U.S. Playing Card Boosted by Poker Craze

OHIO – As reported by the Cincinnati Post: "The poker craze, fueled by TV coverage of high-stakes tournaments, has dealt U.S. Playing Card the equivalent of a royal flush in a no-limit showdown.

"The 138-year-old Norwood company -- the largest playing card maker in the world -- recorded its best year ever in 2004 when revenue jumped 15 percent to just over $150 million. More winnings appear to be on the way.

"U.S. Playing Card will invest $3 million in another production line this summer at its sprawling 600,000-square-foot, turn-of-the-20th-century plant. That will boost its card-making capacity by 15 percent as it tries to keep up with surging demand for cards and just about anything else poker-related.

"The manufacturer of the Bicycle, Bee, Aviator and Hoyle brand cards cranks out 100 million decks a year, including the cards used at more than 300 casinos.

"The company also is expanding its World Poker Tour line of products, part of a licensing agreement with the tour…"