refinancings.     
 
9. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY, STOCK OPTIONS AND NONRECURRING COMPENSATION CHARGE
 
  At January 1, 1995, options for 126,405 shares of common stock had been
issued to certain members of the Company's management under the 1992 Key
Employee Stock Option Plan (the "1992 Plan") in two separate tranches--"Core"
stock options for 93,428 shares and "Performance" stock options for 32,977
shares. The exercise price of all options equaled or exceeded the fair market
value at date of grant and the vesting date for both "Core" and "Performance"
stock options is ten years from grant date, unless an Acceleration Event, as
defined, occurs. In connection with the Acquisition of WR effective October
31, 1995 (Note 3), the Company's equity was recapitalized via a stock dividend
of one share of preferred stock for every ten shares of common stock and Class
P common and options to purchase common stock. Concurrently, preferred stock
options were granted to holders of common stock options and the respective
exercise prices were adjusted to maintain option holders' pro rata economic
interests pursuant to antidilution provisions included in the existing stock
option plans.
 
  The preferred stock has a liquidation and fair value of $1,948.50 per share,
has no dividend rights and, except as required by law, is nonvoting. As of
December 31, 1995, after giving effect to satisfaction of its preferred
redemption values, the Company's Class P common stock was converted on a
share-for-share basis into common stock.
 
  The issuance of the preferred stock options was considered additional
consideration to restore the option holders' economic position as a result of
the recapitalization, which was directly related to the Acquisition. Receipt
of such consideration resulted in a nonrecurring, noncash compensation charge
equal to the excess of fair market value over the exercise price of the
preferred stock options of $24,265 with a corresponding credit being recorded
to additional paid-in capital. The adjustment to the underlying common stock
option's prices did not result in additional compensation expense in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
 
  Additionally, options for 8,109 shares of common stock and 810.9 shares of
preferred stock were granted to certain members of management in December
1995. The exercise prices of $0.06 per common share and $3.60 per preferred
share were below the fair market value of the respective classes of stock at
date of grant, resulting in a noncash compensation charge equal to the
aggregate excess of fair market value over the exercise price, or $1,733, with
a corresponding credit being recorded to additional paid-in capital.
 
                                     F-17
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
  The following table summarizes the option activity for the years ended
December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995 and for the three months ended March 31,
1996:     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                     COMMON STOCK          PREFERRED STOCK
                                ---------------------- ------------------------
                                NUMBER OF   EXERCISE   NUMBER OF    EXERCISE
                                 SHARES      PRICE      SHARES        PRICE
                                --------- ------------ ---------  -------------
<S>                             <C>       <C>          <C>        <C>
Outstanding, December 31, 1992
 and 1993.....................   111,236  $       0.42
Granted in 1994...............    15,169  $      25.00
                                 -------
Outstanding, December 31,
 1994.........................   126,405  $0.42-$25.00
Granted in 1995...............     8,109  $        .06 13,451.4   $3.60-$214.29
Redeemed in 1995..............                         (4,715.4)
                                 -------               --------
Outstanding, December 31, 1995
 and March 31, 1996 (unau-
 dited).......................   134,514  $  .06-$3.57  8,736.0   $3.60-$214.29
                                 =======               ========
</TABLE>    
   
  All options are exercisable at December 31, 1995 and March 31, 1996
(unaudited).     
 
  The Company has elected not to early adopt the provisions of Statement of
Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 ("SFAS 123") "Accounting for Stock
Based Compensation." The Company will adopt the reporting provisions of SFAS
123 in 1996. The Company expects the adoption to have no effect on its
financial condition or results of operations.
 
  The Company awarded additional compensation to executives and nonexecutives
of $1,634 in 1995 in recognition of the significant transactions consummated
during the year. The Company does not expect this additional compensation to
be awarded in future years.
 
10. PENSION PLAN AND 401(K) PLAN
   
  The Company is liable for a supplemental, nonqualified, noncontributory,
defined benefit pension plan covering certain former Ampad executives, which
was assumed in the initial acquisition of Ampad in June 1992. Benefits are
based on a percentage of prior compensation less expected social security
benefits. The present value of the liability associated with this plan is
$678, $636 and $611 at December 31, 1994, 1995, and March 31, 1996
(unaudited), respectively, and is included in other liabilities in the
consolidated balance sheet.     
   
  The Company maintains a retirement plan (401(k) plan) for the benefit of all
employees who meet minimum age and service requirements. Company contributions
to the plan may be made at the discretion of the board of directors.
Contributions to the plan were approximately $515, $557, $568, $51 and $78 for
the years ended December 31, 1993, 1994, 1995, and the three months ended
March 31, 1995 and 1996 (unaudited), respectively.     
 
11. INCOME TAXES
 
  The provision (benefit) for income taxes consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                                THREE MONTHS
                                             YEARS ENDED            ENDED
                                            DECEMBER 31,          MARCH 31,
                                         --------------------  ---------------
                                         1993 1994     1995    1995  1996
                                         ---- -----  --------  ----- -----
                                                               (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                   <C>  <C>    <C>       <C>   <C>   <C>
   Current:
     Federal............................ $    $      $         $     $  21
     State..............................                  169            3
                                         ---  -----  --------  ----- -----
                                                          169           24
   Deferred provision (benefit) for in-
    come taxes..........................  64   (488)  (13,141)   366    78
                                         ---  -----  --------  ----- -----
                                         $64  $(488) $(12,972) $ 366 $ 102
                                         ===  =====  ========  ===== =====
</TABLE>    
 
 
                                     F-18
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

  A reconciliation between the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate and the
Company's effective tax rate is as follows:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                    YEARS ENDED          THREE MONTHS ENDED
                                   DECEMBER 31,               MARCH 31,
                                 ---------------------   ---------------------
                                 1993    1994    1995      1995        1996
                                 -----   -----   -----   ---------   ---------
                                                             (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                           <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>         <C>
   Federal income tax rate.....   35.0 % (35.0)% (35.0)%      35.0 %      35.0%
   Adjustment to valuation al-
    lowance ...................  (31.9)%  14.7 %  (6.4)%
   Effect of acquisition.......           19.3 %                           2.8%
   Change in enacted rates.....   (7.8)%    .4 %
   Miscellaneous permanent dif-
    ferences...................                     .9 %                    .4%
   State taxes, net............    6.2 %  (5.2)%  (5.0)%       5.0 %       5.0%
   Other, net..................    1.9 %   (.3)%  (1.4)%      (1.7)%       1.2%
                                 -----   -----   -----   ---------   ---------
   Effective tax rate..........    3.4 %  (6.1)% (46.9)%      38.3 %      44.4%
                                 =====   =====   =====   =========   =========
</TABLE>    
 
  Temporary tax differences affected and categorized by financial statement
line item are as follows:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                  DECEMBER 31,
                                                -----------------   MARCH 31,
                                                 1994      1995       1996
                                                -------  --------  -----------
                                                                   (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                          <C>      <C>       <C>
   Current deferred tax assets (liabilities):
   Accrued expenses............................ $ 1,102   $10,523    $10,503
   Accounts receivable and allowances..........     191       900        900
   LIFO reserve................................  (2,478)   (7,608)    (7,608)
   NOL/credits.................................    (496)   11,194     10,949
                                                -------  --------   --------
   Current deferred tax asset (liability),
    net........................................ $(1,681)  $15,009    $14,744
                                                =======  ========   ========
<CAPTION>
                                                  DECEMBER 31,
                                                -----------------   MARCH 31,
                                                 1994      1995       1996
                                                -------  --------  -----------
                                                                   (UNAUDITED)
   <S>                                          <C>      <C>       <C>
   Noncurrent deferred tax assets (liabili-
    ties):
   Trademarks and intangibles.................. $        $(15,009)  $(15,009)
   Property and equipment, net.................   2,709   (21,291)   (21,291)
   NOL carryforwards...........................   4,073
   Noncash compensation expense credited to
    paid-in-capital............................             6,776      6,776
   Other accrued liabilities...................     235       254        254
   Deferred financing costs....................     (15)
   Seller note discount........................    (117)
   State taxes effect and other, net...........    (804)     (800)      (641)
                                                -------  --------   --------
   Noncurrent deferred tax asset (liability),
    net........................................   6,081   (30,070)   (29,911)
   Deferred tax asset valuation allowance......  (1,769)
                                                -------  --------   --------
   Noncurrent deferred tax asset (liability),
    net........................................ $ 4,312  $(30,070)  $(29,911)
                                                =======  ========   ========
</TABLE>    
 
  The valuation allowance represents the amount of the deferred tax assets
which may not be realized through taxable income from future operations. The
Company's provision for income taxes may be impacted by adjustments to the
valuation allowance which may be required if circumstances change regarding
the realizability of the deferred tax assets in future periods.
 
                                     F-19
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  The effect on the income tax provision related to the valuation allowance
was a benefit of $1,769 for the year ended December 31, 1995. Deferred tax
assets valuation allowances recorded in prior years were reversed in 1995 as a
result of management's assessment of future realizability of deferred tax
assets. For the year ended December 31, 1994, the effect on the income tax
provision related to the valuation allowance was a charge of $1,180. The
charge primarily related to an increase in the NOL carryforwards for which no
benefit was recognized during 1994.
   
  At December 31, 1995, the Company has net operating losses available to
reduce future taxable income of approximately $25,007. These net operating
loss carryforwards expire in the years 2007 through 2010. If certain
substantial changes in the Company's ownership should occur, there would be an
annual limitation on the amount of the carryforwards which can be utilized. In
addition, the Company has approximately $1,200 of alternative minimum tax
credit carryforwards. The acquisition of WR (See Note 3) resulted in a change
in control of WR. Consequently the utilization of these credits in future
periods are subject to limitation.     
 
12. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
 Commitments
 
  The Company is obligated under noncancelable operating leases for office
space and machinery and equipment which expire at various times through 1997.
Future minimum lease commitments under these leases are as follows:
 
<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>
     YEARS ENDING
     DECEMBER 31,
     ------------
     <S>                                                               <C>
      1996............................................................  $ 2,110
      1997............................................................    2,026
      1998............................................................    1,894
      1999............................................................    1,430
      2000............................................................    1,214
      Thereafter......................................................    6,503
                                                                       --------
        Total minimum lease payments.................................. $ 15,177
                                                                       ========
</TABLE>    
   
  Total rent expense under noncancelable operating leases was approximately
$775, $853, $1,888 and $148 and $1,122 for 1993, 1994 and 1995 and for the
three months ended March 31, 1995 and 1996 (unaudited) respectively.     
 
  In October 1995, the Company entered into a ten-year management services
agreement with Bain Capital, pursuant to which the Company will pay Bain
Capital an aggregate annual fee of no less than $2.0 million.
 
 Litigation
 
  There are various outstanding claims against the Company arising in the
normal course of business. Management, on the advise of counsel, believes that
the claims are without merit and that any losses which might ultimately be
sustained by the Company would not be material to the financial position or
results of operations of the Company.
   
 Environmental Matters     
   
  The Company is subject to federal, state, and local environmental and
occupational health and safety laws and regulations. Such laws and regulations
impose limitations on the discharge of pollutants and establish     
 
                                     F-20
<PAGE>
 
                          
                       AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY     
                      
                   (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)     
            
         NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)     
   
standards for management of waste. While there can be no assurance that the
Company is at all times in complete compliance with all such requirements, the
Company has made and will continue to make capital and other expenditures to
comply with such requirements.     
   
  The Company's Ampad division had been named a potentially responsible party
under the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
Liability Act of 1980, as amended, at five waste disposal sites. The Company
settled its liability at four of these sites as a de minimis party. The
Company expects to be eligible for a de minimis settlement at the remaining
site.     
 
13. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
   
  For the years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995, the Company paid $431,
$684 and $937, respectively, for management and directors' fees to the
principal shareholders (Bain Capital). No fees were paid for the three month
periods ended March 31, 1995 and 1996 (unaudited). Unpaid fees of $128 and
$500 are included in accrued expenses in the consolidated balance sheets at
December 31, 1994 and March 31, 1996 (unaudited). There were no unpaid fees at
December 31, 1995.     
   
  Included in other assets in the consolidated balance sheet at December 31,
1994, 1995 and March 31, 1996 (unaudited) is a note receivable of $106, $112
and $114, respectively, due from an officer and shareholder of the Company.
Interest expense is accrued monthly at an annual rate of 6.19% and the note is
due in 1998.     
 
  The Company paid $7,000 to Bain Capital for services relating to the
Acquisition of WR and the related financing of the transaction. Of this
amount, $4,300 was included in deferred financing fees and $2,700 was a direct
acquisition expense allocated to the net assets acquired as discussed in Note
3. The Company also paid $450 to Bain Capital relating to the Globe-Weis
acquisition (Note 3) which was included in deferred financing fees and
subsequently included as a component of the extraordinary loss from
extinguishment of debt. The Company paid Bain Capital $225 in 1994 for
services related to the SCM acquisition and the related financing of the
transaction.
 
                                     F-21
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

14. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES
   
  The 13% Senior Subordinated Notes of Delaware are guaranteed by
substantially all of the subsidiaries of Delaware. The subsidiary guarantees
are full, unconditional and joint and several. Each of the guarantor
subsidiaries are wholly-owned. The Company is not a guarantor of this debt.
Separate financial statements of the guarantor subsidiaries are not presented
because management has determined that they would not be material to
investors. However, condensed consolidating financial information as of
December 31, 1995 and for the year then ended, and as of March 31, 1996 and
for the three months then ended (unaudited) are presented. The condensed
consolidating financial information of Delaware is as follows:     
 
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                 DECEMBER 31, 1995
                            -------------------------------------------------------------
                                       GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                            DELAWARE  SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                            --------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                         <C>       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
 Cash.....................  $ 18,295    $     33     $    13      $            $ 18,341
 Restricted cash..........     3,619                                              3,619
 Accounts receivable......   (13,490)       (154)     39,587                     25,943
 Intercompany receivable
  (payable)...............    75,423     (72,255)     (3,168)                       --
 Refundable income
  taxes...................     3,657                                              3,657
 Inventories..............    74,112      18,949                                 93,061
 Assets held for sale.....       864      41,714                                 42,578
 Deferred income taxes....    17,395      (2,386)                                15,009
 Other current assets.....       879          48                                    927
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total current assets...   180,754     (14,051)     36,432                    203,135
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Property and equipment....    73,097      37,357                                110,454
Less: accumulated
 depreciation.............    (3,438)       (248)                                (3,686)
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Net property and
    equipment.............    69,659      37,109                                106,768
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Investment in
 subsidiaries.............    41,575                               (41,575)
Intangible assets, net....    34,196       3,504                                 37,700
Debt issuance costs, net..    30,160         182       2,587                     32,929
Goodwill, net.............   107,076      13,307                                120,383
Other.....................     3,311         130                                  3,441
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total assets...........  $466,731    $ 40,181     $39,019      $(41,575)    $504,356
                            ========    ========     =======      ========     ========
<CAPTION>
                                                 DECEMBER 31, 1995
                            -------------------------------------------------------------
                                       GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                            DELAWARE  SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                            --------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                         <C>       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
LIABILITIES AND
 STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Current liabilities:
 Current portion of long-
  term debt...............  $ 10,652    $  1,182     $            $            $ 11,834
 Accounts payable and
  accrued expenses........    62,869      19,014                                 81,883
 Income taxes payable.....       494                                                494
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total current
    liabilities...........    74,015      20,196                                 94,211
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Long-term debt............   442,134       1,660                                443,794
Other liabilities.........     2,702                                              2,702
Deferred income taxes.....    14,301      15,769                                 30,070
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total liabilities......   533,152      37,625                                570,777
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Commitments and
 contingencies............
Stockholder's equity:
 Common stock.............                     1          10           (11)
 Additional paid-in
  capital.................    28,998                  37,370       (37,370)      28,998
 Retained earnings........   (95,419)      2,555       1,639        (4,194)     (95,419)
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total stockholder's
    equity................   (66,421)      2,556      39,019       (41,575)     (66,421)
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total liabilities and
    stockholder's equity..  $466,731    $ 40,181     $39,019      $(41,575)    $504,356
                            ========    ========     =======      ========     ========
</TABLE>    
 
                                     F-22
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                      (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEET     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                             MARCH 31, 1996 (UNAUDITED)
                            -------------------------------------------------------------
                                       GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                            DELAWARE  SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                            --------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                         <C>       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
 Cash.....................  $ 20,026    $     69     $    13      $            $ 20,108
 Restricted cash..........    10,759                                             10,759
 Accounts receivable......    (8,862)        (77)     27,346                     18,407
 Intercompany receivable
  (payable)...............    83,157     (79,132)     (4,025)                       --
 Inventories..............    75,731      17,435                                 93,166
 Assets held for sale.....       764      42,808                                 43,572
 Deferred income taxes....    17,302      (2,260)       (298)                    14,744
 Other current assets.....     2,009          17                                  2,026
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total current assets...   200,886     (21,140)     23,036                    202,782
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Property and equipment....    75,061      38,260                                113,321
Less: accumulated
 depreciation.............    (5,892)       (671)                                (6,563)
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Net property and
    equipment.............    69,169      37,589                                106,758
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Investment in
 subsidiaries.............    29,447                               (29,447)
Intangible assets, net....    33,924       3,468                                 37,392
Debt issuance costs, net..    29,911         160       2,453                     32,524
Goodwill, net.............   107,672      11,983                                119,655
Other.....................     1,556         127                                  1,683
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total assets...........  $472,565    $ 32,187     $25,489      $(29,447)    $500,794
                            ========    ========     =======      ========     ========
<CAPTION>
                                             MARCH 31, 1996 (UNAUDITED)
                            -------------------------------------------------------------
                                       GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                            DELAWARE  SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                            --------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                         <C>       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
LIABILITIES AND
 STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Current liabilities:
 Current portion of long-
  term debt...............  $ 11,886    $  1,180     $            $            $ 13,066
 Accounts payable and
  accrued expenses........    75,036       4,924                                 79,960
 Income taxes payable.....    (1,841)      2,359                                    518
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total current
    liabilities...........    85,081       8,463                                 93,544
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Long-term debt............   438,793       1,660                                440,453
Other liabilities.........     3,179                                              3,179
Deferred income taxes.....    11,805      18,106                                 29,911
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total liabilities......   538,858      28,229                                567,087
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
Commitments and
 contingencies............
Stockholder's equity:
 Common stock.............                     1          10           (11)
 Additional paid-in
  capital.................    28,998                  23,392       (23,392)      28,998
 Retained earnings........   (95,291)      3,957       2,087        (6,044)     (95,291)
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total stockholder's
    equity................   (66,293)      3,958      25,489       (29,447)     (66,293)
                            --------    --------     -------      --------     --------
   Total liabilities and
    stockholder's equity..  $472,565    $ 32,187     $25,489      $(29,447)    $500,794
                            ========    ========     =======      ========     ========
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-23
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
  The following condensed consolidating statement of operations includes the
results of operations of Delaware for the year ended December 31, 1995,
including the results of Williamhouse-Regency and Notepad Funding Corporation
for the post-October 31, 1995 period.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                          DELAWARE  SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                          --------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                       <C>       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Net sales...............  $238,989    $20,352       $           $            $259,341
Cost of sales...........   197,033     14,781                                 211,814
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
Gross profit ...........    41,956      5,571                                  47,527
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
Operating expenses:
  Selling and
   marketing............     5,730        524                                   6,254
  General and
   administrative.......    13,278        741                    (1,728)       12,291
  Nonrecurring
   compensation charge..    27,632                                             27,632
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
  Income (loss) from
   operations ..........    (4,684)     4,306                     1,728         1,350
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
Other income (expense):
  Interest..............   (13,531)       (37)         (89)                   (13,657)
  Other income, net.....       735                   1,728       (1,728)          735
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
Income (loss) before
 income taxes...........   (17,480)     4,269        1,639                    (11,572)
Provision (benefit) for
 income taxes...........    (8,252)     1,714                                  (6,538)
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
Income (loss) before
 equity in net earnings
 of subsidiaries and
 extraordinary item.....    (9,228)     2,555        1,639                     (5,034)
Equity in net earnings
 of subsidiaries........     4,194                               (4,194)
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
Income (loss) before
 extraordinary item.....    (5,034)     2,555        1,639       (4,194)       (5,034)
Extraordinary loss from
 extinguishment of debt,
 net....................    (9,652)                                            (9,652)
                          --------    -------       ------      -------      --------
Net income (loss).......  $(14,686)   $ 2,555       $1,639      $(4,194)     $(14,686)
                          ========    =======       ======      =======      ========
</TABLE>
 
 
                                     F-24
<PAGE>
 
                          AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                      (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                          FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED
                                          MARCH 31, 1996 (UNAUDITED)
                         -------------------------------------------------------------
                                    GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                         DELAWARE  SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                         --------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                      <C>       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Net sales............... $87,586     $36,989        $          $(3,157)     $121,418
Cost of sales...........  72,009      29,037                    (3,157)       97,889
                         -------     -------        ----       -------      --------
Gross profit ...........  15,577       7,952                                  23,529
                         -------     -------        ----       -------      --------
Operating expenses:
  Selling and
   marketing............   2,488         840                                   3,328
  General and
   administrative.......   7,412       1,130           8          (852)        7,698
                         -------     -------        ----       -------      --------
  Income (loss) from
   operations ..........   5,677       5,982          (8)          852        12,503
                         -------     -------        ----       -------      --------
Other income (expense):
  Interest.............. (12,388)        (56)        (98)                    (12,542)
  Other income, net.....     653        (384)        852          (852)          269
                         -------     -------        ----       -------      --------
Income (loss) before
 income taxes...........  (6,058)      5,542         746                         230
Provision (benefit) for
 income taxes...........  (4,335)      4,139         298                         102
                         -------     -------        ----       -------      --------
Income (loss) before
 equity in net earnings
 of subsidiaries........  (1,723)      1,403         448                         128
Equity in net earnings
 of subsidiaries........   1,851                                (1,851)
                         -------     -------        ----       -------      --------
Net income (loss)....... $   128     $ 1,403        $448       $(1,851)     $    128
                         =======     =======        ====       =======      ========
</TABLE>    
 
 
                                     F-25
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING CASH FLOW INFORMATION
 
  The following condensed consolidating cash flow information includes the
cash flows of Delaware for the year ended December 31, 1995, including the
results of Williamhouse-Regency and Notepad Funding Corporation for the post-
October 31, 1995 period.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                      GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                          DELAWARE   SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                          ---------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                       <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Net cash provided by
 (used in) operating
 activities.............  $  44,346    $ 2,674      $(42,311)    $           $   4,709
Investing activities
Purchase of the stock of
 WR, including
 acquisition costs......   (122,655)                                          (122,655)
Purchase of net assets,
 including acquisition
 costs..................     (7,046)                                            (7,046)
Other...................      1,075     (2,641)                                 (1,566)
                          ---------    -------      --------     -------     ---------
Net cash used in
 investing activities...   (128,626)    (2,641)                               (131,267)
                          ---------    -------      --------     -------     ---------
Financing activities
Proceeds from sale of
 accounts receivable....                              45,000                    45,000
Net repayment under line
 of credit..............    (22,767)                                           (22,767)
Proceeds from issuance
 of debt................    430,052                                            430,052
Repayment of long-term
 debt...................   (186,546)                                          (186,546)
Redemption premiums and
 penalties included in
 extraordinary loss.....    (10,812)                                           (10,812)
Debt issuance costs.....    (32,356)                  (2,676)                  (35,032)
Dividends paid..........    (75,000)                                           (75,000)
                          ---------    -------      --------     -------     ---------
Net cash provided by
 financing activities...    102,571                   42,324                   144,895
                          ---------    -------      --------     -------     ---------
Net increase in cash....     18,291         33            13                    18,337
Cash, beginning of
 year...................          4                                                  4
                          ---------    -------      --------     -------     ---------
Cash, end of year.......  $  18,295    $    33      $     13     $           $  18,341
                          =========    =======      ========     =======     =========
</TABLE>    
 
                                     F-26
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING CASH FLOW INFORMATION     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                          FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED
                                          MARCH 31, 1996 (UNAUDITED)
                         -------------------------------------------------------------
                                    GUARANTOR   NONGUARANTOR              CONSOLIDATED
                         DELAWARE  SUBSIDIARIES  SUBSIDIARY  ELIMINATIONS    TOTAL
                         --------  ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
<S>                      <C>       <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>
Net cash provided by
 (used in) operating
 activities............. $  7,255      $374         $          $            $  7,629
Investing activities:
 Other..................   (2,613)     (338)                                  (2,951)
                         --------      ----         ----       -------      --------
Net cash used in
 investing activities...   (2,613)     (338)                                  (2,951)
                         --------      ----         ----       -------      --------
Financing activities:
  Proceeds from issuance
   of debt..............   25,272                                             25,272
  Repayment of long-term
   debt.................  (27,380)                                           (27,380)
  Debt issuance costs...     (803)                                              (803)
                         --------      ----         ----       -------      --------
Net cash provided by
 financing activities...   (2,911)                                            (2,911)
                         --------      ----         ----       -------      --------
Net increase in cash....    1,731        36                                    1,767
Cash, beginning of
 period.................   18,295        33           13                      18,341
                         --------      ----         ----       -------      --------
Cash, end of period..... $ 20,026      $ 69         $ 13       $            $ 20,108
                         ========      ====         ====       =======      ========
</TABLE>    
 
15. INDUSTRY SEGMENTS
   
  The Company conducts its business operations in two industry segments: the
Ampad Division, which primarily manufactures and markets a broad line of
office supplies including writing products, filing supplies, and commodity and
speciality envelopes and the Williamhouse Division, which primarily designs
and manufactures a wide range of mill branded, specialty and commodity
envelope products, invitations and announcements and greeting cards. There
were no intersegment sales in 1995. For the three month period ended March 31,
1996 (unaudited), the Williamhouse division had sales of $644 to the Ampad
division. Prior to the acquisition of WR, the Company operated in one segment
consisting of the Ampad Division.     
 
  Substantially all of the Company's operations are conducted within the
United States.
   
  Two customers accounted for 27%, and one customer accounted for 11%, of the
Company's total net sales for the year ended December 31, 1995 and the three
month period ended March 31, 1996 (unaudited), respectively.     
       
                                     F-27
<PAGE>
 
                         AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY
                     (FORMERLY AMPAD HOLDING CORPORATION)
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  The following table represents industry segment information. Intersegment
sales are transferred at competitive prices. Operating profit by segment
consists of total sales less operating expenses, and exclude general corporate
expenses, net interest expense or income taxes. Corporate assets are
principally cash, cash equivalents, residual interests in a portfolio of
accounts receivable sold, debt issuance costs and net assets held for sale.
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                      FOR THE
                                                    FOR THE YEAR    THREE MONTHS
                                                       ENDED           ENDED
                                                    DECEMBER 31,     MARCH 31,
                                                        1995            1996
                                                    ------------    ------------
                                                                    (UNAUDITED)
                                                        ($ IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                 <C>             <C>
Net sales:
  Unaffiliated customers
    Ampad Division.................................   $212,687        $ 57,023
    Williamhouse Division..........................     46,654          64,395
                                                     ---------        --------
      Total net sales to unaffiliated customers....   $259,341        $121,418
                                                     =========        ========
Operating profit:
  Ampad Division...................................  $  21,997           4,540
  Williamhouse Division............................      8,478           8,793
                                                     ---------        --------
      Total operating profit.......................     30,475          13,333
  General corporate expense........................    (29,125)(1)        (830)
  Interest expense.................................    (13,657)        (12,542)
  Other income, net................................        735             269
                                                     ---------        --------
      Income (loss) before income taxes............  $ (11,572)       $    230
                                                     =========        ========
Capital expenditures:
  Ampad Division...................................  $   2,551        $    538
  Williamhouse Division............................      3,089           1,783
                                                     ---------        --------
      Total capital expenditures...................  $   5,640        $  2,321
                                                     =========        ========
Depreciation and amortization of plant and
 equipment:
  Ampad Division...................................      2,333        $    445
  Williamhouse Division............................      1,036           1,539
                                                     ---------        --------
      Total depreciation and amortization of plant
       and equipment...............................  $   3,369        $  1,984
                                                     =========        ========
<CAPTION>
                                                       AS OF           AS OF
                                                    DECEMBER 31,     MARCH 31,
                                                        1995            1996
                                                    ------------    ------------
                                                                    (UNAUDITED)
<S>                                                 <C>             <C>
Identifiable assets:
  Ampad Division...................................  $  76,928        $ 75,539
  Williamhouse Division............................    327,743         316,018
  Corporate assets.................................    137,055         132,639
  Eliminations.....................................    (37,370)        (23,402)
                                                     ---------        --------
      Total assets.................................   $504,356        $500,794
                                                     =========        ========
</TABLE>    
- --------
(1) Includes $27,632 nonrecurring compensation charge (Note 9).
   
16.  SUBSEQUENT EVENT (UNAUDITED)     
   
  On May 29, 1996, the Company signed a definitive agreement to acquire the
stock of the Niagara Envelope Company, Inc. The purchase price will
approximate $50 million, plus a $5 million management services agreement with
the Seller to be paid at closing. The Company expects the acquisition to be
consummated by mid-July 1996.     
 
                                     F-28
<PAGE>
 
                         INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
 
The Board of Directors and Stockholder
WR Acquisition, Inc.:
   
  We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of WR
Acquisition, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1994 and October 31,
1995, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders'
equity (deficiency), and cash flows for each of the years in the two-year
period ended December 31, 1994 and the ten months ended October 31, 1995.
These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
consolidated financial statements based on our audits.     
 
  We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
   
  In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of WR
Acquisition, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1994 and October 31,
1995 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the
years in the two-year period ended December 31, 1994 and the ten months ended
October 31, 1995, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles.
                                             
                                          KPMG Peat Marwick LLP     
 
                                          /s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP

January 10, 1996
 
                                     F-29
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                      DECEMBER 31, OCTOBER 31,
                                                          1994         1995
                                                      ------------ ------------
<S>                                                   <C>          <C>
                       ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
  Cash............................................... $    170,000 $        --
  Accounts receivable, less allowances of $837,000 at
   December 31, 1994 and $636,000 at October 31,
   1995..............................................   30,772,000   39,174,000
  Inventories........................................   34,141,000   35,548,000
  Current assets of discontinued operations..........   23,581,000   14,603,000
  Prepaid expenses...................................      511,000    1,054,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
    Total current assets.............................   89,175,000   90,379,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
DUE FROM AMPAD.......................................          --    54,306,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT:
  Land and buildings.................................   23,070,000   30,258,000
  Machinery, equipment, leasehold improvements and
   construction in progress..........................   81,787,000   75,279,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
                                                       104,857,000  105,537,000
  Less accumulated depreciation and amortization.....   54,225,000   53,134,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
  Net property, plant and equipment..................   50,632,000   52,403,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
OTHER ASSETS:
  Deferred financing costs, less accumulated amorti-
   zation............................................    6,248,000   23,125,000
  Funds held for construction........................          --     2,633,000
  Cash surrender value of officers' life insurance
   policies, net of loans of $1,236,000 at December
   31, 1994 and $1,769,000 at October 31, 1995.......      646,000      260,000
  Intangibles, less accumulated amortization.........      378,000      350,000
  Other assets.......................................      533,000      644,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
    Total other assets...............................    7,805,000   27,012,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
PURCHASE PRICE FOR THE COMMON STOCK OF WR
 ACQUISITION, INC. AND CERTAIN RELATED COSTS.........          --   147,854,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
NON CURRENT ASSETS OF DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS........   29,145,000   27,439,000
                                                      ------------ ------------
    TOTAL ASSETS..................................... $176,757,000 $399,393,000
                                                      ============ ============
</TABLE>    
 
          See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-30
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                    DECEMBER 31,  OCTOBER 31,
                                                        1994          1995
                                                    ------------  ------------
<S>                                                 <C>           <C>
 LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIENCY)
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
  Accounts payable................................. $ 16,499,000  $ 17,518,000
  Accrued expenses.................................   14,536,000    18,982,000
  Taxes payable....................................      354,000           --
  Current installments of long-term debt...........    8,558,000    11,844,000
  Current liabilities of discontinued operations...    9,380,000     9,100,000
                                                    ------------  ------------
    Total current liabilities......................   49,327,000    57,444,000
                                                    ------------  ------------
Non-current liabilities............................    2,179,000     2,019,000
Deferred tax liabilities--net......................    3,610,000     3,740,000
Long-term debt (less current installments).........  144,750,000   319,380,000
Notes payable to selling stockholders..............          --     25,157,000
Non-current liabilities of discontinued opera-
 tions.............................................    8,375,000     5,689,000
STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIENCY):
  Class A common stock, par value $.01 per share,
   11,619 shares authorized, issued and
   outstanding.....................................        1,000         1,000
  Common stock, par value $.01 per share, 50,000
   shares authorized; 10,478 issued at December 31,
   1994 and 13,243 at October 31, 1995; 10,405
   outstanding at December 31, 1994 and 13,243 at
   October 31, 1995................................        1,000         1,000
  Additional paid-in capital.......................   42,007,000    56,135,000
  Retained earnings................................   21,841,000    25,080,000
  Distribution to stockholders of the excess of
   purchase price over book value of net assets of
   W.R. Holdings, Inc. arising from the December
   29, 1986 Recapitalization.......................  (95,253,000)  (95,253,000)
  Common stock held in treasury, at cost, 73 shares
   at
   December 31, 1994...............................      (81,000)          --
                                                    ------------  ------------
    Total stockholders' equity (deficiency)........  (31,484,000)  (14,036,000)
                                                    ------------  ------------
    TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
     (DEFICIENCY).................................. $176,757,000  $399,393,000
                                                    ============  ============
</TABLE>    
 
          See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-31
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                         YEARS ENDED             TEN MONTHS
                                  --------------------------       ENDED
                                    DECEMBER      DECEMBER        OCTOBER
                                    31, 1993      31, 1994        31, 1995
                                  ------------  ------------  -----------------
<S>                               <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Net sales........................ $176,934,000  $248,008,000  $219,366,000
  Cost of sales..................  118,626,000   173,536,000   152,781,000
                                  ------------  ------------  ------------
Gross profit.....................   58,308,000    74,472,000    66,585,000
  Selling, general and adminis-
   trative expenses..............   39,765,000    44,906,000    39,866,000
  Compensation expense relating
   to stock options..............          --        294,000     9,544,000
                                  ------------  ------------  ------------
Operating income.................   18,543,000    29,272,000    17,175,000
  Interest expense...............   13,621,000    11,750,000    11,615,000
  Interest income................     (626,000)     (284,000)     (124,000)
                                  ------------  ------------  ------------
Earnings from continuing
 operations before taxes on
 income..........................    5,548,000    17,806,000     5,684,000
  Provision for taxes on income..    1,988,000     6,080,000     2,224,000
                                  ------------  ------------  ------------
Earnings from continuing opera-
 tions...........................    3,560,000    11,726,000     3,460,000
Discontinued operations:
  Loss from operations, net of
   tax benefits of $280,000,
   $380,000 and $110,000 in 1993,
   1994 and 1995, respectively...     (432,000)   (1,328,000)     (221,000)
                                  ------------  ------------  ------------
Net earnings..................... $  3,128,000  $ 10,398,000  $  3,239,000
                                  ============  ============  ============
</TABLE>    
 
 
          See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
 
                                      F-32
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
          CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIENCY)
                 
              FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1993 AND 1994     
                    
                 AND THE TEN MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 1995     
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                         CLASS A         ADDITIONAL               DISTRIBUTION  TREASURY
                         COMMON  COMMON    PAID-IN     RETAINED        TO        STOCK,
                          STOCK   STOCK    CAPITAL     EARNINGS   STOCKHOLDERS  AT COST      TOTAL
                         ------- ------- -----------  ----------- ------------  --------  ------------
<S>                      <C>     <C>     <C>          <C>         <C>           <C>       <C>
Balance at December 31,
 1992................... $   --  $ 1,000 $10,477,000  $ 8,315,000 $(95,253,000) $(81,000) $(76,541,000)
 Net earnings...........     --      --          --     3,128,000          --        --      3,128,000
 Issuance of Class A
  common stock for
  cash..................     100     --    1,999,900          --           --        --      2,000,000
 Issuance of Class A
  common stock for
  redemption of debt....     900     --   29,236,100          --           --        --     29,237,000
                         ------- ------- -----------  ----------- ------------  --------  ------------
Balance at December 31,
 1993...................   1,000   1,000  41,713,000   11,443,000  (95,253,000)  (81,000)  (42,176,000)
 Net earnings...........     --      --          --    10,398,000          --        --     10,398,000
 Compensation relating
  to stock options......     --      --      294,000          --           --        --        294,000
                         ------- ------- -----------  ----------- ------------  --------  ------------
Balance at December 31,
 1994...................   1,000   1,000  42,007,000   21,841,000  (95,253,000)  (81,000)  (31,484,000)
 Net earnings...........     --      --          --     3,239,000          --        --      3,239,000
 Proceeds and
  compensation relating
  to exercise of stock
  options...............     --      --   13,424,000          --           --        --     13,424,000
 Reissuance of treasury
  stock.................     --      --      (81,000)         --           --     81,000           --
 Issuance of common
  stock for cash........     --      --      785,000          --           --        --        785,000
                         ------- ------- -----------  ----------- ------------  --------  ------------
Balance at October 31,
 1995................... $ 1,000 $ 1,000 $56,135,000  $25,080,000 $(95,253,000) $    --   $(14,036,000)
                         ======= ======= ===========  =========== ============  ========  ============
</TABLE>
 
 
          See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-33
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                           YEARS ENDED
                                    ---------------------------
                                                                  TEN MONTHS
                                                                     ENDED
                                      DECEMBER       DECEMBER       OCTOBER
                                      31, 1993       31, 1994      31, 1995
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
<S>                                 <C>            <C>           <C>
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING
 ACTIVITIES:
 Net earnings...................... $   3,128,000  $ 10,398,000  $   3,239,000
 Adjustments to reconcile net
  earnings to net cash provided by
  operating activities:
  Depreciation and amortization....     7,237,000     8,860,000      5,598,000
  Provision for (benefit from)
   losses on accounts receivable...       121,000       372,000       (132,000)
  Compensation expense relating to
   stock options...................           --        294,000     10,723,000
  Deferred tax liabilities--net....     2,194,000      (158,000)       130,000
  Write-off of deferred financing
   costs...........................     2,712,000       108,000      1,828,000
  Change in assets and liabilities:
   Increase in accounts
    receivable.....................    (6,274,000)   (7,624,000)    (8,838,000)
   Increase in inventories.........    (1,951,000)   (1,350,000)    (1,407,000)
   Decrease (increase) in prepaid
    expenses.......................       156,000      (188,000)      (543,000)
   Increase in accounts payable....     2,328,000     7,894,000      1,019,000
   Increase in accrued expenses....     1,707,000     3,983,000      4,446,000
   Increase (decrease) in taxes
    payable........................     1,404,000    (1,050,000)      (354,000)
   (Decrease) increase in other--
    net............................    (1,424,000)      196,000        152,000
   Discontinued operations--net....    (8,116,000)      366,000      7,718,000
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
    Cash provided by operating
     activities....................     3,222,000    22,101,000     23,579,000
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING
 ACTIVITIES:
 Additions to property, plant and
  equipment--net...................    (2,869,000)   (4,348,000)    (6,363,000)
 Acquisitions of inventory and
  machinery and equipment..........    (9,728,000)   (4,124,000)           --
 Funds held for construction.......           --            --      (2,633,000)
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
    Cash used for investing
     activities....................   (12,597,000)   (8,472,000)    (8,996,000)
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING
 ACTIVITIES:
 Repayments of long-term debt......  (155,820,000)  (34,961,000)   (47,168,000)
 Proceeds from Recapitalization....   152,500,000           --             --
 Proceeds from long-term debt......     9,597,000    17,600,000      5,200,000
 Issuance of Class A common stock..     2,000,000           --             --
 Additions to deferred financing
  costs............................    (7,374,000)     (442,000)   (19,679,000)
 Proceeds from exercise of stock
  options..........................           --            --       2,701,000
 Proceeds from issuance of debt to
  effect Merger....................           --            --     219,843,000
 Issuance of common stock..........           --            --         785,000
 Purchase price for the common
  stock of WR Acquisition, Inc. and
  certain related costs............           --            --    (147,854,000)
 Notes payable to selling
  stockholders.....................           --            --      25,157,000
 Advances to Ampad.................           --            --     (54,306,000)
 Investment in trust...............           --            --     (34,518,000)
 Proceeds from sale of accounts
  receivable.......................           --            --      35,086,000
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
    Cash provided by (used for)
     financing activities..........       903,000   (17,803,000)   (14,753,000)
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
DECREASE IN CASH AND CASH
 EQUIVALENTS.......................    (8,472,000)   (4,174,000)      (170,000)
 Cash and cash equivalents at
  beginning of period..............    12,816,000     4,344,000        170,000
                                    -------------  ------------  -------------
 Cash and cash equivalents at end
  of period........................ $   4,344,000  $    170,000  $         --
                                    =============  ============  =============
</TABLE>    
 
          See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
 
                                      F-34
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
(1) ORGANIZATION OF THE COMPANY
 
  WR Acquisition, Inc. ("Acquisition") was incorporated under Delaware law on
November 17, 1986 for the purpose of acquiring W.R. Holdings, Inc.
("Holdings") and its wholly-owned subsidiary Williamhouse-Regency of Delaware,
Inc. (the "Company"). On December 29, 1986, Acquisition acquired all of the
capital stock of Holdings through a recapitalization. On May 13, 1993,
Acquisition completed a recapitalization (the "Recapitalization") and Holdings
was merged into Acquisition, whereupon the Company became a direct, wholly-
owned subsidiary of Acquisition. (See Notes 8 and 10.)
   
  On October 31, 1995, all of Acquisition's outstanding capital stock was
acquired by American Pad & Paper Company ("Ampad") through a new wholly-owned
subsidiary, WHR Acquisition, Inc. The consolidated financial statements are
presented on a historical basis, prior to giving effect to a new basis of
accounting for the merger (the "Merger") described below. The financial
statements reflect the following transactions relating to Ampad's acquisition
of Acquisition's capital stock and the related financing executed by
Williamhouse-Regency of Delaware, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Acquisition, on October 31, 1995:     
 
<TABLE>
     <S>                                                          <C>
     Borrowings under bank credit agreement...................... $219,843,000
     Sale of accounts receivable*................................   46,988,000
     Purchase of shares from former shareholders of Acquisition:
       Cash......................................................  117,544,000
       Installment notes given to former shareholders of
        Acquisition..............................................   25,157,000
       Certain related costs of the selling shareholders.........    5,153,000
     Repayment of debt*..........................................   41,525,000
     Proceeds advanced to Ampad..................................   54,306,000
     Investment in trust.........................................   34,518,000
     Costs of financing*.........................................   19,663,000
</TABLE>
       
* Includes components relating to both continuing and discontinued operations.
 
  The purchase price for the common stock of WR Acquisition, Inc. and certain
related costs amounted to $147,854,000 and has been reflected as an asset on
the balance sheet prior to allocation. The $266,831,000 of borrowings were
used to purchase shares from the stockholders, pay expenses of the Merger, and
repay debt of both the Company and Ampad.
 
  Pursuant to an agreement and plan of merger dated October 3, 1995, on
October 31, 1995 Acquisition acquired Ampad Corporation, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Ampad, in exchange for newly issued shares of Acquisition's
common stock. Ampad Corporation was then merged into the Company, a wholly-
owned subsidiary of Acquisition, and WHR Acquisition, Inc. was merged into
Acquisition simultaneously with Ampad's purchase of Acquisition. Consequently,
Acquisition became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ampad and the Company became
an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Ampad.
 
  Acquisition does not have any properties and does not engage in any
business, other than through the operations of the Company and its wholly-
owned subsidiaries.
 
(2) ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
  A summary of the significant accounting policies which affect the Company's
consolidated financial statements is listed below:
 
                                     F-35
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
 Principles of Consolidation and Basis of Presentation:
 
  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and its subsidiaries. All significant intercompany balances and transactions
are eliminated in consolidation. Prior years figures have been restated to
reflect discontinued operations (See Note 16).
 
 Inventories:
 
  Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market (net realizable
value). The Company values its inventories on the last-in, first-out (LIFO)
method.
 
 Depreciation and Amortization:
   
  Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost. These assets, including
assets recorded under capitalized leases, are depreciated on the straight-line
method at rates which vary based upon their estimated useful lives. Leasehold
improvements are amortized on the straight-line method over the shorter of the
terms of the related leases or their useful lives. Depreciation and
amortization of property, plant and equipment from continuing operations was
$6,374,000 and $7,683,000 for the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1994,
respectively and $4,592,000 for the ten months ended October 31, 1995 .     
 
  Expenditures for maintenance and repairs are charged, as incurred, to
operations. The costs of acquisitions, additions and betterments are
capitalized. When property, plant and equipment is sold or otherwise disposed
of, the cost and the accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the
accounts.
   
  Deferred financing costs primarily relate to the issuance of debt to fund
the Merger (See Note 1). Deferred financing costs are amortized on the
straight-line method over the term of the related obligations. Amortization of
deferred financing costs from continuing operations was $838,000 and
$1,138,000 for the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1994, respectively and
$974,000 for the ten months ended October 31, 1995.     
 
 Intangibles:
   
  Intangibles are amortized, primarily on the straight-line method, over the
period of the expected benefits. Amortization of intangibles from continuing
operations was $18,000 for the year ended December 31, 1994 and $21,000 for
the ten months ended October 31, 1995.     
 
(3) ACQUISITIONS
       
  On December 20, 1993, KECA Corporation, a newly formed, wholly-owned
subsidiary of the Company, acquired the principal assets of Kimberly-Clark
Corporation's Karolton Envelope business for a purchase price of $9,597,000.
Karolton Envelope is a full-line envelope convertor based in Miamisburg, Ohio
and West Sacramento, California. The Company financed the transaction under
its senior secured financing facility. The acquisition has been accounted for
under the purchase method and, accordingly, the operating results of this
acquisition have been included in the accompanying financial statements since
the date of acquisition.
 
  The following pro forma information has been prepared assuming the
acquisition of Karolton Envelope had occurred on January 1, 1993. This pro
forma information has been prepared for comparative purposes only and does not
purport to be indicative of what would have occurred had the acquisition been
made at the beginning of 1993, or of the results which may occur in the
future. Furthermore, no effect has been given in the pro forma
 
                                     F-36
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

information for operating and synergistic benefits that are expected to be
realized as a result of the acquisition because precise estimates of such
benefits cannot be quantified. Management implemented certain cost saving
measures as of the date of consummation of the acquisition. This pro forma
information does not reflect the impact of such measures.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                       1993
                                                                   ------------
                                                                   (UNAUDITED)
     <S>                                                           <C>
     Net sales.................................................... $220,609,000
     Earnings from continuing operations.......................... $  3,233,000
</TABLE>
   
  On July 29, 1994, two wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company acquired from
Huxley Envelope Corporation its Giant, Filing and X-Ray envelope business
segments for a purchase price of $4,249,000. The Company financed the
transaction under its senior secured financing facility, a note payable to the
seller and cash. The acquisition has been accounted for under the purchase
method and, accordingly, the operating results of this acquisition have been
included in the accompanying financial statements since the date of
acquisition. This acquisition did not have a material impact on the financial
position or results of operations of the Company.     
   
  During the year ended December 31, 1993 and the ten months ended October 31,
1995, the Company completed certain other acquisitions whose aggregate
purchase price did not have a material impact on the financial position or
results of operations of the Company.     
 
(4) ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
   
  The Company entered into an agreement to sell, on a revolving basis, an
undivided interest in a designated pool of trade accounts receivable to a
trust on October 31, 1995. Accordingly, the Company transferred $46,988,000
and Ampad transferred $33,412,000 of accounts receivable to the trust. The
trust sold investor certificates representing an interest in $45,000,000 of
trust assets for which the Company received cash of $45,000,000 and credited
due from Ampad for $33,044,000. The Company holds seller certificates
representing an interest in the remaining assets of the trust of $34,518,000
which is included in accounts receivable in the Company's balance sheet at
October 31, 1995. The Company has retained substantially the same risks for
all losses, credits or other adjustments on receivables owned by the trust as
if the receivables had not been sold. Accordingly, the full amount of the
allowance for doubtful accounts has been retained.     
 
(5) INVENTORIES
 
  The major components of inventories of continuing operations are as follows:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                       DECEMBER 31, OCTOBER 31,
                                                           1994        1995
                                                       ------------ -----------
   <S>                                                 <C>          <C>
   Finished goods and work in progress................ $19,521,000  $20,902,000
   Raw materials......................................  14,620,000   14,646,000
                                                       -----------  -----------
   Total inventories.................................. $34,141,000  $35,548,000
                                                       ===========  ===========
</TABLE>    
   
  The Company values its inventories on the LIFO method. Had the first-in,
first-out (FIFO) method been used, inventories would have been $1,869,000 and
$6,695,000 higher than reported at December 31, 1994 and October 31, 1995
respectively.     
 
(6) INCOME TAXES
 
  Acquisition, the Company and its subsidiaries file a consolidated federal
income tax return.
 
                                     F-37
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  The provision for taxes on income from continuing operations is as follows:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                  YEARS ENDED        TEN MONTHS
                                           -------------------------    ENDED
                                           DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, OCTOBER 31,
                                               1993         1994        1995
                                           ------------ ------------ -----------
   <S>                                     <C>          <C>          <C>
   Current:
     Federal income taxes.................  $1,902,000   $5,317,000  $1,938,000
     State and local income taxes.........     301,000      786,000     156,000
   Deferred:
     Federal income taxes.................    (148,000)     152,000     125,000
     State and local income taxes.........     (67,000)    (175,000)      5,000
                                            ----------   ----------  ----------
   Provision for taxes on income..........  $1,988,000   $6,080,000  $2,224,000
                                            ==========   ==========  ==========
</TABLE>    
 
  The difference between the provision computed at the statutory rate and the
actual provision on consolidated earnings from continuing operations is as
follows:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                 YEARS ENDED        TEN MONTHS
                                          -------------------------    ENDED
                                          DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, OCTOBER 31,
                                              1993         1994        1995
                                          ------------ ------------ -----------
   <S>                                    <C>          <C>          <C>
   Federal income taxes at statutory
    rate................................      35.0%        35.0%       35.0%
   Tax on permanent differences, net of
    federal jobs tax credit.............        .6         (1.6)        0.1
   State and local income taxes, net of
    related federal income tax benefit..       2.8           .4         1.8
   Other--net...........................      (2.6)          .3         2.2
                                              ----         ----        ----
   Effective tax rate...................      35.8%        34.1%       39.1%
                                              ====         ====        ====
</TABLE>    
 
  The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant
portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities of continuing
operations are presented below:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                        DECEMBER 31, OCTOBER 31,
                                                            1994        1995
                                                        ------------ -----------
   <S>                                                  <C>          <C>
   Deferred tax assets:
   Allowance for doubtful accounts.....................  $  378,000  $  211,000
   Inventory--uniform capitalization...................     495,000     364,000
   Vacation pay accruals...............................     754,000     573,000
   Other...............................................     850,000     560,000
                                                         ----------  ----------
   Total gross deferred tax assets.....................   2,477,000   1,708,000
                                                         ----------  ----------
   Deferred tax liabilities:
   Depreciation........................................   6,029,000   5,382,000
   Other...............................................      58,000      66,000
                                                         ----------  ----------
   Total gross deferred tax liabilities................   6,087,000   5,448,000
                                                         ----------  ----------
   Net deferred tax liabilities........................  $3,610,000  $3,740,000
                                                         ==========  ==========
</TABLE>    
 
  The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependant upon the
generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those
temporary differences become deductible. Management considers the scheduled
reversal of deferred tax liabilities and projected future taxable income in
making this assessment. As of October 31, 1995, management considers all
deferred tax assets to be realizable.
 
                                     F-38
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  The Company adopted, effective January 1, 1993, the Financial Accounting
Standards Board's ("FASB") Statement 109, "Accounting for Income Taxes." The
adoption of FASB 109 did not have a material impact on the Company's
consolidated financial position or results of operations for the year ended
December 31, 1993.
 
(7) ACCRUED EXPENSES
 
  Accrued expenses consist of the following:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                       DECEMBER 31, OCTOBER 31,
                                                           1994        1995
                                                       ------------ -----------
   <S>                                                 <C>          <C>
   Salaries and wages................................. $ 4,344,000  $ 4,438,000
   Taxes, other than taxes on income..................     402,000    4,293,000
   Interest...........................................   1,014,000    4,455,000
   Sales volume discounts.............................   5,179,000    3,638,000
   Other..............................................   3,597,000    2,158,000
                                                       -----------  -----------
   Total accrued expenses............................. $14,536,000  $18,982,000
                                                       ===========  ===========
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-39
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
 
(8) DEBT ARRANGEMENTS
 
  Long-term debt is comprised of the following:
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                    DECEMBER 31, 1994        OCTOBER 31, 1995
                                 ----------------------- ------------------------
                                  CURRENT    LONG-TERM     CURRENT    LONG-TERM
                                 ---------- ------------ ----------- ------------
<S>                              <C>        <C>          <C>         <C>
Senior secured financing facil-
 ity:
  Senior bank financing term
   loans and revolving credit
   facility due in varying
   amounts from 1996 through
   2004........................  $      --  $        --  $10,000,000 $209,843,000
  Term loans due through 1998
   payable to banks with
   quarterly principal payments
   of $1,461,250 except for the
   final payment of
   $2,392,000..................   5,845,000   14,082,000         --           --
  Revolving credit line due
   1998 payable to banks.......         --    20,000,000         --           --
Senior subordinated debentures
 due 2005 payable to institu-
 tions with interest at 11
 1/2%..........................         --   100,000,000         --   100,000,000
Industrial revenue bond,
 interest at 7 3/4%; with
 monthly principal payments
 varying from $11,000 to
 $16,300 due through 2000 (less
 unamortized discount of
 $41,000 in 1994).................  132,000      720,000         --           --
Industrial revenue bonds, in-
 terest at 89.2% of prime; with
 quarterly principal payments
 varying from $85,000 to
 $57,000 due through 2002......     341,000    2,102,000         --           --
Industrial revenue bonds,
 interest at 3.99%; with annual
 principal payments of $700,000
 due through 1998..............     700,000    1,400,000     700,000    1,400,000
Industrial revenue bonds,
 interest ranging from 4.24% to
 4.28% in 1994 and 4.28% in
 1995; with annual principal
 payments of $480,000 due
 through 1998..................     800,000    2,475,000     480,000      960,000
Industrial revenue bonds,
 interest at 5.11%; with
 quarterly principal payments
 varying from $320,000 to
 $395,000 due through 2010.....         --           --      320,000    4,880,000
Note payable, interest at prime
 plus 1.75%; with quarterly
 principal payments of $62,500
 due through 1998..............     250,000      688,000         --           --
Other, interest ranging from
 2.0% to 3.0%; due through
 2004..........................     490,000    3,283,000     344,000    2,297,000
                                 ---------- ------------ ----------- ------------
Total long-term debt...........  $8,558,000 $144,750,000 $11,844,000 $319,380,000
                                 ========== ============ =========== ============
</TABLE>    
   
  In connection with the Recapitalization in 1993, $100,000,000 in aggregate
principal amount of senior subordinated debentures were issued in a private
placement. The senior subordinated debentures bore interest at the rate of 11
1/2% per annum, payable June 15 and December 15, and matured on June 15, 2005,
unless redeemed prior to such date. The senior subordinated debentures were
unsecured, general obligations of the Company, and were subordinated to all
senior debt of the Company and its subsidiaries, including the senior secured
financing     
 
                                     F-40
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
facility. Payment of the principal and interest on the senior subordinated
debentures was guaranteed by Acquisition. On December 1, 1995, $99,990,000 of
the senior subordinated debentures were redeemed at a price of 109% of the
aggregate principal amount, plus accrued interest, excluding $10,000 in
principal amount which was not tendered in response to the offer. Payment of
this outstanding debenture was made on February 22, 1996.     
   
  In connection with the Recapitalization, the Company repaid, at par, all
$27,500,000 in aggregate principal amount of the senior variable rate notes;
repaid, at par, all $50,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the 12 3/4%
senior notes; repaid, at par, all $45,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of
the 13 1/2% senior subordinated notes; and repaid, at par, $25,000,000 in
aggregate principal amount (of the $40,000,000 in aggregate principal amount
outstanding) of the 14% subordinated debentures. The remaining $15,000,000 in
aggregate principal amount of the 14% subordinated debentures were exchanged,
at par, for 5,715 shares of Acquisition's Class A common stock; and all
$15,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of Acquisition's 14 1/2% junior
subordinated debentures were exchanged, at 90% of par, for 5,142 shares of
Acquisition's Class A common stock. (See Note 10.)     
 
  In connection with the Merger on October 31, 1995, new debt in the amount of
$219,843,000 was issued. The existing term and revolving credit loans, in the
amounts of $15,544,000 and $20,000,000, respectively, were redeemed. The
Company wrote-off unamortized deferred financing costs, in the amount of
$1,762,000, related to the redemption of these loans. In addition, the Company
retired, ahead of scheduled maturities, certain industrial revenue bonds and
other indebtedness totaling $5,981,000.
 
  Ampad, Acquisition and the Company entered into a Bank Credit Agreement with
Bankers Trust Company as agent (the "Agent"), providing for term loans of
$245.0 million and a revolving credit facility of $45.0 million. Loans under
the Bank Credit Agreement are comprised of a multi-tranche facility with
principal payments scheduled from 1996 through 2004 in the form of (i) a term
loan facility (the "Tranche A Term Loan Facility") in the amount of $95.0
million ($25.2 million of which will be borrowed in January 1996), (ii) a
second term loan facility (the "Tranche B Term Loan Facility") in the amount
of $65.0 million, (iii) a third term loan facility (the "Tranche C Term Loan
Facility") in the amount of $45 million, (iv) a fourth term loan facility (the
"Tranche D Term Loan Facility", and together with the Tranche A Term Loan
Facility, the Tranche B Term Loan Facility and the Tranche C Term Loan
Facility, the "Term Loan Facilities") in the amount of $40.0 million, (v) a
revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility", and together with
the Term Loan Facilities, the "Senior Bank Financing") in the amount of $45
million which includes a letter of credit sub-limit of $20.0 million and (vi)
an IRB letter of credit facility in the amount of $13.4 million. Ampad and the
Company used the Senior Bank Financing to provide funding necessary to
consummate the acquisition and merger described in Note 1, with the Revolving
Credit Facility being used for working capital needs.
 
  Indebtedness under the Bank Credit Agreement is guaranteed by Ampad,
Acquisition and the Company and all current and future domestic subsidiaries
of the Company and is secured by (i) a perfected security interest in
substantially all the assets and property of the Company and its subsidiaries,
and (ii) a first priority perfected pledge of all capital stock of the Company
and its current subsidiaries.
 
  Indebtedness under the Bank Credit Agreement varies by tranche. The Tranche
A Term Loan Facility is a five-year facility with quarterly principal payments
scheduled from 1996 through 2000 and bears interest at a rate (at the
Company's option) of (a) the Eurodollar Rate (as defined in the Bank Credit
Agreement) plus 275.0 basis points less an interest reduction discount of 25
basis or 50 basis points if the Company meets certain targets for its coverage
and leverage ratios (the "Interest Reduction Discount") or (b) the applicable
base rate of Bankers Trust Company, which is the higher of 1/2 of 1% in excess
of the Adjusted Certificate of Deposit Rate (as defined in the Bank Credit
Agreement) and the prime lending rate announced from time to time by Bankers
Trust Company (the "Base Rate") plus 175.0 basis points less the Interest
Reduction Discount, if applicable.
 
                                     F-41
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

The Tranche B Term Loan Facility is a seven-year facility with quarterly
principal payments scheduled in 2001 and 2002, with nominal quarterly payments
prior to that time, and bears interest at a rate (at the Company's option) of
(a) the Eurodollar Rate plus 337.5 basis points or (b) the Base Rate plus
237.5 basis points. The Tranche C Term Loan Facility is an eight-year facility
with quarterly principal payments scheduled in 2003, with nominal annual
principal payments prior to that time, and bears interest at a rate (at the
Company's option) of (a) the Eurodollar Rate plus 375.0 basis points or (b)
the Base Rate plus 275.0 basis points. The Tranche D Term Loan Facility is an
eight and one-half year facility with quarterly principal payments scheduled
for 2004, with nominal annual principal payments prior to that time and bears
interest at a rate (at the Company's option) of (a) the Eurodollar Rate plus
400.0 basis points or (b) the Base Rate plus 300.0 basis points. The Revolving
Credit Facility is a five-year facility bearing interest at a rate (at the
Company's option) of (a) the Eurodollar Rate plus 275.0 basis points less the
Interest Reduction Discount, if applicable. In addition, the Bank Credit
Agreement provides for mandatory repayment, subject to certain expectations,
of the Senior Bank Financing upon the occurrence of certain events including,
but not limited to, asset sales, certain equity and debt issuances, insurance
recovery events and the accumulation of excess cash (with a requirement to pay
50% of Excess Cash Flow (as defined therein) for the period ending on December
31, 1995 and 75% of Excess Cash Flow per annum thereafter), each subject to
certain exceptions.
 
  The Revolving Credit Facility may be repaid and reborrowed. The Company is
required to pay the lenders under the Bank Credit Agreement in the aggregate a
commitment fee equal to 1/2 of 1% per annum, payable on a quarterly basis, on
the daily average unused portion of the Aggregate Unutilized Commitment (as
defined in the Bank Credit Agreement). The Company also is required to pay to
the lenders participating in the Revolving Credit Facility letter of credit
fees equal to the Applicable Eurodollar Margin (as defined in the Bank Credit
Agreement) in effect as of such time for loans under the Revolving Credit
Facility and to the lender issuing a letter of credit a facing fee of 0.25% on
the average daily stated amount of each outstanding letter of credit issued by
such lender and its customary administrative charges in connection with such
letters of credit.
 
  The Bank Credit Agreement requires the Company to meet certain financial
tests, including minimum levels of consolidated EBITDA (as defined therein),
minimum interest coverage and maximum leverage ratio. The Bank Credit
Agreement also contains covenants which, among other things, limit the
incurrence of additional indebtedness, dividends, transactions with
affiliates, asset sales, acquisitions, mergers, prepayment of other
indebtedness, liens and encumbrances and other matters customarily restricted
in such agreements.
 
  The Bank Credit Agreement contains customary events of default, including
payment defaults, breach of representations and warranties, covenant defaults,
cross-defaults to certain other indebtedness, certain events of bankruptcy and
insolvency, ERISA, judgement defaults, failure of any guaranty or security
agreement supporting the Bank Credit Agreement to be in full force and effect
and change of control of Ampad.
          
  The Company and certain of its subsidiaries had letters of credit issued to
guaranty the payment obligation due, as required, for industrial revenue bond
financings. At December 31, 1994 and October 31, 1995, the amounts were
$5,375,000 and $8,740,000, respectively. In addition, the Company had letters
of credit issued for other than industrial revenue bond financings. As of
December 31, 1994 and October 31, 1995, the amounts were $2,102,000 and
$2,602,000, respectively.     
   
  Certain manufacturing facilities of the Company were financed from the
proceeds of industrial revenue bonds. Lease purchase and other financing
arrangements, directly or indirectly, with the respective industrial
development authorities provide that the Company may purchase the
manufacturing facilities at any time during the lease or financing term. At
December 31, 1994 and October 31, 1995, the net book value of manufacturing
facilities acquired pursuant to these lease purchase and other financing
arrangements was approximately $16,122,000 and $12,162,000, respectively. Such
assets are included within property, plant and equipment.     
 
                                     F-42
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  Payments of the principal and interest on the industrial revenue bonds are
guaranteed by one or more of the following: Acquisition, the Company or a
wholly-owned subsidiary.
 
  The aggregate amount of long-term debt, including industrial revenue bonds,
maturing during each of the years in the five-year period subsequent to
October 31, 1995 is as follows: 1996, $11,844,000; 1997, $16,785,000; 1998,
$21,793,000; 1999, $27,697,000; 2000, $6,003,000 and $247,102,000 thereafter.
 
(9) NOTES PAYABLE TO SELLING STOCKHOLDERS
 
  On October 31, 1995, in conjunction with the Merger, Acquisition issued
notes payable, due January 3, 1996, bearing interest at 1%, to certain selling
stockholders who elected to defer payment, for an aggregate of 4,383 shares of
common stock, until 1996 rather than on the Merger date. Acquisition issued
letters of credit to guaranty the payment obligation due. Subsequent to
October 31, 1995, the notes were refinanced on a long term basis; and
therefore, the notes have been reflected as a non-current liability on the
October 31, 1995 financial statements.
 
(10) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (DEFICIENCY)
 
 Class A Common Stock:
 
  In 1993, in connection with the Recapitalization, Acquisition's Certificate
of Incorporation was amended to authorize the issuance of 11,619 shares, par
value $.01 per share, of Acquisition's Class A common stock. The Class A
common stock is identical to Acquisition's common stock, except for a
preference on liquidation equal to $2,625 per share, the initial purchase
price thereof, and is convertible on a share-for-share basis into common
stock.
 
  On May 13, 1993, in connection with the Recapitalization, 762 shares were
issued to the Chief Executive Officer of Acquisition and the Company, for
$2,000,000; 5,715 shares were exchanged for $15,000,000 in aggregate principal
amount of the 14% subordinated debentures due 1998, at par; and 5,142 shares
were exchanged for $15,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of the 14 1/2%
junior subordinated debentures due 1998, at 90% of par. (See Note 8).
 
 Common Stock:
 
  On December 29, 1986, in connection with the 1986 recapitalization, holders
of the common stock of Holdings received an aggregate of $100,000,000, or
$100,000 per share, resulting in an excess of cost over book value of the net
assets acquired in the amount of $95,253,000. This was treated as a
distribution to stockholders resulting in a reduction of stockholders' equity.
 
 Stock Option Plan:
 
  In March, 1987, the Board of Directors adopted a Stock Option Plan which
provides for the granting of stock options for shares of Acquisition's common
stock to key employees of the Company and its subsidiaries who are responsible
for managing the operations of the Company and its subsidiaries. The Stock
Option Plan provided for an aggregate of 1,722 shares of common stock to be
available for stock grants. The exercise price for the options was $1,000 per
share, which was the fair value of the stock on the date of grant.
 
  In May, 1993, in connection with the Recapitalization, the Stock Option Plan
was amended, making 1,243 shares of Acquisition's common stock available for
grant. Of these shares, 688 were granted to key employees of the Company and
its subsidiaries in 1993 and the remaining 555 shares were granted in 1995.
The exercise price of these options was $1,312.50 per share, which represented
one half of the negotiated per share price for
 
                                     F-43
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)

the Class A common stock issued pursuant to the Recapitalization. The
aggregate compensation expense related to the 1,243 shares granted of
$1,631,000 was being amortized over the period January, 1994 through May,
1998. As a result of the change in control of Acquisition resulting from the
Merger, the stock options, which were vesting over a period of five years,
became 100% vested. As a result, in accordance with the Emerging Issues Task
Force 85-45 "Business Combinations: Settlement of Stock Options and Awards,"
Acquisition recorded compensation expense of $9,544,000 from continuing
operations for the ten month period ended October 31, 1995.
 
  A summary of transactions under the plan is as follows:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                       DECEMBER 31,
                                                       ------------- OCTOBER 31,
                                                        1993   1994     1995
                                                       ------ ------ -----------
   <S>                                                 <C>    <C>    <C>
   Outstanding and exercisable, January 1.............  1,317  2,283    2,283
   Granted at $1,000 per share........................    278    --       --
   Granted at $1,312.50 per share.....................    688    --       555
   Exercised at $1,000 per share......................    --     --    (1,595)
   Exercised at $1,312.50 per share...................    --     --    (1,243)
                                                       ------ ------   ------
   Outstanding and exercisable........................  2,283  2,283      --
                                                       ====== ======   ======
   Available for grant................................    555    555      --
                                                       ====== ======   ======
</TABLE>    
 
(11) COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 
  The Company is involved in various litigation incidental to the conduct of
its business, the outcome of which is not expected to be material to the
Company's financial position or results of operations.
 
 Change in Control Severance Compensation Agreements:
 
  Prior to the Merger, the Company entered into change in control severance
compensation agreements with certain of its executives. These agreements are
effective for thirty six months after the Merger and provide for income and
benefit protection upon termination of employment (as defined). The Company
believes that the maximum amount of the severance payments that could be paid
will not exceed $11 million based upon current compensation. This liability
has been assumed by Ampad.
 
 Leases:
 
  Future minimum payments under operating leases, primarily for buildings and
equipment relating to continuing operations, consisted of the following at
October 31, 1995:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      AMOUNTS
                                                                    -----------
     <S>                                                            <C>
     1996.......................................................... $ 2,001,000
     1997..........................................................   1,872,000
     1998..........................................................   1,711,000
     1999..........................................................   1,172,000
     2000..........................................................     956,000
     Later years...................................................   6,474,000
                                                                    -----------
     Total minimum lease payments.................................. $14,186,000
                                                                    ===========
</TABLE>
   
  Rent expense from continuing operations was $1,565,000 and $2,358,000 for
the years ended December 31, 1993 and 1994, respectively and $1,552,000 for
the ten months ended October 31, 1995.     
 
                                     F-44
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
(12) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
 
  On March 11, 1992, the Board of Directors authorized the termination of the
Company's defined benefit plan covering certain salaried and non-union
employees. The termination was effective June 30, 1992, and all participants
in the plan became fully vested as of that date.
 
  As of October 31, 1995, the initial payout for the account of each
participant, using current U.S. Government approved discount rates, has been
made. Excess assets are to be distributed based upon a formula adopted by the
plan and approved by the Internal Revenue Service. These payments will
commence in early 1996 and will consist of lump-sum payments. It is
anticipated that this distribution will be substantially completed by June 30,
1996.
   
  The Company established a voluntary 401(k) savings plan covering certain
salaried and non-union employees effective July 1, 1992. The Company's
matching contribution, based on employee contributions, is vested after five
years of participation. The Company's matching contribution from continuing
operations amounted to $79,000 and $146,000 for the years ended December 31,
1993 and 1994, respectively, and $171,000 for the ten months ended October 31,
1995.     
 
(13) EXECUTIVE INCENTIVE COMPENSATION PLAN
 
  The Company's executive incentive compensation plan, which commenced in
1983, provides for incentive awards to certain key executives of the Company
and its subsidiaries. The plan is administered by the Board of Directors. At
the end of each year during the life of the plan, the Board will make cash
awards based upon the attainment of annual predefined operating profit
objectives.
   
  Awards under the plan are charged to operations in the year earned. For the
ten months ended October 31, 1995, $600,000 was charged to continuing
operations. Attainment of the annual predefined objective will be based on
results of operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 1995. In 1993
and 1994, awards of $650,000 and $1,010,000 were charged to continuing
operations, respectively.     
 
(14) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
  Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information from continuing operations
is as follows:
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                                  YEARS ENDED
                                           -------------------------
                                                                     TEN MONTHS
                                                                        ENDED
                                           DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, OCTOBER 31,
                                               1993         1994        1995
                                           ------------ ------------ -----------
   <S>                                     <C>          <C>          <C>
   Cash paid for:
     Interest............................. $ 18,883,000 $ 16,298,000 $10,372,000
     Income taxes......................... $  2,332,000 $  6,725,000 $ 5,906,000
</TABLE>    
 
  The Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for 1993 excludes the effect of
certain non-cash financing activities related to the Recapitalization. (See
Notes 8 and 10.) The following is a summary of the non-cash effects of this
transaction.
 
<TABLE>
   <S>                                                            <C>
   Decrease in long-term debt.................................... $(30,000,000)
   Increase in Class A common stock..............................        1,000
   Increase in additional paid-in capital........................   29,999,000
                                                                  ------------
                                                                  $        --
                                                                  ============
</TABLE>
 
 
                                     F-45
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
   
  The Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for 1995 excludes the effect of
certain non-cash financing activities related to the Merger. The following is
a summary of the non-cash effects of this transaction.     
 
<TABLE>     
   <S>                                                                  <C>
   Increase in treasury stock.......................................... $81,000
   Decrease in additional paid-in capital.............................. (81,000)
                                                                        -------
                                                                        $   --
                                                                        =======
</TABLE>    
 
(15) FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
 
 Cash, Trade Accounts Receivable, Trade Accounts Payable:
 
  The carrying amount of cash, trade accounts receivable and trade accounts
payable approximates fair value because of the short maturity of these
instruments. As is customary for the industry, the Company performs ongoing
credit evaluations of its customers financial condition and generally requires
no collateral.
 
 Long-term Debt:
       
  At October 31, 1995, the estimated fair value of the Company's term loans
was $219,843,000, which was the carrying amount of these long-term debt
instruments. The estimated fair value of the Company's term loans was based on
the quoted market prices for the same or similar issues or on the current
rates offered to the Company for debt of the same remaining maturities. The
estimated fair value of the Company's senior subordinated debentures was
$109,000,000, which was the redemption price, (See Note 8), while the carrying
value of these long-term debt instruments was $100,000,000.
 
  It was not practical to estimate the fair value of the Company's industrial
revenue bonds which are not publicly traded, or considered comparable to any
financial instruments currently in the market. As of October 31, 1995, these
industrial revenue bonds have a carrying amount of $8,740,000, including
$1,500,000 which is currently due. The bonds have interest rates ranging from
3.99% to 5.11%. The bonds are due on varying dates through the year 2010.
 
 Limitations:
 
  Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant
market information and information about the financial instrument. These
estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of
significant judgement and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision.
Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.
 
(16) DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
  In December, 1995, the management of Ampad made a decision to sell the
Personalizing segment of the business. The Company expects to sell the
discontinued operations at a gain within one year. Accordingly, the
consolidated financial statements have been restated to report separately the
net assets and operating results of this segment. The Company's prior years
operating results have been restated to reflect continuing operations.
   
  The Company allocated interest to the discontinued operations in the amounts
of $5,837,000, $4,823,000 and $2,130,000 for the years ended December 31, 1993
and 1994 and the ten months ended October 31, 1995, respectively. Consolidated
interest that is not attributable to specific operations of the Company was
allocated based on the ratio of net assets of the discontinued operations to
the sum of total net assets of the consolidated company plus consolidated debt
that is not attributable to specific operations of the Company or debt of the
discontinued operations that will be assumed by a buyer.     
 
                                     F-46
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
(17) GUARANTOR SUBSIDIARIES OF 13% SENIOR SUBORDINATED NOTES DUE NOVEMBER 15,
2005
 
  On December 1, 1995, the Company sold, at par, $200 million of 13% Senior
Subordinated Notes due November 15, 2005 (the "13% Notes"). The 13% Notes are
guaranteed by all of the Company's principal subsidiaries. The following
financial information presents condensed consolidating financial statements
for (i) the Company only ("Parent"); (ii) the guaranteeing subsidiaries on a
combined basis ("Guarantor Subsidiaries") and (iii) the Company on a
consolidated basis. The following statements do not include WR Acquisition,
Inc., which is not a party to the 13% Senior Subordinated Notes agreement.
 
  The guarantor subsidiaries include the discontinued operations prior to
allocation of interest and elimination of management fee.
 
                                     F-47
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
            WILLIAMHOUSE-REGENCY OF DELAWARE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS
                                ($000'S OMITTED)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                          WILLIAMHOUSE-                             WILLIAMHOUSE
                            REGENCY OF                               REGENCY OF
                          DELAWARE, INC.  GUARANTOR   INTERCOMPANY DELAWARE, INC.
                             (PARENT)    SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS  CONSOLIDATED
                          -------------- ------------ ------------ --------------
<S>                       <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>
DECEMBER 31, 1994
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash....................     $    138      $    887     $    --       $  1,025
Accounts receivable,
 net....................       15,639        27,582          --         43,221
Inventories.............       21,497        24,177       (1,716)       43,958
Prepaid expenses........          478           493          --            971
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total current assets..       37,752        53,139       (1,716)       89,175
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Property, plant and
 equipment..............       55,467       110,018          --        165,485
Less accumulated depre-
 ciation and amortiza-
 tion...................       25,956        60,264          --         86,220
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Net property, plant and
 equipment..............       29,511        49,754          --         79,265
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Advances to and
 receivable from
 Acquisition............      184,329           --           --        184,329
Advances to and
 investment in
 subsidiaries...........       16,533           --       (16,533)          --
Advances to Parent......          --         38,057      (38,057)          --
Deferred financing
 costs, less accumulated
 amortization...........        5,978           604          --          6,582
Other assets............         (876)          336        2,275         1,735
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total assets..........     $273,227      $141,890     $(54,031)     $361,086
                             ========      ========     ========      ========
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and
 other current
 liabilities............     $ 14,207      $ 24,867     $   (103)     $ 38,971
Current installments of
 long-term debt.........        6,726         3,630          --         10,356
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total current
   liabilities..........       20,933        28,497         (103)       49,327
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Non-current
 liabilities............        2,179           --           --          2,179
Deferred tax
 liabilities--net.......        3,202         1,942         (428)        4,716
Long-term debt (less
 current installments)..      139,120        12,899          --        152,019
Advances from Parent....          --         10,399      (10,399)          --
Advances from
 subsidiaries...........       38,057           --       (38,057)          --
Stockholders' equity
 (deficiency)
Common stock............          845           659       (1,004)          500
Additional paid-in
 capital................       67,931        56,523       (1,936)      122,518
Retained earnings.......          960        30,971       (2,104)       29,827
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total stockholders'
   equity (deficiency)..       69,736        88,153       (5,044)      152,845
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total liabilities and
   stockholders' equity
   (deficiency).........     $273,227      $141,890     $(54,031)     $361,086
                             ========      ========     ========      ========
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-48
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
                     WILLIAMHOUSE-REGENCY OF DELAWARE, INC.
                                AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING BALANCE SHEETS
                                ($000'S OMITTED)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                          WILLIAMHOUSE-                             WILLIAMHOUSE
                            REGENCY OF                               REGENCY OF
                          DELAWARE, INC.  GUARANTOR   INTERCOMPANY DELAWARE, INC.
                             (PARENT)    SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS  CONSOLIDATED
                          -------------- ------------ ------------ --------------
<S>                       <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>
OCTOBER 31, 1995
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash....................     $   (719)     $    758     $    --       $     39
Accounts receivable,
 net....................       21,920        17,397          103        39,420
Inventories.............       23,755        24,218       (2,742)       45,231
Prepaid expenses........          951         3,995          --          4,946
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total current assets..       45,907        46,368       (2,639)       89,636
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Property, plant and
 equipment..............       61,127       102,932          --        164,059
Less accumulated depre-
 ciation and amortiza-
 tion...................       28,871        55,880          --         84,751
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Net property, plant and
 equipment..............       32,256        47,052          --         79,308
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Due from Ampad..........       54,306           --           --         54,306
Advances to and
 receivable from
 Acquisition............      158,751           --           --        158,751
Advances to and
 investment in
 subsidiaries...........       16,050           --       (16,050)          --
Advances to Parent......          --         48,662      (48,662)          --
Deferred financing
 costs, less accumulated
 amortization...........       22,928           445          --         23,373
Other assets............        1,475           423        2,275         4,173
Purchase price for the
 common stock of
 WR Acquisition, Inc.
 and certain related
 costs..................      147,854           --           --        147,854
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total assets..........     $479,527      $142,950     $(65,076)     $557,401
                             ========      ========     ========      ========
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable and
 other current liabili-
 ties...................     $ 25,812      $ 17,463     $    --       $ 43,275
Current installments of
 long-term debt.........       10,662         2,767          --         13,429
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total current liabili-
   ties.................       36,474        20,230          --         56,704
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
Non-current liabili-
 ties...................        2,019           --           --          2,019
Deferred tax
 liabilities--net.......       (2,444)        8,409         (786)        5,179
Long-term debt (less
 current installments)..      317,020         6,611          --        323,631
Advances from Parent....          --          3,416       (3,416)          --
Advances from subsidiar-
 ies....................       48,662           --       (48,662)          --
Stockholders'
 equity(deficiency)
Common stock............          845           662       (1,007)          500
Additional paid-in capi-
 tal....................       83,529        61,398       (8,434)      136,493
Retained earnings.......       (6,578)       42,224       (2,771)       32,875
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total stockholders'
   equity (deficiency)..       77,796       104,284      (12,212)      169,868
                             --------      --------     --------      --------
  Total liabilities and
   stockholders' equity
   (deficiency).........     $479,527      $142,950     $(65,076)     $557,401
                             ========      ========     ========      ========
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-49
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
                     WILLIAMHOUSE-REGENCY OF DELAWARE, INC.
                                AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                     CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                                ($000'S OMITTED)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                          WILLIAMHOUSE-                            WILLIAMHOUSE-
                            REGENCY OF                               REGENCY OF
                          DELAWARE, INC.  GUARANTOR   INTERCOMPANY DELAWARE, INC.
                             (PARENT)    SUBSIDIARIES ELIMINATIONS  CONSOLIDATED
                          -------------- ------------ ------------ --------------
<S>                       <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
 1993
Net sales...............     $ 79,301      $215,048     $   --        $294,349
  Cost of sales.........       50,114       140,095         144        190,353
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Gross profit............       29,187        74,953        (144)       103,996
  Selling, general and
   administrative ex-
   penses...............       24,553        53,241         --          77,794
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Operating income........        4,634        21,712        (144)        26,202
  Management fee charged
   by Parent............       (8,491)        8,491         --             --
  Interest expense......       18,718         1,622         --          20,340
  Interest income.......         (319)         (311)        --            (630)
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Earnings before taxes on
 income.................       (5,274)       11,910        (144)         6,492
  Provision for taxes on
   income...............       (1,689)        3,910          50          2,271
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Net earnings............     $ (3,585)     $  8,000     $  (194)      $  4,221
                             ========      ========     =======       ========
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
 1994
Net sales...............     $135,073      $232,979     $   --        $368,052
  Cost of sales.........       94,372       154,079         154        248,605
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Gross profit............       40,701        78,900        (154)       119,447
  Selling, general and
   administrative ex-
   penses...............       29,229        56,893         --          86,122
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Operating income........       11,472        22,007        (154)        33,325
  Management fee charged
   by Parent............       (5,486)        5,486         --             --
  Interest expense......       15,946         1,311         --          17,257
  Interest income.......         (253)          (71)        --            (324)
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Earnings before taxes on
 income.................        1,265        15,281        (154)        16,392
  Provision for taxes on
   income...............          103         5,754         (54)         5,803
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Net earnings............     $  1,162      $  9,527     $  (100)      $ 10,589
                             ========      ========     =======       ========
TEN MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER
 31, 1995
Net sales...............     $109,849      $201,986     $   --        $311,835
  Cost of sales.........       77,442       130,496       1,026        208,964
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Gross profit............       32,407        71,490      (1,026)       102,871
  Selling, general and
   administrative ex-
   penses...............       27,243        45,890         --          73,133
  Compensation expense
   relating to stock op-
   tions...                     8,837         1,886         --          10,723
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Operating income........       (3,673)       23,714      (1,026)        19,015
  Management fee charged
   by Parent............       (4,444)        4,444         --             --
  Interest expense......       13,360           720         --          14,080
  Interest income.......         (117)           (8)        --            (125)
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Earnings before taxes on
 income.................      (12,472)       18,558      (1,026)         5,060
  Provision for taxes on
   income...............       (3,868)        6,239        (359)         2,012
                             --------      --------     -------       --------
Net earnings............     $ (8,604)     $ 12,319     $  (667)      $  3,048
                             ========      ========     =======       ========
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-50
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
            WILLIAMHOUSE-REGENCY OF DELAWARE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
       CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS ($000'S OMITTED)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                     WILLIAMHOUSE-               WILLIAMHOUSE-
                                       REGENCY OF                  REGENCY OF
                                     DELAWARE, INC.  GUARANTOR   DELAWARE, INC.
                                        (PARENT)    SUBSIDIARIES  CONSOLIDATED
                                     -------------- ------------ --------------
<S>                                  <C>            <C>          <C>
DECEMBER 31, 1993
Net cash provided by operating
 activities........................    $   1,062      $  9,065     $  10,127
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
Cash flows from investing
 activities
Additions to property, plant and
 equipment--net....................       (2,344)       (2,377)       (4,721)
Acquisitions of inventory and
 machinery and equipment...........       (9,728)         (693)      (10,421)
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
  Cash used for investing
   activities......................      (12,072)       (3,070)      (15,142)
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
Cash flows from financing
 activities
Repayments of long-term debt.......     (169,666)       (3,977)     (173,643)
Proceeds from Recapitalization.....      152,500           --        152,500
Proceeds from long-term debt.......        9,597           --          9,597
Additions to deferred financing
 costs.............................       (7,374)          --         (7,374)
Advances from Parent...............        2,387        14,413        16,800
Advances from (to) subsidiaries....       15,131       (15,131)          --
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
  Cash provided by (used for)
   financing activities............        2,575        (4,695)       (2,120)
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
(Decrease) increase in cash and
 cash equivalents..................       (8,435)        1,300        (7,135)
Cash and cash equivalents at
 beginning of period...............       12,672            23        12,695
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of
 period............................    $   4,237      $  1,323     $   5,560
                                       =========      ========     =========
DECEMBER 31, 1994
Net cash provided by operating ac-
 tivities..........................    $   9,140      $ 16,829     $  25,969
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
Cash flows from investing activi-
 ties
Additions to property, plant and
 equipment--net....................       (3,404)       (2,829)       (6,233)
Acquisitions of inventory and ma-
 chinery and equipment.............       (1,293)       (2,831)       (4,124)
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
  Cash used for investing activi-
   ties............................       (4,697)       (5,660)      (10,357)
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
Cash flows from financing activi-
 ties
Repayments of long-term debt.......      (33,098)       (3,953)      (37,051)
Proceeds from long-term debt.......       16,600         1,000        17,600
Additions to deferred financing
 costs.............................         (177)         (622)         (799)
Advances from (to) Parent..........        7,701        (7,598)          103
Advances from (to) subsidiaries....          432          (432)          --
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
  Cash used for financing activi-
   ties............................       (8,542)      (11,605)      (20,147)
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
Decrease in cash and cash equiva-
 lents.............................       (4,099)         (436)       (4,535)
Cash and cash equivalents at begin-
 ning of period....................        4,237         1,323         5,560
                                       ---------      --------     ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of
 period............................    $     138      $    887     $   1,025
                                       =========      ========     =========
</TABLE>    
 
 
                                      F-51
<PAGE>
 
                     WR ACQUISITION, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
                     WILLIAMHOUSE-REGENCY OF DELAWARE, INC.
                                AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
                CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                ($000'S OMITTED)
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                      WILLIAMHOUSE-               WILLIAMHOUSE-
                                        REGENCY OF                  REGENCY OF
                                      DELAWARE, INC.  GUARANTOR   DELAWARE, INC.
                                         (PARENT)    SUBSIDIARIES  CONSOLIDATED
                                      -------------- ------------ --------------
OCTOBER 31, 1995
<S>                                   <C>            <C>          <C>
Net cash provided by operating ac-
 tivities...........................    $   1,117      $ 15,532     $  16,649
                                        ---------      --------     ---------
Cash flows from investing activities
Additions to property, plant and
 equipment--net.....................       (5,735)       (2,821)       (8,556)
Funds held for construction.........       (2,633)          --         (2,633)
                                        ---------      --------     ---------
  Cash used for investing activi-
   ties.............................       (8,368)       (2,821)      (11,189)
                                        ---------      --------     ---------
Cash flows from financing activities
Repayments of long-term debt........      (43,248)       (7,151)      (50,399)
Proceeds from long-term debt........        5,200           --          5,200
Additions to deferred financing
 costs..............................      (19,679)          --        (19,679)
Proceeds from exercise of stock op-
 tions..............................        2,701           --          2,701
Proceeds from issuance of debt to
 effect Merger......................      219,843           --        219,843
Purchase price for the common stock
 of WR Acquisition, Inc. and certain
 related expenses...................     (147,854)          --       (147,854)
Advances to Ampad...................      (54,306)          --        (54,306)
Investment in trust.................      (34,518)          --        (34,518)
Proceeds from sale of accounts re-
 ceivable...........................       35,086        11,902        46,988
Advances from (to) Parent...........       36,183       (10,605)       25,578
Advances from (to) subsidiaries.....        6,986        (6,986)          --
                                        ---------      --------     ---------
  Cash provided by (used for) fi-
   nancing activities...............        6,394       (12,840)       (6,446)
                                        ---------      --------     ---------
Decrease in cash and cash equiva-
 lents..............................         (857)         (129)         (986)
Cash and cash equivalents at begin-
 ning of period.....................          138           887         1,025
                                        ---------      --------     ---------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of
 period.............................    $    (719)     $    758     $      39
                                        =========      ========     =========
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-52
<PAGE>
 
                       REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
 
To the Board of Directors and Stockholder of
American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc.
(successor to Ampad Corporation)
 
We have audited the accompanying statements of net sales and cost of sales of
the Globe-Weis Office Products Group product lines purchased by American Pad &
Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. (successor to Ampad Corporation) from American
Trading and Production Corporation for the twelve months ended July 31, 1995
and the nine months ended July 31, 1994. These statements are the
responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express
an opinion on these statements based on our audits.
 
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the statements of net sales and cost
of sales are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in these
statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used
and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the
overall presentation of these statements. We believe that our audits provide a
reasonable basis for our opinion.
 
The accompanying historical statements were prepared for the purposes of
complying with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange
Commission (for inclusion in the registration statement on Form S-1 of
American Pad & Paper Company) as described in Note 3 and are not intended to
be a complete presentation of the results of operations of the product lines
purchased from American Trading and Production Corporation.
 
In our opinion, the historical statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the net sales and cost of sales of the product lines
acquired, as described in Note 2, for the twelve months ended July 31, 1995
and the nine months ended July 31, 1994, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.
 
/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP

PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
 
Dallas, Texas
March 22, 1996
 
                                     F-53
<PAGE>
 
                                   GLOBE-WEIS
               (OFFICE PRODUCTS GROUP PRODUCT LINES ACQUIRED FROM
                  AMERICAN TRADING AND PRODUCTION CORPORATION)
 
                   STATEMENTS OF NET SALES AND COST OF SALES
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      NINE MONTHS  TWELVE MONTHS
                                                         ENDED         ENDED
                                                     JULY 31, 1994 JULY 31, 1995
                                                     ------------- -------------
                                                           (IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                  <C>           <C>
Net sales...........................................    $43,762       $60,047
Cost of sales.......................................     37,754        54,706
                                                        -------       -------
Gross profit........................................    $ 6,008       $ 5,341
                                                        =======       =======
</TABLE>
 
 
 
 
 
        The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
 
                                      F-54
<PAGE>
 
                                  GLOBE-WEIS
    (OFFICE PRODUCTS GROUP PRODUCT LINES ACQUIRED FROM AMERICAN TRADING AND
                            PRODUCTION CORPORATION)
 
              NOTES TO STATEMENTS OF NET SALES AND COST OF SALES
 
1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
 
  Globe-Weis is one of five brand names marketed by the Office Products Group
of American Trading and Production Corporation (ATAPCO). The Globe-Weis brand
comprises file folders, hanging file folders, expandables, file guides,
storage cases and trays. The products are distributed through the large mass
merchant retailers, office products superstores, office products wholesalers
and contract stationers.
 
2. ACQUISITION
 
  On August 16, 1995, the inventory and certain equipment of the file folder
and hanging file folder product lines of Globe-Weis were acquired by Ampad
Corporation ("Ampad") in a transaction accounted for as a purchase by Ampad.
Ampad is the predecessor to American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc.
(hereafter referred to as the "Company") as a result of Ampad's merger with
and into the Company effective October 31, 1995. The Company also entered into
a license agreement with ATAPCO for use of the Globe-Weis name and other trade
names. The acquired product lines are hereafter referred to as the Globe-Weis
assets. Sales of the acquired product lines represented approximately 59% of
the sales of the Globe-Weis brand. The Globe-Weis product lines not acquired
remain an ongoing business of ATAPCO.
 
3. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
 
  The accompanying statements of net sales and cost of sales were prepared for
the purpose of complying with the rules and regulations of the Securities
Exchange Commission ( SEC) (for the inclusion in the registration statement on
Form S-1 of the Company's parent American Pad & Paper Company).
 
  The acquisition of the Globe-Weis assets constituted a significant
acquisition to the Company and its parent pursuant to regulations of the SEC.
ATAPCO did not maintain separate, complete accounting records for each of the
product lines within the Office Products Group, nor did ATAPCO allocate
general and administrative expenses or selling and marketing expenses to
individual product lines. Accordingly, complete financial statements of the
acquired Globe-Weis assets are not presented. However, in accordance with
approval from the SEC staff, audited net sales and cost of sales information
is presented for the twelve months ended July 31, 1995 (month-end closest to
acquisition date) and the nine months ended July 31, 1994. The statements of
net sales and cost of sales include only those net sales and cost of sales
directly related to the production and distribution of the acquired product
lines.
 
4. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
 Revenue Recognition
 
  Globe-Weis recognized revenue from the sale of products upon shipment to the
customer. Costs of sales are recorded when the related revenue is recognized.
 
 Concentration of Customers
 
  During the twelve months ended July 31, 1995, three customers accounted for
79% of net sales. Three customers accounted for 81% of net sales during the
nine months ended July 31, 1994.
 
 Cost of Sales
 
  Cost of sales were determined at standard cost, which approximates actual
first-in, first-out cost in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. Standard cost for raw material inventory includes material,
freight, duties and brokerage fees. Standard cost for work in process and
finished goods inventories include material, direct labor and overhead with
costs allocated by identifiable activity. Revaluations of standard costs were
amortized to cost of sales based on inventory turnover. Obsolescence and other
variances to standard cost were charged to cost of sales in the period
incurred.
 
 
                                     F-55
<PAGE>
     
                      
                      REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS 

The Board of Directors 
Niagara Envelope Company, Inc. 

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Niagara Envelope Company,
Inc. as of December 31, 1995 and 1994 and the related statements of income and
retained earnings, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period
ended December 31, 1995. These financial statements are the responsibility of
the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion. 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Niagara Envelope Company,
Inc. at December 31, 1995 and 1994 and the results of its operations and its
cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1995
in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Ernst & Young LLP 
Buffalo, New York 
February 16, 1996     
 
                                     F-56
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                                 
                              BALANCE SHEETS     
                                 
                              (IN THOUSANDS)     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                DECEMBER 31
                                                              ----------------
                                                               1994     1995
                                                              -------  -------
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
 Cash........................................................ $   126  $    50
 Accounts receivable:
   Trade.....................................................  10,676   10,936
   Other.....................................................      84       48
                                                              -------  -------
                                                               10,760   10,984
 Inventory (Note 2)..........................................  11,519   10,710
 Note receivable--shareholder (Note 3).......................     120      131
 Prepaid income taxes........................................      32       75
 Prepaid expenses and other assets...........................     150      132
 Deferred taxes..............................................     278      216
                                                              -------  -------
     Total current assets....................................  22,985   22,298
Note receivable--shareholder (Note 3)........................     441      312
Property, plant and equipment (Note 4):
 Land........................................................      34       34
 Buildings...................................................   5,600    5,649
 Leasehold improvements......................................   1,078    1,052
 Machinery and equipment.....................................  13,116   13,749
 Office furniture and equipment..............................   4,189    3,948
 Construction in progress....................................      15      490
                                                              -------  -------
                                                               24,032   24,922
 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization..............  13,259   13,951
                                                              -------  -------
Net property, plant and equipment............................  10,773   10,971
Intangible pension asset.....................................     494      316
Restricted temporary cash investments (Note 7)...............      74        6
Investment in joint venture (Note 5).........................     161      347
   Other assets..............................................     588      628
                                                              -------  -------
     Total assets............................................ $35,516  $34,878
                                                              =======  =======
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
 Accounts payable, trade..................................... $ 5,902  $ 6,093
 Accrued expenses (Note 8)...................................   2,338    2,044
 Accrued expenses for plant closure and relocation costs
  (Note 14)..................................................     137      210
 Current portion--long-term debt (Note 7)....................     410      618
                                                              -------  -------
   Total current liabilities.................................   8,787    8,965
Long-term debt (Note 7)......................................  14,304    8,747
Accrued pension liability (Note 10)..........................      50      562
Deferred compensation........................................     811      917
Deferred taxes...............................................     354      439
                                                              -------  -------
     Total liabilities.......................................  24,306   19,630
Shareholders' equity (Note 12):
 Capital stock:
   Preferred, no par value:
    Class A, authorized 20,000 shares, issued and outstanding
     500 shares..............................................     500      500
   Common, no par value:
    Class A, voting, authorized 12,000 shares, issued and
     outstanding 5,163 shares................................      52       52
    Class B, non-voting, authorized 12,000 shares, issued and
     outstanding 5,780 shares................................      58       58
 Additional paid-in capital..................................     361      361
 Retained earnings...........................................  10,249   14,780
 Accumulated pension adjustment..............................     (10)    (503)
                                                              -------  -------
     Total shareholders' equity..............................  11,210   15,248
                                                              -------  -------
     Total liabilities and shareholders' equity.............. $35,516  $34,878
                                                              =======  =======
</TABLE>    
   
See accompanying notes.     
 
                                      F-57
<PAGE>
 
                          
                       NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC     
                   
                STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND RETAINED EARNINGS     
                     
                  (IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                      YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
                                                     --------------------------
                                                      1993     1994      1995
                                                     -------  -------  --------
<S>                                                  <C>      <C>      <C>
Sales............................................... $82,901  $84,005  $105,859
Cost of goods sold..................................  66,817   65,910    82,192
                                                     -------  -------  --------
Gross profit........................................  16,084   18,095    23,667
Distribution expenses...............................   5,975    6,055     6,001
Selling and marketing expenses......................   4,084    3,614     3,934
General and administrative expenses.................   5,210    5,218     5,251
                                                     -------  -------  --------
Income from operations..............................     815    3,208     8,481
Other income (expense):
  Interest income...................................      55      125        58
  Interest expense..................................    (693)    (953)     (922)
  Management fees...................................     --       --         80
  (Loss) gain on sale of equipment..................      (1)     (37)      164
  Equity in earnings of joint venture...............     --        61       186
  Plant closure and relocation costs................  (1,097)    (682)     (336)
  Pension curtailment...............................     --       --       (157)
  Other.............................................    (167)    (373)     (213)
                                                     -------  -------  --------
                                                      (1,903)  (1,859)   (1,140)
                                                     -------  -------  --------
Income before income taxes..........................  (1,088)   1,349     7,341
Income tax provision:
  Current--Federal..................................      17      154     2,287
         -- State...................................       5       48       328
  Deferred..........................................    (335)     343       147
                                                     -------  -------  --------
                                                        (313)     545     2,762
                                                     -------  -------  --------
Net (loss) income...................................    (775)     804     4,579
Retained earnings at beginning of year..............  10,316    9,493    10,249
                                                     -------  -------  --------
                                                       9,541   10,297    14,828
Dividends declared on preferred stock
 ($95 per share)....................................      48       48        48
                                                     -------  -------  --------
Retained earnings at end of year.................... $ 9,493  $10,249  $ 14,780
                                                     =======  =======  ========
</TABLE>    
   
See accompanying notes.     
 
                                      F-58
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                            
                         STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                        YEAR ENDED DECEMBER
                                                                 31
                                                        ----------------------
                                                         1993    1994    1995
                                                        ------  ------  ------
<S>                                                     <C>     <C>     <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
  Net Income........................................... $ (775) $  804  $4,579
  Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash pro-
   vided by operating activities:
    Depreciation and amortization......................  1,374   1,328   1,486
    Deferred taxes.....................................   (335)    343     147
    (Gain) loss on sale of equipment...................      1      37    (164)
    Equity in earnings of joint venture................    --      (61)   (186)
    Changes in:
      Accounts receivable..............................   (164) (1,392)   (223)
      Inventory........................................    801    (746)    809
      Prepaid expenses and other assets................    230      83      18
      Other assets.....................................    (13)   (120)    (40)
      Prepaid income taxes.............................   (446)    415     (44)
      Accounts payable, trade..........................    916   1,053     191
      Accrued expenses.................................    392     107    (221)
      Accrued pension liability net of non-cash
       changes.........................................     22    (204)    197
      Deferred compensation............................    (27)    (46)    106
                                                        ------  ------  ------
TOTAL ADJUSTMENTS......................................  2,751     797   2,076
                                                        ------  ------  ------
NOT CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES..............  1,976   1,601   6,655
INVENTING ACTIVITIES
  (Purchase) sale of temporary cash investments........ (2,003)  1,929      68
  Net proceeds from notes receivable--shareholder......     86     118     119
  Purchase of property and equipment................... (4,126) (2,979) (1,685)
  Proceeds from sale of equipment......................      2       8     164
  Investment in joint venture..........................    --     (100)    --
                                                        ------  ------  ------
  Net cash used in investing activities................ (6,041) (1,024) (1,334)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
  Proceeds from term loan agreements...................    --    3,000     --
  Repayment under term loan agreements.................    (95) (9,102)   (109)
  (Repayment) net proceeds from revolving credit facil-
   ity.................................................    --    7,160  (4,940)
  (Repayment) of demand note payable...................    156  (1,576)    --
  Proceeds from industrial revenue bond................  4,500     --      --
  Repayment under industrial revenue bond .............    --     (300)   (300)
  Bond issuance costs..................................   (295)    --      --
  Dividends............................................    (48)    (48)    (48)
                                                        ------  ------  ------
  Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities..  4,218    (866) (5,397)
                                                        ------  ------  ------
  Net increase (decrease) in cash......................    153    (289)    (76)
  Cash at beginning of year............................    262     415     126
                                                        ------  ------  ------
  Cash at end of year.................................. $  415  $  126  $   50
                                                        ======  ======  ======
  Cash paid (received) during the period for:
    Income taxes....................................... $  698  $ (213) $2,734
                                                        ======  ======  ======
    Interest........................................... $  687  $  886  $1,005
                                                        ======  ======  ======
  Non-cash activities:
    (Decrease) increase in intangible pension asset.... $  (53) $   22  $ (178)
                                                        ======  ======  ======
    Increase (decrease) in accumulated pension adjust-
     ment.............................................. $   73  $ (242) $  493
                                                        ======  ======  ======
</TABLE>    
   
See accompanying notes.     
 
                                      F-59
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                         
                      NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS     
                           
                        DECEMBER 31, 1994 AND 1995     
                             
                          (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)     
   
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES     
   
  Niagara Envelope Company, Inc. (the Company) manufactures and distributes
envelopes. The Company sells its products primarily to paper wholesalers
located in the United States.     
   
  The Company has operating divisions in Buffalo, New York; Chicago, Illinois;
Dallas, Texas and Denver, Colorado, and a warehouse in Seattle, Washington.
The Company also has a joint venture located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi.     
   
 Use of Estimates     
   
  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements. Estimates also affect the reported amount of revenues and expenses
during the year. Actual results could differ from those estimates.     
   
 Inventory     
   
  Inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using
the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for paper raw material, work in process,
and finished goods inventory, and the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for
non-paper raw material inventory which comprises 12% and 14% of inventory at
December 31, 1994 and 1995, respectively.     
   
 Property, Equipment and Depreciation     
   
  Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is provided on both
the straight-line and declining balance methods over the estimated useful
lives of the assets or the lease term for leasehold improvements as follows:
    
<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>
                                                                         YEARS
                                                                       ---------
      <S>                                                              <C>
      Buildings....................................................... 31.5 - 39
      Leasehold improvements..........................................    5 - 16
      Automotive equipment............................................    3 -  4
      Machinery and equipment.........................................    5 - 12
      Office furniture and equipment..................................    5 - 10
</TABLE>    
   
Maintenance and repairs are charged against income; significant renewals and
improvements are capitalized.     
   
 Financing Fees     
   
  Deferred financing fees, which are included in other assets, are being
amortized over the life of the related debt.     
   
 Revenue Recognition     
   
  The company recognizes revenue from the sale of products upon shipment to
the customer.     
   
 Statement of Cash Flows     
   
  For purposes of the statement of cash flows, the Company considers all
highly liquid investments with an original maturity date of three months or
less to be cash equivalents.     
 
 
                                     F-60
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                   
                NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)     
   
2. INVENTORY     
   
  Inventory consisted of the following at December 31, 1994 and 1995:     
 
<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>
                                                                1994     1995
                                                               -------  -------
      <S>                                                      <C>      <C>
      Raw material............................................ $ 5,854  $ 4,953
      Work in process.........................................     212      696
      Finished goods..........................................   6,383    6,911
                                                               -------  -------
                                                                12,449   12,560
        Less: LIFO reserve....................................    (930)  (1,850)
                                                               -------  -------
                                                               $11,519  $10,710
                                                               =======  =======
</TABLE>    
   
3. NOTE RECEIVABLE--SHAREHOLDER     
   
  Note receivable--shareholder represents an amount due from a shareholder of
the Company with an interest rate of prime plus 1/4% (8.75% at December 31,
1994 and 1995) due in monthly installments of $14 including interest.     
   
4. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT     
   
  Buildings include $1,009 and $949 at December 31, 1994 and 1995,
respectively, which represents the net book value of building, building
additions, etc., located on land owned by an affiliate. The land is leased by
the Company under a long-term lease. The lease has two renewal options which,
if exercised, would enable the Company to lease the property through January
31, 2000.     
   
5. INVESTMENT IN JOINT VENTURE     
   
  In March 1994, the Company acquired a 50% interest in the common stock of a
joint venture, Niagara-Murray Envelope Company, Inc., for $100. The joint
venture is a Mississippi manufacturer of paper envelopes with exclusive rights
to sell envelopes in a five-state area in the Southeastern section of the
United States. This investment is recorded on the equity method.     
   
  The following summarizes the related transactions:     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                              1993  1994   1995
                                                              ---- ------ ------
<S>                                                           <C>  <C>    <C>
Purchase from................................................ $--  $  107 $  251
Sales to.....................................................  --   2,000  2,589
Payables to..................................................  --      30    --
Receivable from..............................................  --     170    353
</TABLE>    
   
6. LETTERS OF CREDIT     
   
  At December 31, 1995, the Company had one letter of credit totaling $796
which accrued a fee of 1% per annum and supported the Company's workers
compensation reserves and one letter of credit in the amount of $4,108 which
accrued a fee of 1% per annum and supported the Industrial Development Revenue
Bonds.     
 
                                     F-61
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                   
                NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)     
   
7. LONG-TERM DEBT     
   
  Long-term debt at December 31, 1994 and 1995 consisted of the following:     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1994    1995
                                                                 ------- ------
<S>                                                              <C>     <C>
Term not payable in monthly principal installments of $50, be-
ginning in September 1996 through August 2001, with interest at
prime plus 1/2% or LIBOR rate plus 2% (7.9375% (LIBOR option)
at December 31, 1995), secured by virtually all assets of the
Company, excluding those securing the Industrial Development
Revenue Bonds..................................................  $ 3,000 $3,000
Term note payable in yearly installments through 1997 of $136
including interest at 7%, secured by computer software and
hardware with a net book value of approximately $190 at Decem-
ber 31, 1995...................................................  $   354 $  245
Revolving credit facility totaling $12,000, due August 3, 1997,
secured by virtually all assets of the Company excluding those
securing the Industrial Development Revenue Bonds. Interest
payable at prime or LIBOR rate plus 1 1/2% (7.4375% (LIBOR op-
tion) on first $1,600 and 8.5% (prime rate) on balance at De-
cember 31, 1994 and 1995)......................................    7,160  2,220
Industrial Development Revenue Bonds secured by land, building,
and equipment with an original cost of approximately $5,136
payable in quarterly installments of $75 plus interest that
fluctuates with the weekly average yield on United States Trea-
sury obligations (5.25% at December 31, 1995), through 2008....    4,200  3,900
                                                                 ------- ------
                                                                  14,714  9,365
Less: current portion..........................................      410    618
                                                                 ------- ------
Long-term debt.................................................  $14,304 $8,747
                                                                 ======= ======
</TABLE>    
   
  Payments due for the five years subsequent to December 31, 1995 are as
follows:     
 
<TABLE>             
            <S>                                    <C>
            1996.................................. $  618
            1997..................................  3,247
            1998..................................    900
            1999..................................    900
            2000..................................    900
            Thereafter............................  2,800
</TABLE>    
   
  The restricted temporary cash investments represent unexpended bond proceeds
restricted to certain capital expenditures.     
   
8. ACCRUED EXPENSES     
   
  Accrued expenses included the following:     
 
<TABLE>       
<CAPTION>
                                                                   1994   1995
                                                                  ------ ------
      <S>                                                         <C>    <C>
      Payroll.................................................... $  649 $  766
      Workers' compensation and medical insurance................    664    615
      Dividend...................................................     12     12
      Interest...................................................    140     56
      Pension....................................................    507    266
      Other......................................................    170     93
      Property taxes.............................................    196    236
                                                                  ------ ------
                                                                  $2,338 $2,044
                                                                  ====== ======
</TABLE>    
 
                                      F-62
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                   
                NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)     
   
9. DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLANS     
   
  The Company entered into a deferred compensation agreement with the former
Chairman of the Board who is now deceased. The agreement provides for annual
payments to his surviving spouse for her lifetime. The present value of
required future payment, determined using an 8.9% discount factor, is $811 and
$789 at December 31, 1994 and 1995, respectively.     
   
10. RETIREMENT PLANS     
   
 Defined Benefit Plans     
   
  The Company has two pension plans covering substantially all employees. The
Company's funding policy has been to contribute annually at least the minimum
required by ERISA. The Plans provide monthly benefits under a flat benefit
formula.     
   
  The Company's pension plan expense for the years ended December 31, 1993,
1994 and 1995 is as follows:     
 
<TABLE>      
<CAPTION>
                                                         1993    1994    1995
                                                        ------  ------  ------
     <S>                                                <C>     <C>     <C>
     Service cost--benefits earned during the year....  $  261  $  278  $  147
     Interest cost on projected benefit obligation....     306     341     275
     Actual return on assets..........................    (323)     80    (578)
     Net amortization and deferral....................      77    (359)    369
                                                        ------  ------  ------
     Net periodic pension cost........................  $  321  $  340  $  213
                                                        ======  ======  ======
 
  The funded status of the plans, based on actuarial computations at September
30, 1994 and 1995 is presented below. Plan assets are stated at fair value and
composed of fixed rate securities and equity investments. The average assumed
discount rate is 7.25% and 6.25% in 1994 and 1995, respectively. The average
expected long-term rate of return of plan assets is 7.75% in 1994 and 1995.
 
<CAPTION>
                                                                 1994    1995
                                                                ------  ------
     <S>                                                <C>     <C>     <C>
     Actuarial present value of benefit obligation:
      Accumulated benefit obligation vested...........          $3,454  $4,604
                                                                ======  ======
      Accumulated benefit obligation..................          $3,764  $4,920
                                                                ======  ======
     Projected benefit
      obligation for service rendered to date.........          $3,764  $4,920
     Plan assets at fair value........................           3,207   4,092
                                                                ------  ------
     Projected benefit obligation
      in excess of plan assets........................            (557)   (828)
     Unrecognized transition amount...................             157      90
     Unrecognized net loss............................               2     503
     Unrecognized prior service cost..................             345     226
     Adjustment required to
      recognize minimum liability.....................            (504)   (819)
                                                                ------  ------
     Accrued pension liability........................          $ (557) $ (828)
                                                                ======  ======
</TABLE>    
 
                                     F-63
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                   
                NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)     
   
  Such amount is included in the accompanying balance sheets under the
following captions:     
 
<TABLE>      
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1994   1995
                                                                  -----  -----
     <S>                                                          <C>    <C>
     Accrued expenses............................................ $(507) $(266)
     Accrued pension liability...................................   (50)  (562)
                                                                  -----  -----
                                                                  $(557) $(828)
                                                                  =====  =====
</TABLE>    
   
 Defined Contribution Plans     
   
  During 1995, the Company froze the benefits accrued under its defined
benefit pension plan for certain union employees and initiated a defined
contribution plan for the participants under Section 401(k) of the Internal
Revenue Code. As a result of freezing the defined benefit plan, the Company
has recognized a loss of $157 representing previously unrecognized prior
service cost associated with this plan. The 401(k) plan requires the Company
to contribute 2% of each participants compensation to the plan and also
permits participants to contribute up to 15% of their defined compensation.
The Company's contribution to the plan in 1995 was $99.     
   
  The Company also has a deferred compensation plan for non-union employees
under Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code. Under terms of the plan,
participants may elect to contribute up to 15% of their defined compensation.
In addition, the Company will contribute 50% of each of the participant's
contribution up to a maximum of 4% of defined compensation. Total
contributions to the plans in 1993, 1994 and 1995 approximated $184, $193, and
$226, respectively.     
   
11. INCOME TAXES     
   
  Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences
between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting
purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components
of the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 1994 and
1995 are as follows (in thousands):     
 
<TABLE>      
<CAPTION>
                                                                  1994   1995
                                                                  -----  -----
     <S>                                                          <C>    <C>
     Employee compensation....................................... $ 312  $ 348
     Accrued expenses............................................   128    107
     Discontinued operations.....................................    47     71
     Other.......................................................    78     19
                                                                  -----  -----
       Total deferred tax assets.................................   565    545
     Pension benefits............................................ $ (59) $ (77)
     Property, plant and equipment...............................  (573)  (584)
     Gain on joint venture.......................................    --    (84)
     Other.......................................................    (9)   (23)
                                                                  -----  -----
       Total deferred tax liabilities............................  (641)  (768)
                                                                  -----  -----
     Net deferred tax liabilities................................ $ (76) $(223)
                                                                  =====  =====
</TABLE>    
   
  The deferred tax assets results primarily from worker's compensation
accruals, medical expense accruals, deferred compensation and the accrual for
closure and relocation of plants. Deferred liabilities resulted primarily from
depreciation differences.     
 
                                     F-64
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                   
                NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)     
   
  A reconciliation of the expected tax expense to actual tax expense for the
years ended December 31, 1993, 1994 and 1995 is as follows:     
 
<TABLE>      
<CAPTION>
                                                         1993   1994   1995
                                                         -----  ----  ------
     <S>                                                 <C>    <C>   <C>
     Federal income tax (benefit) expense computed at
      statutory rate.................................... $(370) $458  $2,496
     State taxes--net of federal effect.................     3    32     217
     Meals and entertainment expense....................    14    34      36
     Premiums on officers life insurance................    50    43      29
     Other..............................................   (10)  (22)    (16)
                                                         -----  ----  ------
                                                         $(313) $545  $2,762
                                                         =====  ====  ======
</TABLE>    
   
12. CAPITAL STOCK     
   
  Holders of the Company's Class A preferred stock are entitled to cumulative
dividends at the annual rate of 9.5% of the stated value but only if, when and
as declared by the Board of Directors. Dividends are not permitted on any
common stock unless all dividends to which the holders of Class A preferred
stock are entitled, have been declared and paid or are to be paid.     
   
  Each share of Class A preferred stock is entitled to one vote with the
voting common stock, not as a separate class, on any proposal for the
corporation to merge or consolidate with another corporation or for the
corporation to liquidate. Whenever the total amount of unpaid dividends on the
outstanding Class A preferred stock is equal to or greater than 40% of the
stated value of such shares, each is entitled to one vote with the voting
common stock of the Company, not as a separate class, on all matters with
respect to which the voting common stock has a right to vote. When all
dividends are paid on Class A preferred stock, the special voting right
terminates; and other than the preceding, the Class A preferred stock has no
voting rights.     
   
  The Company has the right to redeem the preferred stock, in whole or in
part, at any time at $1,000 per share. In the event of any liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of the corporation and the distribution of its
assets, the holders of shares of the Class A preferred stock shall be entitled
to receive $1,000 per share before any amount is distributed to the holders of
any common stock.     
   
13. OPERATING LEASES     
   
 Real Property Leases     
   
  The Company is obligated on noncancelable real property leases expiring on
various dates through 2000. Certain of the leases require additional rentals
based on real estate taxes and include options to renew at an increased
amount. Future minimum annual lease payments for the next five years are as
follows:     
 
<TABLE>             
<CAPTION>
                                                   AMOUNT
                                                   ------
            <S>                                    <C>
            Year Ending December 31,
              1996................................  $844
              1997................................   778
              1998................................   603
              1999................................   165
              2000................................    11
</TABLE>    
   
  Approximately $490 of the 1996 future minimum lease payments is due to
related parties under agreements that expire at various dates from 1996
through 2000.     
 
                                     F-65
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
            
         NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)     
   
  Rental expense for real property amounted to $1,330, $1,008, and $873 in
1993, 1994 and 1995, respectively, including rental expense to related parties
of $627, $448 and $462 in 1993, 1994 and 1995, respectively.     
   
 EQUIPMENT LEASES     
   
  The Company is also a lessee under noncancelable equipment lease agreements.
Certain of the agreements are with related party lessors. Future minimum
annual lease payments are as follows:     
 
<TABLE>             
<CAPTION>
            YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31                 AMOUNT
            ----------------------                 ------
            <S>                                    <C>
               1996............................... $1,318
               1997...............................  1,020
               1998...............................    491
               1999...............................    154
               2000...............................     71
               Thereafter.........................      5
</TABLE>    
   
  Approximately $604 of the 1996 future minimum lease payments is due to
related parties under agreements that expire at various dates through 1999.
       
  Equipment rent expense amounted to $1,567, $1,642 and $1,601 in 1993, 1994
and 1995, respectively, including rent expense to related parties of $710,
$684 and $664 in 1993, 1994 and 1995, respectively.     
   
14. PROVISION FOR PLANT CLOSURE AND RELOCATION COSTS     
   
  The provision for plant closure and relocation costs at December 31, 1995
represents the estimated additional costs associated with the closure of
Niagara Envelope's Jacksonville facility.     
 
                                     F-66
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                                 
                              BALANCE SHEETS     
                             
                          MARCH 31, 1995 AND 1996     
                            
                         (UNAUDITED--IN THOUSANDS)     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                               1995     1996
                                                              -------  -------
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>
ASSETS
Current assets:
  Cash....................................................... $     3  $   606
  Accounts receivable:
    Trade....................................................  12,926   11,067
    Other....................................................      58      --
  Inventory..................................................  11,807   11,028
  Note receivable--shareholder...............................     120      135
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets..................     103      372
  Deferred taxes.............................................     278      216
                                                              -------  -------
      Total current assets...................................  25,295   23,424
  Note receivable--shareholder...............................     413      276
  Property, plant and equipment, net.........................  10,830   11,326
  Intangible pension asset...................................     494      316
  Investment in joint venture................................     193      397
  Other assets...............................................     622      677
                                                              -------  -------
                                                              $37,847  $36,416
                                                              =======  =======
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
  Bank overdraft............................................. $ 1,252  $ 1,711
  Accounts payable...........................................   5,024    5,071
  Accrued expenses...........................................   3,899    3,591
  Current portion--long-term debt............................     410      650
                                                              -------  -------
Total current liabilities....................................  10,585   11,023
Long-term debt...............................................  13,379    6,725
Deferred compensation........................................     806      913
Deferred income taxes........................................     354      439
Accrued pension..............................................      50      562
                                                              -------  -------
                                                               14,589    8,639
      Total liabilities......................................  25,174   19,662
                                                              =======  =======
Shareholders' equity:
  Capital stock:
    Preferred, no par value:
     Class A, authorized 20,000 shares, issued and outstand-
      ing 500 shares.........................................     500      500
    Common, no par value:
    Class A, voting, authorized 12,000 shares, issued and
     outstanding 5,163 shares................................      52       52
    Class B, non-voting, authorized 12,000 shares, issued and
     outstanding 5,780 shares................................      58       58
  Additional paid-in capital.................................     361      361
  Retained earnings..........................................  11,712   16,286
  Accumulated pension adjustment.............................     (10)    (503)
                                                              -------  -------
      Total shareholders' equity.............................  12,673   16,754
                                                              -------  -------
                                                              $37,847  $36,416
                                                              =======  =======
</TABLE>    
   
See accompanying notes.     
 
                                      F-67
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                   
                STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND RETAINED EARNINGS     
                   
                THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1995 AND 1996     
               
            (UNAUDITED--IN THOUSANDS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                               1995     1996
                                                              -------  -------
<S>                                                           <C>      <C>
Net sales.................................................... $26,628  $28,317
Cost of goods sold...........................................  20,163   21,760
Distribution expenses........................................   1,584    1,554
Selling and marketing expenses...............................     936      982
General and administrative expenses..........................   1,320    1,441
                                                              -------  -------
                                                               24,003   25,737
                                                              -------  -------
Income from operations.......................................   2,625    2,580
Interest income..............................................      13       11
Interest expense.............................................    (253)    (147)
Other expense................................................     (36)     (15)
                                                              -------  -------
                                                                 (276)    (151)
                                                              -------  -------
Income before income taxes...................................   2,349    2,429
Provision for income taxes...................................     874      911
                                                              -------  -------
Net income...................................................   1,475    1,518
Retained earnings at beginning of period.....................  10,249   14,780
                                                              -------  -------
                                                               11,724   16,298
Dividends declared on preferred stock ($23.75 per share).....     (12)     (12)
                                                              -------  -------
Retained earnings at end of period........................... $11,712  $16,286
                                                              =======  =======
</TABLE>    
   
See accompanying notes.     
 
                                      F-68
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
 
                            STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
                   THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 1995 AND 1996
                           (UNAUDITED--IN THOUSANDS)
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                              1995     1996
                                                             -------  -------
<S>                                                          <C>      <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income.................................................. $ 1,475  $ 1,518
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by op-
 erating activities:
  Depreciation and amortization.............................     361      411
  Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
    Accounts receivable.....................................  (2,224)     (83)
    Inventories.............................................    (288)    (318)
    Prepaid expenses and other current assets...............      79     (165)
    Bank overdraft..........................................   1,252    1,711
    Accounts payable........................................    (878)  (1,022)
    Accrued expenses........................................   1,419    1,333
                                                             -------  -------
Cash provided by operating activities.......................   1,196    3,385
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of property and equipment..........................    (418)    (766)
Investment in joint venture.................................     (32)     (50)
Increase in other assets....................................      40      (43)
Proceeds from note receivable--shareholder..................      28       32
                                                             -------  -------
Cash used by investing activities...........................    (382)    (827)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Dividends paid..............................................     (12)     (12)
Repayment of long-term borrowings...........................    (925)  (1,990)
                                                             -------  -------
Cash used by financing activities...........................    (937)  (2,002)
                                                             -------  -------
Net (decrease) increase in cash.............................    (123)     556
Cash--beginning of period...................................     126       50
                                                             -------  -------
Cash--end of period......................................... $     3  $   606
                                                             =======  =======
</TABLE>    
                             
                          See accompanying notes.     
 
                                      F-69
<PAGE>
 
                         
                      NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.     
                     
                  NOTES TO INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS     
                            
                         MARCH 31, 1995 AND 1996     
                                  
                               (UNAUDITED)     
   
1. GENERAL     
   
  The unaudited financial information furnished herein reflects all
adjustments, which in the opinion of management are of a normal recurring
nature, to fairly state the Company's financial position and results from
operations for the periods presented. This information should be read in
conjunction with the Company's audited financial statements for the year ended
December 31, 1995.     
   
  The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 1996 are not
necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the entire year
ending December 31, 1996.     
   
2. INVENTORY     
   
  Inventories consist of the following (in thousands):     
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                  MARCH 31
                                                               ----------------
                                                                1995     1996
                                                               -------  -------
<S>                                                            <C>      <C>
Raw material.................................................. $ 4,922  $ 4,660
Work in-process...............................................     212      528
Finished goods................................................   8,765    7,125
                                                               -------  -------
                                                                13,899   12,313
  Less: LIFO reserve..........................................  (2,092)  (1,285)
                                                               -------  -------
                                                               $11,807  $11,028
                                                               =======  =======
</TABLE>    
 
                                     F-70
<PAGE>
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                    [LOGO]

                            AMERICAN PAD & PAPER CO

       
<PAGE>
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. A         +
+REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE   +
+SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY  +
+OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT        +
+BECOMES EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR   +
+THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE      +
+SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE    +
+UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF  +
+ANY SUCH STATE.                                                               +
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
PROSPECTUS (Subject to Completion)
   
Issued June 5, 1996     
 
                               15,625,000 Shares
                          American Pad & Paper Company
                                  
                               COMMON STOCK     
                                  ----------
   
OF THE 15,625,000  SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OFFERED HEREBY,  3,125,000 SHARES ARE
BEING   OFFERED  INITIALLY  OUTSIDE  THE  UNITED  STATES  AND  CANADA  BY   THE
 INTERNATIONAL UNDERWRITERS AND 12,500,000  SHARES ARE BEING OFFERED INITIALLY
 IN   THE  UNITED   STATES   AND  CANADA   BY  THE   U.S.  UNDERWRITERS.   SEE
  "UNDERWRITERS." OF  THE 15,625,000 SHARES  OF COMMON STOCK  OFFERED HEREBY,
  12,500,000  SHARES ARE BEING SOLD BY  THE COMPANY AND 3,125,000  SHARES ARE
   BEING  SOLD  BY THE  SELLING  STOCKHOLDERS.  SEE  "PRINCIPAL AND  SELLING
   STOCKHOLDERS." THE COMPANY WILL  NOT RECEIVE ANY OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE
    SALE OF THE  SHARES OF COMMON STOCK BY  THE SELLING STOCKHOLDERS. PRIOR
    TO THE  OFFERING, THERE HAS BEEN NO PUBLIC MARKET  FOR THE COMMON STOCK
     OF THE  COMPANY. IT  IS CURRENTLY  ESTIMATED THAT  THE INITIAL PUBLIC
     OFFERING  PRICE   PER  SHARE  WILL  BE  BETWEEN  $15   AND  $17.  SEE
      "UNDERWRITERS"  FOR  A  DISCUSSION  OF  THE  FACTORS  CONSIDERED  IN
      DETERMINING THE INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE.     
       
                                  ----------
    
 THE COMMON STOCK HAS BEEN APPROVED FOR LISTING ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE,
      SUBJECT TO OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ISSUANCE, UNDER THE SYMBOL "AGP."     
 
                                  ----------
 
SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 11 OF THIS PROSPECTUS FOR INFORMATION THAT
                 SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE INVESTORS.
                                  ----------
 THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED  OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
   EXCHANGE  COMMISSION OR  ANY  STATE  SECURITIES  COMMISSION  NOR  HAS THE
    SECURITIES AND  EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE  SECURITIES COMMISSION
      PASSED  UPON THE  ACCURACY  OR  ADEQUACY  OF  THIS PROSPECTUS.  ANY
       REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
 
                                  ----------
                               PRICE $    A SHARE
                                  ----------
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          UNDERWRITING              PROCEEDS TO
                                PRICE TO DISCOUNTS AND  PROCEEDS TO   SELLING
                                 PUBLIC  COMMISSIONS(1) COMPANY(2)  STOCKHOLDERS
                                -------- -------------- ----------- ------------
<S>                             <C>      <C>            <C>         <C>
Per Share......................   $           $             $           $
Total(3).......................  $           $             $           $
</TABLE>
- -----
  (1) The Company and the Selling Stockholders have agreed to indemnify the
      Underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under
      the Securities act of 1933, as amended.
  (2) Before deducting expenses payable by the Company estimated at
      $1,300,000.
  (3) The Selling Stockholders have granted the U.S. Underwriters an option,
      exercisable within 30 days of the date hereof, to purchase up to an
      aggregate of 2,343,750 additional shares at the price to public less
      underwriting discounts and commissions for the purpose of covering over-
      allotments, if any. If the U.S. Underwriters exercise such option in
      full, the total price to public, underwriting discounts and commissions
      and proceeds to Selling Stockholders will be $   , $    and $
      respectively. See "Underwriters."
                                  ----------
 
  The Shares are offered, subject to prior sale, when, as and if accepted by
the Underwriters named herein and subject to the approval of certain legal
matters by Davis Polk & Wardwell, counsel for the Underwriters. It is expected
that delivery of the Shares will be made on or about    , 1996 at the office of
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, New York, N.Y., against payment therefor in
immediately available funds.
                                  ----------
 
MORGAN STANLEY & CO.
       International
    ALEX. BROWN & SONS
          International
         BANKERS TRUST INTERNATIONAL PLC
            CS FIRST BOSTON
              GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
                  SALOMON BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
                      WASSERSTEIN PERELLA SECURITIES, INC.
 
    , 1996
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART II
 
                    INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
 
ITEM 13. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION.
 
  The following is a statement of estimated expenses, to be paid solely by the
Company, of the issuance and distribution of the securities being registered:
 
<TABLE>
       <S>                                                          <C>
       Securities and Exchange Commission registration fee......... $99,138.00
       NASD filing fee.............................................  29,250.00
       NYSE original listing fee...................................          *
       Blue Sky fees and expenses (including attorneys' fees and
        expenses)..................................................          *
       Printing expenses...........................................          *
       Accounting fees and expenses................................          *
       Transfer agent's fees and expenses..........................          *
       Legal fees and expenses.....................................          *
       Miscellaneous expenses......................................          *
                                                                    ----------
           Total................................................... $        *
                                                                    ==========
</TABLE>
- --------
*  To be provided by Amendment.
 
ITEM 14. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS.
 
  The Company is incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware. Section
145 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware ("Section 145")
provides that a Delaware corporation may indemnify any persons who are, or are
threatened to be made, parties to any threatened, pending or completed action,
suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative
(other than an action by or in the right of such corporation), by reason of
the fact that such person was an officer, director, employee or agent of such
corporation, or is or was serving at the request of such corporation as a
director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation or enterprise. The
indemnity may include expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines
and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by such person
in connection with such action, suit or proceeding, provided such person acted
in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed
to the corporation's best interests and, with respect to any criminal action
or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was
illegal. A Delaware corporation may indemnify any persons who are, or are
threatened to be made, a party to any threatened, pending or completed action
or suit by or in the right of the corporation by reason of the fact that such
person was a director, officer, employee or agent of such corporation, or is
or was serving at the request of such corporation as a director, officer,
employee or agent of another corporation or enterprise. The indemnity may
include expenses (including attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred
by such person in connection with the defense or settlement of such action or
suit, provided such person acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably
believed to be in or not opposed to the corporation's best interests except
that no indemnification is permitted without judicial approval if the officer
or director is adjudged to be liable to the corporation. Where an officer or
director is successful on the merits or otherwise in the defense of any action
referred to above, the corporation must indemnify him against the expenses
which such officer or director has actually and reasonably incurred.
   
  The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation will provide for the
indemnification of Directors and officers of the Company to the fullest extent
permitted by Section 145.     
   
  In that regard, the Restated Certificate of Incorporation will provide that
the Company shall indemnify any person whom it has the power to indemnify by
Section 145 from or against any and all of the expenses, liabilities or other
matters referred to or covered in Section 145, and such indemnification is not
exclusive of other rights     
 
                                     II-1
<PAGE>
 
to which such person shall be entitled under any By-law, agreement, vote of
stockholders or disinterested directors or otherwise, both as to action in
such person's official capacity for or in behalf of the Company and/or any
subsidiary of the Company and as to action in another capacity while holding
such office and shall continue as to such person who has ceased to be a
director, officer, employee, or agent of the Company and/or subsidiary of the
Company and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, and
administrators of such person.
   
  The Company expects to obtain Directors and officers insurance prior to the
completion of the Offering.     
 
ITEM 15. RECENT SALES OF UNREGISTERED SECURITIES.
 
  The Company has not sold any securities within the last three years.
 
ITEM 16. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
 
  (a) Exhibits.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
  NUMBER                                DESCRIPTION
  ------                                -----------
 <C>       <S>
  1.1*     Form of Underwriting Agreements.
  2.1      Stock Purchase Agreement, dated May 29, 1996, by and among American
            Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., Niagara Envelope Company,
            Inc. and the person named therein.+
  3.1(i)*  Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.
  3.1(ii)* By-laws of the Company.
  4.1      Indenture, dated as of December 1, 1995, among American Pad & Paper
            Company of Delaware, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors and the
            Trustee (including Form of Note).(2)
  4.2      Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 17, 1994, among American
            Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors
            and the Initial Purchasers.(1)
  4.3      Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 1, 1995, among
            American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., the Subsidiary
            Guarantors and the Initial Purchasers named therein.(1)
  4.4      Credit Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, among the Company,
            WR Acquisition, Inc., American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware,
            Inc., various Lending Institutions and Bankers Trust Company, as
            Agent.(1)+
  4.5      Security Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, among the Company,
            WR Acquisition, Inc., American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware,
            Inc., certain other subsidiaries of American Pad & Paper Company of
            Delaware, Inc. and Bankers Trust Company, as Collateral Agent.(1)+
  4.6      Pledge Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, by American Pad &
            Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. and the Subsidiary Guarantors in
            favor of Bankers Trust Company, as Collateral Agent.(1)+
  4.7      Notepad funding Receivables Master Trust Pooling and Servicing
            Agreement, dated October 31, 1995, among APPC, Notepad Funding
            Corporation and Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company (the
            "Pooling and Service Agreement"). (1)+
  4.8      Series 1995-1 Supplement to the Pooling and Service Agreement, dated
            October 31, 1995. (1)+
  4.9      Revolving Certificate Purchase Agreement, dated October 31, 1995
            among APPC, Notepad Funding Corporation, Bankers Trust Company and
            the Purchasers described therein. (1)+
  4.10     Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated October 31, 1995, among APPC,
            Notepad Funding Corporation and certain subsidiaries. (1)+
  4.11*    Term Sheet relating to New Bank Credit Agreement.
  5.1      Opinion and consent of Kirkland & Ellis.
 10.1      Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 3, 1995, among the
            Company, WHR Acquisition, Inc. and WR Acquisition, Inc.(1)+
 10.2      Amendment No. 1 to WHR Merger Agreement, dated as of October 31,
            1995, among the Company, WHR Acquisition, Inc. and WR Acquisition,
            Inc.(1)
 10.3      Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 30, 1995, among WR
            Acquisition, Inc. and the Company.(1)
</TABLE>    
 
                                     II-2
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
 NUMBER                               DESCRIPTION
 ------                               -----------
 <C>    <S>
 10.4   Tax Sharing Agreement, dated as of October 30, 1995, among American Pad
         & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. and the Subsidiary Guarantors.(1)
 10.5   Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 31, 1995, among
         Williamhouse Regency of Delaware, Inc. and Ampad Corporation.(1)
 10.6   Advisory Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, among American Pad &
         Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. and Bain Capital, Inc.(1)
 10.7   Ampad Holding Corporation 1992 Key Employees Stock Option Plan.(1)
 10.8   Amended and Restated Management Agreement between the Company and
         Charles G. Hanson.(1)
 10.9   Amended and Restated Management Agreement between the Company and
         Russell M. Gard.(1)
 10.10  Amended and Restated Management Agreement between the Company and
         Gregory M. Benson.(1)
 10.11  Preferred Stock Redemption Agreement between the Company and the
         stockholders named therein.(1)
 10.12  Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 29, 1994, by and between
         Huxley Envelope Corp., The Kent Paper Co., Inc. and Williamhouse of
         California, Inc.(2)+
 10.13  Lease Agreement for City of Industry, California.(1)
 10.14  Lease Agreement for Dubuque, Iowa.(1)
 10.15  Lease Agreement for Miamisburg, Ohio.(1)
 10.16  Lease Agreement for North Salt Lake City, Utah.(1)
 10.17  Lease Agreement for Tacoma, Washington.(1)
 10.18  Change of Control Agreement between WR Acquisition, Inc. and certain
         officers of American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc.(1)
 10.19  Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of July 31, 1992, between the
         Company and the stockholders named therein. (2)
 10.20* Form of 1996 Key Employee Stock Incentive Plan.
 10.21* Form of Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan.
 10.22* Employment Agreement between the Company and Charles Hanson, III.
 10.23* Employment Agreement between the Company and Russel Gard.
 10.24* Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement between APPC and Bain Capital,
         Inc.
 10.25* Form of Management Stock Purchase Plan.
 21.1   Subsidiaries of the Company. (2)
 23.1   Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
 23.2   Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP.
 23.3   Consent of Kirkland & Ellis (included in Exhibit 5.1).
 23.4   Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.
 24.1   Powers of Attorney (included in signature page). (2)
 27.1   Financial Data Schedule.
</TABLE>    
- --------
*  To be filed by amendment.
+  The Company agrees to furnish supplementally to the Commission a copy of
   any omitted schedule or exhibit to such agreement upon request by
   Commission.
   
(1) Incorporated by reference to the same-numbered exhibit to the Registration
    Statement on Form S-1 of American Pad & Paper of Delaware, Inc. (File No.
    333-3006).     
   
(2) Previously Filed.     
 
  (b) Financial Statement Schedules.
 
  All schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting
regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission are not required under
the related instructions, are inapplicable or not material, or the information
called for thereby is otherwise included in the financial statements and
therefore has been omitted.
 
                                     II-3
<PAGE>
 
ITEM 17. UNDERTAKINGS.
 
  The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the underwriter
at closing specified in the underwriting agreement certificates in such
denominations and registered in such names as requested by the Underwriter to
permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.
 
  The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
 
  (1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of
1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of
this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form
of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or
497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this
registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.
 
  (2) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of
1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall
be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities
offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be
deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
 
  Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933 (the "Securities Act") may be permitted to directors, officers and
controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or
otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the
Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public
policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In
the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other
than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director,
officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of
any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or
controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the
registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been
settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final
adjudication of such issue.
 
                                     II-4
<PAGE>
    
 
                                  SIGNATURES

  PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, THE REGISTRANT
HAS DULY CAUSED THIS AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT TO BE SIGNED ON
ITS BEHALF BY THE UNDERSIGNED, THEREUNTO DULY AUTHORIZED, IN THE CITY OF
DALLAS, STATE OF TEXAS, ON JUNE 5, 1996. 

                                          American Pad & Paper Company
 
                                                  /s/ Gregory M. Benson
                                          By: ____________________________ 
                                                      GREGORY M. BENSON 
                                                      CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 

                                    * * * *

  PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, THIS AMENDMENT
NO. 1 TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT HAS BEEN SIGNED BY THE FOLLOWING PERSONS IN
THE CAPACITIES AND ON THE DATES INDICATED: 
 
              SIGNATURE                      CAPACITY                DATE
 
                                       
               *                       Chief Executive Officer    June 5, 1996 
- -------------------------------------   and Director (principal 
       CHARLES G. HANSON, III           executive officer)                     
 

               *                       Director                   June 5, 1996 
- -------------------------------------    
           RUSSELL M. GARD
 

        /s/ Gregory M. Benson          Chief Financial            June 5, 1996
- -------------------------------------   Officer and              
          GREGORY M. BENSON             Director (principal                   
                                        financial and                         
                                        accounting officer)                    
                                    
               *                       Director                   June 5, 1996
- -------------------------------------                                
         JONATHAN S. LAVINE
 

               *                       Director                   June 5, 1996
- -------------------------------------                                
           MARC B. WOLPOW
 

               *                       Director                   June 5, 1996
- -------------------------------------                                
            ROBERT C. GAY


* Pursuant to Power of Attorney
  previously filed with the Commission.  
 
                                                           

     /s/ Gregory M. Benson             Attorney-in-Fact           June 5, 1996
- -------------------------------------                            
       GREGORY M. BENSON      
 
                                     II-5
<PAGE>
 
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
  EXHIBIT                                                                  PAGE
    NO.                             DESCRIPTION                            NO.
  -------                           -----------                            ----
 <C>       <S>                                                             <C>
  1.1*     Form of Underwriting Agreements.
  2.1      Stock Purchase Agreement, dated May 29, 1996, by and among
            American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., Niagara
            Envelope Company, Inc. and the person named therein.+
  3.1(i)*  Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.
  3.1(ii)* By-laws of the Company.
  4.1      Indenture, dated as of December 1, 1995, among American Pad &
            Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., the Subsidiary Guarantors
            and the Trustee (including Form of Note).(2)
  4.2      Purchase Agreement, dated as of November 17, 1994, among
            American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., the
            Subsidiary Guarantors and the Initial Purchasers.(1)
  4.3      Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of December 1, 1995,
            among American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., the
            Subsidiary Guarantors and the Initial Purchasers named
            therein.(1)
  4.4      Credit Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, among the
            Company, WR Acquisition, Inc., American Pad & Paper Company
            of Delaware, Inc., various Lending Institutions and Bankers
            Trust Company, as Agent.(1)+
  4.5      Security Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, among the
            Company, WR Acquisition, Inc., American Pad & Paper Company
            of Delaware, Inc., certain other subsidiaries of American
            Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. and Bankers Trust
            Company, as Collateral Agent.(1)+
  4.6      Pledge Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, by American
            Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. and the Subsidiary
            Guarantors in favor of Bankers Trust Company, as Collateral
            Agent.(1)+
  4.7      Notepad funding Receivables Master Trust Pooling and
            Servicing Agreement, dated October 31, 1995, among APPC,
            Notepad Funding Corporation and Manufacturers and Traders
            Trust Company (the "Pooling and Service Agreement"). (1)+
  4.8      Series 1995-1 Supplement to the Pooling and Service
            Agreement, dated October 31, 1995. (1)+
  4.9      Revolving Certificate Purchase Agreement, dated October 31,
            1995 among APPC, Notepad Funding Corporation, Bankers Trust
            Company and the Purchasers described therein. (1)+
  4.10     Receivables Purchase Agreement, dated October 31, 1995, among
            APPC, Notepad Funding Corporation and certain subsidiaries.
            (1)+
  4.11*    Term Sheet relating to New Bank Credit Agreement.
  5.1      Opinion and consent of Kirkland & Ellis.
 10.1      Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 3, 1995,
            among the Company, WHR Acquisition, Inc. and WR Acquisition,
            Inc.(1)+
 10.2      Amendment No. 1 to WHR Merger Agreement, dated as of October
            31, 1995, among the Company, WHR Acquisition, Inc. and WR
            Acquisition, Inc.(1)
 10.3      Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of October 30, 1995, among
            WR Acquisition, Inc. and the Company.(1)
 10.4      Tax Sharing Agreement, dated as of October 30, 1995, among
            American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. and the
            Subsidiary Guarantors.(1)
 10.5      Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 31, 1995,
            among Williamhouse Regency of Delaware, Inc. and Ampad
            Corporation.(1)
 10.6      Advisory Agreement, dated as of October 31, 1995, among
            American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc. and Bain
            Capital, Inc.(1)
 10.7      Ampad Holding Corporation 1992 Key Employees Stock Option
            Plan.(1)
 10.8      Amended and Restated Management Agreement between the Company
            and Charles G. Hanson.(1)
</TABLE>    
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
 EXHIBIT                                                                  PAGE
   NO.                             DESCRIPTION                            NO.
 -------                           -----------                            ----
 <C>     <S>                                                              <C>
 10.9    Amended and Restated Management Agreement between the Company
          and Russell M. Gard.(1)
 10.10   Amended and Restated Management Agreement between the Company
          and Gregory M. Benson.(1)
 10.11   Preferred Stock Redemption Agreement between the Company and
          the stockholders named therein.(1)
 10.12   Asset Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 29, 1994, by and
          between Huxley Envelope Corp., The Kent Paper Co., Inc. and
          Williamhouse of California, Inc.(2)+
 10.13   Lease Agreement for City of Industry, California.(1)
 10.14   Lease Agreement for Dubuque, Iowa.(1)
 10.15   Lease Agreement for Miamisburg, Ohio.(1)
 10.16   Lease Agreement for North Salt Lake City, Utah.(1)
 10.17   Lease Agreement for Tacoma, Washington.(1)
 10.18   Change of Control Agreement between WR Acquisition, Inc. and
          certain officers of American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware,
          Inc.(1)
 10.19   Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of July 31, 1992,
          between the Company and the stockholders named therein. (2)
 10.20*  Form of 1996 Key Employee Stock Incentive Plan.
 10.21*  Form of Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan.
 10.22*  Employment Agreement between the Company and Charles Hanson,
          III.
 10.23*  Employment Agreement between the Company and Russel Gard.
 10.24*  Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement between APPC and Bain
          Capital, Inc.
 10.25*  Form of Management Stock Purchase Plan.
 21.1    Subsidiaries of the Company. (2)
 23.1    Consent of Price Waterhouse LLP.
 23.2    Consent of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP.
 23.3    Consent of Kirkland & Ellis (included in Exhibit 5.1).
 23.4    Consent of Ernst & Young LLP.
 24.1    Powers of Attorney (included in signature page). (2)
 27.1    Financial Data Schedule.
</TABLE>    
- --------
*  To be filed by amendment.
+  The Company agrees to furnish supplementally to the Commission a copy of
   any omitted schedule or exhibit to such agreement upon request by
   Commission.
   
(1) Incorporated by reference to the same-numbered exhibit to the Registration
    Statement on Form S-1 of American Pad & Paper of Delaware, Inc. (File No.
    333-3006).     
(2) Previously Filed.

<PAGE>
 
                                                                     EXHIBIT 2.1



                            STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT

                                  BY AND AMONG

                AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY OF DELAWARE, INC.,

                        NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.,

                                      AND

                           THE PERSONS LISTED ON THE
                      SCHEDULE OF SELLERS ATTACHED HERETO



                                        
                                 MAY 29, 1996
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                                                            Page
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                                                                            <C>
ARTICLE I       PURCHASE AND SALE OF STOCK.................................     1
                1.1   Stock Purchase.......................................     1
                1.2   Purchase Price.......................................     1
                1.3   Purchase Price Adjustment............................     2

ARTICLE II      CONDITIONS TO CLOSING......................................     6
                2.1   Conditions to Buyer's Obligations at the Closing.....     6
                2.2   Conditions to the Sellers' Obligations at the Closing     9

ARTICLE III     COVENANTS PRIOR TO CLOSING.................................    10
                3.1   Affirmative Covenants of the Company and the Sellers.    10
                3.2   Negative Covenants of the Company and the Sellers....    12
                3.3   Exclusivity..........................................    13
                3.4   Covenants of Buyer...................................    13

ARTICLE IV      REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE COMPANY.    14
                4.1   Organization and Corporate Power.....................    14
                4.2   Authorization of Transactions........................    14

                4.3   Subsidiaries; Investments............................    14
                4.4   Absence of Conflicts.................................    15
                4.5   Capitalization.......................................    15
                4.6   Financial Statements.................................    15
                4.7   Absence of Undisclosed Liabilities...................    16
                4.8   Absence of Certain Developments......................    16
                4.9   Assets...............................................    17
                4.10  Environmental and Safety Matters.....................    19
                4.11  Taxes................................................    20
                4.12  Contracts and Commitments............................    22
                4.13  Proprietary Rights...................................    23
                4.14  Litigation; Proceedings..............................    24
                4.15  Brokerage............................................    24
                4.16  Governmental Licenses and Permits....................    24
</TABLE> 
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                                                                            <C>
                4.17  Employees............................................    24
                4.18  Employee Benefit Plans...............................    25
                4.19  Insurance............................................    27
                4.20  Officers and Directors; Bank Accounts................    27
                4.21  Affiliate Transactions...............................    27
                4.22  Compliance with Laws.................................    28
                4.23  Product Warranty.....................................    28
                4.24  Product Liability....................................    28
                4.25  Closing Date.........................................    28

ARTICLE V       REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE SELLERS.    29
                5.1   Authorization of Transactions........................    29
                5.2   Absence of Conflicts.................................    29
                5.3   Shares...............................................    29
                5.4   Brokerage............................................    29
                5.5   Closing Date.........................................    29


ARTICLE VI      REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF BUYER....................    30
                6.1   Organization and Corporate Power.....................    30
                6.2   Authorization........................................    30
                6.3   No Violation.........................................    30
                6.4   Governmental Authorities and Consents................    30

                6.5   Brokerage............................................    30
                6.6   Litigation...........................................    31
                6.7   Closing Date.........................................    31
                6.8   Purchase for Investment..............................    31
                6.9   Financing Arrangements...............................    31

ARTICLE VII     TERMINATION................................................    31
                7.1   Termination..........................................    31
                7.2   Effect of Termination................................    32
                7.3   Deposit..............................................    32

ARTICLE VIII    SURVIVAL; INDEMNIFICATION..................................    32
                8.1   Survival.............................................    32
                8.2   Indemnification......................................    32
</TABLE> 
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                                                                            <C>
                8.3   Arbitration Procedure................................    35
                8.4   Remedies.............................................    37
                8.5   Effect of Taxes and Insurance........................    37


ARTICLE IX      ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS......................................    37
                9.1   Press Releases and Announcements.....................    37
                9.2   Further Transfers....................................    37
                9.3   Tax Matters..........................................    38
                9.4   Transition Assistance................................    40
                9.5   Investigation and Confidentiality....................    40

                9.6   Expenses.............................................    41
                9.7   Noncompetition and Nonsolicitation...................    41
                9.8   Sellers' Representative..............................    42
                9.9   Additional Information for SEC Filings...............    43
                9.10  Approval of Services Agreement Payment...............    43


ARTICLE X       MISCELLANEOUS..............................................    44
                10.1  Amendment and Waiver.................................    44
                10.2  Notices..............................................    44
                10.3  Binding Agreement; Assignment........................    45
                10.4  Severability.........................................    46
                10.5  No Strict Construction...............................    46
                10.6  Captions and Headings................................    46
                10.7  Entire Agreement.....................................    46
                10.8  Counterparts.........................................    46
                10.9  Governing Law........................................    46
                10.10 No Third Party Beneficiaries.........................    46


ARTICLE XI      CERTAIN DEFINITIONS........................................    47
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                            STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT


          This STOCK PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this "Agreement") is made as of May 29,
                                               ---------                        
1996, by and among Niagara Envelope Company, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the
                                                                              
"Company"), the Persons set forth on the Schedule of Sellers attached hereto
- --------                                 -------------------                
(collectively, the "Sellers" and each, individually, a "Seller"), Frederick G.
                    -------                             ------                
Pierce, II, as the Sellers' agent and representative (the "Sellers'
                                                           --------
Representative"), and American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc., a Delaware
- --------------                                                                  
corporation ("Buyer") (the Company, the Sellers, the Sellers' Representative and
              -----                                                             
the Buyer being collectively referred to herein as the "Parties" or individually
                                                        -------                 
as a "Party").  Certain capitalized terms used herein are defined in Article XI
      -----                                                                    
hereof.

          The authorized capital stock of the Company consists of 12,000 shares
of Class A Voting Common Stock, no par value per share, 12,000 shares of Class B
Non-Voting Common Stock,  no par value per share, 20,000 shares of Class A
Preferred Stock, no par value per share, and 20,000 shares of Class B Preferred
Stock, no par value per share (collectively, the "Company Stock"), of which
                                                  -------------            
5,163 shares of Class A Voting Common Stock , 5,780 shares of Class B Non-Voting
Common Stock, 500 shares of Class A Preferred Stock and no shares of Class B
Preferred Stock are issued and outstanding.  The Sellers own beneficially and of
record 100% of the outstanding Company Stock.

          On the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this
Agreement, Buyer desires to acquire from the Sellers, and the Sellers desire to
sell to Buyer, all of the outstanding shares of Company Stock.

          NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants
set forth herein, the parties hereto agree as follows:

                                   ARTICLE I

                           PURCHASE AND SALE OF STOCK
                           --------------------------

          1.1  STOCK PURCHASE.  On the terms and subject to the conditions set
               --------------                                                 
forth in this Agreement, on the Closing Date (as defined in Section 1.4), Buyer
will purchase from the Sellers, and the Sellers will sell and transfer to Buyer,
all of the outstanding shares of Company Stock, free and clear of all Liens.

           1.2 PURCHASE PRICE.
               -------------- 

          (a) The total purchase price to be paid to the Sellers for the
outstanding Company Stock (the "Purchase Price") at the Closing will be
                                --------------                         
$50,000,000, as adjusted in accordance with Section 1.3(c)  hereof.  Buyer will
pay such Purchase Price by wire transfer of immediately available funds to an
account or accounts designated by the Sellers' Representative not less than five
business days prior to the Closing.
<PAGE>
 
          (b) After the Closing, the Purchase Price may be further increased or
decreased, as the case may be, in accordance with Sections 1.3(h)-(j) hereof.

          (c) The Sellers' Representative shall allocate the Purchase Price
among the Sellers in accordance with the percentages set forth opposite each
Seller's name (the "Pro Rata Shares") on the Schedule of Sellers attached
                    ---------------          -------------------         
hereto.  Any adjustments to the Purchase Price in accordance with the terms of
this Agreement shall be adjusted with respect to each Seller in accordance with
such Pro Rata Shares.

           1.3     PURCHASE PRICE ADJUSTMENT.
                   ------------------------- 

          (a)      As used in this Agreement:

          "Affiliate Payments" shall mean any cash payments (other than salary
           ------------------                                                 
and benefits paid in the ordinary course of business, which shall include all
payments made to the Sellers' Representative as compensation for service to the
Company) made to an Affiliate of Sellers after the Balance Sheet Date and prior
to the Closing Date.

          "Balance Sheet Date" shall mean (i) May 31, 1996 in the event that the
           ------------------                                                   
Closing occurs on or prior to June 30, 1996, or (ii) June 30, 1996 in the event
that the Closing occurs after June 30, 1996.

          "Consolidated Net Asset Value" shall mean, the excess of the net book
           ----------------------------                                        
value of the Company's and its Subsidiaries' consolidated assets over the
Company's and its Subsidiaries' consolidated liabilities (excluding Indebtedness
for Borrowed Money), as determined in accordance with United States generally
accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") applied in a manner consistent with that
                                 ----                                           
used in preparing the Company's December 31, 1995 audited financial statements
and the Affiliated Entities' books and records as of December 31, 1995 adjusted
for the fair value purchase price to be paid by the Company, except that (i) the
LIFO reserve for inventory will be determined using the reserve as of (A) April
30, 1996 in the event the Closing Date is on or prior to June 15, 1996, (B) May
31, 1996 in the event the Closing Date is after June 15, 1996 and on or prior to
June 30, 1996 and (C) June 30, 1996 in the event the Closing Date is after June
30, 1996, (ii) raw material actual purchase cost will be based on a mutually
acceptable evaluation, (iii) pension reserves and the resulting pension expense
will be based upon a valuation performed which the parties shall use reasonable
best efforts to perform within 30 days of the Closing and shall in no event
perform later than 75 days after the Closing and the discount rate used in the
December 31, 1995 audited financials to determine pension reserves will be
adjusted for the percentage change in the 10-year Treasury bond from December
31, 1995 to the Closing Date and (iv) a $75,000 reserve for environmental
liabilities will be included in the determination of Consolidated Net Asset
Value.

          "Indebtedness for Borrowed Money" shall mean, with respect to any
           -------------------------------                                 
Person at any date, without duplication:  (i) all obligations of such Person for
borrowed money or in respect of loans or advances; (ii) all obligations of such
Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other similar instruments; (iii)
all obligations in respect of letters of credit, whether or not drawn, and

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
bankers' acceptances issued for the account of such Person (except (a) to the
extent such obligations have been issued with respect to liabilities reflected
on the balance sheet of such Person and (b) to the extent set forth on Schedule
                                                                       --------
1.3(a)); (iv) all capitalized lease liabilities of such Person; (v) all interest
- ------                                                                          
rate protection agreements of such Person (valued on a market quotation basis);
(vi) all obligations of such Person secured by a contractual lien; (vii) all
guarantees of such Person in connection with any of the foregoing (except to the
extent such obligations have been issued with respect to liabilities reflected
on the balance sheet of such Person); (viii) all financial penalties imposed,
whether or not such penalties have been paid, on the Company as a consequence of
a prepayment of outstanding indebtedness made by the Company on the Closing
Date; and (ix) all income taxes payable pertaining to the Affiliated Entities.

          (b) At least five (5) business days prior to the Closing, the Company
in good faith shall prepare an unaudited estimated consolidated balance sheet of
the Company and its Subsidiaries dated as of the Closing Date, an estimate of
the Consolidated Net Asset Value as of the close of business on the Balance
Sheet Date (the "Estimated Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value"), an estimate
                 ----------------------------------------------               
of  Indebtedness For Borrowed Money as of the close of business on the Balance
Sheet Date (the "Estimated  Indebtedness"), and an estimate of the Affiliate
                 -----------------------                                    
Payments as of the close of business on the Closing Date (the "Estimated
                                                               ---------
Affiliate Payments"), all based on the Company's and its Subsidiaries' books and
- ------------------                                                              
records and other information then available.  If any item on (or which, under
GAAP, should be reflected on) the December 31, 1995 audited financial statements
or the Affiliated Entities books and records is not reflected in accordance with
GAAP, Consolidated Net Asset Value will nonetheless be computed in accordance
with GAAP; provided that in no event shall an entry be made on the financial
statements of the Company reflecting as a liability any amount for which the
Sellers or the Sellers' Representative, but not the Company, are liable,
including, without limitation, under the terms of this Agreement.  In computing
Consolidated Net Asset Value all accounting entries will be taken into account
regardless of their amount, all known errors and omissions will be corrected and
all known proper adjustments will be made.  The Consolidated Net Asset Value
will be determined using the same procedures and practices as if the Balance
Sheet Date was a fiscal year end.  In addition, a physical inventory will be
taken within five business days prior to the Closing.

          (c) If Estimated Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value is greater than
or less than $35,964,000, the Purchase Price to be paid at Closing shall be
increased or decreased by the amount of such excess or shortfall, as the case
may be.  In addition, the Purchase Price to be paid at Closing shall be
decreased by the amount of the Estimated Indebtedness and the Estimated
Affiliate Payments (such Purchase Price, as adjusted, the "Estimated Purchase
                                                           ------------------
Price"). The Estimated Purchase Price will be increased by an amount equal to
- -----                                                                        
the product of 8% multiplied by the Estimated Purchase Price multiplied by the
fraction, the numerator of which shall equal the number of days elapsed from the
Balance Sheet Date through and excluding the Closing Date and the denominator of
which shall equal 365 .

          (d) As promptly as practicable, but in no event later than ninety (90)
days after the Closing Date, Buyer will deliver to the Sellers' Representative
an audited balance sheet of the Company and Affiliated Entities dated as of the
Balance Sheet Date (the "Closing Balance Sheet") and other audit procedures
                         ---------------------                             
relating to the period between the Balance Sheet Date and the Closing

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
Date which will reflect Buyer's determination, as of the close of business on
the Balance Sheet Date, of the Consolidated Net Asset Value  (the "Closing
                                                                   -------
Consolidated Net Asset Value") and the Indebtedness For Borrowed Money (the
- ----------------------------                                               
"Closing Indebtedness") and, as of the close of business on the Closing Date, of
- ---------------------                                                           
the Affiliate Payments (the "Closing Affiliate Payments").
                             --------------------------   

          (e) If the Sellers' Representative disagrees with Buyer's
determination of Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value, the Closing Indebtedness
or the Closing Affiliate Payments, Sellers' Representative shall notify Buyer in
writing of such disagreement (such notice setting forth the basis for such
disagreement in reasonable detail) within thirty (30) days of Buyer's delivery
of the Closing Balance Sheet to the Sellers' Representative.  Buyer and Sellers'
Representative thereafter shall negotiate in good faith to resolve any such
disagreements.  If Buyer and Sellers' Representative are unable to resolve any
disagreements within thirty (30) days after the Sellers' Representative delivers
its notice of disagreement, Buyer and Sellers' Representative shall submit the
dispute to a "Big Six" public accounting firm jointly selected by Buyer and
Sellers' Representative (which shall be Arthur Andersen, Deloitte Touche or
Coopers & Lybrand) for resolution.  The "Big Six" public accounting firm
selected in accordance with this Section 1.3(e) shall be referred to as the
"Independent Auditor."
- --------------------  

          (f) Buyer and Sellers' Representative shall use their best efforts to
cause the Independent Auditor to resolve all disagreements over the Closing
Consolidated Net Asset Value, the Closing Indebtedness or the Closing Affiliate
Payments as soon as practicable, but in any event within sixty (60) days after
submission of the disputes to the Independent Auditor.  The resolution of such
disagreements and the determination of the Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value,
the Closing Indebtedness or the Closing Affiliate Payments by the Independent
Auditor shall be final and binding on Buyer, Sellers' Representative and all
Sellers.

          (g) The Independent Auditor will determine the allocation of its costs
and expenses in determining the Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value  or the
Closing Indebtedness based upon the percentage which the portion of the
contested amount not awarded to each party bears to the amount actually
contested by such party.  For example, if the Sellers' Representative claims the
Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value or the Closing Indebtedness is $1,000
greater than the amount determined by Buyer's accountants, and Buyer contests
only $500 of the amount claimed by the Sellers' Representative, and if the
Independent Auditor ultimately resolves the dispute by awarding Seller $300 of
the $500 contested, then the costs and expenses of arbitration will be allocated
60% (i.e. 300 / 500) to Buyer and 40% (i.e. 200 / 500) to the Sellers'
Representative (on behalf of the Sellers).

          (h) If the Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value (as finally determined
pursuant to this Section 1.3) is less than the Estimated Closing Consolidated
Net Asset Value, Sellers' Representative shall pay Buyer the amount of such
shortfall, plus an amount of interest at a rate equal to the lesser of 8% or the
maximum rate permitted by applicable usury laws from the Closing Date to the
date of payment.  If the Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value (as finally
determined pursuant to this Section 1.3) is greater than the Estimated Closing
Consolidated Net Asset Value, Buyer shall pay Sellers' Representative the amount
of such excess, plus an amount of interest at a

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
rate equal to the lesser of 8% or the maximum rate permitted by applicable usury
laws from the Closing Date to the date of payment.

          (i) If the Closing Indebtedness (as finally determined pursuant to
this Section 1.3) is greater than the Estimated Indebtedness, Sellers'
Representative shall pay Buyer the amount of such excess, plus an amount of
interest at a rate equal to the lesser of 8% or the maximum rate permitted by
applicable usury laws from the Closing Date to the date of payment.  If the
Closing Indebtedness (as finally determined pursuant to this Section 1.3) is
less than the Estimated Indebtedness, Buyer shall pay Sellers' Representative
the amount of such shortfall, plus an amount of interest at a rate equal to the
lesser of 8% or the maximum rate permitted by applicable usury laws from the
Closing Date to the date of payment.

          (j) If the Closing Affiliate Payments (as finally determined pursuant
to this Section 1.3) is greater than the Estimated Affiliate Payments, Sellers'
Representative shall pay to Buyer the amount of such excess, plus an amount of
interest at a rate equal to the lesser of 8% or the maximum rate permitted by
applicable usury laws from the Closing Date to the date of payment. If the
Closing Affiliate Payments (as finally determined pursuant to Section 1.3) is
less than the Estimated Affiliate Payments, Buyer shall pay to the Sellers'
Representative the amount of such shortfall, plus an amount of interest at a
rate equal to the lesser of 8% or the maximum rate permitted by applicable usury
laws from the Closing Date to the date of payment.

          (k) All payments required to be paid by Buyer or Sellers'
Representative pursuant to Section 1.3(h), (i) or (j) may be netted against
other payments to be  received by such party pursuant to Section 1.3(h), (i) and
(j).  The net amount owed to Buyer or to Sellers' Representative, pursuant to
Section 1.3(h), (i) and (j) shall be paid by delivery of immediately available
funds to an account or accounts designated by Buyer or Sellers' Representative,
as the case may be.  All such payments shall be made  within three (3) business
days after the Closing Consolidated Net Asset Value and the Closing Indebtedness
are finally determined pursuant to this Section 1.3

          1.4    CLOSING.
                 ------- 

          (a) Subject to the conditions contained in this Agreement, the closing
of the transactions contemplated by this Section 1 (the "Closing") will occur at
                                                         -------                
a site designated by Buyer in New York City, New York, at 10 a.m. local time on
the date which is within five business days after the date on which the
conditions to Closing set forth in Article II hereof have been satisfied or
waived, or at such other time and on such other date as the parties hereto
mutually agree (the "Closing Date").
                     ------------   

          (b) Subject to the conditions contained in this Agreement, the parties
agree to consummate the following deliveries on the Closing Date:

          (i) The Sellers' Representative will deliver to Buyer certificates
representing the Company Stock and Preferred Stock owned by the Sellers, duly
endorsed for transfer with all requisite state and federal transfer stamps
affixed thereto and accompanied by duly executed stock powers;

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
          (ii) Buyer will deliver to the Sellers' Representative the Purchase
Price by wire transfer of immediately available funds; and

          (iii)  There shall be delivered to Buyer, Sellers' Representative and
the Company, as the case may be, the opinions, certificates and other documents
and instruments to be delivered under Article II hereof.

                                   ARTICLE II

                             CONDITIONS TO CLOSING
                             ---------------------

          2.1  CONDITIONS TO BUYER'S OBLIGATIONS AT THE CLOSING.  The obligation
               ------------------------------------------------                 
of Buyer to consummate the transactions contemplated by Section 1 of this
Agreement is subject to the satisfaction of the following conditions on or
before the Closing Date:

          (a) the representations and warranties set forth in Articles IV and V
hereof and all other representations and warranties of the Company and the
Sellers set forth in this Agreement will be true and correct in all material
respects at and as of the Closing Date as though then made and as though the
Closing Date were substituted for the date of this Agreement throughout such
representations and warranties (without taking into account any disclosures made
by the Company or the Sellers' Representative to Buyer pursuant to Section 4.25
or Section 5.5 hereof) except that the date of this Agreement will be
substituted for the Closing Date with respect to Section 4.8(a) as it relates to
a material adverse change in customers or employee relations;

          (b) the Sellers and the Company will have performed and complied in
all material respects with all of the covenants and agreements required to be
performed by them under this Agreement prior to the Closing;

          (c) the Company shall have obtained consents and approvals (i) from
all governmental agencies that are required for the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby or the other agreements contemplated hereby,
including, without limitation, approval pursuant to the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended ("HSR") and, (ii) from those
                                                 ---                       
third parties  required in order to prevent a breach of, default under or a
termination, change in terms or conditions or modification of, any instrument,
contract, lease, license or other agreement listed on Schedule 2.1(c) hereto;
                                                      ---------------        

          (d) no suit, action or other proceeding, injunction, final judgment,
order or decree relating thereto, will be pending or threatened before any court
or any governmental or regulatory body or authority which is reasonably likely
to restrain or prohibit the transactions contemplated hereby or to result in
material damages in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby or
which would have a materially adverse effect on such transactions or the
business, financial condition, operating results, assets, operations or business
prospects of the Company; no investigation that would result in any such suit,
action or proceeding shall be pending nor threatened and no such judgment, order
or decree will have been entered and not subsequently dismissed with prejudice;

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
          (e) Buyer's existing  lender, Bankers Trust Company, shall have
consented to the transactions contemplated hereby;

          (f) Buyer will have received an opinion (addressed to Buyer and
Bankers Trust Company, Buyer's lender), dated the Closing Date, of Lippes,
Silverstein, Mathias & Wexler, LLP, counsel for the Company and the Sellers,
with respect to the matters set forth in Exhibit A attached hereto, in form and
                                         ---------                             
substance reasonably satisfactory to Buyer and its counsel;

          (g) The Company shall have obtained and delivered to Buyer, at the
Buyer's cost and expense, a commitment for an ALTA Owner's or Leasehold Policy
of Title Insurance, as the case may be (the "Title Commitments"), for each
                                             -----------------            
parcel of real property identified on Schedule 4.9 as a material real property
                                      ------------                            
(the "Material Real Property"), issued by a title insurer satisfactory to Buyer
      ----------------------                                                   
(the "Title Insurer"), in such amount as Buyer reasonably determines to be the
      -------------                                                           
fair market value (including all improvements thereon), insuring the Company's
(or its Affiliated Entities') interest in such parcel as of Closing, subject
only to Permitted Liens.  The Company will provide Buyer with title insurance
policies ("Title Policies") on or before the Closing, from the Title Insurer
           --------------                                                   
based upon the Title Commitments, at Sellers' cost and expense.  Each such Title
Policy will be dated as of the date of closing and (a) insure title to the
applicable parcels of real estate and all recorded easements benefitting such
parcels, subject only to Permitted Liens, (b) contain an "extended coverage
endorsement" insuring over the general exceptions contained customarily in such
policies, (c) contain an ALTA Zoning Endorsement 3.1, with parking (or
equivalent), (d) contain an endorsement insuring that the parcel described in
such Title Policy is the parcel shown on the survey delivered with respect to
such parcel, (e) contain an endorsement insuring that each street adjacent to
such parcel is a public street and that there is direct and unencumbered
pedestrian and vehicular access to such street from such parcel, (f) if the real
estate covered by such policy consists of more than one record parcel, contain a
"contiguity" endorsement insuring that all of the record parcels are contiguous
to one another, (g) contain a non-imputation endorsement, (h) contain a tax
number endorsement and (i) contain such other endorsements as Buyer and Buyer's
lender, if any, may reasonably request.

          (h) The Company shall have procured and delivered to Buyer, at the
Buyer's cost and expense, current surveys of each parcel of the Material Real
Property (the "Surveys"), prepared by a licensed surveyor satisfactory to Buyer,
               -------                                                          
and conforming to applicable requirements and certified to Buyer, Buyer's lender
and the Title Insurer, within 30 days of the Closing Date, in a form
satisfactory to such parties.  The Survey shall disclose the location of all
improvements, easements, party walls, sidewalks, roadways, utility lines and
such matters shown customarily on such surveys, show access affirmatively to
public streets and roads.  No Survey shall disclose any survey defect or
encroachment from or onto any of the real property which has not been cured or
insured over prior to the Closing;

          (i) The Company shall have obtained and delivered to Buyer a non-
disturbance agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Buyer and Buyer's
lender from each lender encumbering the leased real property in Aurora,
Colorado.

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
          (j) The Company shall have obtained an estoppel letter (the "Estoppel
                                                                       --------
Letter") with respect to each parcel of leased real property from the landlords,
- ------                                                                          
lessors, sublessors or licensors for such property in form and content
reasonably satisfactory to Buyer (and Buyer's lender, if any), stating that: a
copy of the lease, attached to the estoppel letter is a true, correct and
complete copy of the lease, sublease, license or tenancy agreement and
represents the entire agreement between the landlord and the Company; to the
landlord's knowledge the Company is not in breach or default under the lease,
and no event has occurred which would with notice or passage of time, or both,
constitute a breach or default or permit termination, modification, or
acceleration under any such lease, tenancy agreement, license or sublease and
the landlord has not repudiated any provision of the lease, tenancy agreements,
license or sublease; all rent and other payments owed by the tenant to the
landlord have been paid to date, to the landlord's knowledge there are no
disputes, oral agreements or forbearance agreements in effect as to the lease,
that the landlord consents to the assignment of the lease, and containing such
other statements or agreements as Buyer or Buyer's lender may reasonably
request.

          (k) The Company shall have obtained a termination of Lease with
respect to the leased real property in Jacksonville, Florida, which shall
include a full release from liability in favor of the Company, as tenant under
the lease, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Buyer.

          (l) The Sellers' Representative shall have entered into a services
agreement with Buyer, substantially in the form of Exhibit B (the "Services
                                                                   --------
Agreement"), pursuant to which the Sellers' Representative shall receive
- ---------                                                               
$5,000,000 at Closing.

          (m) on or prior to the Closing Date, the Sellers' Representative will
have delivered to Buyer all of the following:

          (i) a certificate from the Sellers' Representative in the form set
forth in Exhibit C-1 attached hereto, dated the Closing Date, stating that the
         -----------                                                          
preconditions specified in Sections 2.1(a)-(d) and 2.1(i), inclusive, have been
satisfied;

          (ii)  a certificate from the Company in the form set forth in Exhibit
                                                                        -------
C-2   attached hereto, dated the Closing Date, stating that the preconditions
- ---                                                                          
specified in Sections 2.1(a)-(d) and 2-1(i), inclusive, have been satisfied;

          (iii)  copies of all lien releases, third party and governmental
consents,   approvals, licenses, permits and filings required by Buyer to be
obtained in connection with the consummation of the transactions contemplated
herein, including, without limitation, a copy of the HSR termination letter;

          (iv) certified copies of the resolutions of the Company's board of
directors and stockholders approving the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement; and

          (v) such other documents or instruments as Buyer reasonably requests
to effect the transactions contemplated hereby.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
          (n)        the restrictions on the Company imposed by the Niagara-
Murray Envelope Company, Inc. joint venture arrangement will have been amended
in form satisfactory to Buyer in its sole discretion or terminated.

          (o) all proceedings to be taken by the Company, the Sellers and the
Sellers' Representative in connection with the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby and all certificates, opinions, instruments and other
documents required to be delivered by the Company, the Sellers and the Sellers'
Representative to effect the transactions contemplated hereby reasonably
requested by Buyer will be satisfactory in form and substance to Buyer and its
counsel.

          Any condition specified in this Section 2.1 may be waived by Buyer;
provided that no such waiver will be effective unless it is set forth in a
writing executed by Buyer.

          2.2  CONDITIONS TO THE SELLERS' OBLIGATIONS AT THE CLOSING.  The
               -----------------------------------------------------      
obligation of the Sellers to consummate the transactions contemplated by Section
1 is subject to the satisfaction of the following conditions on or before the
Closing Date:

          (a) the representations and warranties set forth in Article VI hereof
will be true and correct in all material respects at and as of the Closing Date
as though then made and as though the Closing Date were substituted for the date
of this Agreement throughout such representations and warranties;

          (b) Buyer will have performed and complied in all material respects
with all of the covenants and agreements required to be performed by it under
this Agreement prior to the Closing;

          (c) the Company shall have obtained consents and approvals from all
governmental agencies that are required for the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby or the other agreements contemplated hereby, including,
without limitation, approval pursuant to the HSR;

          (d) the Sellers' Representative will have received an opinion, dated
the Closing Date, of Kirkland & Ellis, counsel to Buyer, with respect to the
matters set forth in Exhibit D attached hereto, in form and substance reasonably
                     ---------                                                  
satisfactory to the Sellers' Representative and its
counsel;

          (e) no suit, action or other proceeding, injunction, final judgment,
order or decree relating thereto, will be pending or threatened before any court
or any governmental or regulatory body or authority which is reasonably likely
to restrain or prohibit the transactions contemplated hereby or to result in
material damages in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby or
which would have a materially adverse effect on such transactions or the
business, financial condition, operating results, assets, operations or business
prospects of the Buyer; no investigation that would result in any such suit,
action or proceeding shall be pending nor threatened and no such judgment, order
or decree will have been entered and not subsequently dismissed with prejudice;

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
          (f) Buyer shall have entered into the Services Agreement with the
Sellers' Representative, and the Sellers' Representative shall have received
payment of amounts due to him thereunder.

          (g) On or prior to the Closing Date, Buyer will have delivered to the
Sellers' Representative all of the following:

          (i) a certificate from Buyer in the form set forth in Exhibit E
                                                                ---------
attached hereto, dated the Closing Date, stating that the preconditions
specified in Sections 2.2(a) and (b) above have been satisfied; and

          (ii) certified copies of the resolutions of Buyer's board of directors
approving the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; and

          (h) all corporate proceedings to be taken by Buyer in connection with
the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and all certificates,
opinions, instruments and other documents required to be delivered by Buyer to
the Sellers' Representative to effect the transactions contemplated hereby will
be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Sellers' Representative
and his counsel.

          Any condition specified in this Section 2.2 may be waived by the
Sellers; provided that no such waiver will be effective unless it is set forth
in a writing executed by the Sellers' Representative.

                                  ARTICLE III

                           COVENANTS PRIOR TO CLOSING

          3.1  AFFIRMATIVE COVENANTS OF THE COMPANY AND THE SELLERS. On or prior
               ----------------------------------------------------             
to the Closing, except as otherwise expressly provided herein, the Sellers will
cause the Company to, and Company will (and, in the case of clauses (h) and (i)
hereof, in addition to the Company, each Seller will):

          (a) conduct its business (including, without limitation, its cash
management practices, the collection of receivables, purchases of inventory and
customary inventory level practices, payment of payables and incurrence of
capital expenditures) only in the usual and ordinary course of business in
accordance with past custom and practice and keep its organization and
properties intact (including its present business operations, physical
facilities, working conditions and employees and its present relationships with
lessors and licensors);

          (b) use its best efforts to preserve present business relationships
with all material customers, suppliers and distributors of the Company, to the
extent such relationships are beneficial to the Company and its business;

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
          (c) maintain its physical facilities and equipment in good operating
condition and repair (ordinary wear and tear excepted), maintain insurance
reasonably comparable to that in effect on the date hereof, maintain inventory,
supplies and spare parts at customary operating levels consistent with past
practices, replace in accordance with past practice any inoperable, worn out or
obsolete assets with assets of comparable quality and, in the event of a
casualty, loss or damage to any of the assets prior to the Closing Date for
which the Company is insured, either repair or replace such assets or, if Buyer
agrees, transfer the proceeds of such insurance to Buyer;

          (d) maintain its books, accounts and records in accordance with past
custom and practice as used in the preparation of the Financial Statements (as
defined in Section 4.6);

          (e) maintain in full force and effect the existence of all Proprietary
Rights (as defined in Section 4.13);

          (f) encourage the Company's employees to continue their employment
with the Company both before and after the Closing;

          (g) comply with all legal requirements and contractual obligations
applicable to the operations and business of the Company and pay all applicable
taxes;

          (h) promptly inform Buyer in writing of any variances from the
representations and warranties contained in Article IV or Article V hereof or
any breach of any covenant hereunder by the Company or any Seller;

          (i) cooperate with Buyer and use best efforts to cause the conditions
to Buyer's obligation to close specified in Section 2.1 above to be satisfied
and execute and deliver such further instruments of conveyance and transfer and
take such additional action as Buyer may reasonably request to effect,
consummate, confirm or evidence the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;

          (j) permit Buyer and its employees, agents, lenders or potential
lenders, investors and accounting and legal representatives to have reasonable
access, upon reasonable notice, to its books, records,  key personnel,
independent accountants, legal counsel, facilities, equipment and other things
reasonably related to the Company or its business;

          (k) cause  the Company's unaudited March 31, 1996 and 1995 financial
statements and December 31, 1995, 1994 and 1993 audited financial statements in
Regulation S-X format to be delivered to Buyer on or prior to the date hereof;
and

          (l) prior to Closing, the Company and the Sellers' Representative
shall have caused the following to occur:

          (i) all of the capital stock of the Affiliated Entities to be
transferred to the Company (provided that the Naples, Florida and Derby, New
York properties will be

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
transferred out of the Affiliated Entities prior to the transfer of the capital
stock to the Company);

          (ii) the lease of real property for the Company's former manufacturing
facility located in Jacksonville, Florida shall have been terminated without any
further obligation of  Company;

          (iii)  the note receivable on the Company's books from the Sellers'
Representative in the original principal amount of $1,000,000 shall have been
paid in full or forgiven;

          (iv) the Company's rights under the life insurance policy on the
Sellers' Representative's mother shall have been terminated;

          (v) the Company's obligation to make annuity payments to the Sellers'
Representative's mother shall have been terminated;

          (vi) the employment agreement between the Company and the Sellers'
Representative shall have been terminated without any further obligation of the
Company;

          (vii)  the equipment described on Schedule 3.1(l) shall have been
                                            ---------------                
transferred   to the Company and the leases relating thereto shall have been
terminated; and

          (viii)  the Company's insurance coverage relating to any of the
properties described in the proviso to Section 3.1(l)(i) and the Jacksonville,
Florida facility shall have been terminated;


          (m) use its best efforts to support Buyer's efforts to retain the
Company's customers including, without limitation, requiring its directors,
officers and key employees to attend meetings and participate in discussions
with Buyer and the Company's customers to retain such customers.

          3.2  NEGATIVE COVENANTS OF THE COMPANY AND THE SELLERS.  Prior to the
               -------------------------------------------------               
Closing, without Buyer's prior written consent, the Sellers will not permit the
Company to, and the Company will not:

          (a) take any action that would require disclosure under Section 4.8
below;

          (b) redeem or otherwise acquire, any shares of its capital stock, or
make any loan or enter into any transaction with or distribute any assets or
property to any of its officers, directors, stockholders or Affiliates;

          (c) sell, lease, license or otherwise dispose of any interest in any
of the Company's assets, other than sales of inventory in the ordinary course of
business consistent with

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
past practice, or permit, allow or suffer any of the assets to be subjected to
any Lien, other than Permitted Liens;

          (d) terminate or modify any material contract or any government
license, permit or other authorization;

          (e) enter into any new, or amend any existing, material contracts,
agreements or commitments;

          (f) institute any material change in the conduct of its business, or
any change in its methods of purchase, sale, lease, management, marketing,
operation or accounting; and

          (g) take or omit to take any action which could be reasonably
anticipated to cause a material adverse change prior to Closing in the Company's
assets or financial condition.

          3.3  EXCLUSIVITY.  Neither the Company nor any Seller nor any
               -----------                                             
representative of the foregoing Seller shall, directly or indirectly, through
any officer, director, employee, agent or otherwise, solicit, initiate or
participate in any discussions or negotiations regarding, or furnish to any
other Person any information with respect to, or otherwise cooperate in any way
with, any proposal or offer from any Person (including any of such Person's
officers, directors, employees, agents or other representatives) relating to any
sale, liquidation, dissolution, recapitalization, restructuring or refinancing
of the Company or any acquisition of the issued or unissued capital stock or
other securities of the Company or any substantial portion of the assets of the
Company (including any acquisition structured as a merger, consolidation or
share exchange) (each of the foregoing an "Acquisition Proposal").  Except for
                                           --------------------               
the Company's contractual relationship with Bowles, Hollowell, Conner & Co., the
Company and the Sellers represent and warrant that they have terminated all
contacts, discussions and negotiations with all third parties regarding any
Acquisition Proposal.  The Company and the Sellers will promptly notify Buyer if
any Acquisition Proposal, or any inquiry or contact with any Person with respect
thereto (whether or not in writing), is made, and will apprise Buyer as to all
of the terms and details of such Acquisition Proposal or inquiry or contact.

           3.4  COVENANTS OF BUYER.  Prior to the Closing, Buyer will:
                ------------------                                    

          (a) inform the Sellers' Representative in writing of any material
variances from the representations and warranties contained in Article VI hereof
or any breach of any covenant hereunder by Buyer; and

          (b) cooperate with the Sellers' Representative and use best efforts to
cause the conditions to the Sellers' obligation to close specified in Section
2.2 to be satisfied.

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
                                   ARTICLE IV

                         REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
                          WITH RESPECT TO THE COMPANY
                          ---------------------------

          As a material inducement to Buyer to enter into this Agreement, the
Company and the Sellers jointly and severally hereby represent and warrant that:

          4.1  ORGANIZATION AND CORPORATE POWER.  The Company is a corporation
               --------------------------------                               
duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the
state of Delaware and is qualified to do business and is in good standing in
every jurisdiction in which the nature of its business or its ownership of
property requires it to be qualified, which jurisdictions are set forth on
                                                                          
Schedule 4.1 hereto, except where the failure to be so qualified would have a
- ------------                                                                 
material adverse effect on the Company's business, financial condition or
results of operation.  The Company has all requisite corporate power and
authority and all licenses, permits and authorizations necessary to own and
operate its properties and to conduct its business as presently conducted and as
proposed to be conducted.  The copies of the Company's articles of incorporation
and by-laws which have been furnished to Buyer reflect all amendments made
thereto at any time prior to the date of this Agreement and are correct and
complete in all material respects.  The Company is not in default under or in
violation of any provision of its articles of incorporation or by-laws.

          4.2  AUTHORIZATION OF TRANSACTIONS.  The Company has all requisite
               -----------------------------                                
corporate power and authority to deliver this Agreement and to consummate the
transactions contemplated hereby.  The board of directors of the Company has
duly approved this Agreement and has duly authorized the execution and delivery
of this Agreement and the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby.
No other corporate proceedings on the part of the Company are necessary to
approve and authorize the execution and delivery of this Agreement.  This
Agreement and the other documents contemplated hereby to which the Company is a
party have been duly executed and delivered by the Company and constitute the
valid and binding agreement of the Company, enforceable against the Company in
accordance with its terms.

          4.3  SUBSIDIARIES; INVESTMENTS.  Schedule 4.3 attached hereto
               -------------------------   ------------                
correctly sets forth the name of each Subsidiary, the jurisdiction of its
incorporation and the Persons owning the outstanding capital stock of such
Subsidiary.  Each Subsidiary is duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, possesses all
requisite corporate power and authority and all material licenses, permits and
authorizations necessary to own its properties and to carry on its business as
now being conducted and is qualified to do business in every jurisdiction in
which its ownership of property requires it to qualify, except where the failure
to be so qualified would have a material adverse effect on the Company's
business, financial condition or results of operation.  All of the outstanding
shares of capital stock of  each Subsidiary are validly issued, fully paid and
non-assessable, and all such shares are owned by the Company or another
Subsidiary free and clear of any Lien and not subject to any option or right to
purchase any such shares.  There are no outstanding or authorized stock
appreciation, phantom stock or similar rights with respect to any Subsidiary.
There are no voting trusts, proxies or any other agreements

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
or understandings with respect to the voting of the capital stock of any
Subsidiary.  No Subsidiary is subject to any obligation (contingent or
otherwise) to repurchase or otherwise acquire or retire any shares of its
capital stock.  Except as set forth on Schedule 4.3, neither the Company nor any
                                       ------------                             
Subsidiary owns or holds the right to acquire any shares of stock or any other
security or interest in any other Person.

          4.4  ABSENCE OF CONFLICTS.  Except as set forth on Schedule 4.4
               --------------------                          ------------
hereto, the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby do not and will not (a)
conflict with or result in any breach of any of the provisions of, (b)
constitute a default under, (c) result in a violation of, (d) give any third
party or governmental authority the right to terminate or to accelerate any
obligation under, (e) result in the creation of any Lien, security interest,
charge or encumbrance upon the Company's assets under, or (f) require any
authorization, consent, approval, exemption or other action by or notice to or
filing with any court or other governmental body under, the provisions of the
articles of incorporation or by-laws of the Company or any indenture, mortgage,
material lease, loan agreement or other material agreement or instrument to
which the Company is bound or affected, or any law, statute, rule or regulation
or any judgment, order or decree to which the Company is subject.

          4.5  CAPITALIZATION.  Schedule 4.5 attached hereto accurately sets
               --------------   ------------                                
forth the authorized and outstanding capital stock of the Company and the name
and number of shares of capital stock held by each stockholder of the Company.
All of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company Stock have been duly
authorized, are validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, are not subject
to, nor were they issued in violation of, any preemptive rights, and are owned
of record by the Sellers, as fully described on Schedule 4.5.  Except for this
                                                ------------                  
Agreement, there are no outstanding or authorized options, warrants, rights,
contracts, calls, puts, rights to subscribe, conversion rights or other
agreements or commitments to which the Company or any Seller is a party or which
are binding upon the Company or any Seller providing for the issuance,
disposition or acquisition of any of the Company's capital stock or for the
sharing of proceeds received in connection with the sale or disposition of any
of the Company's capital stock.  There are no outstanding or authorized stock
appreciation, phantom stock or similar rights with respect to the Company.
There are no voting trusts, proxies or any other agreements or understandings
with respect to the voting of the capital stock of the Company.  The Company is
not subject to any obligation (contingent or otherwise) to repurchase or
otherwise acquire or retire any shares of its capital stock.

          4.6  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.  The Company has furnished Buyer with
               --------------------                                       
copies (attached hereto as Schedule 4.6) of its audited balance sheets as of
                           ------------                                     
December 31, 1995 (the "Latest Balance Sheet") and December 31, 1994 and the
                        --------------------                                
related statements of income and cash flow for the years ended December 31, 1995
and 1994 (including in all cases the notes thereto, if any).  Each of the
foregoing financial statements (collectively, the "Financial Statements") is
                                                   --------------------     
consistent with the books and records of the Company and presents fairly the
Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows as of and for
the periods referred to therein, prepared in accordance with GAAP consistently
applied.

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
          4.7  ABSENCE OF UNDISCLOSED LIABILITIES.  The Company has no
               ----------------------------------                     
obligations or liabilities (whether accrued, absolute, contingent, unliquidated
or otherwise, whether or not known, whether due or to become due and regardless
of when or by whom asserted) arising out of transactions entered into at or
prior to the Closing, or any action or inaction at or prior to the Closing, or
any state of facts existing at or prior to the Closing, except (i) obligations
under contracts or commitments described on  Schedule 4.12 hereto or any other
                                             -------------                    
Schedule hereto or under contracts and commitments entered into in the ordinary
course of business which are not required to be disclosed thereon (but, in
either case, not liabilities for breaches thereof), (ii) liabilities reflected
on the liability side of the Latest Balance Sheet, (iii) liabilities which have
arisen after the date of the Latest Balance Sheet in the ordinary course of
business or otherwise in accordance with the terms and conditions of this
Agreement (none of which is a liability for breach of contract, breach of
warranty, tort or infringement, or a claim,  lawsuit or environmental
liability), and (iv) liabilities otherwise expressly set forth on Schedule 4.7
                                                                  ------------
hereto.
 
          4.8  ABSENCE OF CERTAIN DEVELOPMENTS.  Except as set forth on Schedule
               -------------------------------                          --------
4.8 hereto and except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, since
- ---                                                                     
December 31, 1995, the Company has not:

          (a) suffered a material adverse change in the business, financial
condition, operating results, earnings, assets, customer, supplier or employee
relations or business condition of the Company;

          (b) redeemed or purchased, directly or indirectly, any shares of its
capital stock;

          (c) borrowed any amount or issued or exchanged any notes or other
evidences of any Indebtedness for Borrowed Money or incurred or become subject
to any obligations or liabilities (whether absolute or contingent), except
current liabilities incurred in the ordinary course of business consistent with
past practice and liabilities under contracts entered into in the ordinary
course of business consistent with past practice;

          (d) discharged or satisfied any Lien or encumbrance or paid any
obligation or liability, other than liabilities paid in the ordinary course of
business, or prepaid any amount of Indebtedness for Borrowed Money;

          (e) mortgaged, pledged or subjected to any Lien, charge or any other
encumbrance, any portion of its properties or assets,  except Liens for current
taxes and assessments not yet due and payable;

          (f) sold, leased, assigned or transferred (including, without
limitation, transfers to stockholders or any employees or Affiliates of any
Seller) any tangible assets or Proprietary Rights or other intangible assets,
except in the ordinary course of business consistent with past practice, or
canceled without fair consideration any debts or claims owing to or held by it,
or disclosed any proprietary confidential information to any Person;

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
          (g) suffered any theft, damage, destruction, casualty loss or other
extraordinary loss to its tangible assets exceeding $50,000, whether or not
covered by insurance;

          (h) entered into, amended or terminated any material lease, contract,
agreement or commitment, or taken any other action or entered into any other
transaction other than in the ordinary course of business and in accordance with
past custom and practice, or entered into any transaction with any Insider (as
defined in Section 4.21 below),  or entered into any other material transaction,
other than in the ordinary course of business;

          (i) entered into or renegotiated any employment contract or collective
bargaining agreement, written or oral, or made or granted any increase in any
employee benefit plan or arrangement, or amended or terminated any existing
employee benefit plan or arrangement or adopted any new employee benefit plan or
arrangement;

          (j) changed the employment terms for any employee or agent or made or
granted any bonus or any wage, salary or compensation increase to any director,
officer, employee or sales representative, group of employees or consultant,
except in the ordinary course of business, in accordance with past customs and
practice;

          (k) conducted its business (including, without limitation, control of
inventory, pricing,  incurrence of capital expenditures, credit practices and
maintenance and repair of assets) other than in the ordinary course of business
in accordance with past custom and practice;

          (l) made any capital expenditures (or commitments therefor) in excess
of $100,000, either individually or in the aggregate;

          (m) made any loans or advances to, or guarantees for the benefit of,
any Persons in excess of $25,000; or

          (n) entered into any lease of capital equipment or real estate
involving rental in excess of $100,000 per annum.

           4.9      ASSETS.
                    ------ 
 
          (a) Owned Real Properties.  Schedule 4.9 sets forth a list of all U.S.
              ---------------------   ------------                              
real property and foreign real property owned by the Company (or its Affiliated
Entities) and used by the Company in the operation of its business
(collectively, the "Owned Real Property").  With respect to each such parcel of
                    -------------------                                        
Owned Real Property:  (i) the Company has good and marketable title to such
parcel; (ii) such parcel is free and clear of all encumbrances, except Permitted
Liens; (iii) there are no leases, subleases, licenses, concessions, or other
agreements, written or oral, granting to any person the right of use or
occupancy of any portion of such parcel; and (iv) there are no outstanding
actions or rights of first refusal to purchase such parcel (other than the right
of the Buyer pursuant to this Agreement), or any portion thereof or interest
therein.

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
          (b) Leased Properties.  Schedule 4.9 sets forth a list of all of the
              -----------------   ------------                                
leases and subleases ("Leases") and each leased and subleased parcel of real
                       ------                                               
property in which the Company has a leasehold and subleasehold interest (the
                                                                            
"Leased Real Property").  Each of the Leases are in full force and effect and
- ---------------------                                                        
the Company has a valid and existing leasehold or subleasehold interest under
each of the Leases.  The Company has delivered to Buyer complete and accurate
copies of each of the Leases described in the Schedule 4.9.  With respect to
                                              ------------                  
each Lease listed on the Schedule 4.9:  (i) the Lease is legal, valid, binding,
                         ------------                                          
enforceable and in full force and effect; (ii) the Lease will continue to be
legal, valid, binding, enforceable and in full force and effect on identical
terms following the Closing; (iii) neither the Company nor, to the knowledge of
the Company and the Sellers' Representative, any other party to the Lease is in
breach or default, and no event has occurred which, with notice or lapse of
time, would constitute such a breach or default or permit termination,
modification or acceleration under the Lease; (iv) no party to the Lease has
repudiated in writing any provision thereof; (v) there are no disputes, oral
agreements, or forbearance programs in effect as to the Lease; (vi) the Lease
has not been modified in any respect, except to the extent that such
modifications are disclosed by the documents delivered to Buyer; (vii) the
Company has not assigned, transferred, conveyed, mortgaged, deeded in trust or
encumbered any interest in the Lease; and (viii) the Lease is fully assignable
to Buyer without the necessity of any consent or the Company shall obtain all
necessary consents prior to the Closing.

          (c) Real Property Disclosure.  Except as disclosed on  Schedule 4.9,
              ------------------------                           ------------ 
there is no Real Property leased or owned by the Company (or its Affiliated
Entities) used in the Company's business.  The Owned Real Property and Leased
Real Property is referred to collectively herein as the "Real Property".
                                                         -------------  

          (d) No Proceedings.  There are no proceedings in eminent domain or
              --------------                                                
other similar proceedings pending or, to the knowledge of the Sellers'
Representative and the Company (or its Affiliated Entities), threatened,
affecting any portion of the Real  Property.  There exists no writ, injunction,
decree, order or judgment outstanding, nor any litigation, pending or, to the
knowledge of the Company (or its Affiliated Entities) and the Sellers
threatened, relating to the ownership, lease, use, occupancy or operation by any
Person of the Real Property.

          (e) Current Use.  To the knowledge of the Sellers' Representative and
              -----------                                                      
the Company (or its Affiliated Entities), the current use of the Owned Real
Property does not violate any instrument of record or agreement affecting such
Owned Real Property.  To the knowledge of the Sellers' Representative and the
Company, there is no violation of any covenant, condition, restriction,
easement, agreement or order of any governmental authority having jurisdiction
over any of the Owned Real Property that affects such real property or the use
or occupancy thereof.  No damage or destruction has occurred with respect to any
of the Owned Real Property that, individually or in the aggregate, has had or
resulted in, or will have or result in, a significant adverse effect on the
operation of the Company's business.

          (f) Personal Property.  Except as set forth on Schedule 4.9, the
              -----------------                          ------------     
Company has good and marketable title to, or a valid leasehold interest in, the
personal properties and assets, tangible or intangible, used by it, or shown on
the Latest Balance Sheet or acquired thereafter, free and clear of all Liens,
except for properties and assets disposed of in the ordinary course of business

                                       18
<PAGE>
 
since the date of the Latest Balance Sheet and except for Liens disclosed on the
Latest Balance Sheet (including any notes thereto) and Liens for current
property taxes not yet due and payable.

          (g) Ownership.  The Company owns, or has a valid leasehold interest
              ---------                                                      
in, all of the assets used in the conduct of business as presently conducted.

          (h) Condition of Assets.  To the knowledge of the Sellers'
              -------------------                                   
Representative and the Company (or its Affiliated Entities) buildings and all
material components of all buildings, structures and other improvements included
within the Real Property and all of the Company's machinery, equipment and other
tangible assets and personal property used by the Company in the conduct of its
business are in good condition and repair, except for ordinary wear and tear not
caused by neglect, and are useable in the ordinary course of business.
 
           4.10    ENVIRONMENTAL AND SAFETY MATTERS.
                   -------------------------------- 

          (a) Except as set forth in Schedule 4.10, the Company and its
                                     -------------                     
Subsidiaries have complied and are in compliance with all Environmental and
Safety Requirements.

          (b) Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Company and
its Subsidiaries have obtained and complied with, and are in compliance with,
all permits, licenses and other authorizations that may be required pursuant to
Environmental and Safety Requirements for the occupation of its facilities and
the operation of its business; a list of all such permits, licenses and other
authorizations is set forth on Schedule 4.10 attached hereto.
                               -------------                 

          (c) The Company and its Subsidiaries have not received any written or
oral notice, report or other information regarding any actual or alleged
violation of Environmental and Safety Requirements or any liabilities or
potential liabilities (whether accrued, absolute, contingent, unliquidated or
otherwise), including any investigatory, remedial or corrective obligations,
relating to the Company or its facilities and arising under Environmental and
Safety Requirements.

          (d) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.10, none of the following exists
                                     -------------                              
at any property or facility owned, leased or used by the Company or its
Subsidiaries:  (i) underground storage tanks; (ii) asbestos-containing material
in any form or condition; (iii) materials or equipment containing
polychlorinated biphenyls; or (iv) landfills, surface impoundments, or other
disposal areas.

          (e) The Company and its Subsidiaries have not treated, stored,
disposed of, arranged for or permitted the disposal of, transported, handled, or
released any substance, including without limitation any hazardous substance, or
owned or operated any property or facility (and no such property or facility is
contaminated by any such substance) in violation of applicable law or in a
manner that has given or could give rise to liabilities of the Company or its
Subsidiaries, including any liability for corrective action costs, personal
injury, property damage, response costs, natural resources damages or attorney
fees pursuant to the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and
Liability Act of 1980, as amended ("CERCLA"), or the Resource Conservation and
                                    ------                                    
Recovery Act, as amended ("RCRA"), or any other Environmental and Safety
                           ----                                         
Requirements.

                                       19
<PAGE>
 
          (f) Except as set forth in Schedule 4.10, no facts, events or
                                     -------------                     
conditions relating to the past or present facilities, properties or operations
of the Company will prevent, hinder or limit continued compliance with
Environmental and Safety Requirements, give rise to any investigatory, remedial
or corrective obligations pursuant to Environmental and Safety Requirements, or
give rise to any other liabilities (whether accrued, absolute, contingent,
unliquidated or otherwise) pursuant to Environmental and Safety Requirements,
including, without limitation, any relating to onsite or offsite releases or
threatened releases of hazardous materials, substances or wastes, personal
injury, property damage or natural resources damage.

          (g) Neither this Agreement nor the consummation of the transactions
that are the subject of this Agreement will result in any obligations for site
investigation or cleanup, or notification to, or consent of, government agencies
or third parties, pursuant to any of the so-called "transaction-triggered" or
"responsible property transfer" Environmental and Safety Requirements.

          (h) Neither the Company nor its Subsidiaries have, either expressly or
by operation of law, assumed or undertaken any liability, including, without
limitation, any obligation for corrective or remedial action, of any other
Person relating to Environmental and Safety Requirements.

          (i) "Environmental and Safety Requirements" means all applicable
               -------------------------------------                      
federal, state, local and foreign statutes, regulations, ordinances and similar
provisions having the force or effect of law, all judicial and administrative
orders and determinations, all contractual obligations and all common law
concerning public health and safety, worker health and safety, and pollution or
protection of the environment, including, without limitation, all those relating
to the presence, use, production, generation, handling, transportation,
treatment, storage, disposal, distribution, labeling, testing, processing,
discharge, release, threatened release, control, or cleanup of any hazardous
materials, substances or wastes, chemical substances or mixtures, pesticides,
pollutants, contaminants, toxic chemicals, petroleum products or byproducts,
asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls, noise or radiation, each as amended and as
now in effect.

           4.11    TAXES.
                   ----- 

          (a) The Company, each of its Subsidiaries and each Affiliated Group
have filed all Tax Returns (or have filed valid extensions with respect to such
Tax Returns) which they are required to file under applicable laws and
regulations; all such Tax Returns are complete and correct in all material
respects and have been prepared in compliance with all applicable laws and
regulations in all material respects; the Company, each of its Subsidiaries and
each Affiliated Group in all material respects have paid all Taxes due and owing
by them (whether or not such Taxes are required to be shown on a Tax Return) and
have withheld and paid over to the appropriate taxing authority all Taxes which
they are required to withhold from amounts paid or owing to any employee,
equityholder, creditor or other third party; neither the Company, any of its
Subsidiaries nor any Affiliated Group has waived any statute of limitations with
respect to any Taxes or agreed to any extension of time with respect to any Tax
assessment or deficiency; the Company and its Subsidiaries have not incurred any
liability for Taxes other than in the ordinary course of business; the
assessment of any additional Taxes for periods for which Tax Returns have been
filed by the

                                       20
<PAGE>
 
Company, each of its Subsidiaries and each Affiliated Group shall not exceed the
recorded liability therefor on the most recent audited consolidated balance
sheet of the Company (excluding any amount recorded which is attributable solely
to timing differences between book and Tax income); except as set forth in
                                                                          
Schedule 4.11 hereto no foreign, federal, state or local tax audits or
- -------------                                                         
administrative or judicial proceedings are pending or being conducted with
respect to the Company, any Subsidiary or any Affiliated Group, no information
related to Tax matters has been requested by any foreign, federal, state or
local taxing authority and no written notice indicating an intent to open an
audit or other review has been received by the Company from any foreign,
federal, state or local taxing authority; and  there are no material unresolved
questions or claims concerning the Company's any of its Subsidiaries' or any
Affiliated Group's Tax liability.

          (b) Neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries has made an
election under Code Section 341(f). Neither the Company nor any of its
Subsidiaries is liable for the Taxes of another Person that is not a Subsidiary
of the Company under (a) Treasury Regulation Section 1.1502-6 (or comparable
provisions of state, local or foreign law), (b) as a transferee or successor,
(c) by contract or indemnity or (d) otherwise. Neither the Company nor any of
its Subsidiaries is a party to any tax sharing agreement. The Company, each of
its Subsidiaries and each Affiliated Group have disclosed on their federal
income Tax Returns any position taken for which substantial authority (within
the meaning of Code Section 6662(d)(2)(B)(i)) did not exist at the time the
return was filed. Neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries has made any
payments, is obligated to make payments or is a party to an agreement that could
obligate it to make any payments that would not be deductible under Code Section
280G.

          (c) No claim has ever been made by a taxing authority in a
jurisdiction where the Company or any Subsidiary does not file tax returns that
the Company or such Subsidiary is or may be subject to taxes assessed by such
jurisdiction.

          (d) There are no liens for Taxes (other than for current Taxes not yet
due and payable) upon the assets of the Company or any Subsidiary.

          (e) Except as set forth in Schedule 4.11 hereto, neither the Company
                                     -------------                            
nor any Subsidiary will be required (i) as a result of a change in method of
accounting for a taxable period ending on or prior to the Closing Date, to
include any adjustment in taxable income for any taxable period (or any portion
thereof) or (ii) as a result of any "closing agreement," as described in Code
Section 7121 (or any corresponding provision of state, local or foreign income
Tax law), to include any item of income in, or exclude any item of deduction
from, taxable income for any taxable period (or portion thereof) ending after
the Closing Date.

          (f) The Company has not been a member of an Affiliated Group other
than the one of which Company was the common parent, or filed or been included
in a combined, consolidated or unitary income Tax Return, other than one filed
by the Company.

          (g) Buyer will not be required to deduct and withhold any amount
pursuant to Code Section 1445(a) upon the transfer of the Shares to the Buyer.
 

                                       21
<PAGE>
 
          (h) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.11 hereto, neither the Company
                                     -------------                            
nor any Subsidiary owns any interest in real property in the State of New York
or in any other jurisdiction in which a tax (other than a net income or
franchise tax) is imposed on the gain on a transfer of an interest in real
property.

          (i) Wented Company has made a valid election under Code Section 1362 
and under any corresponding provision of applicable state, local or foreign law
to be an S corporation and such election will be in effect immediately prior to
the Closing Date. Except as set forth on Schedule 4.11 hereto, none of the
Affiliated Entities has or will have any liability for tax under Code Section
1374 or under any corresponding provision of applicable state, local or foreign
law.

           4.12   CONTRACTS AND COMMITMENTS.
                  ------------------------- 

          (a) Except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement and except
as set forth on Schedule 4.12 hereto, the Company is not a party to or bound by,
                -------------                                                   
whether written or oral, any: (i) collective bargaining agreement or contract
with any labor union, whether formal or informal; (ii) contract for the
employment of any officer, individual employee or group of employees or other
person on a full-time, part-time or consulting basis or any severance
agreements; (iii) agreement or indenture relating to the borrowing of money or
to mortgaging, pledging or otherwise placing a Lien on any of the Company's
assets; (iv) agreements with respects to the lending or investing of funds; (v)
guaranty of any obligation for borrowed money or otherwise, other than
endorsements made for collection; (vi) license, sublicense or royalty
agreements; (vii) lease or agreement under which the Company is lessee of, or
holds or operates, any personal property owned by any other party for which
annual rental exceeds $100,000; (viii) lease or agreement under which the
Company is lessor of or permits any third party to hold or operate any property,
real or personal, owned or controlled by it for which annual rental exceeds
$100,000; (ix) contract or group of related contracts with the same party for
the purchase or sale of raw materials, commodities, supplies, products or other
personal property or for the furnishing or receipt of services which either
calls for performance over a period of more than 6 months or involves a sum in
excess of $100,000 or which may not be terminable with less than six months'
notice; (x) contract relating to the distribution, marketing or sales of its
products or services (including contracts to provide advertising allowances or
promotional services) involving more than $100,000; (xi) franchise agreements;
(xii) contract which prohibits it from freely engaging in business anywhere in
the world; (xiii) agreements, contracts or understandings pursuant to which the
Company subcontracts work to third parties; or (xiv) any other agreement
material to the Company, whether or not entered into in the ordinary course of
business.

          (b) Except for this Agreement and the transactions contemplated
hereby, the Company is not a party to or bound by any agreement, whether written
or oral, pertaining to any sale, liquidation, dissolution, recapitalization,
restructuring or refinancing of the Company or any acquisition of the issued or
unissued capital stock or other securities of the Company or any substantial
portion of the assets of the Company (including any acquisition structured as a
merger, consolidation or share exchange).

          (c) Except as specifically contemplated by this Agreement, or
disclosed on Schedule 4.12, (i) no contract or commitment required to be
             -------------                                              
disclosed on Schedule 4.12 has been,
             -------------          

                                       22
<PAGE>
 
to the knowledge of the Sellers' Representative and the Company,  breached or
canceled by the other party since December 31, 1995 (ii) since December 31,
1995, no material customer or supplier has advised the Company in writing that
it will stop or decrease the rate of business done with the Company, and (iii)
to the knowledge of the Company and the Sellers' Representative, the Company has
performed all of the obligations required to be performed by the Company in
connection with the contracts or commitments required to be disclosed on
                                                                        
Schedule 4.12, and is not in receipt of any written claim of default under any
- -------------                                                                 
contract or commitment required to be disclosed on the Schedule 4.12.
                                                       ------------- 

          (d) The Company has provided Buyer with a true and correct copy of all
written contracts which are referred to on Schedule 4.12, together with all
                                           -------------                   
amendments, waivers or other changes thereto.  Schedule 4.12 contains a summary
                                               -------------                   
description of all material terms of all oral contracts referred to therein.

           4.13    PROPRIETARY RIGHTS.
                   ------------------ 

          (a) Schedule 4.13 hereto contains a complete and accurate list of all
              -------------                                                    
patented and registered Proprietary Rights owned by the Company and all pending
patent applications and applications for the registration of other Proprietary
Rights owned by the Company.  Schedule 4.13 also contains a complete and
                              -------------                             
accurate list of all trade names and unregistered trademarks and service marks
owned by the Company;  all computer software owned and/or used by the Company,
other than commercially available software with a license fee of less than
$1,000; and  all licenses granted by the Company to any third party with respect
to Proprietary Rights and all such licenses granted by any third party to the
Company.  The Company has delivered to Buyer correct and complete copies of all
documents embodying such licenses.  Except as set forth on Schedule 4.13, (A) to
                                                           -------------        
the knowledge of the Company and the Sellers' Representative, the Company owns
and possesses all right, title and interest in and to, or has a valid and
enforceable written license to use, all of the Proprietary Rights necessary for
the operation of its business as presently conducted ; (B) the Company is not in
breach of any license or other grant of rights with respect to Proprietary
Rights; (C) the Company has received no written notice of any claim by any third
party contesting the validity, enforceability, use or ownership of any
Proprietary Rights owned or used by the Company;  (D) the Company has not
received any information as to any infringement or misappropriation by, or
conflict with, any third party with respect to the Proprietary Rights of the
Company, nor has the Company received any claims alleging infringement or
misappropriation, or other conflict with, any Proprietary Rights of any third
party;  (E) to the knowledge of the Company and the Sellers' Representative, the
Company has not infringed, misappropriated or otherwise conflicted with any
Proprietary Rights of any third party, nor will continued conduct of the
Company's business as currently conducted or as proposed to be conducted
infringe, misappropriate or otherwise conflict with the Proprietary Rights of
any third party; and (F) all Proprietary Rights owned or used by the Company
immediately prior to the Closing will be owned or available for use by the
Company on identical terms and conditions immediately subsequent to the Closing.

          (b) The Proprietary Rights comprise all of the proprietary or
intellectual property rights used in the operation of the Company and its
business as currently conducted and as proposed to be conducted.  The Company
has taken all reasonable actions to maintain and protect the

                                       23
<PAGE>
 
Proprietary Rights which it owns and uses and will continue to maintain and
protect the Proprietary Rights prior to the Closing so as to not adversely
affect the validity or enforceability of the Proprietary Rights.  To the
knowledge of the Company and the Sellers' Representative, the owners of any
Proprietary Rights licensed to the Company have taken all necessary actions to
maintain and protect the Proprietary Rights which are subject to such licenses.
The Proprietary Rights owned or used by the Company immediately prior to the
Closing hereunder will be available for use on identical terms and conditions
immediately subsequent to the Closing hereunder.

          (c) "Proprietary Rights" shall mean all patents, all trademarks,
               ------------------                                         
service marks, trade dress, trade names and corporate names and all of the
goodwill of the business associated therewith; all copyrights; all
registrations, applications and renewals for any of the foregoing; all
inventions; all proprietary trade secrets, confidential information, formulae,
compositions, manufacturing and production processes and techniques, research
information, drawings, specifications, designs, plans, technical and computer
data, documentation and software, and all other proprietary rights.

          4.14  LITIGATION; PROCEEDINGS.  Except as set forth on Schedule 4.14
                -----------------------                          -------------
hereto, there are no actions, suits, proceedings, orders, claims or
investigations pending or, to the knowledge of the Company and Sellers'
Representative, threatened against or affecting the Company, or to which the
Company may be bound or affected, at law or in equity, or before or by any
federal, state, municipal or other governmental department, commission, board,
bureau, agency or instrumentality, domestic or foreign.

          4.15  BROKERAGE. Except as set forth on Schedule 4.15 hereto,  there
                ---------                         -------------               
are no claims for brokerage commissions, finders' fees, investment bankers' fees
or similar compensation in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, based on any arrangement or agreement made by or on behalf of the
Company.

          4.16  GOVERNMENTAL LICENSES AND PERMITS.  Schedule 4.16 hereto
                ---------------------------------   -------------       
contains a complete listing and summary description of all permits, licenses,
franchises, certificates, approvals and other authorizations of foreign,
federal, state and local governments or authorities or other similar rights
owned, possessed or used by the Company in the conduct of its business and the
ownership and use of its Real Property (collectively, the "Licenses").  Except
                                                           --------           
as indicated on Schedule 4.16, the Company owns or possesses all right, title
                -------------                                                
and interest in and to all of the Licenses, and the Licenses constitute all
permits, licenses, franchises, certificates, approvals and other authorizations
used in the conduct of the Company's business.   Seller is in compliance in all
material respects with the terms and conditions of such Licenses and has
received no written notices that it is in violation of any of the terms or
conditions of such Licenses.  No loss or expiration of any License is pending
or, to the knowledge of the Company and the Sellers' Representative, threatened
or reasonably foreseeable, other than expiration in accordance with the terms
thereof.

           4.17    EMPLOYEES.
                   --------- 

          (a) No key Employee and no group of Employees of the Company has
delivered any written notice to the Company of any plans to terminate his, her
or their employment with the

                                       24
<PAGE>
 
Company.  The Company has complied in all material respects with all applicable
laws relating to the employment of labor, including provisions relating to
wages, hours, equal opportunity, collective bargaining and the payment of social
security and other taxes.  Except as set forth in Schedule 4.17 hereto, within
                                                  -------------               
the past five years, the Company has not experienced any strikes, grievances,
unfair labor practices claims or other employee disputes and there are no
material labor relations disputes with Employees of the Company nor are such
disputes, to the knowledge of the Company and the Sellers' Representative,
threatened.
 
          (b) "Employees" shall mean all current employees of the Company other
               ---------                                                       
than temporary employees.  Schedule 4.17 hereto sets forth a complete and
                           -------------                                 
accurate list of all Employees as of the Closing Date, their permanent
classifications, if applicable, their hourly rates of compensation or base
salaries, as applicable, and their dates of employment.  In addition, to the
extent any Employees are on leaves of absence, Schedule 4.17 shall indicate the
                                               -------------                   
nature of each such leave of absence and each such Employee's anticipated date
of return to active employment. Schedule 4.17 hereto sets forth a complete and
                                -------------                                 
accurate list of all temporary employees, their dates of employment and hours
worked during 1995.

           4.18   EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS.
                  ---------------------- 

          (a) Schedule 4.18(a) hereto contains an accurate and complete list of
              ----------------                                                 
(i) each "employee benefit plan" (as such term is defined in Section 3(3) of the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA")) at any
                                                              -----          
time contributed to, maintained or sponsored by the Company, or with respect to
which the Company has any liability or potential liability; and (ii) each other
retirement, savings, thrift, deferred compensation, severance, stock ownership,
stock purchase, stock option, performance, bonus, incentive, vacation or holiday
pay, travel, fringe benefit, hospitalization or other medical, disability, life
or other insurance, and any other written welfare benefit policy, trust,
understanding or arrangement contributed to, maintained or sponsored by any of
the Sellers for the benefit of any present or former employee, officer or
director of the Company, or with respect to which the Company has any liability
or potential liability.  Each item listed on Schedule 4.18(a) is referred to
                                             ----------------               
herein as a "Benefit Plan."
             ------------  

          (b) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(a) hereto, Schedule 4.18(b)
                                     ----------------         ----------------
hereto contains an accurate and complete list of each collective bargaining
agreement and each other written agreement, arrangement, commitment,
understanding, plan, or policy pursuant to the terms of which the Company is now
or may in the future be obligated to make any payment or provide any benefits
to, with or for the benefit of any current or former employee, officer, director
or consultant of the Company (including, without limitation, each employment,
compensation, termination or consulting agreement or arrangement).  Each item
listed on Schedule 4.18(b) is referred to herein as a "Compensation Commitment."
          ----------------                             -----------------------  

          (c) Each Benefit Plan that is intended to be qualified within the
meaning of Section 401(a) of the Code and each trust which forms a part of any
such Benefit Plan (i) has received a determination from the Internal Revenue
Service that such Benefit Plan is qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code and
that such related trust is exempt from taxation under Section 501(a) of the
Code, and nothing has occurred since the date of such determination that could
materially

                                       25
<PAGE>
 
adversely affect the qualification of such Benefit Plan or the exemption from
taxation of such related trust; and (ii) is in compliance with the requirements
of Sections 401(a)(4) and 410(b) of the Code for each plan year of such Benefit
Plan commencing on or before the Closing Date.

          (d) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(d) hereto,  the Company does
                                     ----------------                          
not currently contribute to, maintain, sponsor or have any liability with
respect to any "employee pension benefit plan" (as such term is defined in
Section 3(2) of ERISA) that is subject to Section 302 of ERISA or Section 412 of
the Code, and none of the Sellers has contributed to, maintained or sponsored or
has any liability with respect to any such employee pension benefit plan for any
time during the six-year period immediately preceding the Closing Date.

          (e) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(e) hereto, none of the
                                     ----------------                    
Benefit Plans or Compensation Commitments obligates the Company to pay any
separation, severance, termination or similar benefit solely as a result of any
transaction contemplated by this Agreement or solely as a result of a change in
control or ownership within the meaning of Section 280G of the Code.

          (f) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(f) hereto, (i) each Benefit
                                     ----------------                         
Plan and any related trust, insurance contract or fund has been maintained,
funded and administered in compliance, in all material respects, with its
respective terms and the terms of any applicable collective bargaining
agreements and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations,
including, but not limited to, ERISA and the Code; (ii) there has been no
application for or waiver of the minimum funding standards imposed by Section
412 of the Code with respect to any Benefit Plan, and neither the Company nor
any Seller is aware of any facts or circumstances that would materially change
the funded status of any such Benefit Plan; (iii) no asset of the Company that
is to be acquired by the Buyer, directly or indirectly, pursuant to this
Agreement is subject to any lien under ERISA or the Code; (iv) the Company  has
not incurred any liability under Title IV of ERISA (other than for contributions
not yet due) or to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (other than for
payment of premiums not yet due); and (v) there are no pending or, to the
knowledge of the Sellers' Representative and the Company, threatened actions,
suits, investigations or claims with respect to any Benefit Plan or Compensation
Commitment (other than routine claims for benefits) which could result in
liability to the Company (whether direct or indirect), and neither the Company
nor any Seller has any knowledge of any facts which could give rise to (or be
expected to give rise to) any such actions, suits, investigations or claims.

          (g) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(g) hereto, (i) the Company
                                     ----------------                        
has complied with the health care continuation requirements of Part 6 of Title I
of ERISA; and (ii) the Company has no obligation under any Benefit Plan or
otherwise to provide health benefits to former employees of the Company or any
other person, except as specifically required by Part 6 of Title I of ERISA.

          (h) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(h) hereto, (i) the Company
                                     ----------------                        
has not incurred any liability on account of a "partial withdrawal" or a
"complete withdrawal" (within the meaning of Sections 4205 and 4203,
respectively, of ERISA) from any Benefit Plan subject to Title IV of ERISA which
is a "multiemployer plan" (as such term is defined in Section 3(37) of ERISA) (a
"Multiemployer Plan"), no such liability has been asserted, and there are no
 ------------------                                                         
events or

                                       26
<PAGE>
 
circumstances which could result in any such partial or complete withdrawal; and
(ii) the Company is not bound by any contract or agreement or has any obligation
or liability described in Section 4204 of ERISA.  To the best knowledge of the
Company, each Multiemployer Plan complies in form and has been administered in
accordance with the requirements of ERISA and, where applicable, the Code; and
each Multiemployer Plan is qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code as amended
to the date hereof.

          (i) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(i), the actions contemplated
                                     ----------------                          
by this Agreement will not give rise to any liability with respect to any
"employee welfare benefit plan" (as such term is defined in Section 3(1) of
ERISA) that is a "multiemployer plan" (as such term is defined in Section 3(37)
of ERISA).

          (j) The Company does not have any liability with respect to any
"employee benefit plan" (as defined in Section 3(3) of ERISA) solely by reason
of being treated as a single employer under Section 414 of the Code with any
other trade, business or entity.

          (k) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.18(k) hereto, the Company does
                                     ----------------                         
not contribute to, maintain or sponsor or have any liability with respect to any
employee benefit plan, agreement or arrangement applicable to employees of the
Company located outside the United States (the "Foreign Plans"). Each Foreign
                                                -------------                
Plan set forth on Schedule 4.18(k) is in compliance in all material respects
                  ----------------                                          
with all laws applicable thereto and the respective requirements of such Foreign
Plan's governing documents.  There are no actions, suits or claims (other than
routine claims for benefits) with respect to any Foreign Plan, and no
circumstances exist which could give rise to any such actions, suits or claims.

          (l) With respect to each Benefit Plan and each Compensation
Commitment, the Company  has provided the Buyer with true, complete and correct
copies of (to the extent applicable) (i) all documents pursuant to which the
Benefit Plan or Compensation Commitment is maintained, funded and administered,
(ii) the most recent annual report (Form 5500 series) filed with the IRS (with
applicable attachments), (iii) the most recent financial statement, (iv) the
most recent actuarial valuation of benefit obligations, and (v) the most recent
determination letter received from the IRS and the most recent application to
the IRS for such determination letter.

          4.19  INSURANCE.  Schedule 4.19 hereto lists and briefly describes
                ---------   -------------                                   
each insurance policy maintained by the Company.  All of such insurance policies
are in full force and effect, and the Company is not in default with respect to
its obligations under any such insurance policies.

          4.20  OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS; BANK ACCOUNTS.  Schedule 4.20 hereto
                -------------------------------------   -------------       
lists all officers and directors of the Company, and all of the Company's bank
accounts (designating each authorized signatory and the level of each
signatory's authorization).

          4.21  AFFILIATE TRANSACTIONS.  Except as set forth on Schedule 4.21
                ----------------------                          -------------
hereto, no officer, director, stockholder or employee of the Company or any
person related by blood or marriage to any such Person in which any such person
owns any beneficial interest (collectively, "Insiders"), is a party to any
                                             --------                     
agreement, contract, commitment or transaction with the Company or

                                       27
<PAGE>
 
which pertains to the Company or has any interest in any property, whether real,
personal or mixed, or tangible or intangible, relating to the Company or its
business.

           4.22   COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS.
                  -------------------- 

          (a) Except as set forth on Schedule 4.22 hereto, the Company and its
                                     -------------                            
officers, directors, agents and employees have complied in all material respects
with all applicable laws and regulations of foreign, federal, state and local
governments and all agencies thereof which affect the business, business
practices (including, but not limited to, the Company's sales and distribution
of its products and services) or assets of the Company or to which the Company
may be subject, and no claims, complaints, suits, proceedings, investigations or
hearings have been commenced or, to the knowledge of the Company and the
Sellers' Representative, threatened against the Company alleging a violation of
any such laws or regulations.

          (b) To the knowledge of the Company and the Sellers' Representative,
the Company has not given or agreed to give any money, gift or similar benefit
(other than incidental gifts of articles of nominal value) to any actual or
potential customer, supplier, governmental employee, Insider or any other person
in a position to assist or hinder the Company in connection with any actual or
proposed transaction concerning the business.

          4.23  PRODUCT WARRANTY.  Except as disclosed on Schedule 4.23 hereto,
                ----------------                          -------------        
all products designed, manufactured, merchandised, serviced, distributed, sold
or delivered by the Company at any time prior to the Closing Date have been in
conformity, in all material respects, with all applicable contractual
commitments and all express or implied warranties.  No liability exists for
replacement therefor or other damages in connection with such sales or
deliveries at any time prior to the Closing Date.  No products heretofore sold
by the Company are now subject to any guarantee or warranty other than the
Company's standard terms and conditions of sale, a copy of which has been
delivered to the Buyer.

          4.24  PRODUCT LIABILITY.  Except as disclosed on Schedule 4.24 hereto,
                -----------------                          -------------        
there is no existing liability, claim or obligation arising from or alleged to
arise from any actual or alleged injury to person or property as a result of the
ownership, possession or use of any product manufactured, sold, leased or
delivered by the Company.

          4.25  CLOSING DATE.  All of the representations and warranties
                ------------                                            
contained in this Article IV and elsewhere in this Agreement and all information
delivered in any Schedule, attachment or Exhibit hereto or in any writing
delivered to Buyer are true and correct on the date of this Agreement and will
be true and correct on the Closing Date, except to the extent that the Company
has advised Buyer otherwise in writing  prior to the Closing.

                                       28
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE V

           REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE SELLERS
           ----------------------------------------------------------

          As a material inducement to Buyer to enter into this Agreement, the
Sellers severally and not jointly represent and warrant to Buyer that:

          5.1  AUTHORIZATION OF TRANSACTIONS.  Each Seller has all requisite
               -----------------------------                                
power and authority to enter into this Agreement and the other documents
contemplated hereby to which such Seller is a party, and to perform its
obligations hereunder and thereunder.  This Agreement and the other documents
contemplated hereby to which each Seller is a party have been duly executed and
delivered by such Seller and constitute the valid and binding agreements of such
Seller, enforceable in accordance with their terms.

          5.2  ABSENCE OF CONFLICTS.  Neither the execution and the delivery of
               --------------------                                            
this Agreement and the other documents contemplated hereby to which any Seller
is a party, nor the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and
thereby, will (a) conflict with, result in a breach of any of the provisions of,
(b) constitute a default under, (c) result in the violation of, (d) give any
third party or governmental authority the right to terminate or to accelerate
any obligation under, (e) result in the creation of any lien, security interest
or charge or encumbrance upon the Company Stock under, or (f) require any
authorization, consent, approval, execution or other action by or notice to any
court or other governmental body under, the provisions of any indenture,
mortgage, lease, loan agreement or other material agreement or instrument to
which such Seller is bound or affected, or any statute, regulation, rule,
judgment, order, decree or other restriction of any government, governmental
agency or court to which such Seller is subject.  No notice to, filing with or
authorization, consent or approval of any government or governmental agency by
any Seller is necessary for the consummation of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement and the other documents contemplated hereby to which any Seller
is a party.

          5.3  SHARES.  The Sellers, in the aggregate, hold of record and
               ------                                                    
beneficially own all of the issued and outstanding shares of Company Stock, free
and clear of Liens or any other restrictions on transfer (other than any
restrictions under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and state securities
laws).  No Seller is a party to any option, warrant, right, contract, call, put
or other agreement or commitment providing for the disposition or acquisition of
any capital stock of the Company (other than this Agreement).  No Seller is a
party to any voting trust, proxy or other agreement or understanding with
respect to the voting of any capital stock of the Company.

          5.4  BROKERAGE.  Except as set forth on Schedule 4.15 hereto, there
               ---------                          -------------              
are no claims for brokerage commissions, finders' fees, investment bankers' fees
or similar compensation in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement based on any arrangement or agreement made by or on behalf of any
Seller.

          5.5  CLOSING DATE.  All of the representations and warranties
               ------------                                            
concerning the Sellers contained in this Article V and elsewhere in this
Agreement and all information delivered

                                       29
<PAGE>
 
in any Schedule, attachment or Exhibit hereto or in any writing delivered to
Buyer are true and correct on the date of this Agreement and will be true and
correct on the Closing Date, except to the extent that the Sellers'
Representative has advised Buyer otherwise in writing prior to the Closing.


                                   ARTICLE VI

                    REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF BUYER
                    ---------------------------------------

                                 As a material inducement to the Sellers to
enter into this Agreement, Buyer hereby represents and warrants that:

          6.1  ORGANIZATION AND CORPORATE POWER.  Buyer is a corporation duly
               --------------------------------                              
organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the State of
Delaware, with all requisite corporate power and authority to enter into this
Agreement and the other agreements contemplated hereby and perform its
obligations hereunder and thereunder.

          6.2  AUTHORIZATION.  The execution, delivery and performance of this
               -------------                                                  
Agreement and the other agreements contemplated hereby by Buyer and the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby have been duly
and validly authorized by all requisite corporate action on the part of Buyer,
and no other corporate proceedings on its part are necessary to authorize the
execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement or the other agreements
contemplated hereby.  Each of this Agreement and the other agreements
contemplated hereby constitutes a valid and binding obligation of Buyer,
enforceable against the Buyer in accordance with its terms.

          6.3  NO VIOLATION.  Buyer is not subject to or obligated under its
               ------------                                                 
certificate of incorporation, its by-laws, any applicable law, or rule or
regulation of any governmental authority, or any agreement or instrument, or any
license, franchise or permit, or subject to any order, writ, injunction or
decree, which would be breached or violated by its execution, delivery or
performance of this Agreement or the other agreements contemplated hereby.

          6.4  GOVERNMENTAL AUTHORITIES AND CONSENTS.  Except for such filings
               -------------------------------------                          
required by the HSR Act, Buyer is not required to submit any notice, report or
other filing with any governmental authority in connection with the execution or
delivery by it of this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby.  Except for any approval required pursuant to the HSR Act,
no consent, approval or authorization of any governmental or regulatory
authority or any other party or Person is required to be obtained by Buyer in
connection with its execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and
the other agreements contemplated hereby or the transactions contemplated hereby
or thereby.

          6.5  BROKERAGE.  There are no claims for brokerage commissions,
               ---------                                                 
finders' fees or similar compensation in connection with the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement based on any arrangement or agreement made by or
on behalf of Buyer.

                                       30
<PAGE>
 
          6.6  LITIGATION.  There are no actions, suits, proceedings, orders or
               ----------                                                      
investigations pending or, to the best of Buyer's knowledge, threatened against
or affecting Buyer at law or in equity, or before or by any federal, state,
municipal or other governmental department, commission, board, bureau, agency or
instrumentality, domestic or foreign, which would adversely affect Buyer's
performance under this Agreement or the other agreements contemplated hereby or
the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.

          6.7  CLOSING DATE.  All of the representations and warranties
               ------------                                            
contained in this Article VI and elsewhere in this Agreement and all information
delivered in any Schedule, attachment or Exhibit hereto or in any writing
delivered to the Company, the Sellers or Sellers' Representative are true and
correct on the date of this Agreement and will be true and correct on the
Closing Date, except to the extent that Buyer has advised the Sellers'
Representative otherwise in writing prior to the Closing.

          6.8  PURCHASE FOR INVESTMENT.  Buyer is purchasing all of the issued
               -----------------------                                        
and outstanding shares of Company Stock for investment and not for resale or
distribution.  The shares of Company Stock purchased hereunder will not be sold,
transferred, offered for sale, pledged, hypothecated or otherwise disposed of in
violation of any applicable securities laws or regulations.

          6.9  FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS.  The commitment letter from Buyer's
               ----------------------                                     
lender, attached hereto as Exhibit F, has not been terminated or revoked.
                           ---------                                     


                                  ARTICLE VII

                                  TERMINATION
                                  -----------

           7.1 TERMINATION. This Agreement may be terminated at any time prior
               -----------
to the Closing:

          (a) by mutual written consent of Buyer and the Sellers'
Representative;

          (b) by either Buyer, on the one hand, or the Sellers' Representative,
on the other, if there has been a material misrepresentation in or breach of the
representations and warranties or covenants set forth in this Agreement on the
part of the Sellers or the Company (in the case of Buyer) or Buyer (in the case
of the Sellers' Representative) or if events have occurred which have made it
impossible to satisfy a condition precedent to the terminating party's
obligation to consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, unless such
terminating party's breach of this Agreement has caused such condition to be
unsatisfied;

          (c) by the Sellers' Representative if on or after June 15, 1996 (i)
all of the conditions to Buyer's obligation at the Closing, (other than Section
2.1(e)) have been satisfied, (ii) the Sellers' Representative notifies the Buyer
that the Sellers are prepared to close the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, (iii) Buyer does not agree to waive any remaining conditions to

                                       31
<PAGE>
 
Buyer's obligation at Closing and (iv) Buyer does not notify the Sellers'
Representative on such date that Buyer will deposit $5 million (the "Deposit")
                                                                     -------  
with a mutually agreeable escrow agent within two business days of such notice;

          (d) by either Buyer or the Sellers' Representative if the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement have not been consummated by July 15, 1996;
provided that the party seeking termination pursuant to clause (c) of this
Section 7.1 (or the Company or the Sellers, in the case of a termination sought
by the Sellers' Representative) is not in breach of any of its representations,
warranties or covenants contained in this Agreement.  In the event of
termination by the Sellers' Representative or Buyer pursuant to this Section
7.1, written notice thereof (describing in reasonable detail the basis therefor)
shall promptly be delivered to the other party.

          7.2  EFFECT OF TERMINATION.  In the event of termination of this
               ---------------------                                      
Agreement by either Buyer or the Sellers' Representative as provided above, this
Agreement will forthwith become void and there will be no liability on the part
of any party hereto to any other party hereto or its shareholders, directors or
officers in respect thereof, except for the obligations of the parties hereto in
Sections 9.1, 9.5 and 9.6, except as provided in Section 7.3 below  and except
that nothing herein will relieve any party from any breach of this Agreement
prior to such termination.

          7.3  DEPOSIT.  In the event that the Sellers' Representative
               -------                                                
terminates this Agreement pursuant to Section 7.1(d) above, the Deposit will be
paid to the Sellers' Representative as liquidated damages.  Buyer and the
Sellers' Representative will promptly notify the escrow agent of such payment.

                                  ARTICLE VIII

                           SURVIVAL; INDEMNIFICATION
                           -------------------------

          8.1  SURVIVAL.   Except as set forth in the following sentence, all
               --------                                                      
representations, warranties, covenants and agreements set forth in this
Agreement or in any writing delivered in connection with this Agreement will
survive the Closing Date and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
hereby and will not be affected by any examination made for or on behalf of
Buyer, the knowledge of any of its officers, directors, stockholders, employees
or agents, or the acceptance of any certificate or opinion.  Sections 4.1, 4.2,
4.3, 4.4, 4.6, 4.8, 4.9(b), (d), (e) and (h), 4.12, 4.13, 4.14, 4.16, 4.17,
4.18, 4.19, 4.20, 4.22, 4.23, 4.24 and 4.25 (to the extent it relates to the
aforementioned representations) will not survive the Closing Date and the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby.

          8.2  INDEMNIFICATION.
               --------------- 

          (a) Subject to the limitations set forth in (b) below, the Sellers
jointly and severally agree to indemnify Buyer, its Affiliates, officers,
directors, stockholders, employees, agents, representatives, successors and
permitted assigns (collectively, the "Buyer Parties") and hold each of them
                                      -------------                        
harmless against and pay on behalf of or reimburse such Buyer Parties in respect
of any loss, liability, demand, claim, action, cause of action, cost, damage,
deficiency, tax, penalty, fine

                                       32
<PAGE>
 
or expense, whether or not arising out of third party claims (including, without
limitation, interest, penalties, reasonable attorneys' fees and expenses and all
amounts paid in investigation, defense or settlement of any of the foregoing)
(collectively, "Losses") which any such Buyer Party may suffer, sustain or
                ------                                                    
become subject to, as a result of, in connection with, relating or incidental to
or by virtue of:  (i) the breach of the Company's or the Sellers'
representations or warranties contained in Article IV (to the extent such
representations survive the Closing Date) or Article V hereof or elsewhere in
this Agreement, (ii) the breach of any covenant or agreement of the Company or
the Sellers (including, without limitation, as set forth in Section 9.3(d))
contained in this Agreement;  (iii) any claims of any brokers or finders
claiming by, through or under the Company or the Sellers; and (iv) the ownership
or lease of the Company's former Jacksonville, Florida facility or any liability
arising from Environmental and Safety Requirements at such facility (other than
workers' compensation claims).

      (b) The indemnification provided for in Section 8.2(a) above is subject to
the following limitations:

          (i) the Sellers will be liable to Buyer with respect to claims
referred to in subsection (a)(i) above only if Buyer gives the Sellers'
Representative written notice thereof for claims arising from breaches of the
representations and warranties (w) set forth in Section 4.7 (only as such
representation relates to the Company and not the Affiliated Entities) on or
prior to March 31, 1998; (x) set forth in Section 4.10 within five years after
the Closing Date; (y) set forth in Section 4.11 prior to the expiration of the
applicable statute of limitation with respect thereto; and (z) set forth in
Sections 4.5, 4.7 (as such representation relates to the Affiliated Entities),
4.9(a), (c), (f) and (g), 4.15, 4.21 and Article V as to which claims may be
made at any time (the "Survival Period");
                       ---------------   

          (ii) the Sellers will not be liable to Buyer for any Loss arising
under subsections (a)(i) (except for breaches of the representations and
warranties set forth in Article V and Section 4.7) and (a)(v) above unless the
aggregate amount of all such Losses relating to all such breaches exceeds
$500,000 in the aggregate, and then only to the extent that such Losses, in the
aggregate, exceed such amount; provided that the second $250,000 of Losses
applied against the basket set forth in clause (iii) below will be deemed to be
applied against this clause (ii) as well as clause (iii) below;

          (iii)  the Sellers will not be liable to Buyer for any Loss arising
under a breach of Section 4.7 (as such breach relates to the Company and not the
Affiliated Entities) unless the aggregate amount of all such Losses relating to
all such breaches exceeds $500,000, and then only to the extent that such
Losses, in the aggregate, exceed such amount;

          (iv) notwithstanding the foregoing, the Sellers will be liable to
Buyer for any Loss arising under Section 4.7 (as such breach relates to the
Affiliated Entities);

          (v) except with respect to breaches of the representations set forth
in Section 4.10 and Section 4.7 (as such breaches relate to the Affiliated
Entities), in no event

                                       33
<PAGE>
 
will the Sellers be liable for any Losses of Buyer in an amount in excess of
$10,000,000. With respect to breaches of the representations set forth in
Section 4.10 and Section 4.7 (as such breaches relate to the Affiliated
Entities) and Losses pursuant to subsection (a)(v) above, in no event will the
Sellers be liable for any such Losses of Buyer in an amount in excess of the
$10,000,000; and

          (vi) with respect to breaches of the representations set forth in
Section 4.10, the Sellers will not be liable to Buyer for any individual Loss
unless the amount of such Loss exceeds $25,000, and if such Loss exceeds $25,000
it will be subject to the provisions of clause (ii) above.

Notwithstanding any implication to the contrary contained in this Agreement, so
long as Buyer delivers written notice of a claim to the Sellers' Representative
within the foregoing respective Survival Period, the Sellers shall be required
to jointly and severally indemnify Buyer for all Losses that Buyer may suffer
with respect to such claim through the date of the claim, the end of the
survival period, and beyond.

          (c) Buyer agrees to indemnify the Sellers and hold each of them
harmless against any Loss which they may suffer, sustain or become subject to,
as the result of a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant, or
agreement by Buyer contained in this Agreement.

          (d) If a party hereto seeks indemnification under this Section 8.2,
such party (the "Indemnified Party") shall give written notice to the other
                 -----------------                                         
party (the "Indemnifying Party") of the facts and circumstances giving rise to
            ------------------                                                
the claim.  In that regard, if any suit, action, claim, liability or obligation
shall be brought or asserted by any third party which, if adversely determined,
would entitle the Indemnified Party to indemnity pursuant to this Section 8.2,
the Indemnified Party shall promptly notify the Indemnifying Party of the same
in writing, specifying in detail the basis of such claim and the facts
pertaining thereto and the Indemnifying Party, if it so elects, shall assume and
control the defense thereof (and shall consult with the Indemnified Party with
respect thereto), including the employment of counsel reasonably satisfactory to
the Indemnified Party and the payment of all necessary expenses.  If the
Indemnifying Party elects to assume and control the defense, the Indemnified
Party shall have the right to employ counsel separate from counsel employed by
the Indemnifying Party in any such action and to participate in the defense
thereof, but the fees and expenses of such counsel employed by the Indemnified
Party shall be at the expense of the Indemnified Party unless (i) the employment
thereof has been specifically authorized by the Indemnifying Party in writing,
or (ii) the Indemnifying Party has failed to assume the defense and employ
counsel, in which case the fees and expenses of the Indemnified Party's counsel
shall be paid by the Indemnifying Party.  The Indemnifying Party shall not be
liable for any settlement of any such action or proceeding effected without the
written consent of the Indemnifying Party, however, if there shall be a final
judgment for the plaintiff in any such action, the Indemnifying Party agrees to
indemnify and hold harmless the Indemnified Party from and against any loss or
liability by reason of such judgment.

          (e) The Indemnifying Party shall pay the Indemnified Party in
immediately available funds promptly after the Indemnified Party provides the
Indemnifying Party with written

                                       34
<PAGE>
 
notice of a claim hereunder and the parties reasonably agree that there is a
reasonable basis for such claim or a final result, determination, finding,
judgment and/or award is made pursuant to the terms of Section 8.3.

          (f) Any indemnification payments paid under this Section 8.2 will be
treated as an adjustment to the Purchase Price.

          (g) Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Section 8.2,
in the event of a breach of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement
contained in this Agreement, the Buyer or the Sellers, as the case may be, may,
at such party's option, set-off all or any portion of the Losses which such
party suffers, sustains or becomes subject to as a result of such breach against
any amounts due or to become due to the Sellers or Buyer, as the case may be,
whether pursuant to this Agreement or otherwise.

          8.3  ARBITRATION PROCEDURE.
               --------------------- 

          (a) The Buyer, the Sellers and the Sellers' Representative agree that
the arbitration procedure set forth below shall be the sole and exclusive method
for resolving and remedying claims for money damages arising out of the
provisions of Section 8.2 (the "Disputes"). Nothing in this Section 8.3 shall
                                --------                                     
prohibit a party hereto from instituting litigation to enforce any Final
Determination (as defined below) or availing itself of the  other remedies set
forth in Section 8.4 below.  The parties hereby agree and acknowledge that,
except as otherwise provided in this Section 8.3 or in the Commercial
Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association as in effect from time
to time, the arbitration procedures and any Final Determination hereunder shall
be governed by, and shall be enforced pursuant to the Uniform Arbitration Act
and applicable provisions of New York law.

          (b) In the event that any party asserts that there exists a Dispute,
such party shall deliver a written notice to each other party involved therein
specifying the nature of the asserted Dispute and requesting a meeting to
attempt to resolve the same.  If no such resolution is reached within ten
business days after such delivery of such notice, the party delivering such
notice of Dispute (the "Disputing Person") may, within 45 business days after
                        ----------------                                     
delivery of such notice, commence arbitration hereunder by delivering to each
other party involved therein a notice of arbitration (a "Notice of Arbitration")
                                                         ---------------------  
and by filing a copy of such Notice of Arbitration with the appropriate office
of the American Arbitration Association.  Such Notice of Arbitration shall
specify the matters as to which arbitration is sought, the nature of any
Dispute, the claims of each party to the arbitration and shall specify the
amount and nature of any damages, if any, sought to be recovered as a result of
any alleged claim, and any other matters required by the Commercial Arbitration
Rules of the American Arbitration Association as in effect from time to time to
be included therein, if any.

          (c) The Sellers' Representative and Buyer each shall select one
independent arbitrator expert in the subject matter of the Dispute (the
arbitrators so selected shall be referred to herein as "Sellers' Arbitrator" and
                                                        -------------------     
"Buyer's Arbitrator," respectively).  In the event that either party fails to
 ------------------                                                          
select an independent arbitrator as set forth herein within 20 days from
delivery of a Notice

                                       35
<PAGE>
 
of Arbitration, then the matter shall be resolved by the arbitrator selected by
the other party.  Sellers' Arbitrator and Buyer's Arbitrator shall select a
third independent arbitrator expert in the subject matter of the dispute, and
the three arbitrators so selected shall resolve the matter according to the
procedures set forth in this Section 8.3.  If Sellers' Arbitrator and Buyer's
Arbitrator are unable to agree on a third arbitrator within 20 days after their
selection, Sellers' Arbitrator and Buyer's Arbitrator shall each prepare a list
of three independent arbitrators.  Sellers' Arbitrator and Buyer's Arbitrator
shall each have the opportunity to designate as objectionable and eliminate one
arbitrator from the other arbitrator's list within 7 days after submission
thereof, and the third arbitrator shall then be selected by lot from the
arbitrators remaining on the lists submitted by Sellers' Arbitrator and Buyer's
Arbitrator.

          (d) The arbitrator(s) selected pursuant to paragraph (c) will
determine the allocation of the costs and expenses of arbitration based upon the
percentage which the portion of the contested amount not awarded to each party
bears to the amount actually contested by such party.  For example, if Buyer
submits a claim for $1,000, and if the Sellers' Representative contests only
$500 of the amount claimed by Buyer, and if the arbitrator(s) ultimately
resolves the dispute by awarding Buyer $300 of the $500 contested, then the
costs and expenses of arbitration will be allocated 60% (i.e. 300 / 500) to the
Sellers' Representative and 40% (i.e. 200 / 500) to Buyer.

          (e) The arbitration shall take place in New York City and shall be
conducted under the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration
Association as in effect from time to time in the State of New York, except as
otherwise set forth herein or as modified by the agreement of all of the parties
to this Agreement.  The arbitrator(s) shall conduct the arbitration so that a
final result, determination, finding, judgment and/or award (a "Final
                                                                -----
Determination") is made or rendered as soon as practicable, but in no event
- -------------                                                              
later than 90 business days after the delivery of the Notice of Arbitration nor
later than 10 days following completion of the arbitration.  The Final
Determination must be agreed upon and signed by the sole arbitrator or by at
least two of the three arbitrators (as the case may be).  The Final
Determination shall be final and binding on all parties and there shall be no
appeal from or reexamination of the Final Determination, except for fraud,
perjury, evident partiality or misconduct by an arbitrator prejudicing the
rights of any party and to correct manifest clerical errors.

          (f) Buyer and the Sellers' Representative may enforce any Final
Determination in any state or federal court having jurisdiction over the
dispute.  For the purpose of any action or proceeding instituted with respect to
any Final Determination, each party hereto hereby irrevocably submits to the
jurisdiction of such courts, irrevocably consents to the service of process by
registered mail or personal service and hereby irrevocably waives, to the
fullest extent permitted by law, any objection which it may have or hereafter
have as to personal jurisdiction, the laying of the venue of any such action or
proceeding brought in any such court and any claim that any such action or
proceeding brought in such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum.

          (g) If any party shall fail to pay the amount of any damages, if any,
assessed against it within 10 days of the delivery to such party of such Final
Determination, the unpaid amount shall bear interest from the date of such
delivery at the maximum rate permitted by applicable usury laws.  Interest on
any such unpaid amount shall be compounded semi-annually,

                                       36
<PAGE>
 
computed on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months and
shall be payable on demand.  In addition, such party shall promptly reimburse
the other party for any and all costs or expenses of any nature or kind
whatsoever (including, but not limited to, all attorneys' fees) incurred in
seeking to collect such damages or to enforce any Final Determination.

          8.4  REMEDIES.  Except as provided in Section 8.3 hereof regarding the
               --------                                                         
requirements of using the arbitration procedure set forth therein for resolving
and remedying claims for money damages arising out of the provisions of Section
8.2, Buyer and the Sellers' Representative each have and retain all other rights
and remedies existing in their favor at law or equity, including, without
limitation, any actions for specific performance and/or injunctive or other
equitable relief (including, without limitation, the remedy of rescission) to
enforce or prevent any violations of the provisions of this Agreement.  Without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Seller hereby agrees that in the
event such Seller (or the Sellers' Representative, on behalf of such Seller)
fails to convey the Company Stock to Buyer in accordance with the provisions of
this Agreement, Buyer's remedy at law may be inadequate.  In such event, Buyer
shall have the right, in addition to all other rights and remedies it may have,
to specific performance of the obligations of the Sellers to convey the Company
Stock.

          8.5  EFFECT OF TAXES AND INSURANCE.   Losses of the Buyer shall be
               -----------------------------                                
adjusted to give credit to the Seller for (i) any net reduction in federal,
state or local income or franchise Tax liability when and as realized at any
time by the Buyer in connection with the Losses for which indemnification is
sought hereunder, and (ii) any amounts when and as recovered by the Buyer with
respect to the matter for which the Buyer is being indemnified under insurance
policies for the benefit of the Buyer that reduce Losses that would otherwise be
sustained, except to the extent by which the Buyer can demonstrate the premiums
of such policies have increased as a result of such recovery.

                                   ARTICLE IX

                             ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS
                             ---------------------

          9.1  PRESS RELEASES AND ANNOUNCEMENTS.  Prior to the Closing Date,
               --------------------------------                             
press releases related to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated
herein, or other announcements to the employees, customers or suppliers of the
Company will be prepared jointly by the Sellers' Representative and Buyer and
none will be issued without the mutual approval of the Sellers' Representative
and Buyer, except any public disclosure which is required by law or regulation
(in which case the disclosure shall be prepared jointly by the Sellers'
Representative and Buyer).  After the Closing Date, no press releases related to
this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby and the transactions
contemplated herein, or other announcements to the employees, customers or
suppliers of the Company will be issued without Buyer's consent.

          9.2  FURTHER TRANSFERS.  The Company, the Sellers and the Sellers'
               -----------------                                            
Representative will execute and deliver such further instruments of conveyance
and transfer and take such additional action as Buyer may reasonably request to
effect, consummate, confirm or evidence the transfer to Buyer of the Company
Stock and any other transactions contemplated hereby.

                                       37
<PAGE>
 
          9.3  TAX MATTERS.  The following provisions shall govern the
               -----------                                            
allocation of responsibility as between Buyer, the Company and Sellers for
certain Tax matters following the Closing Date:

          (a) Tax Periods Ending on or Before the Closing Date.  The Sellers'
              ------------------------------------------------               
Representative shall prepare or cause to be prepared and file or cause to be
filed all Tax Returns for the Company and the Subsidiaries for all periods
ending on or prior to the Closing Date which are filed after the Closing Date.
All items of income, gain, deduction, loss and credit shall be reported on such
Tax Returns in a manner consistent with prior Tax Returns except to the extent
prohibited by applicable statute or regulations.  The Sellers' Representative
shall permit the Buyer to review and comment on each such Tax Return at least 10
days prior to filing, and shall not unreasonably refuse to take such comments
into account so long as they are (i) not inconsistent with prior Tax Returns or
(ii) prohibited by applicable statute or regulations.  Buyer shall pay, or shall
cause the Company and/or the Subsidiaries to pay, all Taxes of the Company and
the Subsidiaries with respect to such periods, and Sellers shall reimburse Buyer
for Taxes of the Company and the Subsidiaries with respect to such periods
within fifteen (15) days of payment by the Buyer, the Company and/or the
Subsidiaries of such Taxes to the extent such Taxes are not accrued on the
Closing Balance Sheet.

          (b) Tax Periods Beginning Before and Ending After the Closing Date.
              --------------------------------------------------------------  
Buyer shall prepare or cause to be prepared and file or cause to be filed any
Tax Returns of the Company and its Subsidiaries for Tax periods which begin
before the Closing Date and end after the Closing Date, and shall pay, or shall
cause the Company and/or the Subsidiaries to pay, all Taxes of the Company and
the Subsidiaries with respect to such periods.   Sellers shall pay to Buyer
within fifteen (15) days of the date on which Taxes are paid with respect to
such periods an amount equal to the portion of such Taxes which relates to the
portion of such Taxable period ending on the Closing Date to the extent such
Taxes are not accrued on the Closing Balance Sheet.  For purposes of this
Section, in the case of any Taxes that are imposed on a periodic basis and are
payable for a Taxable period that includes (but does not end on) the Closing
Date, the portion of such Taxes which relates to the portion of such Taxable
period ending on the Closing Date shall (x) in the case of any Taxes other than
Taxes based upon or related to income, be deemed to be the amount of such Tax
for the entire Taxable period multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is
the number of days in the Taxable period ending on the Closing Date and the
denominator of which is the number of days in the entire Taxable period, and (y)
in the case of any Tax based upon or related to income be deemed equal to the
amount which would be payable if the relevant Taxable period ended on the
Closing Date.  Any credits relating to a Taxable period that begins before and
ends after the Closing Date shall be taken into account as though the relevant
Taxable period ending on the Closing Date. All determinations necessary to give
effect to the foregoing allocations shall be made in a manner consistent with
prior practice of the Company and any of its Subsidiaries, as applicable.

          (c) To the extent not accrued on the Closing Balance Sheet, Sellers
shall reimburse Buyer for any Taxes of the Company and the Subsidiaries, or for
any increase in such Taxes, in any taxable period (including, but not limited
to, as a result of a change in accounting method) attributable to the transfer
of all of the capital stock of the Affiliated Entities to the Company,
including, but not limited to, a resulting termination of an election made by
any of the

                                       38
<PAGE>
 
Affiliated Entities under Code Section 1362 or under any corresponding provision
of any state, local or foreign law.

          (d)  Cooperation on Tax Matters.
               -------------------------- 

          (i) Buyer, the Company and Sellers shall cooperate fully, as and to
the extent reasonably requested by the other party, in connection with the
filing of Tax Returns pursuant to this Section and any audit, litigation or
other proceeding with respect to Taxes.  Such cooperation shall include the
retention and (upon the other party's request) the provision of records and
information which are reasonably relevant to any such audit, litigation or other
proceeding and making employees available on a mutually convenient basis to
provide additional information and explanation of any material provided
hereunder.  The Company and Sellers agree (A) to retain all books and records
with respect to Tax matters and pertinent to the Company and its Subsidiaries
relating to any taxable period beginning before the Closing Date until the
expiration of the statute of limitations (and, to the extent notified by Buyer
or Sellers, any extensions thereof) of the respective taxable periods, and to
abide by all record retention agreements entered into with any taxing authority,
and (B) to give the other party reasonable written notice prior to transferring
, destroying or discarding any such books and records and, if the other party so
requests, the Company or Sellers, as the case may be, shall allow the other
party to take possession of such books and records.

          (ii) Buyer and Sellers further agree, upon request, to use their best
efforts to obtain any certificate or other document from any governmental
authority or any other Person as may be necessary to mitigate, reduce or
eliminate any Tax that could be imposed (including, but not limited to, with
respect to the transactions contemplated hereby).

          (e) Certain Taxes.  All transfer, documentary, sales, use, stamp,
              -------------                                                
registration and other such Taxes and fees (including any penalties and
interest) incurred in connection with this Agreement (including any New York
State Gains Tax, New York State Transfer Tax and any similar tax imposed in
other states or subdivisions), shall be paid by Sellers when due, and Sellers
will, at their own expense, file all necessary Tax Returns and other
documentation with respect to all such transfer, documentary, sales, use, stamp,
registration and other Taxes and fees, and, if required by applicable law, Buyer
will, and will cause its affiliates to, join in the execution of any such Tax
Returns and other documentation.

          (f) Sellers will furnish Buyer prior to the Closing a certification
pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.897-2 to the effect that the Company
is not a "United States real property holding corporation" as defined in Code
Section 897.

          (g) Inclusion in Buyer's Consolidated Returns.  In each taxable period
              -----------------------------------------                         
during which (i) the Company and the Subsidiaries, or any subset thereof, are
members of an Affiliated Group the common parent of which is Buyer and (ii) such
Affiliated Group has elected to, or is required by applicable law to, file a
combined, consolidated or unitary return, the Company and the Subsidiaries, or
such subset thereof, shall be included in such combined, consolidated or unitary

                                       39
<PAGE>
 
return except to the extent that the Company or a Subsidiary is not eligible
under applicable law to be included in such combined, consolidated or unitary
return.

          9.4  TRANSITION ASSISTANCE.  Neither the Company nor the Sellers will
               ---------------------                                           
in any manner take any action which is designed, intended, or might be
reasonably anticipated to have the effect of discouraging customers, suppliers,
lessors, licensors and other business associates from maintaining the same
business relationships with the Company after the date of this Agreement as were
maintained with the Company prior to and at the date of this Agreement.

          9.5  INVESTIGATION AND CONFIDENTIALITY.
               --------------------------------- 

          (a) Prior to the Closing Date, Buyer may make or cause to be made such
investigation of the Company as it deems necessary or advisable to familiarize
itself therewith.  Each Seller will cause the Company to, and the Company will
cause its officers, directors, employees and agents (including attorneys and
accountants) (the "Company's Agents") to, at reasonable times during normal
                   ----------------                                        
business hours, permit Buyer and its employees, agents, accounting and legal
representatives and lenders (and such lenders' audit staff) and their
representatives to have full and complete access, at all reasonable times, to
the Company's facilities and to the Company's books, records, invoices,
contracts, leases, personnel, facilities, equipment and other data and
information. Each Seller will cause the Company to, and the Company will cause
the Company's Agents to, at reasonable times during normal business hours,
permit Buyer to inspect the facilities and to discuss the affairs, finances and
accounts of the Company with the directors, officers, independent accountants,
key employees, key customers, key sales representatives and key suppliers of the
Company.

          (b) If the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are not
consummated, Buyer will use its reasonable best efforts to maintain the
confidentiality of all information and materials reasonably designated by the
Company as confidential, except as required by law or legal process, and Buyer
and its representatives will return to the Company originals of and destroy
copies of all materials obtained from the Company in connection with the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.  Whether or not the transactions
contemplated hereby are consummated, the Sellers, the Sellers' Representative
and the Company will use their reasonable best efforts to maintain the
confidentiality of all information and materials regarding Buyer and its
Affiliates reasonably designated by Buyer as confidential, except as required by
law or legal process, and Buyer and its representatives will return to the
Company originals of and destroy copies of all materials obtained from the
Company in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.  If
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement are consummated, each Seller and
the Sellers' Representative agrees to use its reasonable best efforts to
maintain the confidentiality of all proprietary and other non-public information
regarding the Company, except as required to file tax returns and as required by
law or legal process, and to turn over to Buyer at the Closing all such
materials (and all copies thereof) that they have in their possession.  In the
event of the breach of any of the provisions of this Section 9.5, the non-
breaching party, in addition and supplementary to other rights and remedies
existing in its favor, may apply to any court of law or equity of competent
jurisdiction for specific performance and/or injunctive or other relief (without
the posting of bond or other security) in order to enforce or prevent any
violations of the provisions hereof.

                                       40
<PAGE>
 
          (c) In the event that any party reasonably believes after consultation
with counsel that it is required by law to disclose any confidential information
described in this Section 9.5, the disclosing party will (i) provide the other
party with prompt notice before such disclosure in order that such other party
may attempt to obtain a protective order or other assurance that confidential
treatment will be accorded such confidential information and (ii) cooperate with
the other party in attempting to obtain such order or assurance.  The provisions
of this Section 9.5 shall not apply to any information, documents or materials
which are, as shown by appropriate written evidence, in the public domain or, as
shown by appropriate written evidence, shall come into the public domain, other
than by reason of default by the applicable party bound hereunder or its
Affiliates.

          9.6  EXPENSES.  Except as otherwise provided herein, Buyer and the
               --------                                                     
Sellers will each pay all of their own expenses  (including fees and expenses of
legal counsel, investment bankers, or other representatives and consultants and
appraisal fees and expenses) incurred in connection with the negotiation of this
Agreement and the other agreements contemplated hereby and the performance of
its or their obligations hereunder and thereunder, and the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby and thereby (whether consummated or not); it
being understood that the Sellers will pay amounts due, if any, to Bowles,
Hollowell, Conner & Co. under the terms of a certain engagement letter, dated
November 15, 1995, and all other fees and expenses listed on Schedule 4.15
                                                             -------------
hereto.  To the extent that the Buyer or the Company pays or becomes liable for
any of the expenses of the Sellers or the Sellers' Representative, the Purchase
Price shall be reduced dollar-for-dollar.

          9.7  NONCOMPETITION AND NONSOLICITATION.
               ---------------------------------- 

          (a) As an inducement to Buyer to enter into this Agreement and
consummate the transactions contemplated hereby, each Seller agrees as follows:

          (i) During the period from the Closing Date to and including the fifth
anniversary of the Closing Date (the "Noncompete Period"), such Seller shall not
                                      -----------------                         
have any Affiliation (as defined below) with any Person or other business entity
or enterprise anywhere in the world which engages in or proposes to engage in
the manufacture, merchandising, distribution or sale of any products or goods
manufactured, merchandised, distributed or sold by the Company or Buyer as of
the Closing Date (the "Products"). Nothing contained herein shall be construed
                       --------                                               
to prohibit such Seller from purchasing (x) securities of Buyer or (y) up to an
aggregate of 2% of any class of the outstanding voting securities of any Person
whose securities are listed on a national securities exchange or traded in the
NASDAQ national market system (a "Public Company") or up to an aggregate of 5%
                                  --------------                              
of any other class of securities of any Public Company (including, for purposes
of calculating the percentage of such securities which may be purchased by such
Seller, the securities of such Public Company then owned by all Affiliates of
such Seller to the extent such Persons are acting in concert or otherwise
constitute a "group" for purposes of Section 13(d)(3) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934), as amended, if such Seller does not have an active role in the
management of such Public Company, it being understood that the exercise of
voting rights with respect to any such voting securities, in and of itself,
shall not constitute such a role.  For purposes of this subparagraph (a)(i), the
term "Affiliation" shall
      -----------       

                                       41
<PAGE>
 
mean any direct or indirect interest in such entity or enterprise, whether as an
officer, director, employee, investor, partner, stockholder, sole proprietor,
trustee, consultant, agent, representative, broker, promoter or otherwise; and

          (ii) During the Noncompete Period, such Seller shall not, and shall
not permit any of his Affiliates to (x) induce or attempt to induce any employee
of Buyer, the Company or their Subsidiaries to leave the employ of Buyer, the
Company or such Subsidiary, or in any way interfere with the relationship
between Buyer, the Company or their Subsidiaries and any employee thereof, (y)
hire directly or indirectly any person who was an employee of Buyer, the Company
or their Subsidiaries within 180 days prior to the time such employee was hired
by such Person, or (z) induce or attempt to induce any customer, supplier,
licensee or other business relation of Buyer, the Company or their Subsidiaries
to cease doing business with Buyer, the Company or their Subsidiaries or in any
way interfere with the relationship between any such customer, supplier,
licensee or business relation of Buyer, the Company  or any Subsidiary.

Notwithstanding anything in this Section 9.7 to the contrary, if at any time, in
any judicial proceeding, any of the restrictions stated in this Section 9.7 are
found by a final order of a court of competent jurisdiction to be unreasonable
or otherwise unenforceable under circumstances then existing, the Sellers and
Buyer agree that the period, scope or geographical area, as the case may be,
shall be reduced to the extent necessary to enable the court to enforce the
restrictions to the extent such provisions are allowable under law, giving
effect to the agreement and intent of the parties that the restrictions
contained herein shall be effective to the fullest extent permissible.  The
Sellers and Buyer acknowledge and agree that money damages may not be an
adequate remedy for any breach or threatened breach of the provisions of this
Section 9.7 and that, in such event, the other party or its successors or
assigns may, in addition to any other rights and remedies existing in its favor,
apply to any court of competent jurisdiction for specific performance,
injunctive and/or other relief in order to enforce or prevent any violations of
the provisions of this Section 9.7 (including the extension of the Noncompete
Period by a period equal to the length of court proceedings necessary to stop
such violation).  Any injunction shall be available without the posting of any
bond or other security.  In the event of an alleged breach or violation by any
Seller of any of the provisions of this Section 9.7, the Noncompete Period will
be tolled for such Seller until such alleged breach or violation is resolved.
The Sellers agree that the restrictions contained in this Section 9.7 are
reasonable in all respects.

          9.8  SELLERS' REPRESENTATIVE.
               ----------------------- 

          (a) By the Sellers' execution of this Agreement, the Sellers'
Representative is hereby designated by each of the Sellers to serve as the
representative of the Sellers with respect to the matters expressly set forth in
this Agreement to be performed by the Sellers' Representative.

          (b) Each of the Sellers, by their execution of this Agreement, hereby
irrevocably appoints the Sellers' Representative as the agent, proxy and
attorney-in-fact for such Seller for all purposes of this Agreement, including,
without limitation, full power and authority on such Sellers' behalf (i) to
consummate the transactions contemplated herein, and in the event of such

                                       42
<PAGE>
 
consummation, to receive and disburse payments, as the case may be, on behalf of
such Seller for the Company Stock pursuant to Section 1.4(b); (ii) to pay such
Seller's expenses (whether incurred on or after the date hereof) incurred in
connection with the negotiation and performance of this Agreement, it being
understood that such expenses shall be allocated among the Sellers pro rata
based on the Sellers' Pro Rata Shares; (iii) to disburse any funds received
hereunder to such Seller and each other Seller; (iv) to execute and deliver any
certificates required hereunder, including delivery of any stock certificates
representing the Company Stock; (v) to execute and deliver on behalf of such
Seller any amendment hereto; provided, that such amendment does not treat any
Seller disproportionately relative to any of the other Sellers; (vi) to take all
other actions to be taken by or on behalf of such Seller in connection herewith;
(vii) to negotiate, settle, compromise and otherwise handle all claims of Buyer
pursuant to Section 1.3 hereof; (viii) to pay or accept any amounts pursuant to
Article I hereof; (ix) to negotiate, settle, compromise and otherwise handle all
claims for indemnification made by the Buyer pursuant to Article VIII hereof;
and (x) to do each and every act and exercise any and all rights which such
Seller or the Sellers (collectively) are permitted or required to do or exercise
under this Agreement.  Each of the Sellers agrees that such agency and proxy are
coupled with an interest, and are therefore irrevocable without the consent of
the Sellers' Representative.

          (c) Neither the Sellers' Representative nor any agent employed by him
shall incur any liability to any Seller relating to the performance of his
duties hereunder, except for fraud or bad faith.

          9.9  ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR SEC FILINGS.
               -------------------------------------- 

          (a) The Company shall use its best efforts to promptly provide Buyer
with all financial statements and other financial data relating to the Company
and its Subsidiaries that is required to be included by Buyer's parent, American
Pad & Paper Company ("APP"), in any registration statement filed by APP with the
                      ---                                                       
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and shall use its best efforts to
                                         ---                                    
obtain for APP the signed written consent of the Company's independent auditors
to be named as experts in any such registration statement and the signed audit
report of such independent auditors with respect to any audited financial
statements of the Company and its Subsidiaries required to be included in such
registration statement, in each case, in the form required by SEC regulations.
The Company shall also provide APP with such other information regarding the
Company and its Subsidiaries as APP may request to comply with the SEC laws,
rules and regulations relating to any such registration statement.  Buyer shall
pay or reimburse, as the case may be, the Sellers for any reasonable out-of-
pocket expenses incurred by the Sellers on behalf of the Company to comply with
this Section 9.9 which the Sellers would not have incurred but for the
requirements of this Section 9.9.

          (b) Buyer shall indemnify and hold harmless the Sellers from and
against any liability which the Sellers shall incur as a result of any public
offering by Buyer of its securities which is registered under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended.

                                       43
<PAGE>
 
          9.10  APPROVAL OF SERVICES AGREEMENT PAYMENT.  Each Seller who holds
                --------------------------------------                        
voting stock of the Company will vote to approve the Payment (as defined in the
Services Agreement) and payments pursuant to certain stay bonus and change of
control agreements with Francis Ritgert and Jeffery Lennox  in a separate vote
of the shareholders of the Company that meets the requirements of Code
Section 280G(b)(5)(B) and deliver a copy of the shareholder agreement or
resolution evidencing such vote to Buyer at or prior to the Closing.

                                   ARTICLE X

                                 MISCELLANEOUS
                                 -------------

          10.1  AMENDMENT AND WAIVER.  This Agreement may be amended and any
                --------------------                                        
provision of this Agreement may be waived; provided, that any such amendment or
waiver will be binding upon a party only if such amendment or waiver is set
forth in a writing executed by the Buyer, the Company and the Sellers'
Representative.  No course of dealing between or among any Persons having any
interest in this Agreement will be deemed effective to modify, amend or
discharge any part of this Agreement or any rights or obligations of any party
under or by reason of this Agreement.  No waiver of any of the provisions of
this Agreement shall be deemed or shall constitute a waiver of any other
provision, whether or not similar, nor shall any waiver constitute a continuing
waiver.

          10.2  NOTICES.  All notices, demands and other communications given or
                -------                                                         
delivered under this Agreement will be in writing and will be deemed to have
been given when personally delivered, mailed by first class mail (return receipt
requested), delivered by a reputable express courier service or transmitted by
facsimile or telecopy.  Notices, demands and communications to the Sellers, the
Sellers' Representative, the Company and the Buyer will, unless another address
is specified in writing, be sent to the addresses indicated below:

                                 Notices to the Company (prior to Closing):
                                 ----------------------------------------- 

                                 Niagara Envelope Company, Inc.
                                 737 Delaware Ave.
                                 Buffalo, NY 14209
                                 Attention: Frederick G. Pierce, II

                                 with a copy to:
                                 --------------                               
                                                                              
                                 Lippes, Silverstein, Mathias & Wexler, LLP   
                                 700 Guaranty Building                        
                                 28 Church Street                             
                                 Buffalo, NY 14202                            
                                 Attention: Gerald S. Lippes           
                                            Robert J. Olivieri
 

                                       44
<PAGE>
 
       Notices to the Sellers and the Sellers' Representative:
       ------------------------------------------------------ 

       Frederick G. Pierce, II
       227 Nottingham Terrace
       Buffalo, NY 14216

       with a copy to:
       -------------- 

       Lippes, Silverstein, Mathias & Wexler, LLP
       700 Guaranty Building
       28 Church Street
       Buffalo, NY  14202
       Attention:  Gerald S. Lippes

       Notices to Buyer (and, upon Closing, the Company):
       ------------------------------------------------- 

       American Pad & Paper Company of Delaware, Inc.
       c/o Bain Capital, Inc.
       Two Copley Place
       Boston, MA  02116
       Attention:  Marc B. Wolpow
                   Robert C. Gay

       with a copy to:
       -------------- 

       Kirkland & Ellis
       200 East Randolph Drive
       Chicago, IL  60601
       Attention:  Karl E. Lutz, P.C.
                   James L. Learner

        10.3   BINDING AGREEMENT; ASSIGNMENT.
               ----------------------------- 

       (a) This Agreement and all of the provisions hereof will be binding upon
and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors
and permitted assigns, except that neither this Agreement nor any of the rights,
interests or obligations hereunder may be assigned or delegated by the Company,
any Seller or the Sellers' Representative without the prior written consent of
Buyer.

       (b) Buyer may, at its sole discretion, assign, in whole or in part, its
rights and obligations pursuant to this Agreement to one or more of its
Affiliates.

       (c) Buyer may assign its rights under this Agreement (including its right
to indemnification) for collateral security purposes to any of its lenders
providing financing for the

                                       45
<PAGE>
 
transactions contemplated hereby and all extensions, renewals, replacements,
refinancings and refundings thereof in whole or in part.

        10.4   SEVERABILITY.  Whenever possible, each provision of this
               ------------                                            
Agreement will be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under
applicable law, but if any provision of this Agreement is held to be prohibited
by or invalid under applicable law, such provision will be ineffective only to
the extent of such prohibition or invalidity, without invalidating the remainder
of such provisions or the remaining provisions of this Agreement.

        10.5   NO STRICT CONSTRUCTION.  The language used in this Agreement
               ----------------------                                      
shall be deemed to be the language chosen by the parties hereto to express their
collective mutual intent, and no rule of strict construction shall be applied
against any person.  The term "including" as used herein shall be by way of
example and shall not be deemed to constitute a limitation of any term of
provision contained herein.

        10.6   CAPTIONS AND HEADINGS.  The captions and headings used in this
               ---------------------                                         
Agreement are for convenience of reference only and do not constitute a part of
this Agreement and will not be deemed to limit, characterize or in any way
affect any provision of this Agreement, and all provisions of this Agreement
will be enforced and construed as if no caption had been used in this Agreement.

        10.7   ENTIRE AGREEMENT.  This Agreement and the documents referred to
               ----------------                                               
herein and therein contain the entire agreement between the parties and
supersede any prior understandings, agreements or representations by or between
the parties, written or oral, which may have related to the subject matter
hereof in any way.

        10.8   COUNTERPARTS.  This Agreement may be executed in multiple
               ------------                                             
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original but all of which taken
together will constitute one and the same instrument.

        10.9   GOVERNING LAW.  THE INTERNAL LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK SHALL
               -------------                                                   
GOVERN ALL QUESTIONS CONCERNING THE CONSTRUCTION, VALIDITY, INTERPRETATION AND
ENFORCEABILITY OF THIS AGREEMENT AND THE EXHIBITS AND SCHEDULES HERETO, AND THE
PERFORMANCE OF THE OBLIGATIONS IMPOSED BY THIS AGREEMENT, WITHOUT GIVING EFFECT
TO ANY CHOICE OF LAW OR CONFLICT OF LAW RULES OR PROVISIONS (WHETHER OF THE
STATE OF NEW YORK OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION) THAT WOULD CAUSE THE APPLICATION OF
THE LAWS OF ANY JURISDICTION OTHER THAN THE STATE OF NEW YORK.

        10.10  NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES.  Nothing in this Agreement, express
               ----------------------------                                     
or implied, is intended to confer on any Person other than the parties and their
respective successors and assigns any rights or remedies under or by virtue of
this Agreement.

                                       46
<PAGE>
 
                                  ARTICLE XI

                              CERTAIN DEFINITIONS
                              -------------------

       For purposes of this Agreement, the following terms shall have the
meanings set forth below:

       "Affiliate" of any particular Person means any other Person controlling,
        ---------                                                              
controlled by or under common control with such particular Person, where
"control" means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct
the management and policies of a Person, whether through the ownership of voting
securities, contract or otherwise.

       "Affiliated Entities" means  each of Wented Company, an Illinois
        -------------------                                            
corporation, and Wented Company of Texas, a Delaware corporation.

       "Affiliated Group" means an affiliated group as defined in Section 1504
        ----------------                                                      
of the Code (or any analogous combined, consolidated or unitary group under
state, local or foreign income Tax law) of which the Company is or has been a
member.

       "Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
        ----                                                      

       "Knowledge" shall mean (i) with respect to the Sellers' Representative,
        ---------                                                             
his or her actual knowledge, and (ii) with respect to the Company, the actual
knowledge of those persons set forth in Schedule 11 hereto.
                                        -----------        

       "Liens" means any mortgage, pledge, security interest, encumbrance, lien
        -----                                                                  
or charge of any kind (including, without limitation, any conditional sale or
other title retention agreement or lease in the nature thereof), any sale of
receivables with recourse against the Company or any Seller, any Affiliate of
the Company or such Seller, any filing or agreement to file a financing
statement as debtor under the Uniform Commercial Code or any similar statute
other than to reflect ownership by a third party of property leased to the
Company or any Seller under a lease which is not in the nature of a conditional
sale or title retention agreement, or any subordination arrangement in favor of
another Person (other than any subordination arising in the ordinary course of
business).

       "Permitted Liens" means:
        ---------------        

   (i) tax Liens with respect to taxes not yet due and payable or which are
being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which
appropriate reserves have been established in accordance with GAAP;

   (ii) deposits or pledges made in connection with, or to secure payment of,
utilities or similar services, workers' compensation, unemployment insurance,
old age pensions or other social security obligations;

   (iii)  interests or title of a lessor under any lease set forth on Schedule
                                                                      --------
4.9;
- --- 

                                       47
<PAGE>
 
   (iv) mechanics', materialmen's or contractors' Liens or encumbrances or any
similar Lien or restriction arising in the ordinary course of business for
amounts not yet due and payable; and

   (v) easements, rights-of-way, restrictions and other similar charges and
encumbrances of record not interfering with the ordinary conduct of the business
of the Company or materially detracting from the value of the assets of the
Company.

     "Person" means an individual, a partnership, a corporation, an association,
      ------                                                                    
a limited liability company, a joint stock company, a trust, a joint venture, an
unincorporated organization and a governmental entity or any department, agency
or political subdivision thereof.

     "Subsidiary" means, with respect to any Person, any corporation,
      ----------                                                     
partnership, association or other business entity of which (i) if a corporation,
a majority of the total voting power of shares of stock entitled (without regard
to the occurrence of any contingency) to vote in the election of directors,
managers or trustees thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or
indirectly, by that Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of that
Person or a combination thereof, or (ii) if a partnership, association or other
business entity, a majority of the partnership or other similar ownership
interest thereof is at the time owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by
any Person or one or more Subsidiaries of that Person or a combination thereof.
For purposes hereof, (i) a Person or Persons shall be deemed to have a majority
ownership interest in a partnership, association or other business entity if
such Person or Persons shall be allocated a majority of partnership, association
or other business entity gains or losses or shall be or control the managing
director or general partner of such partnership, association or other business
entity; and (ii) the Affiliated Entities will be treated as Subsidiaries of the
Company.

     "Tax" means any (i) federal, state, local or foreign income, gross
      ---                                                              
receipts, franchise, estimated, alternative minimum, add-on minimum, sales, use,
transfer, registration, value added, excise, natural resources, severance,
stamp, occupation, premium, windfall profit, environmental, customs, duties,
real property, personal property, capital stock, social security, unemployment,
disability, payroll, license, employee or other withholding, or other tax, of
any kind whatsoever, including any interest, penalties or additions to tax or
additional amounts in respect of the foregoing; (ii) liability of the Company
for the payment of any amounts of the type described in clause (i) arising as a
result of being (or ceasing to be) a member of any Affiliated Group (or being
included (or required to be included) in any Tax Return relating thereto); and
(iii) liability of the Company for the payment of any amounts of the type
described in clause (i) as a result of any express or implied obligation to
indemnify or otherwise assume or succeed to the liability of any other Person.

     "Tax Returns" means returns, declarations, reports, claims for refund,
      -----------                                                          
information returns or other documents (including any related or supporting
schedules, statements of information) filed or required to be filed in
connection with the determination, assessment or collection of Taxes of any
party of the administration of any laws, regulations or administrative
requirements relating to any Taxes.

                              *     *     *     *

                                       48
<PAGE>
 
     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of
the date first written above.

                              NIAGARA ENVELOPE COMPANY, INC.



                              By: /s/ Frederick G. Pierce, II
                                 ----------------------------------------

                              Its:
                                  ---------------------------------------


                              /s/ Frederick G. Pierce, II
                              -------------------------------------------
                              Frederick G. Pierce, II, both individually and in
                              his capacity as the Sellers' Representative


                              /s/ Phyllis Wendt Pierce
                              -------------------------------------------
                              Phyllis Wendt Pierce


                              MARINE MIDLAND BANK, AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR THE
                              USES AND PURPOSES AND UPON THE TERMS CONTAINED IN
                              THE RESOLUTION AND DECLARATION OF TRUST CREATING
                              THE BUFFALO FOUNDATION, AS AMENDED, ADOPTED BY THE
                              BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF SAID TRUSTEE, COPIES OF
                              WHICH WERE FILED IN THE OFFICES OF THE SECRETARY
                              OF STATE OF NEW YORK AND ERIE COUNTY CLERK,
                              PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTERS 622 AND 623
                              OF THE LAWS OF 1926, PURSUANT TO INSTRUMENT OF
                              GIFT IN TRUST DATED MAY 8, 1996 BETWEEN PHYLLIS W.
                              PIERCE AS DONOR, THE BUFFALO FOUNDATION AND MARINE
                              MIDLAND BANK AS SUCH TRUSTEE


                              By: /s/ Henry Bradley
                                 ----------------------------------------

                              Its: 
                                  ---------------------------------------

                                       49
<PAGE>
 
                              THE BUFFALO FOUNDATION


                              By: /s/
                                 ----------------------------------------

                              Its:  Director
                                  ---------------------------------------


                              PHYLLIS W. PIERCE AND FREDERICK G. PIERCE II, AS
                              TRUSTEES OF TRUST UNDER ARTICLE SEVENTH OF LAST
                              WILL AND TESTAMENT OF FREDERICK S. PIERCE

                              /s/ Frederick G. Pierce, II
                              -------------------------------------------
                              Frederick G. Pierce II, Trustee

                              /s/ Phyllis W. Pierce
                              -------------------------------------------
                              Phyllis W. Pierce, Trustee


                              GAYLORD SMYTHE L.L.C.


                              By: /s/ Frederick G. Pierce, II
                                 ----------------------------------------
                                     Manager

                              AMERICAN PAD & PAPER COMPANY OF DELAWARE, INC.


                              By: /s/ Gregory M. Benson
                                 ----------------------------------------

                              Its:
                                  ---------------------------------------

                                       50
<PAGE>
 
                                LIST OF EXHIBITS
                                ----------------
 
 
Exhibit A       Form of Opinion of Counsel to the Company and the Sellers
 
Exhibit B       Services Agreement
 
Exhibit C       Closing Certificates from the Sellers' Representative and the 
                Company
 
Exhibit D       Form of Opinion of Counsel to Buyer
 
Exhibit E       Closing Certificate from Buyer
 
Exhibit F       Commitment Letter from Buyer's Lender
 

<PAGE>
 
                          LIST OF DISCLOSURE SCHEDULES
                          ----------------------------


Schedule 1.3(a)  Letters of Credit
Schedule 2.1(c)  Consents Required for Closing
Schedule 3.1(l)  Equipment to be Transferred
Schedule 4.1     Organization and Corporate Power
Schedule 4.3     Subsidiaries; Investments
Schedule 4.4     Absence of Conflicts
Schedule 4.5     Capitalization
Schedule 4.6     Financial Statements
Schedule 4.7     Absence of Undisclosed Liabilities
Schedule 4.8     Absence of Certain Developments
Schedule 4.9     Assets
Schedule 4.10    Environmental Safety Matters
Schedule 4.11    Taxes
Schedule 4.12    Contracts and Commitments
Schedule 4.13    Proprietary Rights
Schedule 4.14    Litigation; Proceedings
Schedule 4.15    Brokerage
Schedule 4.16    Governmental Licenses and Permits
Schedule 4.17    Employees
Schedule 4.18    Employee Benefit Plans
Schedule 4.19    Insurance
Schedule 4.20    Officers and Directors; Bank Accounts
Schedule 4.21    Affiliate Transactions
Schedule 4.22    Compliance with Laws
Schedule 4.23    Product Warranty
Schedule 4.24    Product Liability


<PAGE>
 

                                                                     EXHIBIT 5.1

                               KIRKLAND & ELLIS
               PARTNERSHIPS INCLUDING PROFESSIONAL CORPORATIONS


                            200 East Randolph Drive
                            Chicago, Illinois 60601
                               

                                 312 861-2000                      Facsimile: 
                                                                  312 861-2200

                                                                    
                                 June 5, 1996



American Pad & Paper Company
17304 Preston Road, Suite 700
Dallas, Texas  75252

     Re:    American Pad & Paper Company Registration Statement
            on Form S-1 Registration No. 333-4000
     -------------------------------------------------------------

Ladies and Gentlemen:

         We are acting as special counsel to American Pad & Paper Company, a
Delaware corporation (the "Company"), in connection with the proposed
registration by the Company of 12,500,000 shares (the "Primary Shares") of its
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share (the "Common Stock"), to be issued and
sold by the Company and up to 5,468,750 shares (the "Secondary Shares" and
together with the Primary Shares, the "Shares") of Common Stock to be sold by
certain stockholders of the Company (the "Selling Stockholders"), pursuant to a
Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-4000), originally filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") on April 25, 1996
under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Act") (such Registration
Statement, as amended or supplemented, is hereinafter referred to as the
"Registration Statement").  The Shares are to be sold pursuant to an
underwriting agreement (the "Underwriting Agreement") between the Company, the
Selling Stockholders and Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, Alex. Brown & Sons
Incorporated, BT Securities Corporation, CS First Boston Corporation, Goldman,
Sachs & Co., Salomon Brothers Inc. and Wasserstein Perella Securities, Inc., as
representatives of the several United States underwriters, and Morgan Stanley &
Co. International Limited, Alex. Brown & Sons Incorporated, Bankers Trust
International PLC, CS First Boston Limited, Goldman Sachs International, Salomon
Brothers International Limited and Wasserstein Perella Securities, Inc., as
representatives of the several international underwriters.

         In that connection, we have examined such corporate proceedings,
documents, records and matters of law as we have deemed necessary to enable us
to render this opinion.
<PAGE>
 
American Pad & Paper Company
June 5, 1996
Page 2

         For purposes of this opinion, we have assumed the authenticity of all
documents submitted to us as originals, the conformity to the originals of all
documents submitted to us as copies and the authenticity of the originals of all
documents submitted to us as copies.  We have also assumed the legal capacity of
all natural persons, the genuineness of the signatures of persons signing all
documents in connection with which this opinion is rendered, the authority of
such persons signing on behalf of the parties thereto other than the Company and
the due authorization, execution and delivery of all documents by the parties
thereto other than the Company.  As to any facts material to the opinions
expressed herein, we have relied upon the statements and representations of
officers and other representations of the Company and others.

         Our opinion expressed below is subject to the qualifications that we
express no opinion as to the applicability of, compliance with, or effect of (i)
any bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, fraudulent transfer, fraudulent
conveyance, moratorium or other similar law affecting the enforcement of
creditors' rights generally, (ii) general principles of equity (regardless of
whether enforcement is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law), (iii)
public policy considerations which may limit the rights of parties to obtain
certain remedies and (iv) any laws except the internal laws of the State of
Texas, the General Corporation law of the State of Delaware and the federal law
of the United States of America.

         Based upon and subject to the foregoing qualifications, assumptions and
limitations and the further limitations set forth below, we hereby advise you
that in our opinion:

         (1) The Company is a corporation validly existing and in good standing
under the laws of the State of Delaware.

         (2) Upon the effectiveness of the Restated Certificate of Incorporation
of the Company, the Primary Shares will be duly authorized, and, when (i) the
Registration Statement becomes effective under the Act, (ii) the Board of
Directors of the Company has taken all necessary action to approve the issuance
and sale of the Primary Shares and (iii) the Primary Shares have been duly
executed and delivered on behalf of the Company and issued in accordance with
the terms of the Underwriting Agreement upon receipt of the consideration to be
paid therefor, the Primary Shares will be validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable.

         (3) Upon the effectiveness of the Restated Certificate of Incorporation
of the Company, the Secondary Shares will be duly authorized and, when the
Registration Statement becomes effective under the Act, will be validly issued,
fully paid and nonassessable.
<PAGE>
 
American Pad & Paper Company
June 5, 1996
Page 3
      


           We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion with the Commission
as Exhibit 5.1 to the Registration Statement. We also consent to the reference
to our firm under the heading "Legal Matters" in the Registration Statement. In
giving this consent, we do not thereby admit that we are in the category of
persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Act or the rules and
regulations of the Commission. This opinion and consent may be incorporated by
reference in a subsequent registration statement on Form S-1 filed pursuant to
Rule 462(b) under the Act with respect to the registration of additional
securities for sale in the offering contemplated by the Registration Statement.

         We do not find it necessary for the purposes of this opinion, and
accordingly we do not purport to cover herein, the application of the securities
or "Blue Sky" laws of the various states to the issuance and sale of the Primary
Shares and the sale of the Secondary Shares.

         This opinion is limited to the specific issues addressed herein, and no
opinion may be inferred or implied beyond that expressly stated herein.  We
assume no obligation to revise or supplement this opinion should the present
laws of the States of Texas or Delaware or the federal law of the United States
be changed by legislative action, judicial decision or otherwise.

         This opinion is furnished to you in connection with the filing of the
Registration Statement and is not to be used, circulated, quoted or otherwise
relied upon for any other purpose.

                                  Very truly yours,

                                  /s/ Kirkland & Ellis

                                  KIRKLAND & ELLIS

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1

                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


We hereby consent to the use in the Prospectus constituting part of this 
Registration Statement on Amendment No. 1 to Form S-1 of our report dated March 
19, 1996, relating to the consolidated financial statements of American Pad & 
Paper Company (formerly Ampad Holding Corporation) and our report dated March 
22, 1996, relating to the statements of net sales and cost of sales of 
Globe-Weis, which appear on page F-2 and page F-53, respectively, in such 
Prospectus. We also consent to the references to us under the heading "Experts" 
in such Prospectus.


/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP

PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP

Dallas, Texas
June 5, 1996

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.2

                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS



The Board of Directors
WR Acquisition, Inc.


We consent to the use of our report included herein and to the reference to our 
firm under the heading "Experts" in the prospectus.


                                                /s/ KPMG Peat Marwick LLP

                                                KPMG Peat Marwick LLP


New York, New York
June 4, 1996

<PAGE>


                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.4
 
                         Consent of Ernst & Young LLP


We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption "Experts" and to the 
use of our report dated February 16, 1996, with respect to the financial 
statements of Niagara Envelope Company, Inc. included in the Registration 
Statement (Form S-1 No. 333-4000) and related Prospectus of American Pad and 
Paper Company for the registration of 15,625,000 shares of its common stock.

                                                     /s/ Ernst & Young LLP


Buffalo, New York
June 4, 1996

<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
 
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM AMERICAN PAD
& PAPER COMPANY FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1995 AND THE THREE MONTH PERIOD
ENDED MARCH 31, 1996 (UNAUDITED) AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY REFERENCE
TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   3-MOS
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                                0
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