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                                                                    EXHIBIT 99.1



                         UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT
                          MIDDLE DISTRICT OF TENNESSEE
                               NASHVILLE DIVISION



IN RE:                                   SS.
                                         SS.
                                         SS.
NU-KOTE HOLDING, INC.                    SS.
                                         SS.
NU-KOTE IMPERIAL, LTD.                   SS.
                                         SS.
NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC.              SS.
                                         SS.
NU-KOTE IMAGING INTERNATIONAL,           SS.
         INC.                            SS.   JOINTLY ADMINISTERED AND
                                         SS.   SUBSTANTIVELY CONSOLIDATED
                                         SS.   UNDER CASE NO. 398-10600
INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION              SS.
         MATERIALS, INC.                 SS.            CHAPTER 11
                                         SS.
FUTURE GRAPHICS, INC.                    SS.         JUDGE KEITH M. LUNDIN
                                         SS.
NU-KOTE LATIN AMERICA, INC.              SS.
                                         SS.
         DEBTORS                         SS.
                                         SS.

                     DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF
                           REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE
                           (DATED: NOVEMBER 30, 1999)




DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE
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                                TABLE OF CONTENTS

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TABLE OF CONTENTS................................................................................................ii

INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................1

ARTICLE I.    FACTORS PRECIPITATING CHAPTER 11 CASE...............................................................4

ARTICLE II.   PURPOSE OF CHAPTER 11...............................................................................7

ARTICLE III.  CERTAIN RISK FACTORS................................................................................7
         A.       Factors Relating to Chapter 11 and the Joint Plan...............................................7
                  1.       Insufficient Acceptances...............................................................8
                  2.       Confirmation Risks.....................................................................8
                  3.       Business Risks.........................................................................8
                  4.       Litigation Risks.......................................................................8

ARTICLE IV.   DESCRIPTION OF DEBTORS'BUSINESS.....................................................................9
         A.       Summary.........................................................................................9
         B.       Background and Structure of the Company.........................................................9
                  1.       Nu-kote Holding, Inc..................................................................10
                  2.       Nu-kote Imperial, Ltd.................................................................11
                  3.       Nu-kote International, Inc............................................................12
                  4.       Nu-kote Imaging International, Inc....................................................12
                  5.       International Communication Materials, Inc............................................12
                  6.       Future Graphics, Inc..................................................................12
                  7.       Nu-kote Latin America, Inc............................................................12
         C.       Current Officers and Directors of Nu-kote......................................................12
         D.       Historical And Renewed Retention Agreements with
                  Key Nu-kote Employees..........................................................................14
                  1.       Historical Retention Agreements.......................................................14
                  2.       New and Renewed Retention Agreements..................................................14
         E.       Prepetition Information:  Historical Perspective on the Industry...............................14
         F.       Nu-kote's Place in the Office Products Market..................................................16
         G.       Nu-kote's Market Segmentation..................................................................16

ARTICLE V.    ASSETS OF NU-KOTE..................................................................................18
         A.       Cash...........................................................................................18
         B.       Inventory......................................................................................18
         C.       Trademarks.....................................................................................18
         D.       Patents........................................................................................18
         E.       Receivables....................................................................................19
         F.       Real Property..................................................................................19
         G.       Machinery, Fixtures and Equipment..............................................................19
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DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           ii

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<TABLE>
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         H.       Stock..........................................................................................20
         I.       The OEM Litigation.............................................................................20
                  1.       Hewlett-Packard Company...............................................................20
                  2.       Seiko Epson Corp......................................................................23
                  3.       Canon USA, Inc........................................................................25
         J.       Other Claims and Causes of Action..............................................................26
                  1.       Preferential Transfers/Fraudulent Transfers...........................................26
                  2.       Potential Claims Against Glass & Associates...........................................27
                  3.       Claims Against Pelikan Holding........................................................27
                  4.       Settlement of the Declaratory Judgment Action Against
                           the Lenders Asserted by the Debtors...................................................29
                  5.       Settlement of Potential Subordination of the Lenders'
                           Unsecured Claims Asserted by the Debtors..............................................29
                  6.       Potential Cause of Action Against the Officers and
                           Directors of Nu-kote..................................................................30
         K.       Intercompany Payables and Receivables..........................................................31

ARTICLE VI.  LIABILITIES OF THE DEBTORS..........................................................................32
         A.       Administrative Expenses .......................................................................32
                  1.       Professionals.........................................................................32
                  2.       Payment of Professionals Employed Pursuant to ss.330
                           of the Bankruptcy Code................................................................34
                  3.       Norwest Business Credit, Inc..........................................................34
                  4.       Retention Agreements with Key Employees...............................................35
                  5.       Administrative Claims Asserted by the Litigating OEMs.................................35
                  6.       Administrative Claim Asserted by the PBGC.............................................35
                  7.       Administrative Claim Asserted by Wausau...............................................36
         B.       Secured Claims.................................................................................36
                  1.       Secured Claim of the Lenders..........................................................36
                           (a)      The US Facility..............................................................37
                           (b)      The UK and Swiss Facilities..................................................37
                  2.       Other Asserted Secured Claims.........................................................37
         C.       Priority Claims................................................................................38
                  1.       Priority Wage Claims..................................................................38
                  2.       Priority Tax Claims...................................................................39
                  3.       Other Asserted Priority Claims........................................................39
         D.       Unsecured Claims...............................................................................39
                  1.       Scheduled Unsecured Claims:  Inclusive of
                           Intercompany Payables.................................................................39
                  2.       Scheduled Unsecured Claims:  Exclusive of
                           Intercompany Payables.................................................................39
                  3.       Unsecured Claims Asserted Against the Debtors.........................................40
                  4.       Particular Asserted Claims in Excess of $500,000......................................40
                           (a)      Abdiraham Aden...............................................................40
                           (b)      Fay, Sharpe, Beall, Fagan, Minnich & McKee, LLP..............................40
                           (c)      Keller Crescent Company, Inc.................................................41
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                           (d)      Coudert Brothers.............................................................41
                           (e)      Employers Insurance of Wausau................................................41
                           (f)      Pelikan Holding, AG..........................................................41
                           (g)      Williams Die & Mold, Inc.....................................................41
         E.       Pending Litigation Against the Debtors.........................................................41
                  1.       Lori Lemmer, et al. v. Nu-kote Holding, Inc,
                           Case No. 3:98-CV-0161-T...............................................................41
                  2.       Spectra, Inc. v. Nu-kote International, Inc. & Modular Ink I
                           Stockholm, AB, Case No. 98-CV-130-JD..................................................42
                  3.       Rock-Tenn Co. v. Nu-kote International, Inc.,
                           Case No. 125633.......................................................................42
                  4.       Abdiraham A. Aden v. Nu-kote International, Inc.,
                           Case No. 398- 0365....................................................................42
         F.       Environmental and Regulatory Matters...........................................................43

ARTICLE VII.  CHAPTER 11 CASES...................................................................................45
         A.       Filing of Petition.............................................................................45
         B.       First Day Administration.......................................................................45
         C.       Adversary Proceeding...........................................................................45
         D.       Cash Collateral................................................................................46
         E.       DIP Financing..................................................................................47
         F.       Substantive Consolidation......................................................................48
         G.       Epson's Unsuccessful Attempt to Lift the Automatic Stay........................................48
         H.       Epson's Violation of the First to File Rule....................................................49
         I.       Financing the OEM Lawsuits.....................................................................51
         J.       Exclusivity....................................................................................51
         K.       Claims Bar Date................................................................................52
         L.       The Committees.................................................................................52
         M.       Ratification of European Agreements............................................................52
         N.       Sale of Certain European Subsidiaries..........................................................53
                  1.       Sale of MIT...........................................................................53
                  2.       The Sale of European Entities.........................................................54
         O.       Settlement with Blair and Ridenour.............................................................55
         P.       Proposed Settlement with Hewlett-Packard Company...............................................56
         Q.       Appointment of Examiner........................................................................57
         R.       Administrative Claims Bar Date.................................................................57

ARTICLE VIII.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND FUTURE OPERATIONS.......................................................57
         A.       Historical and Postpetition Financial Information:
                  Nu-kote's Results of Operations................................................................58
         B.       Future Operations of the Reorganized Debtors...................................................59
                  1.       The Future of the Market..............................................................59
                  2.       Strategic Goals & Objectives..........................................................60
                  3.       Sales & Marketing.....................................................................60
                  4.       Accounts & Sku's......................................................................61
                  5.       Logistics & Manufacturing.............................................................61
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                  6.       Outsourcing...........................................................................61
                  7.       Trade Credit..........................................................................61
                  8.       Information Systems...................................................................61
                  9.       Future Financial Performance..........................................................62

ARTICLE IX.  DISCUSSION OF THE JOINT PLAN........................................................................62
         A.       Summary of the Joint Plan......................................................................62
         B.       Classification and Treatment of Claims.........................................................63
                  1.       Treatment of Unclassified Claims......................................................63
                           (a)      Deadline for Filing Administrative Claims....................................63
                           (b)      Payment of Allowed Administrative Claims.....................................63
                           (c)      Fee Claims of Professionals Other than Committees'Professionals..............63
                           (d)      Fee Claims of the Committees' Professionals..................................64
                           (e)      Payment of Administrative Tax Claims.........................................64
                           (f)      Payment of Priority Tax Claims...............................................64
                           (g)      Payment of Norwest Claim.....................................................64
                           (h)      Payment of Fees to U.S. Trustee..............................................65
                  2.       Treatment of Classified Claims........................................................65
                           (a)      Class 1- Secured Claims of the Lenders.......................................65
                           (b)      Class 2 - Other Secured Claims...............................................66
                           (c)      Class 3 - Unsecured Claims...................................................68
                           (d)      Class 4 - Common Stock.......................................................69
         C.       Implementation of the Joint Plan:  A Successful Bidder.........................................69
                  1.       The Proposed Purchaser: Richmont......................................................70
                  2.       Richmont's Obligation to Close........................................................70
                  3.       The Letter of Credit..................................................................70
                  4.       The Bidding Procedure.................................................................71
                           (a)      Solicitation.................................................................71
                           (b)      Information to Third Parties.................................................71
                           (c)      Overbids.....................................................................71
                                    (i)     Overbid Deadline.....................................................71
                                    (ii)    Overbid Requirements.................................................72
                                    (iii)   Richmont Deposit Requirement.........................................73
                                    (iv)    Overbid Process......................................................73
                           (d)      Right to Reject Bids.........................................................74
                           (e)      Bidding Procedure Disputes...................................................74
                  5.       Failure of the Successful Bidder to Close.............................................74
                  6        Encumbrances..........................................................................74
                  7.       Satisfaction of Encumbrances..........................................................75
                  8.       Distribution of Assets................................................................75
                  9.       The Reorganized Debtors...............................................................75
                  10.      Officers and Directors................................................................76
                  11.      Baiocchi Retention....................................................................76
                  12.      Funding of the Causes of Action  .....................................................76
                  13.      Authority for Settlement of Causes of Action and Releases.............................76
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         D.       Implementation of the Joint Plan: The Trust Triggering Event...................................77
                  1.       Effective Date Entities...............................................................77
                  2.       Transfer of the Litigation by the Debtors to the Litigation Trust.....................77
                           (a)      Purposes for the Litigation Trust............................................77
                           (b)      Prosecution of the Litigation Trust..........................................77
                           (c)      Management of the Litigation Trust and Litigation Advisory Board.............78
                           (d)      Beneficiaries of the Litigation Trust........................................78
                  3.       Transfer of Trust Shares to the Trust.................................................78
                           (a)      Purposes for the Trust.......................................................78
                           (b)      Management of the Trust and Trust Advisory Board.............................78
                           (c)      Incorporation of Ink Jet Subsidiary and Transfer of Assets...................78
                           (d)      Sale of the Trust Shares and the Retained Assets.............................78
                           (e)      Beneficiaries of the Trust...................................................79
                  4.       Effective Date Financing..............................................................79
                  5.       Board of Directors and Officers.......................................................79
         E.       Releases.......................................................................................79
         F.       Acceptance and Confirmation of the Joint Plan..................................................80
                  1.       Requirements for Confirmation.........................................................80
         G.       The Joint Plan Meets All of the Requirements for Confirmation..................................82

ARTICLE X.   ALTERNATIVES TO THE JOINT PLAN......................................................................82
         A.       Analysis of Liquidation under Chapter 7........................................................83
         B.       Alternatives under Chapter 11..................................................................84

ARTICLE XI.  VOTING PROCEDURES...................................................................................85
         A.       Classes Entitled to Vote on the Joint Plan.....................................................85
         B.       Persons Entitled to Vote on the Joint Plan.....................................................85
         C.       Vote Required for Class Acceptance.............................................................86
         D.       Voting Instructions............................................................................86
                  1.       Ballots and Voting....................................................................86
                  2.       Returning Ballots and Voting Deadline.................................................87
                  3.       Incomplete or Irregular Ballots.......................................................87
                  4.       Changing Votes........................................................................87
         E.       Contested and Unliquidated Claims..............................................................87
         F.       Possible Reclassification of Creditors and Interest Holders....................................88

ARTICLE XII.  MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS...........................................................................88
         A.       Request for Relief under Section 1129(b).......................................................88
         B.       The Joint Plan is Confirmable Under ss.1129(b) of the Bankruptcy Code..........................89
                  1.       The Joint Plan Meets the "Best Interest of Creditors"Test.............................89
                  2.       The Joint Plan is Feasible............................................................89
                  3.       The Joint  Plan Meets the  Cramdown  Standard  With  Respect  to Any
                           Impaired  Class of Claims Rejecting the Joint Plan....................................90
         C.       Modification...................................................................................90
</TABLE>

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           vi
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         D.       Further Assurances and Authorizations..........................................................90
         E.       Agreements between the Plan Proponents.........................................................90

ARTICLE XIII.  SECURITIES LAW CONSIDERATIONS.....................................................................90
         A.       Registration of Plan Securities/Reporting Requirements.........................................91

ARTICLE XIV.  CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAXCONSEQUENCES OF THE JOINT PLAN...........................................91
         A.       Federal Income Tax Consequences if There is a Successful Bidder................................92
                  1.       Tax Consequences to the Debtors.......................................................92
                           (a)      Gain or Loss on Non-cash Payments............................................93
                           (b)      Discharge of Indebtedness....................................................93
                           (c)      Limitations on Net Operating Losses..........................................94
                  2.       Tax Consequences to Creditors.........................................................94
                           (a)      Overview.....................................................................94
                           (b)      Realization and Recognition of Gain or
                                    Loss in General..............................................................95
                  3.       Tax Consequences to Holders of Interests..............................................95
         B.       Federal Income Tax Considerations if There is a
                  Trust Triggering Event.........................................................................96
                  1.       Federal Income Tax Consequences to the Debtors........................................96
                           (a)      Gain or Loss on Non-cash Payments............................................96
                           (b)      Discharge of Indebtedness....................................................96
                           (c)      Limitations on Net Operating Losses..........................................97
                  2.       Tax Consequences to Creditors.........................................................99
                           (a)      Overview.....................................................................99
                           (b)      Realization and Recognition of Gain or
                                    Loss in General..............................................................99
                           (c)      Certain Tax Consequences of the Joint Plan to Creditors......................99
         C.       Certain Tax Consequences of the Joint Plan to Holders of Interests............................100

ARTICLE XV.  EFFECTIVE DATE TRANSACTIONS........................................................................101

ARTICLE XVI.  RESPONSES TO OBJECTIONS TOPRIOR DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS.............................................101
         A.       Response to Objections by Canon...............................................................101
                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................101
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................102
         B.       Response to Objections by Epson...............................................................103
                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................103
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................105
         C.       Debtors'Response to Objections by Hewlett-Packard.............................................107
                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................107
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................107
         D.       Response to Objections by Wausau..............................................................107
</TABLE>


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           vii
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<TABLE>
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                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................107
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................109
         E.       Response to the Objection and Comments by the SEC.............................................111
                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................111
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................112
         F.       Response to Comments by PBGC..................................................................112
                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................112
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................113
         G.       Responses to Objections by Lemmer.............................................................113
                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................113
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................114
         H.       Creditors'Response to Objections of Wells Fargo Business
                  Credit, Inc., Formerly Norwest Business Credit, Inc...........................................114
         I.       Creditors'Response to Objections of Spectra, Inc..............................................115
         J.       Responses to Pelikan Holding A.G.'s Objections................................................115
                  1.       Creditors'Response...................................................................115
                  2.       Debtors'Response.....................................................................117
         K.       Creditors'Response to Objections of Patrick E. Howard
                  and John P. Rochon............................................................................118
         L.       Debtors'Response to Objections by Pagliara....................................................119
         M.       Debtors'Response to Objections by State of Tennessee..........................................120

ARTICLE XVII.  RECOMMENDATION OF PLAN PROPONENTS................................................................120
</TABLE>

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           viii
<PAGE>   9

                                  INTRODUCTION

         This Disclosure Statement ("DISCLOSURE STATEMENT") and the accompanying
Ballots are being furnished by the Debtors, the Lenders and the Committees
(collectively referred to as the "PLAN PROPONENTS") to the holders of Claims
against and Interests in the Debtors pursuant to Section 1125 of the United
States Bankruptcy Code in connection with the solicitation of ballots for the
acceptance of the Joint Plan of Reorganization for Nu-kote (the "JOINT PLAN")
under Chapter 11 ("CHAPTER 11") of Title 11 of the United States Code (the
"BANKRUPTCY CODE") filed by the Plan Proponents. Capitalized terms used in this
Disclosure Statement and not defined herein shall have their respective meanings
set forth in the Joint Plan or, if not defined in the Joint Plan, as defined in
the Bankruptcy Code.

         On November 6, 1998, the Debtors filed their Voluntary Petitions for
Relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court,
Middle District of Tennessee, Nashville Division (the "BANKRUPTCY COURT"). On
November 24, 1999, the Plan Proponents filed the Joint Plan. On _______________,
1999, after notice and hearing, the Bankruptcy Court approved this Disclosure
Statement and authorized the Plan Proponents to solicit votes with respect to
the Joint Plan.

         The purpose of this Disclosure Statement is to enable those persons
whose Claims against and Interests in the Debtors are Impaired and entitled to
vote under the Joint Plan to make an informed decision with respect to the Joint
Plan before exercising their rights to vote to accept or reject the Joint Plan.
On ______________, 1999, after notice and a hearing, this Disclosure Statement
was approved by the Bankruptcy Court as containing information, of a kind and in
sufficient detail, to enable persons whose votes are being solicited to make an
informed judgment with respect to acceptance or rejection of the Joint Plan. A
copy of the Bankruptcy Court's order approving this Disclosure Statement and
establishing procedures for voting on the Joint Plan (the "APPROVAL ORDER") is
attached as Exhibit "A" to this Disclosure Statement. The Bankruptcy Court's
approval of this Disclosure Statement does not constitute either a guarantee of
the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein or an
endorsement of any of the information contained in this Disclosure Statement or
the Joint Plan.

         Holders of Claims should read this Disclosure Statement and the Joint
Plan in their entirety before voting on the Joint Plan. No solicitation of votes
with respect to the Joint Plan may be made except pursuant to this Disclosure
Statement. No statement or information concerning the Debtors (particularly as
to results of operations or financial condition, or with respect to
distributions to be made under the Joint Plan) or any of the respective assets,
properties or businesses of the Debtors that is given for the purpose of
soliciting acceptances or rejections of the Joint Plan is authorized, other than
as set forth in this Disclosure Statement. In the event of any inconsistencies
between the provisions of the Joint Plan and this Disclosure Statement, the
provisions of the Joint Plan shall control. A copy of the Joint Plan is attached
hereto as Exhibit "G" to this Disclosure Statement.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             1














<PAGE>   10


         After carefully reviewing this Disclosure Statement and all exhibits
and schedules attached hereto, please indicate your acceptance or rejection of
the Joint Plan by voting in favor of or against the Joint Plan on the enclosed
Ballot. Then, except as provided below, RETURN THE BALLOT TO LAIN FAULKNER &
CO., P.C. (THE "TABULATION AGENT") IN THE ENCLOSED, POSTAGE-PAID, RETURN
ENVELOPE IN SUFFICIENT TIME TO BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 4:00 P.M., CENTRAL
STANDARD TIME, ON _______________, 1999 (THE "VOTING DEADLINE").

         THE PLAN PROPONENTS BELIEVE THAT ACCEPTANCE OF THE JOINT PLAN IS IN THE
BEST INTERESTS OF ALL CLAIMANTS OF THE DEBTORS AND, CONSEQUENTLY, THE PLAN
PROPONENTS URGE ALL CLAIMANTS TO VOTE TO ACCEPT THE JOINT PLAN.

         Any Ballots received after the Voting Deadline will not be counted
(unless otherwise ordered by the Bankruptcy Court). Ballots that are received
after the Voting Deadline may not be used in connection with the Plan
Proponents' request for confirmation of the Joint Plan or any modification
thereof, except to the extent allowed by the Bankruptcy Court. See "Voting
Procedures--Voting Instructions--Returning Ballots and Voting Deadline."

         This Disclosure Statement has been compiled by the Plan Proponents to
accompany the Joint Plan based upon information provided by the Debtors. The
factual statements, projections, financial information, and other information
contained in this Disclosure Statement have been taken from documents prepared
by the Debtors, including the Debtors' March 31, 1998 and March 31, 1997 Form
10K's publicly filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, the Debtors'
unaudited Amended Schedules and Statement of Financial Affairs, the Debtors'
Monthly Operating Reports, pleadings filed in the Bankruptcy Cases, and
information obtained in the Chapter 11 Case. The Lenders and Committees have
relied upon the Debtors and their professionals regarding the inclusion of
certain information in this Disclosure Statement, and therefore make no
representations or warranties to the correctness or accuracy thereof. Any
information provided in the Disclosure Statement should not be relied upon
unless such information has been independently verified. Nothing contained in
this Disclosure Statement shall have any preclusive effect against the Plan
Proponents (whether by waiver, admission, estoppel or otherwise) in any cause or
proceeding which may exist or occur in the future. This Disclosure Statement
shall not be construed or deemed to constitute an acceptance of fact or an
admission by the Plan Proponents as regards any of the statements made herein,
and all rights and remedies of the Plan Proponents are expressly reserved in
this regard. This Disclosure Statement contains statements which constitute the
Debtors', Lenders, Committees or other third parties view of certain facts. All
such disclosures should be read as assertions of such parties. To the extent any
paragraph does not contain an express reference that it constitutes an assertion
of a particular party, it should be read as an assertion of the party indicated
by the context and meaning of such paragraph.

         The statements contained in this Disclosure Statement are made as of
the Petition Date hereof unless another time is specified herein, and neither
delivery of this Disclosure Statement nor any exercise of rights granted in
connection with the Joint Plan shall, under


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             2

<PAGE>   11
any circumstances, create an implication that there has been no change in the
information set forth herein since the date of this Disclosure Statement.

         Certain of the information contained in this Disclosure Statement, by
its nature, is forward looking, contains estimates and assumptions which may
prove to be inaccurate, and contains projections which may prove to be wrong, or
which may be materially different from actual future results.

         Each Claimant should independently verify and consult its individual
attorney and accountant as to the effect of the Joint Plan on such individual
Claimant or Interest holder.

         For convenience of all parties, material terms of the Joint Plan are
summarized in this Disclosure Statement. Although the Plan Proponents believe
that this Disclosure Statement accurately describes the material provisions of
the Joint Plan, all summaries of the Joint Plan contained in this Disclosure
Statement are qualified by the Joint Plan itself, the exhibits thereto, and the
documents described therein, which control in the event of any inconsistency or
incompleteness. Accordingly, the Plan Proponents strongly urge each recipient
entitled to vote on the Joint Plan to review carefully the contents of this
Disclosure Statement, the Plan, and the other documents that accompany or are
referenced in this Disclosure Statement in their entirety before making a
decision to accept or reject the Joint Plan.

         IT IS OF THE UTMOST IMPORTANCE TO THE PLAN PROPONENTS THAT YOU VOTE
PROMPTLY TO ACCEPT THE JOINT PLAN BY COMPLETING AND SIGNING THE BALLOT ENCLOSED
HEREWITH AND RETURNING IT TO THE TABULATION AGENT, LAIN FAULKNER & CO., P.C. AT
THE ADDRESS SET FORTH IN THE BALLOT INSTRUCTIONS THAT ACCOMPANY SUCH BALLOT.
SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING THE VOTING PROCEDURES, YOUR BALLOT, OR
THE BALLOT INSTRUCTIONS, OR IF YOUR BALLOT IS DAMAGED OR LOST, CONTACT COUNSEL
FOR THE DEBTORS AT THE FOLLOWING ADDRESS:

                                 FRANK J. WRIGHT
                                 C. ASHLEY ELLIS
                          HANCE | SCARBOROUGH | WRIGHT
                             2900 RENAISSANCE TOWER
                                 1201 ELM STREET
                               DALLAS, TEXAS 75270

         The Approval Order fixes _________________, 1999, at _______ Central
Standard Time, in the Courtroom of the Honorable Keith M. Lundin, United States
Bankruptcy Judge, United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of
Tennessee, Nashville Division, 207 Customs House, 701 Broadway, Nashville,
Tennessee 37203, as the date, time, and place for the hearing on Confirmation of
the Joint Plan, and fixes ________________, 1999, as the date by which all
objections to Confirmation of the Joint Plan must be filed with the Bankruptcy
Court and received by the respective counsel for each of the Plan Proponents and
certain other persons identified in the Approval Order. See Exhibit "A" to


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             3


<PAGE>   12

this Disclosure Statement. The Plan Proponents will request Confirmation of the
Joint Plan at the Confirmation Hearing.

         As used herein, the terms "Nu-kote", the "Company" and the "Debtors"
are used interchangeably to mean one or more of the Debtors and their
affiliates.

         THIS DISCLOSURE STATEMENT HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE
COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THE STATEMENTS CONTAINED
HEREIN.

                ARTICLE I. FACTORS PRECIPITATING CHAPTER 11 CASE

         Nu-kote sought bankruptcy protection in part due to an historical
proliferation of customer accounts, products, and packaging alternatives which,
in retrospect generated relatively little unit volume, proved to be of marginal
profitability, and incurred unwarranted infrastructure cost, and a series of
strategically sound, conceptually correct, but disappointing acquisitions.

         Primary among the reasons precipitating the filing of the Bankruptcy
Case was Nu-kote's worsening financial situation in large part due to the
continued litigation between Nu-kote International, Inc. ("INTERNATIONAL"), the
Hewlett-Packard Company ("HP"), Seiko Epson Corporation and Epson America, Inc.
(collectively, "EPSON"), Canon Computer Systems, Inc., Canon USA, Inc. and
Canon, Inc. (collectively "CANON"). As discussed in detail below, the finished
products of the Company are sold at both the retail level to consumers under the
"Nu-kote" and "Pelikan" brand names and directly to original equipment
manufacturers of printing equipment. When referring to the industry generally,
the complete term "original equipment manufacturers" will be used. When
referring to HP, Epson and Canon specifically, the definition "OEM" will be
used.

         The products manufactured for the original equipment manufacturers are
manufactured to their specifications and sold both with the original hardware
and in the aftermarket. Nu-kote manufactures and distributes a variety of
compatible ink jet cartridges for use in the HP, Epson and Canon ink jet
printers, as well as a line of HP compatible cartridge refill kits designed for
the home or small business user, and provides a cartridge remanufacturing
service similar to the one employed for remanufactured laser toner cartridges.

         The nature of the products manufactured and distributed by Nu-kote has
resulted in a variety of litigation with the OEMs. The litigation with HP, Canon
and Epson is referred to herein collectively as the "OEM LITIGATION" or
individually as the "HP LITIGATION," the "EPSON LITIGATION," or the "CANON
LITIGATION." Pre-petition, HP, Epson and Canon all filed lawsuits against
International and certain subsidiaries alleging numerous claims of patent
infringement, trademark infringement, false advertising and unfair competition.
This litigation forced the Company to incur substantial legal expenses in its
defense, and diverted senior and middle management attention from the day-to-day
needs of the


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             4

<PAGE>   13

business to defense of these lawsuits. Nu-kote has filed answers asserting
numerous affirmative defenses to the claims asserted by the OEMs in each of
these respective lawsuits including that several of the subject patents are
invalid, unenforceable and/or not infringed. Additionally, International has
asserted counterclaims including monopolization and attempted monopolization of
the aftermarket for replacement cartridges for the printers manufactured by the
OEMs. Although the trial stage of the HP Litigation has concluded and a
settlement has been presented for approval by the Bankruptcy Court as discussed
herein, the Canon and Epson Litigations remain pending.

         Nu-kote and management have been compelled to expend much time and
effort in vigorous defense of the allegations in the OEM Litigation. The HP
Litigation has to date commanded the most time and attention of management.
Nu-kote employed the law firm of Coudert Brothers as trial counsel in its
defense of the claims brought by the OEMs and in prosecution of the
counterclaims against them. Nu-kote continues to defend the patent infringement
allegations in the Epson Litigation and the Canon Litigation, and to pursue its
antitrust actions against these OEMs. Discussions with Epson and Canon are
ongoing, and a settlement, subject to Court approval, has now been reached with
HP. The on-going litigation and the corresponding disruption of operations,
however, will continue to impact the Company negatively until such time as
settlement or court resolution is reached in all of the OEM Litigation. The
impact of the OEM Litigation, was a major precipitating factor in the
commencement of the Bankruptcy Case.

         Another triggering factor in the filing of Nu-kote's Chapter 11
petitions was the need for the Company to obtain additional financing and to
recapitalize. Nu-kote International, Inc., as Borrower, and Nu-kote Holding,
Inc., as Guarantor, are parties to a certain Second Amended and Restated Credit
Agreement dated as of July 31, 1997 (the "US FACILITY"). The nine lenders on the
US Facility are Barclays Bank PLC as Lender and Documentation Agent; Bank of
America, National Association, as successor in interest to NationsBank of Texas,
NA as Collateral Agent, Lender and Administrative Agent; Commerzbank
Aktiengesellschaft; Deutsche Bank A.G., New York Branch or Cayman Islands
Branch; First National Bank of Chicago; Societe Generale; First American
National Bank; ABN AMRO Bank, N.V.; and Credit Lyonnais (collectively, the
"LENDERS"). The current amount outstanding on the US Facility is approximately
$95 million.

         Additionally, certain of the non-debtor affiliates were, on the
Petition Date, parties to two other credit agreements, a Third Amended and
Restated Revolving Credit Facility Agreement dated July 31, 1997 by Pelikan
Scotland Limited as borrower ("the UK FACILITY"), and a Third Amended and
Restated Revolving Credit Facility Agreement dated July 31, 1997 by Pelikan
Produktions AG and Pelikan Hardcopy International AG as borrowers (the "SWISS
FACILITY"). The eight lenders on the UK Facility and the Swiss Facility are
Barclays Bank PLC; Bank of America, National Association, as successor in
interest to NationsBank of Texas NA; Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft; Deutsche
Bank A.G.; First National Bank of Chicago; Societe Generale; ABN AMRO Bank,
N.V.; and Credit Lyonnais, the same above-referenced Lenders with the exception
of First American National Bank. On the Petition Date, the amount outstanding on
the UK Facility was approximately $10.3 million, and the amount outstanding on
the Swiss Facility was


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             5


<PAGE>   14

approximately $33.6 million. The post-petition sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy
Subsidiaries, however, has reduced the amounts outstanding.

         Incident to the US Facility, UK Facility and Swiss Facility
(collectively, the "CREDIT FACILITIES"), certain of the Debtors and their
affiliates executed various guaranties, security agreements, and stock pledge
agreements pursuant to which they have pledged to the Lenders substantially all
of the assets of the Debtors and their affiliates. In particular, the Debtors
have pledged all of their accounts, chattel paper, inventory, equipment,
instruments, general intangibles, fixtures and capital stock, and any and all
products and proceeds thereof, as well as all real property and improvements and
any and all products and proceeds thereof. Interest payments alone on the Credit
Facilities exceeded $11.4 million from August 1, 1997 through the Petition Date.

         In December of 1997, to comply with the amended terms of the US
Facility, Nu-kote employed the turn around company Glass & Associates, Inc.
("GLASS & ASSOCIATES") to provide interim management services. Shaun K.
Donnellan became President, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer
of the Company in December, 1997, and William R. Ligon General Manager, North
American operations in January, 1998. Mr. Donnellan is the President and Mr.
Ligon an associate of Glass & Associates. The services of Messrs. Shaun K.
Donnellan and William R. Ligon were made available to the Company pursuant to a
consulting agreement between Glass & Associates and the Company. While the
Company did not compensate Messrs. Donnellan and Ligon directly for their
services, the Company paid Glass & Associates $1,766,315 during the one year
immediately preceding the commencement of this case. These services represented
operational, sales, financial, marketing and management consulting services
provided by Messrs. Donnellan and Ligon and other associates of Glass &
Associates. Additionally, the above amount includes the reimbursement of
expenses incurred by Glass & Associates in performing services for the Company.

         Even with the employment of a workout firm, Nu-kote's financial
condition did not materially improve. The credit agreement evidencing the US
Facility was amended six times in 1997 and 1998, requiring payment by Nu-kote of
the fees and expenses of the Lenders' professionals averaging in excess of
approximately $364,000 per amendment. These attempts to restructure and
refinance the Credit Facilities in the year preceding bankruptcy placed a
further burden on the Company's already strained cash position created by the
Company's obligation to service its required interest payments and fees and
expenses associated with the debt owed to the Lenders. In total, from August 1,
1997 through the Petition Date, Nu-kote paid in excess of $2.7 million in
restructuring fees and expenses, $2.8 million in principal payments and $11.4
million in interest. An interest payment in excess of $1 million was to come due
on November 9, 1998.

         Finally, Nu-kote's need for additional financing and to recapitalize
was made critical by the cumulative effect on the Company's cash position of
customers taking rebates in the fall of 1998. Historically in the Company's
business, certain customers were entitled to rebates based on their purchases
throughout the calendar year which traditionally accumulated during the calendar
year and were utilized by customers in the fall in the form


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             6
<PAGE>   15

of offsets on receivables. Immediately prior to the Petition Date, Nu-kote's
cash situation became critical due to an increase in CODs, cash requirements
incident to servicing continuing sales, and certain customers setting off their
rebates against receivables owed to the Company that came due in November and
early December. Nu-kote was further concerned that if a default under the Credit
Facilities occurred, the Lenders would attempt to foreclose on the stock of
Nu-kote's subsidiaries.

         Faced with the litigation with the OEMs, the mounting prospective costs
of a debt workout and restructuring, and the threat of foreclosure by the
Lenders, all compounded by the rebate issue and the impending interest payment
to the Lenders, Nu-kote asserts it had no alternative but to file for protection
under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.

                        ARTICLE II. PURPOSE OF CHAPTER 11

         Chapter 11 is the principal business reorganization chapter of the
Bankruptcy Code. The commencement of a Chapter 11 case creates an "estate"
comprised of all the legal and equitable interests of the debtor. Sections 1101,
1107, and 1108 of the Bankruptcy Code provide that a debtor may remain in
possession of its property and continue to operate its business as a "debtor in
possession" ("DIP"). These Chapter 11 Cases were commenced with the filing of
voluntary petitions under Chapter 11 by the Debtors on November 6, 1998. Since
the filing of the Chapter 11 Case, the Debtors have been authorized to operate
and manage their business as debtors in possession.

         Formulation of a plan of reorganization is the principal purpose of a
Chapter 11 case. The plan is the vehicle for satisfying the holders of claims
against and equity interests in a debtor. The Joint Plan was developed by the
Plan Proponents as an alternative to the pursuit of competing plans. See
"Discussion of the Joint Plan."

         Under the Bankruptcy Code, when soliciting acceptance or rejection of a
plan of reorganization, a debtor must transmit to the holders of claims or
interests a disclosure statement approved by the court as containing "adequate
information." On ___________, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court found that this
Disclosure Statement contained information that is in compliance with the
adequate information requirement of the Bankruptcy Code. The Disclosure
Statement describes various transactions contemplated under the Joint Plan and
is supplied to you for purposes of assisting in your evaluation of, and your
decision of how to vote on, the Joint Plan.

                        ARTICLE III. CERTAIN RISK FACTORS

A.       FACTORS RELATING TO CHAPTER 11 AND THE JOINT PLAN

         The following is intended as a summary of certain risks associated with
the Joint Plan, but is not exhaustive and must be supplemented by the analysis
and evaluation of the Joint Plan and this Disclosure Statement made by each
Claimant as a whole in consultation with such Claimant's own advisors.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             7


<PAGE>   16

         1.       INSUFFICIENT ACCEPTANCES

         The Joint Plan may not be confirmed without sufficient accepting votes.
Each impaired Class of Claims and Interests receiving a distribution under the
Joint Plan is given the opportunity to vote to accept or reject the Joint Plan.
The Joint Plan will be accepted by a Class of impaired Claims if the Joint Plan
is accepted by Claimants in such Class actually voting on the Joint Plan who
hold at least two-thirds (2/3) in amount and more than one-half (1/2) in number
of the total Allowed Claims of that Class which actually vote. The Joint Plan
will be accepted by a Class of impaired Interests if it is accepted by holders
of Interests in such Class actually voting on the Joint Plan who hold at least
two-thirds (2/3) in amount of the total Allowed Interests of the Class which
actually vote. However, an Interest Holder in Class 5 of the Joint Plan is
deemed to have rejected the Joint Plan and is therefore not entitled to vote on
the Joint Plan. Only those members of a Class who vote to accept or reject the
Joint Plan will be counted for voting purposes.

         If any impaired Class of Claims under the Joint Plan fails to provide
acceptance levels sufficient to meet the minimum Class vote requirements but at
least one impaired Class of Claims accepts the Joint Plan, then, subject to the
provisions of the Joint Plan, the Plan Proponents intend to request confirmation
of the Joint Plan under Section 1129(b) of the Bankruptcy Code.

         2.       CONFIRMATION RISKS

         Any objection to the Joint Plan filed in the Chapter 11 Case by a
Claimant or Interest Holder could either prevent Confirmation of the Joint Plan
or delay such Confirmation for a significant period of time.

         3.       BUSINESS RISKS

         As with any business venture, risks are an inherent part of the process
and success can not be guaranteed. The Joint Plan contains projections that are
naturally estimations of future revenues and expenses which may not be realized.
It should be noted that all risk factors cannot be anticipated, that some events
develop in ways that were not foreseen and that many or all of the assumptions
which have been used in connection with this Disclosure Statement and the Joint
Plan will not transpire exactly as assumed. Some or all of such variations may
be material. While significant efforts have been made to be reasonable in this
regard, there can be no assurance that subsequent events will bear out the
analyses set forth herein. This Disclosure Statement contains a detailed
analysis of the market in which Nu-kote's business operates and a discussion of
recent changes therein. While Nu-kote believes it has taken all prudent measures
to address the future needs of this changing market, no assurance of future
success can be made.

         4.       LITIGATION RISKS

         Finally, litigation is speculative and unpredictable. While Nu-kote
asserts that it is confident in the merits of the Canon and Epson Litigation,
the HP Litigation did not result


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             8


<PAGE>   17

in a monetary recovery as Nu-kote had hoped, and Nu-kote can not guarantee a
successful recovery on the anti-trust claims asserted against Canon and Epson.

                  ARTICLE IV. DESCRIPTION OF DEBTORS' BUSINESS

A.       SUMMARY

         Nu-kote is an independent manufacturer and distributor of impact and
non-impact imaging supplies for office and home printing devices, including the
manufacture and distribution of typewriter and printer ribbons, thermal fax
ribbons, cartridges and toners for laser printers, facsimile machines and
copiers, cartridges and ink for ink jet printers, specialty papers, calculator
ink rolls, and carbon paper.

         The Company sells products primarily in the United States, Canada and
Mexico directly to wholesale and retail markets, and also to original equipment
manufacturers and distributors for resale under their brand names or private
labels. The Company distributes through major office supply marketing channels,
including wholesale distributors, office products dealers, direct mail catalogs,
office supply "super stores," information processing specialists, value added
resellers, and mass market retailers.

B.       BACKGROUND AND STRUCTURE OF THE COMPANY

         Holding was formed as a Delaware corporation in 1986 by Clayton,
Dubilier & Rice, Inc. to acquire substantially all the assets and certain
liabilities of Worldwide Office Supplies Division and International Business
Forms Division of Unisys Corporation ("UNISYS"). Holding has two wholly owned
subsidiaries, International and Imperial.

         The Company acquired ICMI in February 1992, Future Graphics in February
1993, and the worldwide hardcopy supplies business (the "PELIKAN HARDCOPY
DIVISION") of Pelikan Holding AG of Zug, Switzerland ("PELIKAN HOLDING") in
February 1995 (the "PELIKAN ACQUISITION"). ICMI is an independent manufacturer
of toner for non-impact printers and copiers and Future Graphics is a
remanufacturer of laser printer cartridges. Both are located in the United
States. In December 1997, the Company disposed of the Future Graphics cartridge
components division. The Company's Pelikan Hardcopy Division is a European
manufacturer of supplies for impact and non-impact printers. As detailed in
Article VII.N.2., the sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy Subsidiaries was closed
effective as of September 30, 1999.

         The Debtors, their relationships to each other and their subsidiaries
are as follows, with the seven Debtor entities appearing in bold type:

         -        NU-KOTE HOLDING, INC., and its subsidiaries,

                  (i)      NU-KOTE IMPERIAL, LTD.
                  (ii)     NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             9

<PAGE>   18
         -    NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC., and its U.S. subsidiaries,

              (i)      NU-KOTE IMAGING, INC.
              (ii)     INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION MATERIALS, INC.
              (iii)    VIRO-KOTE, INC.
              (iv)     FUTURE GRAPHICS, INC.

              and its international subsidiaries,

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         ENTITY                                      JURISDICTION
                                         ------                                      ------------
              <S>      <C>                                                           <C>
              (a)      Interfas Holding, S.A.                                            France

              (b)      NU-KOTE LATIN AMERICA, INC., and its subsidiary,                  Mexico
                                    Nu-kote Internacional de Mexico,
                                    S.A. de C.V. (35% stock ownership)

              (c)      Nu-kote Internacional de Mexico, SA (65% stock ownership)         Mexico
</TABLE>

         As detailed below, Holding is a publicly traded company with over 3,000
shareholders. Holding owns the stock of International and Imperial.
International, ICMI and Future Graphics are the operating entities for the U.S.
operations of the Company. Imperial holds the trademarks. ICMI was acquired in
1992. ICMI manufactures toner for non-impact printers and copiers. Future
Graphics manufactures laser printer cartridges.

         The Company manufactures and/or distributes over 1,500 products in more
than 3,000 different packaging configurations for use in over 30,000 different
models of impact and non-impact printing mechanisms. The products can be broken
down into five main categories: laser cartridges, impact ribbons, toner, ink jet
cartridges and non-impact ribbons. The products are used in over 30,000
different models of impact and non-impact printing mechanisms, and the laser
products are compatible with over 90% of the low to mid-range laser printers now
on the market. The Company sells its products primarily throughout the United
States, Canada, and Mexico. The Company employs approximately 800 persons
worldwide.

         The Debtors and the non-debtor affiliates in the U.S. operate as a
single economic and business unit. The Debtors operate under a centralized
accounting system, with all books and records kept, all collections made and all
payments generated from one central location in Franklin, Tennessee. The
Debtors' financial reporting is done on a consolidated basis, and the Debtors
file their federal tax returns on a consolidated basis. The business address for
each of the Debtors is 200 Beasley Drive, Franklin, TN 37064. A brief
individualized description of each Debtor and its function within the Company is
as follows:



DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             10
<PAGE>   19

         1.       NU-KOTE HOLDING, INC.

         Nu-kote Holding, Inc. ("HOLDING") is a public company with over 3,000
shareholders. Holding holds 100% of the stock of Nu-kote International, Inc. and
Nu-kote Imperial, Ltd. As of February 5, 1999, Holding had 21,775,302 shares of
Class A common stock, $.01 par value, outstanding. The following table reflects
certain of the stock ownership of Holding as of March 31, 1998:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  NATURE AND PERCENTAGE OF STOCK
  NAME AND ADDRESS                           TITLE                                        OWNERSHIP (A)(B)
  ----------------                           -----                                ------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>                                        <C>
Richard A. Larsen                    Sr. VP, General Counsel &                                 *
200 Beasley Dr.                      Secretary (f)
Franklin, TN  37064

Phillip L. Theodore                  Sr. VP, CFO, Treasurer & Asst.                            *
200 Beasley Dr.                      Secretary
Franklin, TN  37064

John P. Rochon (d) (e)               Director                                                11.5%
Richmont Capital Partners I LP
4300 Westgrove Dr.
Addison, TX  75001

Patrick E. Howard                    CEO, President and Director                               *
4300 Westgrove Dr.
Addison, TX  75001

Ligapart AG                          Stockholder                                             21.1%
Neuhofstrasse 4
6340 Bear, Switzerland

Oppenheimer Group (c)                Stockholder                                             9.5%
Oppenheimer Tower
World Financial Center
New York, NY  10281
</TABLE>

*        Less than 1% of Class

(a)      Data as of November 6, 1998
(b)      Unless otherwise indicated, such shares of common stock are owned with
         sole voting and investment powers.
(c)      Represents the aggregate shares held by the Oppenheimer Group, Inc. and
         its subsidiaries and affiliates, including Oppenheimer Financial Corp.,
         Oppenheimer Equities, Inc., Oppenheimer Holding, Inc., Oppenheimer &
         Co., Inc. And Oppenheimer Capital, L.P., Oppenheimer Group, Inc. Is a
         parent holding company and disclaims beneficial ownership and
         dispositive power over the shares held by its subsidiaries and their
         clients.
(d)      Includes 2,559,360 shares owned by Richmont Capital Partners, L.P. as
         to which shares Mr. Rochon has shared voting and investment power.
(e)      Includes 18,000 shares that may be acquired through exercise of stock
         options.
(f)      Richard A. Larsen resigned from the Company effective October 31, 1999.

         2.       NU-KOTE IMPERIAL, LTD.

         Nu-kote Imperial, Ltd. ("IMPERIAL") holds various of the trademarks of
the Company, including the Pelikan trademark and trade name which the Company
has the right to use pursuant to terms of a trademark license agreement entered
into in 1995 in connection with the purchase of the hardcopy supplies business
of Pelikan Holding A.G., an unrelated Swiss company. As of the Petition Date,
the Pelikan trademark and the associated covenant-not-to-compete were valued
(book value) at $6,876,000 and $4,558,000, respectively. Imperial receives
royalty income, approximately $885,413 for fiscal year 1999 through the Petition
Date, on the Pelikan trademark. As a result of the sale of the Pelikan


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             11

<PAGE>   20

Hardcopy Subsidiaries, the license on the Pelikan trademark has been limited to
North America and there are no provisions for ongoing royalty income. The stock
of Imperial is owned 100% by Holding.

         3.       NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC.

         Nu-kote International, Inc. ("INTERNATIONAL") along with ICMI and
Future Graphics, is the operating entity for all of the US operations.
International manufactures and distributes ribbons, inkjet cartridges, ink rolls
and toner. International owns 100% of the stock of Imaging, ICMI, Viro-kote,
Inc., Future Graphics, Latin America, Interfas Holding S.A. International owns
65% of the stock of Nu-kote Internacional de Mexico, S.A. International is the
named defendant in each of the OEM lawsuits.

         4.       NU-KOTE IMAGING INTERNATIONAL, INC.

         Nu-kote Imaging International, Inc. ("IMAGING") was formed to acquire
certain US hardcopy assets of Pelikan Holding A.G., an unrelated entity in 1995.
The stock of Imaging is owned 100% by International.

         5.       INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION MATERIALS, INC.

         International Communication Materials, Inc. ("ICMI") manufactures toner
for non-impact printers and copiers. The stock of ICMI is owned 100% by
International. International purchased the stock of ICMI on or about February
24, 1992. ICMI and private label branded laser and copier toners are marketed to
distributors serving the laser cartridge remanufacturing market and to large
original equipment manufacturers.

         6.       FUTURE GRAPHICS, INC.

         Future Graphics, Inc. ("FUTURE GRAPHICS") manufactures laser printer
cartridges. On December 31, 1997, Future Graphics transferred all of the assets
of its components division to Future Graphics, L.L.C. (an unrelated transferee)
for approximately $3,700,000 in a combination of cash and assumed liabilities.
The stock of Future Graphics is owned 100% by International.

         7.        NU-KOTE LATIN AMERICA, INC.

         Nu-kote Latin America, Inc. ("LATIN AMERICA") has no independent
operations and holds no assets, except that Latin America owns 35% of the stock
of Nu-kote Internacional de Mexico, S.A., valued at $1.00. The stock of Latin
America is owned 100% by International.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             12

<PAGE>   21

C.       CURRENT OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS OF NU-KOTE

         There are currently only two directors of Nu-kote. While there may
exist certain other officers of the Company, the officers with primary
operational and decisional responsibilities for the business operations of the
Company are listed below:

         PATRICK E. HOWARD, PRESIDENT, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND DIRECTOR. Mr.
Howard, age 52, has been the Chief Executive Officer of the Company since
October, 1998. Previously, Mr. Howard served as Chief Operating Officer and
Chief Executive Officer of the Company from February, 1997 and August, 1997,
respectively, until December, 1997. Mr. Howard has been a director of the
Company continuously since August, 1997. Mr. Howard has been the Chief Executive
Officer of the Richmont Group since January, 1996. Prior to joining the Company,
Mr. Howard served as Executive Vice President of Mary Kay, Inc. from December,
1985 until January, 1996.

         JOHN P. ROCHON, DIRECTOR. Mr. Rochon, age 48, has been a director of
the Company since 1994. Mr. Rochon has been Chairman of the Richmont Corporation
since 1990 and Chief Executive Officer of Mary Kay Holding Corporation since
1991. Previously, Mr. Rochon served in positions of increasing responsibility
with Mary Kay Holding Corporation, including Vice Chairman from 1987 to 1991.
Through Richmont Corporation and its predecessor and affiliated companies, Mr.
Rochon has built a large, diversified portfolio of companies and investments
strongly focused on consumer goods and services. Mr. Rochon also serves as a
director of Royal Appliance Manufacturing Company.

         C. RONALD BAIOCCHI, SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, GENERAL MANAGER, NU-KOTE
INTERNATIONAL, INC. Mr. Baiocchi, age 56, has been Vice President, Nu-kote
International, Inc. since January 1987. Prior to joining the Company, Mr.
Baiocchi worked at Burroughs Corporation (now Unisys) since October 1978 and has
held a number of executive positions in manufacturing, product management, sales
and marketing and business planning.

         PHILLIP L. THEODORE, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER,
TREASURER, ASST. SECRETARY AND DIRECTOR. Mr. Theodore, age 32, has been Senior
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Assistant Secretary since
March 1998. He joined the Company in June 1994 to serve as controller of the
North American Operations. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Theodore was a
manager at Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P. and worked in the business assurance group
where he specialized in mergers and acquisitions. Mr. Theodore is a Certified
Public Accountant.

         IAN ELLIOTT, VICE PRESIDENT, PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT, NU-KOTE
INTERNATIONAL, INC. Mr. Elliott, age 42, has been Vice President, Product
Development, Nu-kote International, Inc. since September 1996. He joined
Burroughs Corporation (now Unisys) in the United Kingdom in 1978 and has served
in positions of increasing responsibility primarily in sales and product
management functions, within Europe and the U.S. From April 1994 to September
1996 he served as Vice President, Business Development and Director, Product
Management - North American Supplies Group.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             13

<PAGE>   22

         RICHARD A. LARSEN, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, GENERAL COUNSEL AND
SECRETARY. Mr. Larsen, age 50, has been Senior Vice President and General
Counsel of the Company since June 1995 and has also been Secretary of the
Company since March 1998. Prior to joining Nu-kote, Mr. Larsen was Vice
President, General Counsel and Secretary of Harris Adacom Corporation for five
years. As stated above, Mr. Larsen has resigned from the Company effective
October 31, 1999.

D.       HISTORICAL AND RENEWED RETENTION AGREEMENTS WITH KEY NU-KOTE EMPLOYEES

         1.       HISTORICAL RETENTION AGREEMENTS

         None of the Company's executive officers have written employment
agreements. In May 1998, however, Messrs. Baiocchi, Larsen, Theodore and Elliott
entered into retention agreements with Nu-kote which are triggered upon a change
in control or a restructuring of the Nu-kote's long-term financing agreement
with its lenders.

         2.       NEW AND RENEWED RETENTION AGREEMENTS

         Additionally, on April 21, 1999, Nu-kote filed a Motion to Approve Key
Employee Retention Agreements (the "EMPLOYEE RETENTION MOTION"). Nu-kote filed
the Employee Retention Motion in recognition of what Nu-kote believes to be the
efforts of certain Key Employees who have been instrumental to Nu-kote's
reorganization efforts. Under the terms of the retention agreements, a retention
payment to the individuals designated in the Employee Retention Motion will be
payable only upon confirmation of a plan for the Debtors, a sale of
substantially all of the assets of the Debtors or a termination of a key
employee without cause. On June 10, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court entered its order
approving the Employee Retention Motion.

E.       PREPETITION INFORMATION:  HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ON THE INDUSTRY

         The market for supplies for typewriters and other impact printers has
been declining in recent years and is expected to continue to decline as
non-impact printing devices become more popular and replace many of the impact
printers now in service. During fiscal 1998, the Debtors experienced a decline
of approximately 9.8% in their sales from impact products. While the Debtors
expect the market for supplies for typewriters and other impact printers to
continue to decline as a whole, the Debtors believe there will continue to be an
important market for its ribbon products for the foreseeable future. The selling
prices for the Debtors' impact products have come under pressure as competitors
have reduced prices in an attempt to preserve their portion of a declining
market.

         The printing supplies market is extremely competitive. In both the
impact and non-impact markets, the Debtors' biggest competitors are the original
equipment manufacturers, most of which are substantially larger and have greater
financial resources than the Debtors. In the impact supplies business, some
original equipment manufacturers manufacture their own ribbon products. Other
original equipment manufacturers buy ribbons from outside suppliers. In
addition, there are currently over 100 independent


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             14


<PAGE>   23
ribbon manufacturers in the United States and over 200 worldwide, ranging from
small local producers to national and international companies.

         Original equipment manufacturers currently dominate the market for the
majority of toner products and ink jet supplies. However, the market for
compatible toner supplies is still developing, and there are currently several
independent competitors in this market. The willingness of the original
equipment manufacturers to offer ink jet products at very low prices, and the
possibility of substantial price reductions by one or more original equipment
manufacturers, could have a material adverse effect on the portion of the
Debtors' business affected thereby. The remanufactured laser printer cartridge
market and the cartridge remanufacturing and refilling market have historically
consisted of numerous small independent producers. Recently, however, various
original equipment manufacturers have entered these markets resulting in a
significant increase in competition.

         During the past five years, the U.S. office products industry has
undergone a series of significant changes. Although the original equipment
manufacturer channel of distribution, which includes such well known brand name
manufacturers as Xerox, Brother, Canon, HP, Pitney Bowes, Ricoh, Unisys and
Epson, has remained relatively constant, consolidation in the aftermarket has
led to the emergence of a limited number of large, well capitalized wholesalers,
dealers, and mass merchandisers. Today, in fact, the wholesale channel of
distribution is dominated by two national resellers, S. P. Richards and United
Stationers. Similarly, the dealer channel of distribution is dominated by Boise
Cascade, BT Office Products, Corporate Express, Office Depot Business Services
Division, Staples Business Advantage, and U. S. Office Products, all of which
have sales offices and distribution centers on a nationwide basis. In addition,
a secondary segment of the dealer channel of distribution is dominated by five
large buying groups which, in turn, represent approximately 4,000 smaller dealer
participants. Similarly, the mass merchandise, or retail channel of
distribution, is dominated by Kmart, Office Depot, Office Max, Sams Club,
Staples, and Walmart, all of which have outlets throughout the United States.

         As these aftermarket leaders focused on improving market share,
end-user product prices declined, reseller margins narrowed, and third party
suppliers, like Nu-kote, were squeezed. As the market stabilized, however, these
large, well capitalized companies began to focus on supply chain management and
more effective end-user merchandising in an effort to improve what had become
thinner margins. These companies recognized that the original equipment
manufacturers' brand name products were drivers of consumer traffic and
generators of sales volume. At the same time, however, they recognized that the
original equipment manufacturers' brand name products provided very little in
the way of gross profits. As a result, these market leaders became more enamored
with private label products of comparable quality, selling at significantly
lower price points and generating significantly higher profit margins, as
important alternatives to original equipment manufacturers' brand name products.
As a result, aftermarket suppliers, such as Nu-kote, began to see, albeit only
recently, an easing of the intense third party supplier price pressures of the
past.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             15
<PAGE>   24

         During the past five years, too, the U.S. office products industry has
seen a declining level of demand for impact products in favor of non-impact
products or, alternatively, has seen a migration from the old technology to the
new technology where the products are protected by more complex patents and
demand a more sophisticated level of knowledge vis-a-vis the end-user purchasing
decision.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                       NEW TECHNOLOGY:
                    OLD TECHNOLOGY:                                  NON-IMPACT PRODUCTS
                     IMPACT PRODUCTS                                 (Thermal, Inkjet,
                        (Ribbons)                                 Toner & Laser Cartridges)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>      <C>                                              <C>
-        Declining Markets                                -         Growing Markets
-        Low Barriers to Entry                            -         High Barriers to Entry
-        Excess Manufacturing Capacity                    -         Insufficient Manufacturing Capacity
-        Shrinking Profit Margins                         -         Expanding Profit Margins
-        Unsophisticated Purchasing Decision              -         Sophisticated Purchasing Decision
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

F.       NU-KOTE'S PLACE IN THE OFFICE PRODUCTS MARKET

         Nu-kote operates in an approximately $20 billion office products market
which includes impact ribbons, thermal products, ink jet accessories, monochrome
and color toners, and recycled laser cartridges. While impact ribbon sales have
been declining at 16%-18% per year, thermal ribbons, ink jet accessories,
toners, and laser cartridges have been growing at 8%-20% per year depending on
the particular product. Nu-kote intends to offset the continued decline of
impact ribbon sales with faster growing non-impact thermal, ink jet, toner, and
laser cartridge sales, the latter of which demand a more sophisticated level of
end-user knowledge vis-a-vis the end-user purchasing decision. Impact ribbon
sales, however, should fall at a rate somewhat less than that of the overall
market due, primarily, to market share gains.

G.       NU-KOTE'S MARKET SEGMENTATION

         Nu-kote has historically served and intends to continue to serve both
the original equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket distributors, namely
the wholesalers, dealers, and retailers. Both have similar product offerings.
Each, however, is driven by distinctly different operating characteristics and,
as a result, provides suppliers with significantly different profit margins.



<TABLE>
<CAPTION>


             ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURERS                          AFTERMARKET DISTRIBUTORS
                                                                  (Wholesalers, Dealers, Retailers)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>     <C>                                               <C>       <C>
-        Technology & Engineering Driven                  -         End User & Distribution Driven
-        Long Lead Times                                  -         Short Lead Times
</TABLE>

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             16
<PAGE>   25

<TABLE>
<S>      <C>                                              <C>

-        No Product Returns                               -         Significant Product Returns
-        On Time Collection of A/R                        -         Extended Collection of A/R
-        No Rebates                                       -         Rebates
-        No Advertising Expense                           -         Advertising Expense
-        Modest Supporting Infrastructure                 -         Significant Supporting Infrastructure
-        No Hidden Costs                                  -         Hidden Costs
-        Longer Term Stable Contracts                     -         Less Certain Annual Bid Process
</TABLE>

         In serving the original equipment manufacturers, Nu-kote must be
sensitive to the technological and engineering content of the original equipment
manufacturers' products and become, therefore, integrally involved with the
original equipment manufacturers' new printer development programs from a
research and development point of view. In addition, Nu-kote must deliver
innovative packaging and create end-user merchandising programs if the company
is to become a preferred supplier.

         In addressing the aftermarket, however, namely the wholesalers,
dealers, and retailers, Nu-kote must be sensitive to supply chain and end user
considerations. In all three of these channels of distribution, the company must
provide quality products, aggressive prices and superior line fill rates. In the
wholesaler and dealer channels of distribution, however, Nu-kote must offer
marketing incentive programs to ensure that the Nu-kote label is promoted at the
expense of the original equipment manufacturer label and, in the retail channel
of distribution, Nu-kote must offer point-of-sale merchandising programs to
ensure that the end-user is fully conversant with the advantages of a Nu-kote
product versus an original equipment manufacturer product.

         Similarly, the original equipment manufacturers are distinctly
different from the aftermarket distributors in terms of lead times, pricing,
infrastructure support, and credit terms. The original equipment manufacturers,
for example, offer long lead times, which reduces the need for on-hand
inventory; purchase printer supplies at prices which are not impacted by
rebates, advertising allowances and/or product returns; demand less in support
of their products; and remit trade payables on a timely basis. The aftermarket
distributors, however, are at the opposite end of the spectrum. They demand
three-to-five day delivery, prices which include rebates and advertising
allowances, and the right to return product as an inventory management tool. In
addition, they require extensive support in terms of supplier personnel and
infrastructure and tend to stretch trade payables well beyond due dates.
Accordingly, original equipment manufacturers provide better profit margins and
lower break-even levels in terms of sales volume.

         Nu-kote has historically functioned well in both the original equipment
manufacturer and the aftermarket distributors markets. Among Nu-kote's core
competencies which have contributed to its historical success are:

         1.       Strong engineering and technical skills, which are critical to
success in the original equipment manufacturer market;


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             17
<PAGE>   26

         2.       Quality products and good line fill rates, which are critical
to success in the wholesale, dealer, and retail markets;

         3.       Excellent manufacturing facilities which, domestically, have
been consolidated and reorganized by product line;

         4.       A streamlined transportation program, which has reduced the
number of common carriers from over one hundred to under ten; and

         5.       Broad channels of distribution, excellent customer service,
and a loyal customer base.

                          ARTICLE V. ASSETS OF NU-KOTE

         The following is a summary description of Nu-kote's principal assets.
The information has been compiled from Nu-kote's audited and unaudited records,
Schedules and Statements of Financial Affairs, and Monthly Operating Reports
filed by Nu-kote. The Debtors have historically operated as one company, filed
their federal tax returns and done all financial reporting on a consolidated
basis, and the Bankruptcy Court previously ordered that the assets of the
Debtors shall be treated as a single consolidated estate save and except that
any recoveries on the OEM Litigation shall be distributed as if such estates had
not been consolidated. Pursuant to the terms of the Joint Plan, a claim against
any one of the Debtors shall be treated as a claim against the consolidated
estate, including any recoveries on the OEM Litigation, and the assets of the
Debtors are therefore discussed on a consolidated basis.

A.       CASH

         As of October 22, 1999, the books and records of Nu-kote reflect on a
consolidated basis cash and cash equivalents totaling $3,675,000.

B.       INVENTORY

         As of October 22, 1999, the Debtors have inventory at lower of cost or
market of $29,432,000.


C.       TRADEMARKS

         Nu-kote (Imperial) owns the rights to the Pelikan trademark and the
associated covenant-not-to-compete which are valued (book value) at $6,876,000
and $4,558,000, respectively, less accumulated amortization of $4,698,943, for a
total book value of $6,735,057 as of February 19, 1999. In connection with the
sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy Subsidiaries, the Pelikan trademark license was
restricted to North America.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             18
<PAGE>   27

D.       PATENTS

         Subject to certain changes incident to the sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy
Subsidiaries, Nu-kote holds numerous patents, certain of which are subject to
the security interests of the Lenders. International, Imaging and ICMI are the
owners of record of numerous patents of the Company, as listed in the charts
attached hereto as Exhibit "B".

E.       RECEIVABLES

         Nu-kote has trade receivables in the amount of $18,737,000 as of
October 22, 1999.

         The Intercompany receivables, including receivables owed by the related
nondebtor entities, were $271,717,000 as of October 22, 1999.

F.       REAL PROPERTY

As of the Petition Date, the real property of the Debtors was as follows:

         1.       Connellsville, Pennsylvania facility: a manufacturing,
research and development and distribution facility used in connection with the
manufacture of toner and located at Rt. 119 South, Connellsville, PA 15425
valued at $740,613 on the Debtors' books (ICMI);

         2.       Derry, Pennsylvania facility: a 108,000 square foot industrial
manufacturing, research and development facility at One Imaging Lane in Derry,
Pennsylvania which has a fair market value of approximately $500,000 (Imaging);
and

         3.       Franklin, Tennessee facility: a 144,154 square foot metal
manufacturing warehouse located in Franklin, TN valued at $3,827,896
(accumulated depreciation of $611,895) (International).

G.       MACHINERY, FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT

         As of the Petition Date, the machinery, fixtures and equipment of the
Debtors was as follows:


         1.       machinery, fixtures equipment and supplies in Franklin, TN,
Rochester, NY and Nogales, Mexico(1) valued at $18,164,748 (International);

         2.       machinery, fixtures and equipment located at the
Connellsville, PA distribution facility valued at $6,473,901 (ICMI);

         3.       $746,825 in equipment in Chatsworth, California (Future
Graphics);

-------------------

         (1)      As part of the Company's ongoing effort to cut costs and
streamline operations, the Nogales, Mexico facility was closed in July, 1999.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             19
<PAGE>   28

         4.       leasehold improvements in Franklin, TN valued at $2,492,370
(accumulated depreciation of $391,254) (International); and

         5.       leasehold improvements in Rochester, NY valued at $105,351
(accumulated depreciation of $84,836) (International).

H.       STOCK

         Holding holds 100% of the stock of International and Imperial.
International owns 100% of the stock of Future Graphics, ICMI, Imaging, Latin
America, Viro-kote, Inc., Interfas Holding, S.A., and 65% of the stock of
Nu-kote Internacional de Mexico, S.A. All of these stock interests of
International are pledged as collateral to secure the claims of the Lenders and
are of no value in excess of the liens of the Lenders. Latin America owns 35% of
the stock of Nu-kote Internacional de Mexico, S.A., valued at $1.00.

I.       THE OEM LITIGATION

         The finished products of Nu-kote are sold at both the retail level to
consumers under the Nu-kote and Pelikan brand names and directly to the original
equipment manufacturers of printing equipment. Products are manufactured to the
original equipment manufacturers' specifications and sold both with the original
hardware and in the aftermarket. Nu-kote also manufactures and distributes a
variety of compatible ink jet cartridges for use in the HP, Epson and Canon ink
jet printers, as well as a line of HP compatible cartridge refill kits designed
for the home or small business user, and provides a cartridge remanufacturing
service similar to the one employed for remanufactured laser toner cartridges.
The nature of the products manufactured and distributed by Nu-kote and the OEMs
has resulted in a variety of litigation. International is the named defendant in
each of the OEM Litigation cases.

         1.       HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY. HEWLETT-PACKARD CO. V. NU-KOTE
INTERNATIONAL, INC., Case No. C94-20647 JW (EIA):

         HISTORY OF THE HP LITIGATION: On September 19, 1994, HP filed a lawsuit
against Nu-kote in the United States District Court for the Northern District of
California (the "CALIFORNIA DISTRICT COURT"), San Jose Division, Case No.
C94-20647 JW (EIA), (the "HP LITIGATION") alleging patent and trademark
infringement, unfair competition and false advertising. Nu-kote asserted
affirmative defenses to claims brought by HP, and asserted seven counterclaims
against HP, including inter alia: violations of the Lanham Act, Sherman and
Clayton Antitrust Acts. Nu-kote sought compensatory, punitive and treble
damages, court costs and attorneys' fees, as well as injunctive relief.

         On November 13, 1998, Nu-kote filed a motion for relief from stay to
allow the HP Litigation to continue despite the pendency of these bankruptcy
cases. Nu-kote felt that continuation of the HP Litigation was appropriate as
the litigation was large and complex, had been the subject of years of extensive
preparation, and was then on the eve of trial.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             20
<PAGE>   29

The Bankruptcy Court found that "cause" under ss. 362 of the Bankruptcy Code
existed to lift the automatic stay to allow the HP Litigation to proceed to
trial.

         Prior to trial the California District Court dismissed certain of HP's
patent claims and certain of Nu-kote's antitrust and other claims. The remaining
claims in the HP Litigation went to trial on May 17, 1999. On July 22, 1999, the
jury rendered its verdict. The jury found that Nu-kote infringed three HP
patents and certain of HP's trademarks, and engaged in false advertising. The
jury found that Nu-kote's conduct was willful. The jury awarded HP damages in
the amounts of $456,937.80, $434,120.00 and $1,138,394.00 for damages suffered
by HP for patent infringement claims, trademark/unfair competition claims and
false advertising claims. The jury found in Nu-kote's favor on one of HP's
patent claims and certain of HP's trademark claims. The jury also found that
Nu-kote's use of its current green and white packaging does not violate HP's
trademarks. The jury rejected all of Nu-kote's remaining antitrust claims and
awarded Nu-kote no damages. There remain before the California District Court
issues not addressed by the jury including those concerning HP's claims for
attorneys' fees, enhanced damages, costs and injunctive relief, and Nu-kote's
equitable defenses, claims for attorneys' fees and other relief. The California
District Court must resolve certain issues before entering judgment on the jury
verdict.

         PROPOSED SETTLEMENT OF THE HP LITIGATION: Subsequent to the rendition
of the jury verdict in the HP Litigation, Debtors' management and general
bankruptcy counsel have entered into extensive good faith arms length
negotiations seeking settlement and resolution of the litigation between the
parties. As a result of these negotiations, an agreement (the "SETTLEMENT
AGREEMENT") has been reached, subject to approval of the Court. Due to the
confidential and proprietary nature of certain portions of the Settlement
Agreement, a redacted version of same, is attached to the Motion to Approve
Compromise and Settlement Agreement as proposed by and between Nu-kote and
Hewlett-Packard Company, filed of record with the Bankruptcy Court.

         The principal material terms of the proposed Settlement Agreement which
have not been redacted due to concerns of confidentiality include:

         (A)      JUDGMENTS: HP shall be granted judgments and claims in its
                  favor dismissing Nu-kote's antitrust claims and awarding
                  damages on HP's claims on trademark infringement, unfair
                  competition, false advertising, attorneys' fees and costs in
                  the following amounts: $1,500,000.00 for awardable costs
                  incurred by HP in the HP Litigation, plus $456,937.80 for
                  damages suffered by HP on HP's patent infringement claims,
                  plus $434,120.00 and $1,138,394.00 for damages suffered by HP
                  on HP's trademark/unfair competition claims and false
                  advertising claims, plus $2,000,000.00 for HP's awardable
                  attorney's fees in the HP Litigation, for a sum total of
                  $5,529,451.80. The judgments and claims shall be treated as
                  allowed liquidated, undisputed, non-contingent, unsecured
                  pre-petition claims in the Bankruptcy Case. The judgments will
                  not be entered until the Patent Covenants become effective.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             21
<PAGE>   30

         (B)      INJUNCTIONS: Subject to the Patent Covenants granted by HP,
                  Nu-kote agrees to the entry of certain injunctions against
                  further patent infringement, trademark infringement, and false
                  advertising. The injunctions will not be entered until after
                  the Patent Covenants become effective.

         (C)      VACATUR OF PATENT RULINGS AND FINDINGS: The parties agree to
                  the vacatur of certain of the District Court's orders and
                  certain of the jury's findings regarding the validity,
                  invalidity or infringement of certain of HP's patents. In
                  addition, Nu-kote acknowledges the validity, enforceability
                  and infringement of certain HP patents.

         (D)      PATENT COVENANTS: HP grants to Nu-kote Patent Covenants, which
                  are covenants not to sue Nu-kote for infringement of certain
                  patents as set forth in the confidential portions of the
                  Settlement Agreement, which shall become effective upon
                  receipt by HP of the duly executed Certificates of Compliance
                  relating to the Document Escrow contemplated by the Settlement
                  Agreement. The Patent Covenants will allow Nu-kote to continue
                  to market its full line of HP compatible inkjet products.

         (E)      DOCUMENT ESCROW: Placement in escrow under seal with the
                  United States Trustee by Nu-kote and the persons and entities
                  defined as Nu-kote Persons under the Settlement Agreement of
                  all Discovery Materials, including but not limited to HP
                  Discovery Materials and Nu-kote Discovery Materials,
                  Deposition Materials, and Privileged Materials (Nu-kote alone
                  shall not be required to search for or turn over Privileged
                  Materials) that are in the possession, custody or control of
                  Nu-kote or any Nu-kote Persons or that Nu-kote or any Nu-kote
                  Persons know to be in the possession, custody or control of
                  any Litigation Vendors. Nu-kote Persons will be enjoined to
                  turn over all Discovery Materials that are currently in their
                  possession or that come into their possession in the future.
                  These Discovery Materials shall be placed in a storage
                  facility mutually acceptable to the parties and the United
                  States Trustee to be held under seal by the United States
                  Trustee for the Retention Period as defined in the Settlement
                  Agreement, and verification of the placement of such Discovery
                  Materials by Nu-kote by execution of Certificates of
                  Compliance as contemplated in the Settlement Agreement.
                  Interested parties will have access to the Discovery Materials
                  only pursuant to Bankruptcy Court Order after notice and a
                  hearing, and only under the conditions set forth in the
                  Settlement Agreement as specified by the applicable Bankruptcy
                  Court Order. All Discovery Materials must be returned to the
                  escrow within the Retention Period, and at the end of the
                  Retention Period the Discovery Materials will be destroyed.

         (F)      MUTUAL RELEASES: Mutual releases executed by and between
                  Nu-kote for itself and for any and all Subsidiaries,
                  predecessors, successors, assigns, and, to the extent
                  permitted by law, for its related companies, officers,


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             22
<PAGE>   31

                  directors, employees, agents, shareholders, customers,
                  attorneys and consultants and HP for itself and for any and
                  all Subsidiaries, predecessors, successors, assigns, and, to
                  the extent permitted by law, for its related companies,
                  officers, directors, employees, agents, shareholders,
                  customers, attorneys and consultants.

         (G)      FUTURE DISPUTES: An agreement between HP and Nu-kote that each
                  will give the other written notice of and endeavor to resolve
                  any potential future disputes between themselves prior to
                  resorting to litigation, unless such issues or questions have
                  immediate adverse legal implications relative to the trademark
                  or trade dress rights of the offended party. The Bankruptcy
                  Court will retain exclusive jurisdiction to enforce the
                  Settlement Agreement and to resolve any disputes that might
                  arise under the Settlement Agreement .

         (H)      RESTRICTIONS ON TRANSFER: The agreement restricts who can
                  benefit from the Patent Covenants and requires HP's consent if
                  more than 20% of the stock or assets of Nu-kote are to be sold
                  to a third party.

         This summary is not intended to supersede or replace any of the terms
of the Settlement Agreement and shall not be used to interpret the Settlement
Agreement. If there is any inconsistency between this summary and the terms of
the Settlement Agreement, the terms of the Settlement Agreement shall control.

         Nu-kote firmly believes that the Settlement Agreement negotiated
between Nu-kote and HP is in the best interests of the estate. The HP Litigation
has consumed the time and resources of the Company for in excess of four years.
Unless the HP Litigation is compromised and settled, the parties anticipate that
the judgment to be entered by the California District Court will likely be
appealed, and final resolution of the HP Litigation will be protracted. This
Settlement Agreement, negotiated with the interests' of the Debtors and the
creditors of this estate as a paramount concern, brings closure to this chapter
of Nu-kote's history and brings the Debtors one step closer to reorganization.

         Finally, the benefits to Nu-kote stemming from the Settlement Agreement
are substantial. Although confidentiality concerns prevent a detailed recitation
of the effect of the Settlement Agreement on the business operations of Nu-kote,
Nu-kote represents that the Patent Covenants granted under the Settlement
Agreement are crucial to the continued business success of Nu-kote and will
allow Nu-kote to continue its full line of HP compatible products. The prompt
and efficient resolution of the claims asserted by HP in this case as
pre-petition unsecured claims instead of administrative claims is also of
significant value, and the intangible benefit of the Debtors, their management
and counsel directing their attention to other essential matters should not be
undervalued. The hearing on the Motion to Approve the Settlement Agreement will
be held before the Bankruptcy Court on December 2, 1999.

         2. SEIKO EPSON CORP. SEIKO EPSON CORP. AND EPSON AMERICA, INC.,
PLAINTIFFS AND COUNTER-DEFENDANTS VS. NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND PELIKAN



DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             23

<PAGE>   32

PRODUKTIONS, A.G., DEFENDANTS AND COUNTER-CLAIMANTS, Case No. CV95-2734RTJH
("EPSON I") and SEIKO-EPSON CORP. AND EPSON AMERICA, INC., PLAINTIFFS AND
COUNTER-DEFENDANTS VS. NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL INC., AND PELIKAN PRODUKTIONS,
A.G., DEFENDANTS AND COUNTER-CLAIMANTS, pending in the U.S. District for Central
District of California under Case No. CV97-9587TJH ("EPSON II") (consolidated);
SEIKO EPSON CORP. AND EPSON AMERICA, INC., PLAINTIFFS/APPELLANTS VS. NU-KOTE
INTERNATIONAL, INC. AND PELIKAN PRODUKTIONS, A.G., DEFENDANTS/APPELLEES, Appeal
from Orders of U.S. District Court for Central District of California to the
U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit under Docket Nos.
97-1313-1548-1566-1588 and 98-1015 ("APPEAL"):

         On April 25, 1995, Epson commenced Epson I (which involves actions
which were included in the Appeal) alleging patent infringement, trademark
infringement, false advertising and unfair competition. International and PPAG
have filed answers that assert nine affirmative defenses to the claims alleged
in Epson's complaint. Both International and PPAG have asserted counterclaims
involving invalidity, unenforceability and non-infringement of patent rights,
together with violations of the Sherman and Lanham Acts. International seeks
damages and an injunction for false advertising, trade libel, disparagement of
goods, defamation, and unfair competition. Epson II was filed on October 15,
1997 involving a second action for patent infringement and has now been
consolidated with Epson I by stipulation. Little or no action has taken place
regarding the pertinent matters involved in Epson II.

         International and PPAG were initially successful in disposing of six
out of seven patents alleged to be infringed through summary judgment action. In
a series of rulings in 1997, the District Court held six (6) out of seven (7) of
Epson's patents-in-suit in Epson I to be either invalid or unenforceable. The
District Court also held Nu-kote and PPAG in contempt for violating the PI. The
District Court's contempt ruling is memorialized in two written orders. The
first order directs Nu-kote and PPAG to pay Epson's lost profits of $1,050,849
and attorneys' fees of $31,413. The second order does not quantify a monetary
award. The District Court also issued an amended preliminary injunction (the
"API"), which enjoins Nu-kote and PPAG from, among other things, infringing
certain patents that were not part of the PI. On or about September 28, 1998,
Epson filed a motion to hold Nu-kote and PPAG in contempt for violation of the
API. Pre-petition, the motion had not been decided by the District Court.

         Epson appealed the District Court's invalidity and unenforceability
rulings. Nu-kote and PPAG appealed the District Court's contempt rulings. The
Appeal was fully briefed and oral argument was conducted before the Federal
Circuit on November 2, 1998, prior to the Petition Date.

         The litigation with Epson has been the subject of many days of hearings
in the Bankruptcy Court. Initially, on December 1, 1998, Epson filed an
Emergency Motion for relief from the automatic stay claiming it was suffering
immediate and irreparable harm because the stay had interrupted the pending
patent litigation against International. Disposition of this Emergency Motion is
discussed in detail in this Disclosure Statement. In summary, the final hearing
on Epson's Emergency Motion commenced, after much


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             24
<PAGE>   33

rescheduling, on February 4 and 5, 1999. This hearing was not completed, and on
February 10, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court entered an Order scheduling the
conclusion of the final hearing for twenty days after the completion of the
presentation of evidence in the HP trial. The Bankruptcy Court specifically
found that Epson's "claims of an `emergency' need for relief from the stay are
not consistent with its behavior," and that "the `emergencies' Seiko-Epson
alleged in December to demand a final hearing on less than three days' notice
have evaporated or have not motivated Seiko-Epson to expeditiously prosecute its
`Emergency' Motion." In light of the non-exigent circumstances, and in order to
avoid interference with the HP trial, the Bankruptcy Court then continued the
final hearing until twenty days after the completion of the presentation of
evidence in the HP trial. The Bankruptcy Court ruled that "the stay is continued
in effect pending completion of this final hearing." As set forth below, upon
rendition of the verdict in the HP Litigation, in order to avoid another
prolonged hearing, the Debtors and Epson agreed to limited relief from the
automatic stay only to the extent necessary to allow the Appeal to continue as
and to the extent determined appropriate by the United States Court of Appeals
for the Federal Circuit, and the Federal Circuit has now issued its opinion.

         The California District Court has stayed all further proceedings in the
Epson Litigation. On April 1, 1999, the California District Court entered an
Order Deferring Decision on Application of Bankruptcy Stay to the United States
Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, and Deferring Any Further
Proceedings in this Matter Pending Decision on that Issue. The California
District Court held "that there shall be no further proceedings in this action
until a decision on whether the bankruptcy stay applies to Pelikan Produktions,
A.G. issues from the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of
Tennessee."

         The Debtors and Epson reached an agreement to certain limited relief
regarding the Appeal as sought in the Motion for Relief from Stay filed by
Epson. The Debtors and Epson agreed to relief from the automatic stay only to
the extent necessary to allow the Appeal to continue as and to the extent
determined appropriate by the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal
Circuit. On September 8, 1999, the Federal Circuit Court issued its opinion
remanding the issues concerning the contempt orders to the California District
Court for further consideration, reversing the invalidity and unenforceablity
summary judgment rulings on certain Epson patents placing those patents back
into the Epson Litigation, and stating that Court's opinion that the automatic
stay did not apply to PPAG. On October 29, 1999, the Federal Circuit issued an
additional decision stating that Court's opinion that its prior decision as to
all issues, including vacatur and remand of the assessment of sanctions, is
fully applicable to Nu-kote as to Pelikan. No trial date for the Epson
litigation has been set by the California District Court.

         3.       CANON USA, INC. CANON USA, INC. V. NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL,
INC., Case No. SA CV-95-288 (the "CANON LITIGATION"):

         On April 3, 1995, Canon, Inc., a Japan corporation, and its U.S.
affiliates, Canon Computer Systems, Inc. and Canon USA, Inc. (collectively,
"CANON") filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Central
District of California styled Canon Computer


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             25

<PAGE>   34
Systems, Inc. v. Nu-kote International, Inc. seeking, among other things, to
have the Court enjoin International and its affiliates from infringing its
patents and from making false designations of origin or false descriptions
regarding International's cartridges and kits, and, seeking compensatory,
punitive and treble damages, court costs and attorney's fees. In July 1996 Canon
filed a second and related lawsuit, alleging infringement of an additional
patent, bringing the total number of patents at issue in the Canon case to six.

         International filed an answer asserting twelve affirmative defenses to
the claims alleged in Canon's complaint. These include, among others, defenses
that Canon's patents are invalid, unenforceable and/or not infringed by
International, that Canon has defrauded the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and
trademark misuse. Additionally, International has alleged counterclaims which
include claims of monopolization and attempted monopolization of the aftermarket
for replacement cartridges for Canon printers. International is also seeking
declaratory relief asking the Court to find that it has not infringed any valid
claim of Canon's right in the six patents in the suits, cancellation of Canon's
patents because of fraud on the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, damages and an
injunction for intentional interference with business relations, trade liable,
disparagement of goods, defamation and unfair competition.

         By Order dated April 18, 1997, the Court construed the claims of the
`994 patent as requested by Nu-kote, not as requested by Canon. Nu-kote filed a
Motion for Summary Judgment on the basis that the `994 Patent is anticipated by
prior art. Canon also filed a Motion for Summary Judgment on the `994 Patent. On
May 26, 1998, the Court held the claims of the `994 Patent invalid because they
are anticipated by the prior art. This was a significant victory for Nu-kote,
and Canon has appealed this ruling, Appeal Nos. 98-1445 - 1453, is also pending
in the United States District Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit

         On June 16, 1997, the Court granted Canon's Motion for Summary Judgment
on the issues of inventorship, obviousness and enforceability of the `928
patent, but denied Canon's MSJ with respect to the key issue of whether patented
features of that same patent are primarily ornamental or functional. A design
patent is invalid if the patented features are primarily functional rather than
primarily ornamental. Because it denied Canon's Motion as to that issue, the
Court ruled that it was premature to rule on whether this particular patent has
been infringed. The Court granted Canon's Motion for Summary Judgment on the
`140 patent, but only as to two discontinued versions of Nu-kote's products. The
Court confirmed that the current version of the Nu-kote cartridge, which is a
design around introduced by Nu-kote on receiving notice of this subject patent,
does not infringe the patent.

J.       OTHER CLAIMS AND CAUSES OF ACTION

         In addition to the counter-claims asserted in the OEM Litigation,
Nu-kote owns the following claims and causes of action:

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             26

<PAGE>   35

         1.       PREFERENTIAL TRANSFERS/FRAUDULENT TRANSFERS

         Within 90 days of the Petition Date, Nu-kote made a number of payments
to creditors. Each of these payments is potentially an avoidable preference or
fraudulent transfer. These payments will be analyzed by the Reorganized Debtors
or the Litigation Trustee, as the case may be, and pursued to the extent it is
determined that the payment may be avoidable. A list of the payments made by
each of the Debtors within the 90 day period preceding the Petition Date is
attached to each of the Statements of Financial Affairs filed by each Debtor as
Attachment 3.A.

         2.       POTENTIAL CLAIMS AGAINST GLASS & ASSOCIATES

         Glass & Associates was the workout company employed by Nu-kote to
provide interim management services in December, 1997. The services of Messrs.
Shaun K. Donnellan and William R. Ligon were made available to Nu-kote pursuant
to a consulting agreement between Glass & Associates and Nu-kote. While Nu-kote
did not compensate Messrs. Donnellan and Ligon directly for their services,
Nu-kote paid Glass & Associates $1,766,315 during the one year immediately
preceding the commencement of this case. These services represented operational,
sales, financial, marketing and management consulting services provided by
Messrs. Donnellan and Ligon and other associates of Glass & Associates.
Additionally, the above amount includes the reimbursement of actual and
reasonable expenses incurred by Glass & Associates in performing services for
Nu-kote. Pursuant to the consulting agreement executed between Holding and Glass
& Associates, Nu-kote paid a deposit to Glass & Associates for services to be
rendered. Nu-kote reassigned the responsibilities of Glass & Associates, and
Glass & Associates then severed its relationship with Nu-kote in October, 1998,
but $125,000 of the deposit has not been returned.

         Nu-kote may also possess claims against Glass & Associates, Donnellan,
Ligon and other employees due to acts or omissions in connection with services
to Nu-kote provided pursuant to the consulting agreement. Upon confirmation of
the Joint Plan, other than the obligations under the Joint Plan, the Debtors and
their related affiliates shall release all claims that they may hold or come to
hold as of the effective date of the Plan, or if no such effective date shall
occur or be in prospect by March 30, 2000, then on March 30, 2000, claims
against Glass & Associates, Inc., and its officers, directors, members,
representatives, agents, attorneys and accountants, including Shaun K.
Donnellan, William R. Ligon, and Alan R. Tilley, shall be released specifically
excluding those claims which the Debtors assert for the return of the $125,000
deposit discussed above and provided that Glass & Associates, Inc., shall also
execute a release as set forth in the Joint Plan.

         3.       CLAIMS AGAINST PELIKAN HOLDING

         In connection with the acquisition of the hardcopy supplies business of
Pelikan Holding in 1995, Pelikan Holding agreed to indemnify Nu-kote Holding,
Inc. for all losses, liabilities and costs resulting from or arising out of
environmental conditions existing on or prior to February 24, 1995 at the
facilities acquired from Pelikan Holding, such as Nu-kote's Derry, Pennsylvania
and Franklin, Tennessee facilities. With respect to certain potential


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             27

<PAGE>   36

pre-closing environmental liabilities and costs at the Franklin, Tennessee
facility, identified on a schedule agreed to by Nu-kote and Pelikan Holding,
Pelikan Holding's liability for environmental cleanup costs is in an amount up
to $2.5 million, which obligation is collateralized by a letter of credit.(2)

         The Tennessee Department of Employment Security and the Tennessee
Department of Environment and Conservation ("T-DEC") filed an objection to the
Debtors' initial disclosure statement on the basis that the Debtors had failed
to provide adequate information regarding the voluntary environmental cleanup
program at the Franklin, Tennessee facility to which the Debtors are a party via
a Consent Order and Agreement. To provide additional information about the
environmental situation at the Franklin, Tennessee facility and the cleanup
program, the Debtors add as follows, incorporating in part the suggested
language of the above-referenced Tennessee Departments:

         Pursuant to Tennessee Code Annotated ss. 68-212-224, a party who is
willing and able to conduct an investigation and cleanup of an inactive
hazardous substance site can do so by entering into a voluntary program of clean
up of that site under the supervision of the Superfund Division of the T-DEC.
International entered into such a voluntary plan indicating its willingness and
ability to provide for the clean up of Tennessee Superfund site number 94-511
situated at the Franklin, Tennessee plant location. To that end, International
signed a Consent Order and Agreement with the T-DEC. The investigation into the
extent of the contamination of soil and ground water at the Franklin site has
commenced. It is not expected, however, that this investigation, which will
provide an estimate of the cost of cleanup will be completed prior to the
Confirmation Hearing, and could take as long as two years. The Debtors intend to
comply with the Consent Order and Agreement to initiate and complete a cleanup
plan, and fully anticipate that all costs associated with same fall within the
scope and amount of the letter of credit with Pelikan Holding. Nu-kote also
possesses certain other claims against Pelikan Holding based on the purchase of
the Company's hardcopy supplies business.

---------------------

         (2)       A motion to assume or reject the Asset and Stock Purchase
Agreement between Holding and Pelikan Holding dated as of November 15, 1994 and
the Escrow Agreement referenced therein has not been filed by the Debtors. It is
the Debtors' belief that same is not necessary as the referenced agreements are
not executory in nature because Pelikan Holding has fully performed its
obligations thereunder. However, should the Debtors deem further action
necessary, all appropriate steps to assume same will be taken. Additionally,
however, in further response to certain objections by Pelikan Holding, the Plan
Proponents include the following language requested by Pelikan Holding: "The
Disclosure Statement also fails to disclose that the plan does not provide for
the assumption of the agreements with Pelikan creating the environmental
indemnity as well as that three of the claims of Pelikan against the Debtors
would have to be satisfied to assume the agreement and that some of the other
past defaults of the Debtors are not curable. The cumulative effect of the
foregoing would release the environmental indemnity obligations and render the
purported transfer of the environmental indemnity obligations to the Litigation
Trust valueless and a nullity. Alternatively, if such environmental indemnity
obligations are not to be transferred, the effect would be to render the
indemnity unavailable to protect the reorganized debtor against environmental
liability in the manner described in Sections H 2 and I of the Disclosure
Statement." The Plan Proponents dispute the foregoing statements by Pelikan
Holding.



DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             28
<PAGE>   37
         4.       SETTLEMENT OF THE DECLARATORY JUDGMENT ACTION AGAINST THE
LENDERS ASSERTED BY THE DEBTORS

         On April 30, 1999, Nu-kote filed a Complaint for Declaratory Relief to
Determine the Validity of the Lender Group's Alleged Liens on Debtor's Tort
Claims Against Third Parties and the OEM Litigation against the Lenders,
Adversary No. 399-0198A. This Complaint was brought for the purpose of seeking a
determination by the Bankruptcy Court on the validity of the Lenders' assertion
that they have been assigned an interest in and/or possess perfected liens on
tort claims that are property of the estate and, specifically, the anti-trust
tort counterclaims asserted in, and/or the proceeds of those counterclaims, in
certain pending litigation involving International with the OEMs. Nu-kote's
complaint asserts that the Lenders do not possess perfected liens on those tort
claims because all of Debtors' counterclaims in the OEM Litigation are
anti-trust violations, which sound in tort. Accordingly, the Debtors assert that
the OEM Counterclaims, other causes of action and the proceeds from the OEM
Litigation, which may arise by way of settlement or otherwise, "arise out of
tort" and are excluded from the Lenders' security interest in general
intangibles by ss. 9-104(11) of the Uniform Commercial Code. Similarly, Nu-kote
asserted that the Lenders' claims that they have been assigned an interest in
the OEM Litigation proceeds must fail because there is no instrument of
assignment regarding the OEM Litigation, and the Lenders had not notified the
obligors on the interest "assigned," the OEMs, of the existence of this
purported assignment. The Lenders disagreed with all such contentions.

         Nu-kote filed a Motion for Summary Judgment requesting that the
Bankruptcy Court find as a matter of law that the Lenders do not possess
security interests in and/or have not been assigned an interest in the proceeds
of the anti-trust tort counterclaims asserted in the OEM Litigation. The Lenders
filed a Cross Motion for Summary Judgment. After the return of the HP verdict,
the Bankruptcy Court stayed this adversary proceeding and has not ruled on
Nu-kote's allegations in the Complaint or either Nu-kote's or the Lenders'
respective Motions for Summary Judgment. The Bankruptcy Court has set a hearing
on the Motions for Summary Judgment for January 11, 2000. However, other than
the obligations under the Joint Plan, the Debtors and their related affiliates
shall release all claims that they may hold or come to hold against the Lenders
as of the Effective Date of the Joint Plan or, if no such Effective Date shall
occur or be in prospect by March 30, 2000, then March 30, 2000, and the
adversary proceeding shall then be moot and shall be dismissed with prejudice.

         5.       SETTLEMENT OF POTENTIAL SUBORDINATION OF THE LENDERS'
UNSECURED CLAIMS ASSERTED BY THE DEBTORS

         To comply with the amended terms of the US Facility, a turn around
company was employed by Debtors in December of 1997. Accordingly, Messrs.
Donnellan and Ligon of Glass & Associates were put in place by Nu-kote to
provide interim management services. The Company paid Glass & Associates
$1,766,315 during the one year immediately preceding the commencement of this
case.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             29

<PAGE>   38
         Further, the credit agreement evidencing the US Facility with the
Lenders was amended six times in 1997 and 1998, with fees and expenses to
Nu-kote exceeding $364,000 per amendment. In total, in just over a year
preceding the Petition Date, Nu-kote paid the Lenders in excess of $2.7 million
in fees and expenses of the Lenders and their professionals in addition to in
excess of $11.4 million in interest on funds borrowed under the Credit
Facilities.

         Section 510(c) of the Code provides that a Court may subordinate the
claim of a creditor on equitable grounds. Equitable subordination is appropriate
when a three part test is met: (i) the claimant must have engaged in some type
of inequitable conduct; (ii) the misconduct must have resulted in some type of
injury to the creditors or conferred an unfair advantage on the claimant; and
(iii) equitable subordination of the claim must not be inconsistent with the
provisions of the Bankruptcy Code. The Debtors assert that the employment of
Glass & Associates per the terms of the amendment of the US Facility did not
accomplish the financial restructuring of Nu-kote but instead contributed to its
already strained cash position.

         Under these circumstances, the Debtors assert that equitable
subordination of the unsecured claims of the Lenders may well be merited. The
Lenders strongly disagree with such assertion.

         Pursuant to the Joint Plan, the potential cause of action for equitable
subordination of the Lenders' unsecured claim by the Debtors will not be
pursued. Upon confirmation of the Joint Plan, other than the obligations under
the Joint Plan, the Debtors, their respective officers, directors,
representatives and agents shall fully release and discharge the Lenders on the
earlier of March 30, 2000, or the Effective Date of the Joint Plan, all claims
they may hold or come to hold (which claims arise out of any dealings or
contacts by and among the Lenders, the Debtors, or the Creditors' Committees and
which relate to or are connected with the Debtors) as of the Effective Date of
the Joint Plan or, if no such Effective Date shall occur or be in prospect by
March 30, 2000, then such release shall occur on March 30, 2000.

         6.       POTENTIAL CAUSE OF ACTION AGAINST THE OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
OF NU-KOTE

         On March 31, 1999, the Lenders served a Notice of Claim on Nu-kote and
its officers and directors. This Notice of Claim accuses both former and current
officers and directors of the Debtors of breaches of fiduciary duty, negligence,
breaches of contract, breaches of the duties of good faith and fair dealing,
misrepresentation, corporate waste and mismanagement. Specifically, the Notice
of Claim asserts that both the current and former officers and directors of
Nu-kote have breached their fiduciary duties to the creditors by the following
actions:

         (a)      Pelikan Acquisition and Subsequent Actions in Europe
         (b)      Lemmer Litigation
         (c)      Decline of Impact Business
         (d)      Removal of Shaun Donnellan

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             30

<PAGE>   39

         (e)      Sixth Amendment
         (f)      Hewlett-Packard Litigation
         (g)      Bankruptcy Filing
         (h)      Ongoing Patent Infringement
         (i)      Duties to Lenders

         Nu-kote asserts that any and all allegations against the Current
Officers and Directors of Nu-kote are wholly without merit. Nu-kote asserts that
the Current Officers and Directors have performed valuable services during this
Chapter 11 Case for the benefit of the Debtors, the Estates, and all Creditors.
Nu-kote believes that these services have greatly enhanced the Debtors' ability
to reorganize successfully as proposed in the Joint Plan.

         Pursuant to the Joint Plan, at Richmont's option, in the event that the
Joint Plan is not confirmed for any reason by March 15, 2000, and on the earlier
of (i) completion of the transfer of the Debtors' assets or stock as
contemplated by the Joint Plan or (ii) the Effective Date, Richmont may pay to
the Lenders and the Lenders shall retain and apply to their Claims, for the
benefit of the Debtors' estates, the cash sum of $300,000 in good and collected
funds in exchange for which payment, the Debtors, their estates and the Lenders
shall execute and deliver broad, full and final releases of all claims they may
hold (which claims arise out of any dealings or contacts by and among the
Lenders or the Nu-kote Entities, and which relate to or are connected with the
Nu-kote Entities) against the Current Officers and Directors of the Debtors.

         In the event that Richmont is the Successful Bidder and closes under
the Joint Plan, including payment of the amounts required under the Bidding
Procedure and the Joint Plan in good and collected funds for the benefit of the
Debtors and their creditors, at closing, the same releases shall be executed and
delivered without the requirement of the $300,000 payment, but instead, in
consideration of (a) Richmont closing under the Joint Plan, including payment of
the amounts required under the Bidding Procedure and the Joint Plan in good and
collected funds to the Lenders and for the benefit of creditors and (b) the
continued services of the Current Officers and Directors. In the event that a
Successful Bidder other than Richmont acquires the assets or stock of the
Debtors, the same releases shall be executed and delivered, but with the
requirement of the $300,000 payment. In the event Richmont shall determine not
to pay the $300,000 for the releases hereunder when required, then there shall
be no releases as provided in the Joint Plan.

K.       INTERCOMPANY PAYABLES AND RECEIVABLES

         Pre-petition, Nu-kote maintained a generalized, intercompany accounting
system shared between Nu-kote and all of its subsidiaries and related entities.
In the ordinary course of Nu-kote's business, numerous debt and credit
transactions thus routinely take place between the Debtors and between the
Debtor(s) and related nondebtor entities. Nu-kote was allowed to maintain this
system during the Bankruptcy Case. The schedule of Intercompany receivables,
including receivables owed by the related nondebtor entities, is as follows:


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             31

<PAGE>   40


<TABLE>
         <S>      <C>               <C>
         1.       Holding:          $  84,986,520.00
                  -------
         2.       International:    $ 328,114,018.00
                  -------------
         3.       Imaging:          $  28,996,196.00
                  -------
         4.       ICMI:             $  72,160,192.00
                  ----
         5.       Future Graphics:  $  54,651,045.00
                  ---------------
         6.       Imperial:         $  11,973,676.00
                  --------
         7.       Latin America:    $     260,730.00
                  -------------
</TABLE>


         As a consequence of the substantive consolidation of the Debtors, all
intercompany claims between or among the Debtors are eliminated for Plan
purposes so that such claims will not be classified, will not vote and will not
receive any distribution under the Joint Plan.

                     ARTICLE VI. LIABILITIES OF THE DEBTORS

A.       ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

         Administrative Claims are any claim that is defined in ss. 503(b) of
the Code as being an "administrative expense" and granted priority under ss.
507(a)(1) of the Code and including:

         -        a Claim for any cost or expense of administration in
                  connection with the Case, including, without limitation, any
                  actual, necessary cost or expense of preserving the Debtors'
                  estates and of operating the business of the Debtors incurred
                  on or before the Effective Date;

         -        the full amount of all Allowed Claims for compensation for
                  legal, accounting and other services or reimbursement of costs
                  under ss.ss. 330, 331 or 503 of the Bankruptcy Code;

         -        all fees and charges assessed against the Debtors' estates
                  under Chapter 123 of Title 28 of the United States Code; and

         -        any Allowed post-petition taxes and related items, including
                  any interest and penalties on such post-petition taxes.

         1.       PROFESSIONALS

         Nu-kote has employed the law firm of Hance | Scarborough | Wright,
L.L.P. ("HSW") as lead bankruptcy counsel in connection with these proceedings.
Nu-kote has also employed the law firm of Harwell, Howard, Hyne, Gabbert &
Manner, P.C. ("H3GM") as local bankruptcy counsel in Nashville, Tennessee. HSW
was paid a retainer of $320,000 and H3GM was paid a retainer of $100,000.
Payment to Nu-kote's counsel throughout the Bankruptcy Case has been
accomplished pursuant to an agreed payment mechanism whereby HSW, H3GM and
certain other retained professionals have provided counsel for the three
creditors' committees, counsel for the Lenders, and the U.S. Trustee detailed



DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             32

<PAGE>   41

billing statements containing a description of the services rendered, time spent
and the name and hourly rate of the attorney or paraprofessional performing the
work on a monthly basis. This process has provided a mechanism for partial
monthly payments of 85% of amounts billed to counsel for the Debtors without the
necessity of monthly hearings and without prejudice to the rights of
parties-in-interest to object to same at hearings which will, of necessity, be
held on the fee applications of the Debtors' professionals.

         In addition, due to the size and complexity of the Company's business
and the amount of litigation in which Nu-kote was engaged pre-petition, Nu-kote
has employed the following additional professionals:

         (a)      Crooked Creek Capital, L.L.C., MacDonell Roehm: Special
                  Advisor to Nu-kote Holding, Inc. and Nu-kote International,
                  Inc.

         (b)      Coudert Brothers: Special Litigation Counsel for the Debtors,
                  OEM Litigation.

         (c)      Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, L.L.P.: Special Counsel to
                  Debtors.

         (d)      Lain Faulkner: Special Accountants to DIP.

         (e)      Bryan, Pendleton, Swats & McAllister LLC: Actuarial
                  Consultants.

         (f)      Anthony Perry & Prudential Preferred Realty: Real Estate
                  Agents for DIP.

         (g)      Randal S. Mashburn: Litigation Examiner, OEM Litigation.

         (h)      CB Richard Ellis, Inc.: Real Estate Broker for DIP.

         (i)      Jaeckle Fleischman & Mugel, LLP: Special Environmental Counsel
                  for DIP.

         (j)      Fay, Sharpe, Beall, Fagan, Minnick & McKee L.L.P.: Special
                  Patent & Trademark Counsel for DIP.

         (k)      Lynn, Stodghill, Melsheimer, & Tillotson, L.L.P.: Special
                  Litigation Oversight Counsel, OEM Litigation.

         (l)      Norman E. Hall & Norman Hall & Associates: Real Estate
                  Appraisers for DIP.

         (m)      Conway, Del Genio, Gries & Co., L.L.C.: Investment Bankers.

         (n)      KPMG: Accountants for DIP.

         The Unsecured Creditor's Committees have likewise employed certain law
firms, accounting firms, and financial advisors since the formation of the
committees. Greenebaum Doll & McDonald PLLC has been employed as counsel for the
Unsecured


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             33

<PAGE>   42

Creditor's Committee of International. Poyner & Spruill, LLP has been employed
as lead counsel and Mendes & Gonzales, PLLC has been employed as local counsel
for the Unsecured Creditor's Committee of ICMI. Kurlbaum Stoll Seaman & Mustoe,
PC has been employed as lead counsel and Ortale, Kelley, Herbert & Crawford as
local counsel for the Unsecured Creditor's Committee of Graphics. The Bankruptcy
Court also authorized the employment of Arthur Andersen LLP as accountants and
financial advisors to the Unsecured Creditor's Committee of International and
ICMI.

         In addition, pursuant to the Chubb Agreement and the Chubb Order, the
U.S. Trustee was authorized to appoint Randal S. Mashburn as Litigation
Examiner. Mr. Mashburn has also been appointed as Examiner under the mandatory
provisions of ss. 1104(c)(2) of the Bankruptcy Code.

         2.       PAYMENT OF PROFESSIONALS EMPLOYED PURSUANT TO SS. 330 OF THE
BANKRUPTCY CODE

         The professionals employed pursuant to ss. 330 of the Bankruptcy Code
have not yet filed their final fee applications, thus the amount of claims
within this category is not yet known. Under the Joint Plan, each Professional
shall file their final fee application within sixty (60) days after the
Effective Date, however, each Professional must file an estimate not later than
5 days before the Effective Date so that the estimated amounts may be reserved
by the Reorganized Debtors on the Effective Date.

         Under the terms of the Joint Plan, the Fee Claims of the Committee
Professionals shall be Allowed Administrative Claims to the extent that such Fee
Claims are each approved by the Bankruptcy Court and so long as the aggregate
allowed Fee Claims of such Committees' Professionals do not exceed $450,000, and
shall be paid in full in one cash payment on the Effective Date.

         3.       NORWEST BUSINESS CREDIT, INC.

         As detailed herein, in December 1998, the Bankruptcy Court entered an
Order approving DIP financing from Norwest Business Credit, Inc. providing for a
$7.5 million DIP Credit Facility (the "DIP FACILITY"). This DIP Facility is in
the form of a line of credit which has helped fund the Company's working capital
requirements as it reorganizes under the Bankruptcy Code. Because of an
improving cash position, the most Nu-kote has drawn down on the DIP Facility was
$3,200,000 on January 21, 1999, and the current net amount of borrowings on the
DIP Facility as of October 22, 1999, was $0. Additionally, pursuant to an Agreed
Order for Adequate Protection and extension of Order Granting Second Amended
Emergency Motion for Authority to Use Cash Collateral (the "AGREED ORDER")
entered August 20, 1999, effective nunc pro tunc to June 1, 1999, the Debtors
submitted a six month budget (the "BUDGET") and agreed that future borrowings
under the DIP Facility would be made only in accordance with the Agreed Order,
the Budget and the Court's order approving the DIP Facility.

         The Norwest Claim arising from the DIP Facility will be paid in full by
the Purchaser or the Reorganized Debtor on the Effective Date without the need
for Norwest to file Proofs


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             34


<PAGE>   43

of Claim or an Application of any kind. Pursuant to Section 2.7(a) of the Credit
and Security Agreement, if the DIP Facility matures due to the confirmation of a
Chapter 11 plan, the Debtors shall be obligated to pay Norwest a prepayment fee
in an amount equal to a percentage of the Maximum Line (defined in the Credit
and Security Agreement as $7,500,000) as follows: "(i) two percent (2%) if the
termination or reduction occurs on or before October 31, 1999; and (ii) one
percent (1%) if the termination or reduction occurs thereafter." Until the
Norwest Claim is paid in full pursuant to the Joint Plan, Norwest shall retain
the Norwest Lien.

         4.       RETENTION AGREEMENTS WITH KEY EMPLOYEES

         As detailed herein, on June 10, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court entered its
order approving the Motion to Approve Key Employee Retention Agreements filed by
the Debtors. Upon confirmation of the Joint Plan, payments to the Key Employees,
as defined in that Motion, will be paid as an administrative expense of the
Debtors. The payments due to the Key Employees equate to payments of from six
months' to one year's salary for those employees, and the total aggregate amount
of such payments is approximately $750,000.

         5.       ADMINISTRATIVE CLAIMS ASSERTED BY THE LITIGATING OEMS

         Canon, Epson and HP have all filed proofs of claim asserting alleged
entitlement to priority in payment. The purported basis for this priority
payment status for these asserted claims of the Litigating OEMs is alleged
post-petition continuing patent infringement by the Company. The asserted amount
of Canon's proof of claim was filed under seal and Epson's proof of claim was
filed in the amount of $47,820,857, $7,445,001 of which Epson has asserted is
entitled to priority payment status. HP's two proofs of claim were filed in
unknown amounts, and recovery from the Debtors' estate by HP is limited to an
allowed unsecured claim pursuant to the Settlement Agreement. If the Settlement
Agreement is approved, HP will no longer assert an administrative claim. Nu-kote
disputes any and all such claims of "continuing patent infringement" by the
Company.

         6.       ADMINISTRATIVE CLAIM ASSERTED BY THE PBGC

         The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC") has filed three
proofs of claim. PBGC is a wholly owned United States government corporation
that administers the defined benefit pension plan termination insurance program
under Title IV of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 ("ERISA").
The Nu-kote International, Inc. Retirement Income Plan (the "PENSION PLAN") is a
single employer defined benefit pension plan covered by Title IV of ERISA.
International and all members of its controlled group are obligated to
contribute to the Pension Plan at least the amounts necessary to satisfy ERISA's
minimum funding standards, ERISA ss. 302, 29 U.S.C. ss. 1082; Internal Revenue
Code of 1954 ("IRC") ss. 412. In addition, in the event of a termination of the
Pension Plan, International and all members of its controlled group may be
jointly and severally liable for the unfunded benefit liabilities of the Pension
Plan, as well as any unpaid minimum funding contributions and unpaid premiums.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             35

<PAGE>   44

         The minimum funding contribution to the Pension Plan is approximately
$500,000 per annum. If the Pension Plan is not terminated, the Purchaser under
the Plan will be required to continue to meet the minimum funding contribution
requirements. The PBGC has filed a claim for the alleged unfunded portion of the
Pension Plan, contingent upon the termination of the Pension Plan, asserting
entitlement to administrative status in the estimated amount of $6,359,200. If
the Pension Plan is terminated, it is the PBGC's position that this $6,359,200
asserted administrative claim is due and payable.

          The PBGC has also filed an unliquidated claim for insurance premiums,
interest and penalties allegedly due from the Company under the Pension Plan
asserting entitlement to administrative claim status for any portions of that
claim arising post-petition and general unsecured status for any pre-petition
portion. Lastly, the PBGC has filed an unliquidated claim for alleged
contributions that may be owed to the Pension Plan, asserting entitlement to
administrative claim status for any portions of that claim arising post-petition
and general unsecured status for any pre-petition portion. The Claim of the PBGC
is contingent upon the termination of the Pension Plan. The Pension Plan may be
terminated only if the statutory requirements of either ERISA ss. 4041, 29
U.S.C. ss. 1341, or ERISA ss. 4029, 29 U.S.C. ss. 1342, are met. Nu-kote does
not intend to terminate the Pension Plan upon Confirmation.

         If the Pension Plan remains on-going after confirmation of the Joint
Plan, International will continue to fund and administer the Pension Plan
consistent with the requirements of ERISA and the IRC. In addition, if the
Pension Plan remains on-going after confirmation of the Joint Plan, PBGC will
withdraw its claims. Nothing in the Joint Plan shall be construed as releasing
or in any way discharging PBGC's claims.

         7.       ADMINISTRATIVE CLAIM ASSERTED BY WAUSAU

         Employers Insurance of Wausau ("WAUSAU") has filed a Claim in the total
asserted amount of $62,617,190. Documentation attached to the Claim alleges that
the Claim is based upon Nu-kote's insurance policy with Wausau, an agreement
dated August 22, 1996 between Wausau and Nu-kote, and an alleged right to
recover attorney's fees in the OEM Litigation. The Claim filed by Wausau asserts
secured claims and general unsecured claims for some portion of its total
asserted Claim. The Claim filed by Wausau also asserts entitlement to
administrative priority for portions of its claim with $1,005,000 asserted as "a
liquidated administrative priority sum" and "an unliquidated contingent
administrative priority claim which should not exceed $34,717,190."

B.       SECURED CLAIMS

         1.       SECURED CLAIM OF THE LENDERS

         The secured claim of the Lenders, comprised of the US Facility, the UK
Facility and the Swiss Facility is in the filed amount of $142,392,791.71. The
claim of the Lenders is secured by the accounts, chattel paper, inventory,
equipment, instruments, general


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             36

<PAGE>   45

intangibles, fixtures and capital stock, and any and all products and proceeds
thereof, as well as all real property and improvements and any and all products
and proceeds thereof of the Debtors.

         (A)      THE US FACILITY. As set forth above, International, as
                  Borrower, and Holding, as Guarantor, are parties to a certain
                  Credit Agreement dated as of July 31, 1997, referred to herein
                  as the US Facility. The nine lenders on the US Facility are
                  Barclays Bank PLC as Lender and Documentation Agent; Bank of
                  America, National Association, as successor in interest to
                  NationsBank of Texas, NA as Collateral Agent, Lender and
                  Administrative Agent; Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft; Deutsche
                  Bank A.G., New York Branch or Cayman Islands Branch; First
                  National Bank of Chicago; Societe Generale; First American
                  National Bank; ABN AMRO Bank, N.V.; and Credit Lyonnais are
                  referenced herein collectively as the Lenders. The current
                  amount outstanding on the US Facility is approximately $95
                  million.

         (B)      THE UK AND SWISS FACILITIES. Additionally, certain of the
                  non-Debtor affiliates were parties to two other credit
                  agreements, each dated July 31, 1997, described above and
                  referenced as the UK Facility and the Swiss Facility. The
                  eight lenders on the UK Facility and the Swiss Facility are
                  the above-referenced Lenders under the US Facility with the
                  exception of First American National Bank. The current amount
                  outstanding on the UK Facility on the Petition Date was
                  approximately $10.3 million, and the current amount
                  outstanding on the Swiss Facility on the Petition Date was
                  approximately $33.6 million. The sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy
                  Subsidiaries, however, has reduced this amount.

         2.       OTHER ASSERTED SECURED CLAIMS

         Other creditors have asserted secured claims totaling in excess of $63
million against the Debtors. The Debtors believe that numerous of these Claims
asserting secured status are either misfiled, are actually intended to assert
Unsecured Claims, or are duplicative of Claims listed in the Schedules.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   ASSERTED SECURED
                       CLAIMANT                      CLAIM AMOUNT
                       --------                    ----------------
<S>         <C>                                    <C>

a.          RSL Industrial Contracting, Inc.       $    37,022.59

b.          Atlantic Molding                       $    46,269.00

c.          ERS Imaging Supplies, Inc.             $    16,825.50

d.          Phillips - Joanna                      $   164,136.38

e.          GE Capital-Colonial Pacific Leasing    $     6,500.00

f.          CIT Group/Equipment Financing, Inc.    $     4,003.52
</TABLE>

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             37

<PAGE>   46

<TABLE>
                                                      ASSERTED SECURED
                       CLAIMANT                         CLAIM AMOUNT
                       --------                       ----------------
<S>         <C>                                       <C>
g.          Newcourt Communications Finance Corp.     $    21,824.78

h.          Border Lift                               $     4,082.83

i.          Tennant Company                           $     4,358.04

j.          Oce Printing Systems USA, Inc.            $     5,228.41

k.          Precision Packaging Products, Inc.        $    18,352.49

l.          Oskar Haug, AG                        SFR  2'596.

m.          Wayne E. Moore                            $       198.69

n.          Employers Insurance of Wausau             $62,617,190.00

o.          Doris L. Crank                            $       300.00

p.          Dollar Bank Leasing Corp.                 $     2,464.20

q.          Oasis Imaging Products                    $    57,603.95

r.          Unisys Corporation                          unliquidated
                                                        ============
                                                  $63,006,360.38 AND
                                                           SFR 2'596
</TABLE>

         In addition, some tax claims filed as priority claims may also be
secured by liens.

C.       PRIORITY CLAIMS

         The Company has scheduled Unsecured Priority Claims in the amount of
$703,026.03, consisting of wage claims of employees entitled to priority of up
to approximately $4,300 per employee pursuant to ss. 507(a)(3) of the Bankruptcy
Code and the claims asserted by various taxing authorities:

         1.       PRIORITY WAGE CLAIMS

<TABLE>
                  <S>      <C>                       <C>              <C>
                  (a)      International:            $152,350.43      (Franklin, TN)
                           -------------             $102,583.97      (Rochester, NY, Bardstown, KY)
                  (b)      ICMI:                     $ 31,441.77      (Connellsville, PA)
                           ----
                  (c)      Future Graphics:          $ 63,992.86      (Chatsworth, CA)
                           ---------------
</TABLE>

         2.       PRIORITY TAX CLAIMS

<TABLE>
                  <S>      <C>                       <C>
                  (a)      International:            $301,736.00
                           -------------
                  (b)      ICMI:                     $ 24,527.00
                           ----
                  (c)      Imaging:                  $ 26,394.00
                           -------
</TABLE>


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             38

<PAGE>   47

         Taxing authorities have filed twenty (20) proofs of claim asserting
Priority Claims in an amount in excess of $430,426.16. Nu-kote believes that
many of these Claims may in fact be duplicates, with the same Claim filed
against more than one Debtor, and may be repetitive of claims scheduled by the
Debtors. In addition Nu-kote believes all priority wage claims have been paid.

         3.       OTHER ASSERTED PRIORITY CLAIMS

         Claimants have additionally filed fifty-eight (58) claims asserting
priority status in the amount of approximately $382,000. Nu-kote believes that
numerous of these Claims asserting priority status are misfiled and are actually
either Unsecured Claims or are intended to assert Administrative Claims.

D.       UNSECURED CLAIMS

         The bar date for Claims, other than Claims of governmental units, was
April 15, 1999. The bar date for Claims of governmental units was May 5, 1999,
which date was 180 days from the date of the entry of the order for relief.

         1.       SCHEDULED UNSECURED CLAIMS: INCLUSIVE OF INTERCOMPANY PAYABLES

         Nu-kote has scheduled Unsecured Claims, inclusive of intercompany
payables, of $611,569,849.68 as follows:

<TABLE>
                  <S>                 <C>
                  Holding:            $    760,000.00
                  International:      $420,087,384.68
                  ICMI:               $ 98,596,017.00
                  Future Graphics:    $ 64,821,395.00
                  Latin America:      $  1,081,326.00
                  Imperial:           $  1,656,248.00
                  Imaging:            $ 24,567,479.00
</TABLE>

         2.       SCHEDULED UNSECURED CLAIMS: EXCLUSIVE OF INTERCOMPANY PAYABLES

         Exclusive of intercompany payables, which shall receive no distribution
under the Joint Plan, the schedules reflect Unsecured Claims in the amount of $
22,513,722.68 as follows:

<TABLE>
                  <S>                 <C>
                  Holding:            $   760,000.00
                  International:      $19,015,577.68
                  ICMI:               $ 1,563,960.00
                  Future Graphics:    $   947,424.00
                  Latin America:      $         0.00
                  Imperial:           $         0.00
                  Imaging:            $   226,761.00
</TABLE>



DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             39

<PAGE>   48

         3.       UNSECURED CLAIMS ASSERTED AGAINST THE DEBTORS

         An analysis of the claims register reflects five hundred and two (502)
timely filed Unsecured Claims totaling $56,686,048.26 filed against the Debtors.
This dollar figure includes the asserted unsecured claim filed by Epson against
Holding in the amount of $40,375,856. The Debtors believe that many other of
these Claims may in fact be duplicates, with the same claim filed against more
than one Debtor and may be repetitive of claims scheduled by the Debtors. The
breakdown of Unsecured Claims filed against each Debtor is as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
               DEBTOR            NO. OF UNSECURED CLAIMS
               ------            -----------------------
                                           FILED                   AMOUNT
                                           -----                   ------
           <S>                   <C>                           <C>

           Holding:                         369                $53,123,644.02

           International:                   114                $ 3,248,275.16

           ICMI:                              6                $   149,243.55

           Future Graphics:                   7                $    37,654.10

           Latin America:                     0                $         0.00

           Imperial:                          0                $         0.00

           Imaging:                           6                $   127,231.43
</TABLE>

         4.       PARTICULAR ASSERTED CLAIMS IN EXCESS OF $500,000

         Included in the amount of total Unsecured Claims filed are the Claims
filed by the OEMs referenced above and the following large claims:

         (A)      ABDIRAHAM ADEN. Aden filed an Unsecured Claim in the amount of
                  $600,000 against International. The pending litigation with
                  Aden is discussed herein at Article VI.E.4.

         (B)      FAY, SHARPE, BEALL, FAGAN, MINNICH & MCKEE, LLP. The law firm
                  of Fay, Sharpe, Beall, Fagan, Minnich & McKee, LLP ("FAY,
                  SHARPE") has represented the Debtors as general patent and
                  trademark counsel since 1988. The Claim Fay, Sharpe filed
                  against Holding, in the amount of $764,964.18, asserts amounts
                  due from the rendition of pre-petition legal services to the
                  Debtors.

         (C)      KELLER CRESCENT COMPANY, INC. Keller Crescent Company, Inc.
                  has filed a Claim against Holding in the amount of
                  $552,611.29.

         (D)      COUDERT BROTHERS. Coudert Brothers is the litigation counsel
                  for the Debtors in the OEM Litigation. Coudert Brothers has
                  filed a Claim against Holding in


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             40

<PAGE>   49

                  the amount of $2,065,610.69 asserting amounts due from the
                  rendition of pre-petition legal services to the Debtors.

         (E)      EMPLOYERS INSURANCE OF WAUSAU. Employers Insurance of Wausau
                  ("WAUSAU") has filed a Claim in the amount of $62,617,190.
                  Documentation attached to the Claim alleges that the Claim is
                  based upon Nu-kote's insurance policy with Wausau, an
                  agreement dated August 22, 1996 between Wausau and Nu-kote,
                  and an alleged right to recover attorney's fees in the OEM
                  Litigation. The Claim filed by Wausau asserts secured claims,
                  general unsecured claims and entitlement to administrative
                  priority for some portion of its total asserted Claim.

         (F)      PELIKAN HOLDING, AG. Pelikan Holding, an entity unrelated to
                  the Debtors, has filed five (5) Claims against Holding
                  alleging an unliquidated amount due for damages from purported
                  pre-petition termination by Pelikan Holding of a Trademark
                  License Agreement; $894,341 purportedly arising from a
                  pre-petition agreement with Holding; $2,424,639 purportedly
                  arising from a pre-petition agreement with Holding; $35,767
                  purportedly arising from the purchase of equipment by
                  International; and $160,920 plus an unliquidated amount
                  purportedly arising from a pre-petition agreement with
                  Holding.

         (G)      WILLIAMS DIE & MOLD, INC. Williams Die & Mold, Inc. filed an
                  Unsecured Claim in the amount of $674,395.95 against Holding
                  purportedly based upon invoices reflecting amounts due for the
                  pre-petition provision of goods to the Debtors.

E.       PENDING LITIGATION AGAINST THE DEBTORS

         A list of all lawsuits pending against each of the Debtors as of the
Petition Date was filed by each of the Debtors as an exhibit to their respective
Statements of Financial Affairs. With regard to certain of those lawsuits,
several have now been dismissed, settled or non-suited. The OEM Litigation in
which International is involved is discussed in detail above in Assets, Article
V.I. The remaining litigation in which one of the Debtors is involved is:

         1.       LORI LEMMER, ET AL. V. NU-KOTE HOLDING, INC, CASE NO.
3:98-CV-0161-T

         On January 23, 1998 a suit seeking class action status was filed by a
shareholder against Nu-kote, its current directors, certain of its current
officers and certain former officers and directors in the United States District
Court for the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division. The complaint alleges
that Nu-kote and the specified individuals violated the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934 by knowingly making false and misleading statements about Nu-kote's
business and issued false and misleading financial statements between July 28,
1995 and May 29, 1997. The plaintiff is seeking, on behalf of the purported
class, an unspecified amount of compensatory damages and reimbursement of fees
and expenses. Nu-kote denies the plaintiff's allegations and intends to defend
the suit vigorously. During the Bankruptcy Case, the Lemmer plaintiffs sought to
take examinations of representatives of the Debtors and other parties pursuant
to Federal Rule


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             41

<PAGE>   50

of Bankruptcy Procedure 2004. After a hearing on the merits, such requests were
denied by the Bankruptcy Court. On September 28, 1999, Nu-kote's lead bankruptcy
counsel was notified by the United States District Court for the Northern
District of Texas that this case was to be administratively closed.

         2.       SPECTRA, INC. V. NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC. & MODULAR INK I
STOCKHOLM, AB, CASE NO. 98-CV-130-JD

         On March 10, 1998, Spectra, Inc. ("SPECTRA") filed suit in the United
States District Court for the District of New Hampshire alleging Patent
Infringement Claims against International and Modular Ink Technology i Stockholm
AB ("MIT"), a company duly organized and validly existing under the laws of
Sweden. Pelikan Produktions A.G. ("PPAG"), a company duly formed under the laws
of Switzerland, and formerly a wholly owned subsidiary of International, holds
all of the outstanding shares in MIT. International has asserted a counterclaim
against Spectra for tortious interference with business relations. In connection
with the Bankruptcy Court approved sale of the stock of MIT to Xaar, as
discussed herein at Article VII.N.1, International assigned to Xaar any and all
of International's rights in respect of its tortious interference counterclaim
against Spectra, Inc. Xaar has, however, agreed not to release or settle the
counterclaim without any such release or settlement in connection therewith
containing a dismissal by Spectra Inc. of its pending infringement claims
against International. The Bankruptcy Court approved the terms of the sale of
MIT on March 30, 1999, and the sale was closed on March 31, 1999.

         International and MIT have additionally filed suit against Spectra,
Nu-kote International, Inc. & Modular Inc. I Stockholm, AB v. Spectra, Inc.,
Case No. 98-213-JJF, also in the United States District Court for the District
of New Hampshire, alleging patent infringement claims.

         3.       ROCK-TENN CO. V. NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC., CASE NO. 125633

         Rock-Tenn Co. filed suit in the United States District Court for the
Middle District of Tennessee for collection of receivables allegedly due. The
case remains pending.

         4.       ABDIRAHMAN A. ADEN V. NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC., CASE NO.
398-0365

         Abdirahman A. Aden filed suit in against International in the United
States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee alleging employment
discrimination and seeking $600,000 in compensatory damages, punitive damages,
back pay and benefits and attorney's fees. On December 4, 1998, Aden filed a
Motion for Relief of Stay requesting the Bankruptcy Court to lift the automatic
stay to allow this litigation to proceed. Upon agreement with the Debtors, at
the final hearing on this Motion for Relief of Stay, Aden was granted relief
from the stay to proceed against parties other than International, without
prejudice to any of International's rights or defenses to the action or rights
against any other party.

         In addition, Nu-kote is involved in various routine legal matters that
are incidental to their business. There are, however, no other legal proceedings
pending or threatened


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             42

<PAGE>   51

against any of the Debtors, that would, in the opinion of management, have a
material adverse impact on the successful reorganization of the Company.

F.       ENVIRONMENTAL AND REGULATORY MATTERS

         The Debtors are subject to regulation at the federal, state and local
levels, as well as outside of the U.S., including, in particular, regulations
relating to environmental matters. Such regulations are often complex and are
subject to change. The Debtors are required to obtain permits from a number of
governmental agencies in order to conduct various aspects of their business.
Such permits are subject to modification and revocation, which could impair the
Debtors' ability to conduct their business in the manner and at the places it is
presently conducted. Regulatory or legislative changes may cause future
increases in the Debtors' operating costs or otherwise affect their operations.

         In connection with the acquisition by the Debtors in 1986 of the
Worldwide Office Supplies Division and the International Business Forms Division
of Unisys, Unisys agreed to indemnify the Debtors for liabilities resulting from
or arising out of any environmental conditions existing on or before January 16,
1987, at the Debtors' Rochester, New York, facility and at facilities located in
Macedon, New York and Bardstown, Kentucky, which have been sold by the Debtors.
The New York Department of Environmental Conservation ("NY-DEC"), with respect
to the Rochester and Macedon facilities, and the Kentucky Environmental
Protection Agency, with respect to the Bardstown facility, have alleged that
environmental contamination exists at such sites. The Debtors have been advised
that Unisys is cooperating with these state environmental agencies in connection
with the testing for and investigation of contamination and, with respect to the
Rochester and Bardstown sites, is implementing measures to complete remediation.
The Debtors have been informed that Unisys is undertaking three years of
groundwater monitoring at the Macedon facility pursuant to a consent order with
the NY-DEC, to demonstrate that the site requires no further remediation or
monitoring. As a result of the indemnification from Unisys, the Debtors'
management has expressed the opinion that the ultimate cost to resolve these
environmental matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Debtors'
financial position, results of future operations or liquidity.

         In connection with the Pelikan Acquisition, Pelikan Holding agreed to
indemnify the Debtors for all losses, liabilities and costs resulting from or
arising out of environmental conditions existing on or prior to the closing on
February 24, 1995, at the facilities acquired from Pelikan Holding, such as
Debtors' Derry, Pennsylvania and Franklin, Tennessee facilities. With respect to
certain potential pre-closing environmental liabilities and costs identified on
a schedule agreed to by the Debtors and Pelikan Holding, Pelikan Holding's
liability is in an amount up to $2.5 million, which is collateralized by a
letter of credit. Pelikan Holding's liability for all other pre-closing
environmental liabilities and costs is unlimited in amount but expired on the
third anniversary of the closing, except as to the certain claims that were
asserted by the Debtors before the 30th day following the third anniversary of
the closing. The Debtors have undertaken limited environmental investigations at
the Debtors' Derry, Pennsylvania and Franklin, Tennessee facilities due to
reports of certain environmentally suspect activities having taken place
pre-closing at


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             43

<PAGE>   52

those facilities. The investigation of the environmental condition of the soil
at the Derry facility detected material contamination. The investigation of the
environmental condition of the soil and groundwater at the Franklin facility
also detected material contamination at this site as well as at certain European
facilities. The Debtors have notified Pelikan Holding of the existence of the
detected material contamination.

         With regard to the Derry facility, the Debtors have requested the
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection ("PA-DEP") to determine the
minimum further investigation and remediation required to bring this facility
into compliance with Pennsylvania law and to allow the Debtors to receive a
release from further liability under Pennsylvania law. After completion of the
forthcoming phase of site characterization activities to be conducted with the
occurrence of PA-DEP, the Debtors expect to enter into an administrative
agreement for the remaining investigation and remediation at this facility.

         With regard to the Franklin facility, the Debtors have agreed upon the
terms of administrative Consent Order and Agreement, Index No. 94-511, with the
Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation ("T-DEC") to facilitate the
investigation, removal and remediation of the hazardous substances, and to
reimburse the T-DEC for certain costs incurred by T-DEC at or in connection with
the Franklin facility. The Debtors have entered into an Administrative Consent
Order and Agreement with the T-DEC.

         With regard to the Derry and Franklin facilities, the Debtors have not
been able to estimate the potential cleanup costs with any degree of certainty.
The Debtors, nevertheless, have obtained and notified Pelikan Holding of very
preliminary cost estimates for the cleanup associated with these facilities.
Based on the indemnification obligation of Pelikan Holding, environmental
surveys conducted by environmental consultants in connection with the Pelikan
Acquisition, and the notice of the existence of environmental contamination
given by Holding prior to the 30th day following the third anniversary of the
closing, management of the Debtors does not believe that any environmental costs
incurred in connection with the environmental matters identified on the
pre-closing schedule or during the limited environmental investigations of
Debtors' Derry and Franklin facilities will have a material impact on the
Debtors' financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

         Federal, state and local and foreign agencies regulate the disposal,
handling and storage of waste, and air and water discharges from the Debtors'
facilities. Based on current regulations and the condition of its facilities,
the Debtors do not currently anticipate a material amount of environmental
capital expenditures in excess of the amounts for which Holding is indemnified
by third parties. The Debtors have taken measures to improve monitoring of the
Debtors' emissions to the environment at the Rochester and Macedon facilities,
including the implementation of a chemical usage tracking system (which
generates incoming solvent inventory and usage data) and a mass balance method
for calculating total emissions. These measures help the Debtors to comply with
their reporting and record keeping obligations under applicable environmental
laws.

                          ARTICLE VII. CHAPTER 11 CASES

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             44
<PAGE>   53

A.       FILING OF PETITION

         On November 6, 1998, the Debtors each filed voluntary petitions. The
Debtors did not file their schedules and statement of financial affairs on the
Petition Date. On December 1, 1998, the Debtors filed their schedules and
statements of financial affairs. On February 19, 1998, the Debtors filed amended
schedules and statements of financial affairs.

B.       FIRST DAY ADMINISTRATION

         On the Petition Date, the Debtors filed Emergency Motions for
authorization to maintain prepetition bank accounts and use business forms, for
the use of cash collateral, and payments of prepetition compensation and
employee reimbursements. The Debtors also requested that the Court grant
emergency hearings upon these matters on the Petition Date. The Bankruptcy Court
denied the Debtors' request for emergency hearings and denied the requested
relief contained in these various motions. Subsequently, Nu-kote received
authorization to pay certain claims related to wages, salaries, benefits,
expense reports, and certain other claims as they arise in the ordinary course
of the Company's business. Nu-kote also received approval from the Bankruptcy
Court to maintain the Company's current bank accounts and cash management
system.

         Also on the Petition Date, the Debtors filed a Motion for Joint
Administration of the Debtors' estates. On November 9, 1998, the Court ordered
joint administration of the Debtors' estates.

C.       ADVERSARY PROCEEDING

         The Debtors filed the Plaintiffs' Original Complaint and Request for
Temporary Restraining Order Preliminary and Permanent Injunction (the "ADVERSARY
COMPLAINT") on November 6, 1998, thereby beginning Adversary No. 98-428A styled
Nu-kote Holding Inc., et al v. NationsBank of Texas N.A., et al. The Adversary
Complaint requested that the Bankruptcy Court restrain the Lenders from taking
any actions against certain non-Debtor entities. Pursuant to the European
Ratification Application (defined below), on January 11, 1999, the Bankruptcy
Court entered its Agreed Order of Dismissal with Prejudice of the Adversary
Complaint.

D.       CASH COLLATERAL

         Cash collateral is described in ss. 363 of the Bankruptcy Code as cash,
negotiable instruments, documents of title, securities, deposit accounts, or
other cash equivalents whenever acquired in which the estate and an entity other
than the estate have an interest. Upon the commencement of these Cases, the cash
and cash equivalents in which the Lenders had pre-petition security interests
became the "cash collateral" of the Lenders.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             45

<PAGE>   54

         On November 9, 1998, Judge Paine entered an Agreed Order Regarding
Limited Use of Cash Collateral, permitting the Debtors to use cash collateral in
compliance with a definitive budget, on an emergency and preliminary basis,
until November 20, 1998.

         Next, on November\ 17, 1998, the Debtors filed their Second Amended
Emergency Motion for Authority to Use Cash Collateral and Request for Shortened
Notice and Expedited Hearing (the "THIRD CASH COLLATERAL MOTION"). Hearings were
held before this Court on the Third Cash Collateral Motion on November 19 and
20, 1998, and continued to Monday, November 23, 1998. Over the intervening
weekend, the Lenders and the Debtors agreed to an extension of the use of cash
collateral by the Debtors and, on November 20, 1998, the Bankruptcy Court
entered the Second Agreed Order Regarding Limit and Use of Cash Collateral
through December 11, 1998. Additionally, on November 23, 1998, the Lenders and
the Debtors announced to the Bankruptcy Court an agreement for limited interim
credit financing of the estates by one or more of the Lenders that has since
been reduced to written agreement and approved by the Bankruptcy Court. This
interim financing was paid in full with the proceeds from the DIP Facility with
Norwest, discussed below.

         On January 4, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court entered an Order Granting
Second Amended Emergency Motion for Authority to Use Cash Collateral. The Court
entered the Order because the Court believed that the continued use of cash
collateral of the Lenders would benefit the Debtors, these Estates and all
Creditors, and that the ability of Nu-kote to reorganize their business was
dependant on the use of the cash collateral. To adequately protect the security
interests of the Lenders, the Court granted to the Lenders valid and
automatically perfected first priority replacement liens and security interests,
subject only to the liens and security interests of Norwest (discussed below),
in and upon those properties in which the Lenders claim pre-petition security
interests; and, to the extent of any diminution in the value of the collateral
of the Lenders, a valid and automatically perfected lien in the antitrust
counterclaims asserted in the HP Litigation, subject to the contingent fee
interest of Coudert Brothers, and liens and security interests of Wausau which
may be granted by the Court, if any, and the liens and security interests of
Norwest. Pursuant to an Agreed Order for Adequate Protection and Extension of
Order Granting Second Amended Emergency Motion for Authority to Use Cash
Collateral (the "AGREED ORDER") negotiated between the Debtors and the Lenders
and entered by the Court on August 20, 1999, effective nunc pro tunc to June 1,
1999, the Debtors submitted a six month budget (the "BUDGET"), a copy of which
is attached to the Agreed Order, and agreed to use the cash collateral of the
Lenders only as set forth in the Budget, the Agreed Order, the Norwest Financing
Order or further Order of the Court.

E.       DIP FINANCING

         Section 364(d) of the Bankruptcy Code provides that the Bankruptcy
Court may authorize the obtaining of credit secured by a senior or equal lien on
property of the estate only if the Debtors-in-Possession are unable to obtain
such credit anywhere else and the holder of the lien on the property of the
estate on which that senior or equal lien is being proposed is adequately
protected ("DIP FINANCING"). Accordingly, on November 17, 1998,


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             46
<PAGE>   55

the Debtors filed their Emergency Motion for Authority to Obtain Credit on
Interim and Final Basis Pursuant to 11 U.S.C. ss. 364(d) and Request for
Shortened Notice and Expedited Hearing (the "CREDIT MOTION"). The Credit Motion
requested that the Court give the Debtors authorization to borrow up to $15
million from Norwest Business Credit Corporation ("NORWEST"). The Lenders filed
their objection immediately thereafter and their Request for Shortened Notice
and Expedited Hearing and Brief in Support Thereof on November 18, 1998. On
December 10 and 11, 1998, the Court held hearings upon the Credit Motion.

         On December 17, 1998, the Bankruptcy Court entered an order approving
DIP Financing from Norwest providing for a $7,500,000.00 DIP Credit Facility
(the "DIP FACILITY"). This DIP Facility is in the form of a line of credit which
has helped fund Nu-kote's working capital requirements as it reorganizes under
the Bankruptcy Code.

         The DIP Facility bears interest at a floating rate which is currently
at 9.75%. The DIP Facility provides for various affirmative and negative
covenants that among other things restrict indebtedness, liens, investments,
dividend payment, sale or transfer of assets, suspension of business operations
and consolidation or merger of the business. Various financial covenants also
exist which include the maintenance of a minimum EBITDAR (as defined) and net
income and a maximum number of days in inventory. Additionally, the Company was
originally restricted to $400,000 of capital expenditures for the remainder of
fiscal 1999, and to $300,000 per fiscal quarter thereafter, but pursuant to an
amendment to the DIP Facility discussed below, the capital expenditures
limitation has been increased. The DIP Facility is collateralized by
substantially all of the assets of Nu-kote and its U.S. subsidiaries.

         Pursuant to Section 2.7(a) of the Credit and Security Agreement, if the
DIP Facility matures due to the confirmation of a Chapter 11 plan, the Debtors
shall be obligated to pay Norwest a prepayment fee in an amount equal to a
percentage of the Maximum Line (defined in the Credit and Security Agreement as
$7,500,000) as follows: "(i) two percent (2%) if the termination or reduction
occurs on or before October 31, 1999; and (ii) one percent (1%) if the
termination or reduction occurs thereafter."

         On September 15, 1999, Nu-kote filed a Motion to Approve Amendment to
Norwest Credit and Security Agreement. A summary of the material terms of the
Amendment are as follows:

         1.       to provide for the issuance by Norwest of letters of credit
for the Debtors' account from time to time in an amount not to exceed $1.5
million at any one time outstanding;

         2.       to document Norwest's release of its security interest in the
Xaar license in connection with the previously approved sale of the stock of
MIT;

         3.       to increase the Capital Expenditures limitation; and


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             47
<PAGE>   56

         4.       to waive technical defaults of certain financial covenants.

The Court entered an Order approving the proposed Amendment on October 28, 1999.

         The most Nu-kote has ever drawn down on the DIP Facility was
approximately $3,200,000 on January 21, 1999. Because of an improving cash
position, the current amount borrowed as of October 22, 1999 was $0. The DIP
Facility will be paid in full as a part of the Joint Plan.

F.       SUBSTANTIVE CONSOLIDATION

         Substantive consolidation of two or more debtors in a bankruptcy case
is appropriate when there exists a "substantial identity" between the debtor
entities, and substantive consolidation is necessary to avoid some harm and
realize some benefit to creditors. The purpose of substantive consolidation is
to insure the equitable treatment of all creditors of all debtors. The result of
substantive consolidation of two or more debtors' estates is the pooling of the
assets and liabilities of the debtors, and the elimination of intercompany
claims and of duplicate claims by creditors.

         On December 4, 1998, the Debtors filed a Motion for Substantive
Consolidation of the Debtors' Estates. On February 22, 1998, the United States
Trustee, the International and ICMI Creditors' Committees, and filed Objections
to the Motion for Substantive Consolidation. The Parties resolved these
objections prior to a hearing, and on February 25, 1999, the Court entered the
Substantive Consolidation Order. The Substantive Consolidation Order provides
that all of the Debtors' estates are substantively consolidated, except that any
recoveries on the OEM Litigation shall be distributed as if such estates had not
been consolidated.

G.       EPSON'S UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPT TO LIFT THE AUTOMATIC STAY

         The Epson Litigation has been the subject of many days of hearings in
the Bankruptcy Court. Initially, on December 1, 1998, Epson filed an Emergency
Motion for relief from the automatic stay claiming it was suffering immediate
and irreparable harm because the stay had interrupted the pending patent
litigation against International. After several continuances of the "emergency"
hearing, and after much procedural rescheduling, a preliminary hearing on
Epson's motion was held on December 22, 1998 at which time the Bankruptcy Court
found a reasonable likelihood that Nu-kote would prevail.

         A final hearing on the Emergency Motion was initially scheduled for
January 8, 1999, but was once again continued at Epson's request until February
4 and 5, 1999. At the final hearing, it was revealed that the pressing trial
demands Epson had plead in its Emergency Motion never existed. Further, the
second day of the final hearing was principally characterized by Epson's
unsuccessful efforts to introduce exhibits that were not on its exhibit list and
that had not been revealed to counsel for Nu-kote before that morning. It soon
became apparent that the final hearing could not be concluded in the one and a
half days Epson had estimated. As Epson's counsel was unavailable for the next


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             48
<PAGE>   57

three consecutive weeks, Epson requested a continuance of the final hearing on
the Emergency Motion until March, 1999. Nu-kote opposed this request due to the
trial date on the HP litigation.

         On February 10, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court entered an Order scheduling
the conclusion of the final hearing on Epson's Emergency Motion for relief from
stay twenty days after the completion of the presentation of evidence in the HP
trial. The Bankruptcy Court specifically found that Epson's "claims of an
`emergency' need for relief from the stay are not consistent with its behavior,
" and that "the `emergencies' Seiko-Epson alleged in December to demand a final
hearing on less than three days' notice have evaporated or have not motivated
Seiko-Epson to expeditiously prosecute its `Emergency' Motion." In light of the
non-exigent circumstances, and in order to avoid interference with the HP trial,
the Bankruptcy Court then continued the final hearing until twenty days after
the completion of the presentation of evidence in the HP trial. The Bankruptcy
Court ruled that "the stay is continued in effect pending completion of this
final hearing."

         After the rendition of the verdict in the HP trial, the Debtors and
Epson reached an agreement to certain limited relief as sought in the Motion for
Relief from Stay. Believing that another prolonged hearing was not in the best
interests of the Estate, the Debtors and Epson agreed to relief from the
automatic stay, to the extent that any automatic stay exists, only to the extent
necessary to allow the Appeal (see discussion of the Epson Appeal at Article
V.I.2) to continue as and to the extent determined appropriate by the United
States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, including the filing by any
party of any petitions for rehearing, for rehearing en banc and/or for writs of
certiorari subsequent to a ruling by the Federal Circuit in the Appeal. As to
all other matters set forth in the Motion for Relief from Stay, the automatic
stay, to the extent that any automatic stay exists, shall remain in effect
pending confirmation of a plan of reorganization, the closing or dismissal of
this bankruptcy case, or further order of this Court, and no further hearings
shall be conducted on the Motion for Relief from Stay until the United States
Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has issued its initial decision on the
Appeal, conversion of any of these bankruptcy cases to one under Chapter 7 of
the Bankruptcy Code, and/or the appointment of a Chapter 11 trustee in any of
these bankruptcy cases. To that end, the Debtors and Epson filed an Agreed
Motion Pursuant to Rule 4001(d) Regarding Seiko-Epson's Emergency Motion For
Relief from the Stay (the "AGREED MOTION"). No objections to the relief sought
in the Agreed Motion were filed, and on August 30, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court
granted the Agreed Motion. As discussed above, the Federal Circuit has now ruled
on the Appeal.

H.       EPSON'S VIOLATION OF THE FIRST TO FILE RULE

         On or about February 17, 1999, Coudert Brothers, trial counsel for
International in the Epson Litigation, filed a pleading entitled "Notice of the
February 10, 1999 Order of the Bankruptcy Court Continuing the Automatic Stay"
and thereby notified the California District Court and the Federal Circuit Court
of the Bankruptcy Court's Order scheduling the conclusion of the final hearing
on Epson's Emergency Motion for Relief from Stay for twenty days after the
completion of the presentation of evidence in the HP trial and continuing the
automatic stay as to the Epson Litigation in effect until that time. On or


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             49
<PAGE>   58

about February 23, 1999, Epson filed pleadings with both the California District
Court and the Federal Circuit each entitled Response of Seiko Epson Corporation
and Epson America, Inc. to "Notice" Filed by Nu-kote International, Inc. and
Pelikan Produktions, A.G. In these pleadings, Epson blatantly stated that the
Appeal proceedings in the Federal Circuit ARE NOT STAYED, and attempted to
induce action by either the Federal Circuit and/or the California District Court
to decide the very issues that Epson had already presented to the Bankruptcy
Court in the Emergency Motion for Relief from Stay: whether the appellate
proceedings or the contempt proceedings could continue, and whether the
automatic stay applies to PPAG.

         On March 5, 1999, Nu-kote filed an Emergency Motion for Contempt
against Epson in the Bankruptcy Court. On March 11, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court
entered an Order and held that Epson "filed documents in the United States
District Court for the Central District of California and in the United States
Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit asking those courts to also decide some
or all of the issues Seiko Epson is in the midst of trying in this court." The
Bankruptcy Court found that, in so doing, Epson violated the "first to file
rule" and ordered that Epson was precluded "from prosecuting in other courts the
issues ... that it has submitted to the Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District
of Tennessee in its Emergency Stay Motion."

         On March 19, 1999, Epson filed an Emergency Motion to Modify Order on
Debtors' Emergency Motion for Contempt against Seiko Epson Corporation, Epson
America, Inc., William J. Robinson, Esq., and The Law Firm of Graham & James,
LLP. alleging that International had violated the first to file rule by
"prosecuting" in the California District Court the issues that Epson was
precluded from prosecuting. Epson further alleged violations of its due process
rights by the Bankruptcy Court's Order on the Contempt Motion. The Bankruptcy
Court, on March 22, 1999, denied Epson's request to modify the Order on the
Contempt Motion, and found Epson's allegation s against International unfounded
stating, "Contrary to Seiko Epson's allegations, [pleadings submitted to the
California District Court] do nothing more than inform the United States
District Court for the Central District of California of the proceedings
initiated by Seiko Epson in this court and ask the California District Court to
relieve [International and PPAG] of the obligation to respond further until the
completion of the proceeding commenced by Seiko Epson in this court. Far from
`prosecuting' the issues raised by Seiko Epson in this court, the response filed
in the United States District Court for the Central District of California asks
that court to defer adjudication of the issues that Seiko Epson has submitted to
this court and with respect to which this court is in mid-trial."

         Epson has appealed the Bankruptcy Court's Order on the Contempt Motion
to the District Court in Tennessee, and this appeal was docketed by the District
Court on April 22, 1999, Civ. No. 3-99-CV-313. Both Epson and the Debtors have
submitted briefs to the District Court, but that Court has not yet issued a
ruling in this appeal.

I.       FINANCING THE OEM LAWSUITS


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             50
<PAGE>   59

         International is insured pursuant to policies issued by Wausau and by
Chubb Custom Insurance Company ("CHUBB") for liability coverage as well as for
defense of the HP Litigation. International is also covered by a patent
infringement insurance policy from American International Specialty Lines
("AISL") for defense and indemnity claims for patent infringement. Pre-petition,
Nu-kote had been involved in disputes with both Wausau and Chubb over the
funding of the OEM Litigation. Post-petition, initially only Wausau expressed a
willingness to negotiate terms upon which funding of the OEM Litigation would
continue.

         On December 18, 1998, International filed its Emergency Motion for
Interim and Final Approval of the Financing, Assumption and Settlement Agreement
with Employers Insurance of Wausau and for Protective Orders and Request for
Shortened Notice and Expedited Hearing (the "WAUSAU MOTION"). International also
filed a Motion to Employ Coudert Brothers as special counsel. The Motion
requested authority to enter into a post-petition financing arrangement with
Employers Insurance of Wausau ("WAUSAU") for the continued funding of costs for
International's participation in the HP Litigation, the Canon Litigation and the
Litigation. On December 18, 1998, the Court entered an Order placing the
proposed agreement between Wausau (the "WAUSAU AGREEMENT") and the Debtors under
seal. The Court set the hearing upon the Wausau Motion for January 11, 1999.

         On January 11, 1999, at the hearing on the funding agreement with
Wausau, the Lenders and other parties appeared and announced to the Court that
Chubb had requested an opportunity to offer a better proposal for funding the
Hewlett-Packard Litigation. The Court reset the hearing on the Wausau Motion for
January 15, 1999. A Financing, Assumption and Settlement Agreement with Chubb
(the "CHUBB AGREEMENT"), more favorable to the Debtors was then obtained and, on
January 12, 1999, the Debtors' Motion to Approve Compromise and Insurance
Coverage and Funding Agreement with Chubb Custom Insurance Company was filed
with the Chubb Agreement. On January 22, 1999, the Court entered its Order
Approving Compromise and Insurance Coverage and Funding Agreement with Chubb.

J.       EXCLUSIVITY

         Pursuant to ss. 1121 of the Bankruptcy Code, a Chapter 11 debtor has an
exclusive right to file a plan of reorganization for the first 120 days of a
bankruptcy case. If a debtor files a plan within this statutory exclusivity
period, exclusivity is extended for an additional sixty days to allow a debtor
to solicit acceptances of that plan pursuant to ss. 1121.

         On December 8, 1998, the Lenders filed the Motion to Terminate the
Debtors' Exclusivity Periods Pursuant to 11 U.S.C. ss. 1121(d) and Brief in
Support Thereof (the "MOTION TO TERMINATE"). The Motion to Terminate was
scheduled for hearing on January 28, 1999. Subsequently, the parties agreed to
continue the hearing date on the Motion to Terminate until March 2, 1999. On
February 5, 1999, the Debtors filed their Motion to Extend Debtors' Exclusivity
to File and Obtain Acceptances of Plan of


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             51
<PAGE>   60

Reorganization (the "MOTION TO EXTEND"). The Court set the Motion to Extend for
March 2, 1999. The Debtors' Exclusivity Period was scheduled to terminate on
March 8, 1999.

         On March 2, 1999, the Court held a hearing on both the Motion to
Terminate and the Motion to Extend. The Bankruptcy Court considered the size and
complexity of this case but stated that the Court had only extended a debtor's
exclusive period one time in eighteen years based on the complexity of a Chapter
11 case and declined to extend the Debtors' exclusivity. Accordingly, the Court
ordered that the Debtors' Motion to Extend would be denied and that the Debtors'
Exclusivity Period pursuant to 11 U.S.C. ss. 1121 would expire of its own terms
on March 8, 1999.

K.       CLAIMS BAR DATE

         On February 22, 1999, the Debtors filed their Motion to Establish
Claims Bar Date. On February 26, 1999, the Court entered its Order establishing
April 15, 1999, as the day on or before which a non-governmental claim must be
filed to be treated timely.

L.       THE COMMITTEES

         On November 23, 1998, and November 24, 1998, the United States Trustee
appointed an Official Committee of Unsecured Creditors in International, Future
Graphics, and ICMI (the "CREDITORS' COMMITTEES").

M.       RATIFICATION OF EUROPEAN AGREEMENTS

         As part of the Second Amended Facility, eight of the nine Lenders (the
"EUROPEAN LENDERS") entered into two separate Third Amended and Restated
Revolving Credit Facility Agreements (the "EUROPEAN AGREEMENTS") with three of
the European Subsidiaries: one such agreement with Pelikan Limited; and another
such agreement with Pelikan Produktions and Hardcopy. Under the terms of the
Second Amended Facility and the European Agreements, the Lenders and the
European Lenders have collectively loaned to the Debtors and the European
Subsidiaries the following amounts: (1) approximately Ninety-Five Million
Dollars ($95,000,000.00) to Nu-kote International; (2) approximately Ten Million
Dollars ($10,000,000.00) to Pelikan Scotland Limited; and (3) approximately
Thirty-Five Million Dollars ($35,000,000.00) to Pelikan Produktions AG. Since
their execution, both the Second Amended Facility and the European Agreements
have been amended several times. All of the loans, advances and indebtedness
owed to the European Lenders are unconditionally guaranteed by the Debtors.

         The above obligations of the Debtors and the European Subsidiaries are
secured by substantially all of the Debtors' assets and by a significant portion
of the assets of the European Subsidiaries. Additionally, the Debtors have
guaranteed all indebtedness of the European Subsidiaries to the European Lenders
(the "EUROPEAN GUARANTEES").

         In order to prevent the possible disruption of their business
operations, the Lenders agreed to execute a modification of the European
Agreements on certain terms and


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             52
<PAGE>   61

conditions. On December 23, 1998, the Debtors filed their Motion to Approve
Debtors' Ratification of the European Restructuring Agreement (the "EUROPEAN
RATIFICATION APPLICATION"). On January 11, 1999, the Court entered its Order
Approving the European Ratification Application.

         However, pursuant to the sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy Subsidiaries
(discussed below), the European Lenders released the European Guarantees.

N.       SALE OF CERTAIN EUROPEAN SUBSIDIARIES

         1.       SALE OF MIT

         On March 5, 1999, Nu-kote filed a Motion to Approve Sale of Certain
Assets of the Debtors pursuant to ss. 363 of the Bankruptcy Code Free and Clear
of All Liens, Claims and Encumbrances regarding a proposed sale of all of the
outstanding shares in Modular Ink Technology i Stockholm AB ("MIT"), a company
duly organized and validly existing under the laws of Sweden. MIT was a wholly
owned subsidiary of PPAG which was formerly a wholly owned subsidiary of
International. MIT's business consists of the developments, manufacturing and
sale of piezo-electric ink jet printheads and print units and the sale of ink
and ink cartridges for use with piezo-electric ink jet printheads. The owner of
this ink-jet technology used in the business of MIT is Xaar, plc ("XAAR").
International held a non-exclusive license to use this piezo-electric ink jet
technology owned by Xaar. International sub-licensed this right to use the ink
jet technology to MIT.

         PPAG, International and Xaar negotiated a sale of the stock of MIT from
PPAG to Xaar, the terms of which affected certain property rights of
International, to wit, the transfer of International's rights to the "Piezo Jet"
trademark to MIT in exchange for cancellation of an intercompany payable due to
MIT from International of approximately $300,000, the termination of
International's license to use the piezo-electric ink jet technology, and the
assignment of International's rights in the counterclaim for tortious
interference with business relations (the "COUNTERCLAIM") asserted by
International in the lawsuit styled Spectra, Inc., Plaintiff vs. Nu-kote
International, Inc. and Modular Ink i Stockholm, AB, Defendants, Civil Action
No. 98-CV-130-JD, pending in the Federal District Court in New Hampshire in
exchange for a fee of $250,000. Lastly, the terms of the MIT Sale included
forgiveness by Xaar of all outstanding royalty payments under the license
agreement with Xaar owed by International and/or MIT of approximately $800,000.
The stock of MIT was sold upon the insistence of and with the agreement of the
Lenders. While Nu-kote believes the sale price for MIT was fair and the highest
and best price under the circumstances, Nu-kote also believes the price was
influenced by the poor financial condition of MIT, pending litigation involving
MIT, and the fact that MIT had been on the market for approximately one and a
half years.

         On March 30, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court approved the sale of MIT and
the sale was closed on March 31, 1999.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             53
<PAGE>   62


         2.       THE SALE OF EUROPEAN ENTITIES

         On June 16, 1999, the Debtors filed an "Amended Motion to Approve Sale
of Pelikan Subsidiaries pursuant to ss. 363 of the Bankruptcy Code Free and
Clear of All Liens, Claims and Encumbrances" seeking to sell to Pelikan Hardcopy
Europe Limited ("PHE") the stock of certain of the European Subsidiaries, those
being PPAG, PSL, Grief-Werke, Pelikan Hardcopy Asia Pacific Limited and Dongguan
Pelikan Hardcopy Limited, (the "PELIKAN HARDCOPY SUBSIDIARIES"). PHE is a
company incorporated in Scotland and owned in part by Hans Paffhausen and Gerry
McNally, officers and directors of the Pelikan Hardcopy Subsidiaries, and other
investors.

         The sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy Subsidiaries was closed effective as
of September 30, 1999. The primary terms of the sale to PHE included:

         (a)      PHE paid a cash purchase price of $16,500,000 which was
                  allocated as follows:

                  (1)      $8,276,041.30 paid to the European Lenders;

                  (2)      $3,500,000 paid to Pelikan Holding A.G., an unrelated
                           party, in connection with an amendment to a trademark
                           license held by one of the Debtors and the issuance
                           of a new trademark license to PHE;

                  (3)      $3,940,000 placed in escrow for contingent claims,
                           taxes, warranties and Dongguan Pelikan Hardcopy
                           Limited;

                  (4)      $533,958 paid to Debtors' professionals for fees and
                           expenses incurred in connection with the sale; and

                  (5)      $250,000 retained for audit costs.

         (b)      release by the Pelikan Hardcopy Subsidiaries and PHE of any
                  and all claims they may have against the Debtors and their
                  respective officers and directors;

         (c)      release by the Debtors of any and all claims they may have
                  against the Pelikan Hardcopy Subsidiaries and PHE and their
                  respective officers and directors;

         (d)      a new trademark license agreement with Pelikan Holding A.G.
                  pursuant to which the Debtors will have the exclusive right to
                  use the Pelikan trademark in the United States, (including the
                  District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the
                  Northern Mariana Islands, the Virgin Islands of the United
                  States, and the unincorporated United States territories of
                  American Samoa and Guam), Canada and Mexico and PHE will have
                  the right to use the trademark in the rest of the world;


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             54
<PAGE>   63

         (e)      the release by the European Lenders of the European
                  Guarantees;

         (f)      the release by the European Lenders of all indebtedness under
                  the Swiss Facility;

         (g)      the conversion of approximately $9.7 million of debt of PSL to
                  the European Lenders into equity and the transfer of such
                  equity to PHE for $1.00;

         (h)      certain non-competition and trademark and patent cross-license
                  agreements;

         (i)      a supply agreement providing for the continued supply of
                  certain products by PHE to the Debtors;

         (j)      appropriate escrow agreements; and

         (k)      the European Lenders shall have agreed to the retention of
                  $250,000 of the purchase price to pay the cost of completion
                  audits.

         On June 22, 1999, the Bankruptcy Court entered its Order on Amended
Motion to Approve the Pelikan Sale. The sale of the Pelikan Hardcopy
Subsidiaries was closed effective as of September 30, 1999.

O.       SETTLEMENT WITH BLAIR AND RIDENOUR

         In October of 1994, Robert W. Blair and John Ridenour filed suit in the
Court of Common Pleas, Fayette County, PA, Robert W. Blair & John Ridenour v.
Nu-kote Holding, Inc., et al, Civ. Div. No. 1887 of 1994, for payments allegedly
due on promissory notes executed in connection with, and breach of contract
purportedly arising from, indemnity agreements and the sale contract from the
transaction when International purchased the stock of ICMI. International and
ICMI likewise filed claims against Blair and Ridenour for breach of contract in
the Court of Common Pleas, Allegheny County, PA, Nu-kote International, Inc. v.
Robert W. Blair and John Ridenour, Case No. GD 98-13981, and in the United
States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania styled Nu-kote
International, Inc. v. Robert W. Blair and John Ridenour, Case No. CV No.
98-1462. On the Petition Date, these suits were, pursuant to provisions in the
relevant documents mandating arbitration, pending before the American
Arbitration Association, styled Nu-kote International, Inc. v. Robert W. Blair
and John Ridenour, Case No. 16-199-00375-94.

         Pre-petition settlement negotiations by Nu-kote's prior management were
unsuccessful. Subsequent to the filing of these Bankruptcy Cases, however,
Nu-kote's current management and bankruptcy counsel again entered into extensive
negotiations seeking settlement and resolution of all the outstanding matters
and lawsuits between the parties. As a result of these negotiations, an agreed
settlement was reached and approved by the Bankruptcy Court. The Debtors believe
that this settlement is fair, equitable and in the best interests of the Debtors
and all Creditors of the Estate. The settlement provided for a joint and mutual
release between the parties, dismissal with


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             55
<PAGE>   64

prejudice of all pending lawsuits and the arbitration proceedings and the
withdrawal of all Claims filed by Blair and Ridenour against the Estate. The
consideration for this settlement was the payment of two-third's of the amount
in the escrow account to Blair and Ridenour and one-third of the amount to the
Debtors. At the time settlement of the Blair and Ridenour litigation and claims
was presented to the Bankruptcy Court for approval, there was approximately
$783,000 in the escrow account representing the original amount plus continually
accruing interest.

         On June 15, the Bankruptcy Court entered an Order approving the
settlement. The settlement has been fully consummated; the monies from the
escrow account have been distributed, all pending lawsuits and arbitration
proceedings have been dismissed with prejudice, and Blair and Ridenour have each
dismissed all Claims they filed against the Estate totaling in excess of $1.2
million.

P.       PROPOSED SETTLEMENT WITH HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY

         The HP Litigation went to trial on May 17, 1999. On July 22, 1999, the
jury rendered its decisions, but the verdict did not result in the monetary
damages to Nu-kote for which the Debtors had hoped. Subsequent to the rendition
of the jury verdict in the HP Litigation, Debtors' management and general
bankruptcy counsel entered into extensive negotiations seeking settlement and
resolution of the litigation between the parties. As a result of these
negotiations, an agreement (the "SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT") has been reached,
subject to approval of the Bankruptcy Court, and a Motion to Approve Compromise
and Settlement Agreement as proposed by and between Nu-kote and Hewlett-Packard
Company has been filed with the Bankruptcy Court. For a detailed discussion of
the non-confidential terms of the Settlement Agreement, see the discussion at
Article V.I.1. above.

         In summary, it bears repeating here that Nu-kote firmly believes that
the Settlement Agreement negotiated between Nu-kote and HP is in the best
interests of the estate. The HP Litigation has consumed the time and resources
of the Company for in excess of four years. Unless the HP Litigation is
compromised and settled, the parties anticipate that the judgment to be entered
by the California District Court will likely be appealed, and final resolution
of the HP Litigation will be protracted. This Settlement Agreement, negotiated
with the interests' of the Debtors and the creditors of this estate as paramount
concern, brings closure to this chapter of Nu-kote's history and brings the
Debtors one step closer to reorganization.

         Finally, the Debtors assert that the benefits to Nu-kote stemming from
the Settlement Agreement are substantial. Although confidentiality concerns
prevent a detailed recitation of the effect of the Settlement Agreement on the
business operations of Nu-kote, Nu-kote represents that the Patent Covenants
granted under the Settlement Agreement are crucial to the continued business
success of Nu-kote and will allow Nu-kote to continue its full line of HP
compatible products. The prompt and efficient resolution of the claims asserted
by HP in this case as pre-petition unsecured claims is also of significant
value, and the intangible benefit of the Debtors', their management and counsel


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             56
<PAGE>   65

directing their attention to other essential matters should not be undervalued.
The hearing on approval of the Motion to Approve the Settlement Agreement is
scheduled for December 2, 1999.

Q.       APPOINTMENT OF EXAMINER

         On October 18, 1999, security claimant Lori Lemmer filed a Motion for
Appointment of Examiner. Pursuant to 11 U.S.C. ss. 1104(c), Judge Lundin held
that the statute was mandatory and not discretionary and required the
appointment of an Examiner. Accordingly, Judge Lundin ordered the appointment of
Randal S. Mashburn as the Examiner, however, various restrictions were placed on
the Examiner. First, the Examiner is only authorized to examine the Debtors'
possible claims against Debtors' management. Second, the Examiner's costs,
including the engagement of any professionals, plus expenses, cannot exceed
$50,000. Finally, the Examiner must provide its preliminary report to the U.S.
Trustee within sixty (60) days after the order for the Examiner's appointment is
entered. As set forth in this Disclosure Statement, the Debtors do not believe
that any actionable claims exist against the Current Officers and Directors.

R.       ADMINISTRATIVE CLAIMS BAR DATE

         On November 12, 1999, the Court entered its Order providing that any
party seeking to assert an administrative expense payment against the Debtors
under 11 U.S.C. ss. 503 through September 30, 1999, except for case
professionals whose employment was approved by the Bankruptcy Court, must file a
request for payment of such administrative expense with the Court by December
15, 1999.

            ARTICLE VIII. FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND FUTURE OPERATIONS

         THE FINANCIAL INFORMATION DESCRIBED BELOW WAS COMPILED BY THE DEBTORS.
THIS FINANCIAL INFORMATION HAS NOT BEEN SUBJECTED TO AN AUDIT. THE LENDERS AND
COMMITTEES HAVE RELIED UPON THE DEBTORS AND THEIR PROFESSIONALS REGARDING THE
PREPARATION AND THE INCLUSION OF THIS INFORMATION IN THIS DISCLOSURE STATEMENT,
BUT HAD NO ROLE IN THE PREPARATION, REVIEW, OR PRESENTATION OF THE ANNUAL
PROJECTION UNDERLYING THE RESTATED PROJECTION REFLECTED HEREIN, AND MAKE NO
REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY AS TO THE CORRECTNESS OR ACCURACY HEREOF. THE
FINANCIAL PROJECTIONS ARE FORWARD-LOOKING PROJECTIONS AND ARE BASED UPON
NUMEROUS ASSUMPTIONS, INCLUDING BUSINESS, ECONOMIC, AND OTHER MARKET CONDITIONS.
MANY OF THESE ASSUMPTIONS ARE BEYOND THE CONTROL OF THE DEBTORS, LENDERS AND THE
COMMITTEES, AND ARE INHERENTLY SUBJECT TO SUBSTANTIAL UNCERTAINTY. SUCH
ASSUMPTIONS INVOLVE SIGNIFICANT ELEMENTS OF SUBJECTIVE JUDGMENT WHICH MAY OR MAY
NOT PROVE TO BE ACCURATE, AND CONSEQUENTLY, NO ASSURANCES CAN BE MADE REGARDING
THE ANALYSES OR CONCLUSIONS DERIVED FROM ANALYSES BASED UPON SUCH ASSUMPTIONS.
THE LENDERS AND COMMITTEES ARE NOT IN A POSITION TO MAKE ASSURANCES AS TO THE
FEASIBILITY OF THE RESTATED PROJECTIONS, THE REASONABLENESS OF ASSUMPTIONS USED
IN DEVELOPING THE RESTATED PROJECTIONS, OR THE ABILITY OF THE DEBTORS TO ACHIEVE
THE PROJECTED RESULTS.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             57
<PAGE>   66

A.       HISTORICAL AND POSTPETITION FINANCIAL INFORMATION: NU-KOTE'S RESULTS OF
         OPERATIONS

         Attached as Exhibits "C," "D," and "E" are the actual and pro forma
Income Statements, Balance Sheet and Cashflows of the North American Operations
for the fiscal years ended March 31, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2002. While
certain portions of the attached Exhibits reflect the actual historical results
of the Company's operations, the financial projections contained on Exhibits
"C," "D," and "E" are forward-looking projections prepared by the Debtors.
Projected financial data presented thereon and elsewhere in this Disclosure
Statement is based upon numerous assumptions, including business, economic, and
other market conditions. Many of these assumptions are beyond the control of the
Debtors, and such assumptions involve elements of subjective judgment which may
prove by future events to be inaccurate, and consequently, no assurances can be
made regarding the feasibility of the projections. The financial information
presented on Exhibits "C," "D," and "E" is unaudited. Exhibits "C," "D," and "E"
have, however been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
procedures, and the Debtors believe that these Exhibits are a fair and
reasonable representation of the Debtors' anticipated future operations.

         The Company has forecast a significant financial turnaround as compared
to the historical results of the business for the fiscal years ended March 31,
1998 and 1999. For the six month period ended September 24, 1999, the Company
has exceeded its revenue projections by approximately 5% with net sales of $50.9
million. In addition, the Company exceeded its operating income projections by
26%, with operating income of approximately $1.0 million and projected Earnings
Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, Amortization and Restructuring charges
(EBITDAR) of approximately $6.0 million for the full fiscal year ending March
31, 2000.

         Since the Petition Date, Nu-kote has continued to operate its business
and manage its property as a debtor-in-possession pursuant to ss.ss.1107(a) and
1108 of the Bankruptcy Code. As a result of the achievements of Nu-kote's
management team Nu-kote's financial condition has significantly improved since
the Petition Date.

         The Debtors note that sales have increased at a higher than anticipated
rate of growth, gross profit has improved due to the on-going distribution,
transportation, and manufacturing cost-cutting programs, and operating income
has been higher than expected due to substantial reductions in force and the
elimination of the attendant operating expenses. Nu-kote has also obtained price
discounts and favorable credit terms from certain large vendors for the purchase
of supplies, persuaded customers to offset rebates over time, and are in the
process of negotiating long-term contracts with major customers that will
generate millions of dollars in revenue. Through extensive customer contact and
positive cash flow operations, Nu-kote has retained existing business and
instilled confidence in customers and vendors.

         Nu-kote has initiated employee and other significant cost reductions,
streamlined and refocused product lines, decreased the targeted customer base,
and met or exceeded


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             58
<PAGE>   67

sales and other financial projections. Nu-kote has also begun a program of
demanding a 3% discount on cash-in-advance orders to suppliers, a 2% discount on
orders satisfied in 15 days, and no discount on orders offering 30 day terms. As
a result, Nu-kote has utilized only a small portion of the post-petition
financing line available from Norwest and is cash flowing. Nu-kote has filed
Monthly Operating Reports for the months of November and December, 1998 and
January - October, 1999 with the Office of the U.S. Trustee. These Monthly
Operating Reports further indicate the continually improving financial condition
of Nu-kote.

         Finally, despite cash usage of approximately $5.0 million for one-time
charges associated with Y2K compliance, restructuring, and bankruptcy costs, the
Company has paid back its initial borrowings on the DIP Facility with Norwest
and, as of October 22, 1999, has $0 net DIP borrowings with a cash surplus of
$1.2 million.

B.       FUTURE OPERATIONS OF THE REORGANIZED DEBTORS

         The approval by the Bankruptcy Court of the $7.5 million
debtor-in-possession financing with Norwest has served to increase customer and
third party supplier confidence that Nu-kote will continue to provide quality
products and remit trade payables on a timely basis. Since that time, Nu-kote
has focused its energies on redirecting, reorganizing, and restructuring the
company's US-based operations. The Reorganized Debtors will continue the
improvements already implemented.

         1.       THE FUTURE OF THE MARKET

         As set forth above, the Company has historically served and, looking to
the future, the Reorganized Debtor's continued operations will continue to
serve, both the original equipment manufacturer and aftermarket distributor
markets. Among the Reorganized Debtors' challenges is the need to offset
declining impact ribbon sales with faster growing non-impact thermal, ink jet,
toner, and laser cartridge sales. It is anticipated that Nu-kote's future impact
ribbon sales should fall at a rate somewhat less than that of the overall market
due, primarily, to the expectation of market share gains. In an effort to offset
declining impact ribbon sales, Nu-kote has identified 29 domestic accounts in
the original equipment manufacturer, office products, and retail channels of
distribution which have been targeted to provide incremental annualized sales
volume. Thermal products, ink jet accessories, monochrome and color toner, and
laser cartridge sales account for the overwhelming share of expected gains.

         2.       STRATEGIC GOALS & OBJECTIVES

         Prospectively, if purchased by Richmont, the Reorganized Debtors will
focus on a number of strategic and operating goals and objectives in an effort
to maximize financial performance:

         (a)      Improve sales and marketing effectiveness;


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             59
<PAGE>   68

         (b)      Offset declining impact ribbon sales with faster growing
                  non-impact product sales;

         (c)      Eliminate non-performing customer accounts, the underlying
                  sku's, and associated infrastructure expense, implementing, in
                  the process, reductions in force consistent with expected
                  sales volume, anticipated account base, and more aggressive
                  levels of productivity;

         (d)      Generate logistics and manufacturing cost savings and,
                  longer-term, facility consolidations;

         (e)      Outsource important but marginally profitable ribbon products
                  to contract manufacturers, which, on the basis of scale alone,
                  are expected to produce product less expensively; and

         (f)      Improve third party supplier credit terms.

         3.       SALES & MARKETING

         During the better part of calendar 1998, the sales and marketing
organization was focused primarily on protecting Nu-kote's existing customer
account base due to Nu-kote's then less than satisfactory line fill rate, now
corrected, and its increasingly uncertain financial condition which had lead
certain of its customers to consider dual sourcing. Prospectively, the
Reorganized Debtors will stress the importance of an understanding of end-user
needs by sales and marketing personnel; focus on the distinguishing
characteristics of the Nu-kote product line; and employ a multi-functional team
approach to address the needs of key customers. Sales and marketing personnel
will also be held accountable for performance from both a sales volume and, more
importantly, account profitability point-of-view, thus increasing incentives to
perform well.

         To begin the implementation of these changes, Nu-kote recently
introduced the initial phase of what will become a comprehensive training
program to improve end-user and product knowledge. In addition, the Company has
identified key personnel from the various functional disciplines and assigned
each to a series of teams that will interface with specific large customer
accounts. Similarly, Nu-kote has restructured its sales compensation plan by
reducing base salaries on an across-the-board basis and providing a schedule of
incentives to replace lost salary income with earned commissions. The positive
impact of these efforts will be realized through continued reinforcement of the
underlying principles.

         4.       ACCOUNTS & SKU'S

         A recent analysis of Nu-kote's existing account structure by product
line and channel of distribution indicated that approximately 25% of the
Company's domestic customer accounts and 60% of its domestic sku's generated
over 95% of its domestic sales volume. As a result, the Company has elected to
eliminate its non-performing


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             60
<PAGE>   69

accounts and the underlying sku's and, in the process, restructure certain
channels of distribution, which, in the aggregate, is expected to generate
personnel and infrastructure operating cost savings in excess of $2.1 million
annually, net of severance and other one-time costs.

         5.       LOGISTICS & MANUFACTURING

         As an extension of the analysis of Nu-kote's existing account
structure, Nu-kote has identified approximately $0.9 million of logistics cost
savings and an estimated $2.4 million of manufacturing cost savings, both net of
severance and other one-time charges. In the aggregate, these savings are a
function of on-going reductions in force, elimination of costly overtime
expense, lower transportation rates, material cost reductions, improved scrap
and rework, manufacturing efficiency gains, and facility
consolidations/closings.

         6.       OUTSOURCING

         Nu-kote has identified approximately 550 impact ribbon-related sku's
which lend themselves to outsourcing. Based on firm estimates from two contract
manufacturers, the Reorganized Debtors can expect to save in excess of $5.0
million over a twelve month period of time. In addition, the outsourcing
program, once completed, should lead to the elimination of associated
distribution and manufacturing facilities as indicated immediately above.

         7.       TRADE CREDIT

         Nu-kote has initiated a planned program to expand trade credit and
obtain supplier price concessions. Concurrent with the filing of these
Bankruptcy Cases, Nu-kote suppliers overwhelmingly demanded cash in advance for
delivery of goods, which, understandingly, impacted working capital negatively.
Recently, however, Nu-kote has initiated conversations with its trade and other
suppliers and proposed a 3% discount off all invoices demanding cash in advance,
a 2% discount off all invoices requiring payment in ten days, and no discount on
invoices requiring payment in thirty days. To date, the Debtors have reduced
borrowings under Nu-kote's DIP Facility to $0 as of October 22, 1999 and should
continue to improve future cash flow.

         8.       INFORMATION SYSTEMS

         Nu-kote completed its installation of a new, fully integrated computer
based information system on October 22, 1999, allowing ample time for testing
prior to calendar year-end. Among the features of the new system are improved
financial consolidation and reporting, improved workflow efficiency and supply
chain management, reduced software application maintenance, Y2K compliance, and
the ability to conduct electronic commerce.

         9.       FUTURE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             61
<PAGE>   70

         The Reorganized Debtors are expected to improve operating and financial
performance substantially. Domestically, sales should increase at approximately
7-10 % per year as new and existing account growth in the faster growing
non-impact market nominally offsets a continued decline in the impact market.
Operating income, however, is expected to show an estimated four-fold increase
on the strength of wider gross margins, particularly in the aftermarket, and
significantly lower selling, general & administrative expenses. Net cash flow
remains positive throughout the forecast periods.

                    ARTICLE IX. DISCUSSION OF THE JOINT PLAN

         THE JOINT PLAN IS ATTACHED HERETO AS EXHIBIT "G." ALL TERMS FOR
IMPLEMENTING THE JOINT PLAN, TREATMENT OF CLASSIFIED AND UNCLASSIFIED CLAIMS AND
INTERESTS, PROVISIONS REGARDING ALL PROPERTY DEALT WITH BY THE JOINT PLAN, AND
ALL OTHER IMPORTANT TERMS AND CONDITIONS ARE CONTAINED IN THE JOINT PLAN. YOU
ARE URGED TO REVIEW THE JOINT PLAN CAREFULLY.

A.       SUMMARY OF THE JOINT PLAN

         THE JOINT PLAN IS A COMPREHENSIVE PROPOSAL BY THE PLAN PROPONENTS THAT
PROVIDES FOR THE PAYMENT IN FULL OF ALL ALLOWED ADMINISTRATIVE CLAIMS, PRIORITY
CLAIMS AND SECURED CLAIMS, THE PAYMENT TO HOLDERS OF ALLOWED UNSECURED CLAIMS,
OTHER THAN THE CLAIMS OF THE LENDERS, THEIR PRO RATA SHARE OF THE SUM OF
$600,000, OR SUCH HIGHER AMOUNT AS IS GENERATED BY THE BIDDING PROCEDURE, AND
25% OF THE NET CASH RECEIVED ON AVOIDANCE ACTIONS.

         To accomplish this, the Joint Plan contemplates:

          1.      The continued operation of the business of Nu-kote.

          2.      The transfer of ownership of the business and the Litigation
                  on the Effective Date of the Joint Plan either to:

                  (a)      Richmont or such other Successful Bidder as is
                           selected pursuant to the Bidding Procedure; or

                  (b)      if there is no Successful Bidder other than Richmont
                           and Richmont does not close, to one or more trusts
                           for the benefit of Creditors in which case the
                           business will continue to be operated pending its
                           contemplated sale as a going concern.

B.       CLASSIFICATION AND TREATMENT OF CLAIMS

         1.       TREATMENT OF UNCLASSIFIED CLAIMS


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             62
<PAGE>   71

         The payment of certain types of Claims asserted against the Debtors is
accomplished without the requirement of classification of those Claims into
Classes. Administrative Claims and Priority Tax Claims are not classified under
section 1123(a)(1) of the Code for purposes of voting or receiving distributions
under the Joint Plan. The procedures for payment of Administrative Claims and
Priority Tax Claims, as well as Fee Claims, fees to the Office of the U.S.
Trustee, and the Norwest Claim are detailed in the Joint Plan and summarized as
follows:

         (A)      DEADLINE FOR FILING ADMINISTRATIVE CLAIMS. Any person or
                  Entity who claims to hold an Administrative Claim (other than
                  an Administrative Claim representing a liability incurred in
                  the ordinary course of business by any of the Debtors or a Fee
                  Claim) shall be required to file with the Court an application
                  for payment of such asserted Administrative Claim and to serve
                  notice thereof on all parties entitled to such notice. The
                  failure to file timely the application as required under the
                  Joint Plan shall result in the Claim being forever barred and
                  discharged. The Bar Date for filing requests for payment of
                  all Administrative Claims, Priority Tax Claims and Other
                  Priority Claims (except Fee Claims) (i) incurred through
                  September 30, 1999 is December 15, 1999, and (ii) incurred
                  after September 30, 1999 is the date that is sixty days after
                  the Effective Date.

         (B)      PAYMENT OF ALLOWED ADMINISTRATIVE CLAIMS. Each holder of an
                  Administrative Claim, except as otherwise set forth in the
                  Joint Plan shall receive from the Reorganized Debtors either:
                  (i) with respect to Administrative Claims which are Allowed
                  Claims on the Effective Date, the amount of such holder's
                  Allowed Claim in one cash payment; (ii) with respect to
                  Administrative Claims which become Allowed Claims after the
                  Effective Date, the amount of such holder's Allowed Claim in
                  one cash payment as soon as practicable after such claim
                  becomes an Allowed Administrative Claim; or (iii) such other
                  treatment agreed upon by the Debtors and such holder;
                  provided, however, that any such Administrative Claim
                  representing a liability incurred in the ordinary course of
                  business by any of the Debtors shall be paid by Reorganized
                  Debtors in accordance with the terms and conditions of the
                  particular transaction giving rise to such liability and any
                  agreements relating thereto.

         (C)      FEE CLAIMS OF PROFESSIONALS OTHER THAN COMMITTEES'
                  PROFESSIONALS. Each professional person whose retention with
                  respect to the Debtors' cases has been approved by the
                  Bankruptcy Court or who holds, or asserts, an Administrative
                  Claim that is a Fee Claim shall be required to file with the
                  Bankruptcy Court a final fee application within sixty (60)
                  days after the Effective Date and to serve notice thereof on
                  all parties entitled to such notice pursuant to the Agreed
                  Order Regarding Compensation of Certain Professionals (the
                  "FEE ORDER"). Not later than five (5) days prior to the
                  Effective Date, any person intending to file a Fee Claim shall
                  file an estimate of such final Fee Claim on all parties
                  entitled to such notice pursuant to the Fee Order. No Fee
                  Claims shall be allowed in excess of estimated amounts.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             63
<PAGE>   72

         (D)      FEE CLAIMS OF THE COMMITTEES' PROFESSIONALS. Each professional
                  person employed by the Committees whose retention with respect
                  to the Debtors' cases has been approved by the Bankruptcy
                  Court (the "COMMITTEE PROFESSIONALS") shall be required to
                  file a final fee application in accordance with the Joint
                  Plan. Any such Fee Claim of a Committee Professional shall be
                  an Allowed Administrative Claim to the extent that such Fee
                  Claim is approved by the Bankruptcy Court and so long as the
                  aggregate allowed Fee Claims of such Committees' Professionals
                  does not exceed $450,000, and shall be paid in full in one
                  cash payment on the Effective Date.

         (E)      PAYMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE TAX CLAIMS. Each holder of an
                  Administrative Claim that is an Allowed Claim for Taxes for
                  which the Debtors are responsible for the period during which
                  the Debtors' Chapter 11 Case is being administered, and any
                  other Taxes of the Debtors payable pursuant to Section
                  507(a)(1) of the Bankruptcy Code, if any, shall be paid the
                  Allowed Amount of such holder's Claim in cash, in full, by
                  Reorganized Debtors on the latest of: (i) the Effective Date,
                  (ii) the date such Claim is allowed by Final Order, or (iii)
                  the date such payment is due under applicable law.

         (F)      PAYMENT OF PRIORITY TAX CLAIMS. Any and all Secured or
                  Priority Claims of any Entity for the payment of any Taxes (a)
                  accorded a priority pursuant toss.ss.507(a)(8) of the Code
                  (but excluding all Claims for post-petition interest and
                  pre-petition and post-petition penalties all of which interest
                  and penalties, pre-confirmation and post-confirmation, shall
                  be (i) deemed disallowed and (ii) fully discharged on the
                  Confirmation Date), or (b) secured by valid Liens on assets of
                  any Debtor existing on the Confirmation Date (but excluding
                  all Claims for post-petition interest and pre-petition and
                  post-petition penalties, all of which interest and penalties
                  shall be (i) deemed disallowed and (ii) discharged on
                  Confirmation Date). Additionally, all Liens securing Tax
                  Claims shall be deemed and legally treated as released, voided
                  and discharged on the Confirmation Date. Each Allowed Tax
                  Claim shall be paid by Reorganized Debtors in accordance with
                  Section 1129(a)(9)(C) of the Bankruptcy Code.

         (G)      PAYMENT OF NORWEST CLAIM. The Norwest Claim shall be paid in
                  full in accordance with the Norwest Agreement and the
                  Bankruptcy Court's Order approving same. Until the claim of
                  Norwest is paid hereunder, Norwest shall retain the Norwest
                  Lien. At the time the Norwest Claim is paid, Norwest shall
                  deliver a release of the Norwest Lien in a form acceptable to
                  the Lenders.

         (H)      PAYMENT OF FEES TO U.S. TRUSTEE. All fees payable under 28
                  U.S.C. ss. 1930 shall be paid in cash in full. For purposes of
                  such payments, the Reorganized Debtor shall be treated as a
                  single entity.

         2.       TREATMENT OF CLASSIFIED CLAIMS


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             64
<PAGE>   73

         Section 1122 of the Bankruptcy Code states in part that "a plan may
place a claim or an interest in a particular class only if such claim or
interest is substantially similar to the other claims or interests of such
class." The Joint Plan classifies Claims into three (3) separate Classes and
Interest Holders into one (1) Class, pursuant to ss.ss. 1122 and 1123 of the
Code. The treatment of and consideration to be received by holders of Allowed
Claims pursuant to the Joint Plan shall be in full settlement, release and
discharge of their respective Claims and any associated lien or encumbrance but
shall not affect the liability of any other Entity on such Claim or Interest..
The classification and treatment of Claims and Interests pursuant to the Joint
Plan is detailed below:

         (A)      CLASS 1- SECURED CLAIMS OF THE LENDERS. This Class consists of
                  the Secured Claims of the Lenders. If there is a Successful
                  Bidder who timely closes the Sale Transaction on or before the
                  Effective Date, then in full satisfaction of all Claims of all
                  Lenders, the Lenders shall be paid and receive on or before
                  the Effective Date $20,550,000 in good and collected funds, or
                  such higher amount as is generated by the Bidding Procedure.
                  In addition, the Reorganized Debtors or Successful Bidder, as
                  the case may be, shall pay to the Lenders a sum equal to
                  one-third (1/3) of the Net Cash Received from the OEMs, Chubb,
                  Wausau or their excess carriers (or any of their affiliates,
                  successors or assigns) on account of any claims of the Debtors
                  or their estates including, without limitation, claims against
                  the OEMs and claims of the Debtors against directors and
                  officers or any policy of insurance related to same, provided,
                  however, that the Debtors shall have the sole and absolute
                  discretion to pursue and either to settle or litigate all of
                  such claims, including, inter alia, the right to permit the
                  Debtors to accept zero-cash or non-cash benefits, in neither
                  of which shall the Lenders have any interest.

                           Otherwise, upon the occurrence of the Trust
                  Triggering Event, then each holder of an Allowed Secured Class
                  1 Claim shall receive on the Effective Date, its Pro Rata
                  share of 97% of (a) the Trust Interest and (b) the Trust
                  Interest (Litigation), and shall retain its assignments,
                  security interests, liens and other interests in the Retained
                  Assets and Litigation, upon which such assignments, security
                  interests, liens and other interests shall be deemed to be
                  continuously perfected and automatically remain attached to
                  secure the Lender's Note and Allowed Claim to the extent
                  applicable.

                           In the event the Joint Plan is subject to "cram down"
                  under Section 1129(b) of the Bankruptcy Code on account of
                  non-acceptance by Class 3, each holder of an Allowed Secured
                  Class 1 Claim shall, on the Effective Date: (a) receive a
                  promissory note in the amount of its Allowed Secured Class 1
                  Claim bearing interest at the Legal Rate (the "LENDER'S
                  NOTE"); (b) retain its assignments, security interests, liens
                  and other interests in the Retained Assets and Litigation,
                  upon which such assignments, security interests, liens and
                  other interests shall be deemed to be continuously


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             65
<PAGE>   74

                  perfected and automatically remain attached to secure the
                  Lender's Note and Allowed Claim to the extent applicable; (c)
                  receive a Pro Rata share of 100% of the Trust Interest; and
                  (d) receive its Pro Rata share of 100% of the Trust Interest
                  (Litigation) to the full extent of the claims, assignments,
                  security interests, liens and other interests held by each
                  Secured Class 1 Claim. To the extent the Lender's Note is
                  insufficient to fully satisfy its Allowed Secured Class 1
                  Claim, such holder's Allowed Secured Class 1 Claim shall be
                  treated as an Unsecured Class 3a Claim.

         (B)      CLASS 2 - OTHER SECURED CLAIMS. This Class consists of all
                  other allowed Secured Claims of any Creditor other than those
                  Secured Claims in Class 1. The following Creditors have filed
                  Secured Claims, and, to the extent such Secured Claims are
                  Allowed, each shall be treated as a separate subclass in Class
                  2:

                  Class 2A     Atlantic Molding, Inc.
                  Class 2B:    Border Lift
                  Class 2C:    CIT Group/Equipment
                  Class 2D     Doris L. Crank
                  Class 2E:    Dollar Bank Leasing Corp.
                  Class 2F:    Employers Insurance of Wausau
                  Class 2G:    ERS Imaging Supplies, Inc.
                  Class 2H:    GE Capital - Colonial Pacific Leasing
                  Class 2I:    Wayne E. Moore
                  Class 2J:    Newcourt Communication Finance Corp.
                  Class 2K:    Oasis Imaging Products
                  Class 2L:    Oce Printing Systems USA, Inc.
                  Class 2M:    Oskar Haug AG
                  Class 2N:    Phillips Joanna
                  Class 2O:    Precision Packaging Products, Inc.
                  Class 2P:    Tennant Company
                  Class 2Q:    Unisys Corporation
                  Class 2R:    RSL Industrial Contracting

                           Except to the extent that a Class 2 Claimant may
                  otherwise agree, each holder of an Allowed Secured Class 2
                  Claim shall be fully satisfied, at the Reorganized Debtor's
                  option, by one of the following:

                  (1)      NOTE OPTION: Each holder of a Class 2 Claim shall
                           retain all Liens securing such Claim until such Claim
                           is fully paid or until such holder otherwise agrees.
                           The terms and provisions relating to such Liens shall
                           be set forth in appropriate documents agreed to
                           between the parties, or, in the event of
                           disagreement, as directed by the Court. The
                           Reorganized Debtor shall execute a note payable to
                           the Class 2 Creditor and deliver it to the holder of
                           such Claim, along with an appropriate mortgage and/or
                           security agreement, no later than the


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             66
<PAGE>   75

                           tenth (10th) Business Day after the later of the
                           Effective Date or the date that such Claim becomes an
                           Allowed Claim. The initial principal amount of each
                           Class 2 Claim shall be equal to the lesser of (i) the
                           amount which the Court shall determine is equal to
                           the value of the assets securing such Claim or (ii)
                           the amount of the Class 2 Claim. To the extent that
                           any Creditor has a Deficiency Claim in addition to
                           its Class 2 Claim, the Deficiency Claim shall be
                           treated under this Plan as an Unsecured Claim against
                           the Debtors.

                  (2)      UNIMPAIRMENT OPTION: At the option of the Reorganized
                           Debtor, any Class 2 Claim may be deemed unimpaired.
                           If such election is to be made, it must be made on or
                           before the Effective Date. Any arrearage or other
                           amounts owed by the Debtors as of the Effective Date
                           (and any other payments which may at such date be
                           required to make each such Claim unimpaired) shall be
                           paid in cash, in full, on or before the forty-fifth
                           (45th) Business Day after the Effective Date or as
                           shall otherwise be agreed to in writing by the holder
                           of such Claim, and all other defaults with respect to
                           such Claim required to be cured by Section 1124(2) of
                           the Code shall be cured on or prior to the
                           forty-fifth (45th) Business Day after the Effective
                           Date as shall be agreed to in writing by the holder
                           of such Claim, and from and after the date of such
                           cure any previously accelerated indebtedness shall be
                           reinstated and any default rate of interest shall no
                           longer apply, but shall be deemed waived (not
                           forgiven). Each Class 2 Creditor whose claim is
                           unimpaired pursuant to the terms hereof shall retain
                           such lien as such Creditor held prior to the Petition
                           Date. After the reinstatement of its Class 2 Claim,
                           each Class 2 Creditor will receive payments in
                           accordance with the instruments governing such Claim
                           or as such Creditor may otherwise in writing agree.
                           Furthermore, after such unimpairment, each Class 2
                           Creditor will be entitled to exercise all rights,
                           privileges, and remedies available to it under the
                           instruments governing its Class 2 Claim in accordance
                           with the terms for such instruments, without need for
                           any application to or order of the Court.

                  (3)      CASH OPTION: The Reorganized Debtor may also elect,
                           at any time on or before the Effective Date, to pay a
                           Class 2 Secured Claim in full, in cash, on or
                           promptly after the Effective Date.

                  (4)      ABANDONMENT OPTION: The Reorganized Debtor may also
                           elect, at any time on or before the Effective Date,
                           to fully satisfy a Class 2 Claim by abandoning the
                           collateral securing such Claim to the holder of such
                           Claim.

                  (5)      RELEASE OF LIEN: Upon the satisfaction of any note
                           given to any holder of a Class 2 Secured Claim
                           pursuant to any of the methods


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             67
<PAGE>   76

                           provided for in this Plan, the holder of such Class 2
                           Secured Claim shall execute all instruments and
                           documents necessary to release its Lien securing such
                           Claim or note.

         (C)      CLASS 3 - UNSECURED CLAIMS. This Class consists of all Allowed
                  Unsecured Claims. Class 3a and 3b shall have their votes
                  counted as a single class. The distinction of 3a and 3b is
                  solely for distribution purposes per the agreement reached
                  among the Plan Proponents in the Joint Plan and the
                  Stipulation. In the event that the Plan Proponents request the
                  Bankruptcy Court to invoke the "cram down" provisions of
                  Section 1129(b) of the Bankruptcy Code on account of a
                  non-acceptance of this Joint Plan by the Unsecured Claims in
                  Class 3b, Class 3 shall be treated as a single class for Pro
                  Rata distributions as further provided herein.

                  (1)      CLASS 3A - UNSECURED DEFICIENCY CLAIMS OF THE
                           LENDERS. Class 3a consists of the Allowed Unsecured
                           Deficiency Claims of the Lenders calculated as that
                           amount by which the Allowed Claim of the Lenders
                           exceeds the Allowed Secured Claim of the Lenders
                           pursuant to 11 U.S.C. ss. 506. If the Trust
                           Triggering Event shall not occur on or prior to the
                           Effective Date, then the Lenders, as holders of all
                           of the Unsecured Class 3a Claims shall receive, in
                           full satisfaction of all of their Unsecured Claims,
                           their respective Pro Rata shares of the payments made
                           on account of the Lenders' Secured Class 1 Claims, as
                           provided above. Otherwise, in the event of the
                           occurrence of the Trust Triggering Event, if the
                           Joint Plan is accepted without invoking the "cram
                           down" provisions of Section 1129(b) of the Bankruptcy
                           Code on account of a non-acceptance of this Joint
                           Plan by the Unsecured Claims in Classes 3a and 3b
                           (whose votes will be counted as a single class for
                           acceptance of this Joint Plan), each Holder of an
                           Allowed Unsecured Class 3a Claim shall receive its
                           Pro Rata share in 97% of the (a) Trust Interest and
                           (b) the Trust Interest (Litigation), as set forth in
                           the treatment of Secured Class 1, above.

                  (2)      CLASS 3B - GENERAL UNSECURED CLAIMS. This Class 3b
                           consists of the Allowed Claims of all General
                           Unsecured Creditors, excluding all Class 3a Claims.
                           If the Trust Triggering Event does not occur prior to
                           the Effective Date, then the holders of all Unsecured
                           Class 3b Claims shall each receive their Pro Rata
                           Share of (i) the sum of $600,00 to be paid on or
                           before the Effective Date by the Successful Bidder,
                           in good and collected funds to the Reorganized
                           Debtors, or such other Entity as directed by the
                           Committees, for the benefit of the Class 3b
                           Creditors, or (ii) such higher amount as is generated
                           by the Bidding Procedure. In addition, Unsecured
                           Class 3b Claims shall receive a Pro Rata share of 25%
                           of the Net Cash Received by the Reorganized Debtors
                           from recoveries on Avoidance Actions.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             68
<PAGE>   77

                                    Otherwise, upon the occurrence of the Trust
                           Triggering Event (a) if the Joint Plan is accepted
                           without invoking the "cram down" provisions of
                           Section 1129(b) of the Bankruptcy Code on account of
                           a non-acceptance of the Joint Plan by the unsecured
                           claims in Class 3a and 3b, each holder of an Allowed
                           Unsecured Class 3b Claim shall receive its Pro Rata
                           share of 3% of (a) the Trust Interest and (b) the
                           Trust Interest (Litigation) or (b) in the event that
                           the Plan Proponents request to invoke the "cram down"
                           provisions of Section 1129(b) of the Bankruptcy Code
                           provided in Section 12.1 of the Joint Plan is
                           activated on account of a non-acceptance of the Joint
                           Plan by the unsecured claims in Class 3a and 3b, the
                           sharing arrangement between Secured Class 1 (i.e. 97%
                           of the Trust Interest and Trust Interest
                           (Litigation)) and Class 3b (i.e. 3% of the Trust
                           Interest and Trust Interest (Litigation)) shall be
                           eliminated and of no force and effect. In such event,
                           Class 3a and 3b shall then be treated as a single
                           class to receive their Pro Rata share of
                           distributions from the Litigation Trust, if any,
                           after the treatment of Secured Class 1 as provided
                           for by the Joint Plan.

         (D)      CLASS 4 - COMMON STOCK. This Class consists of: (i) the Record
                  Holders of Interests of Holding Common Stock and the Record
                  Holders of Interests of the Debtors common stock (other than
                  Holding) owned by entities other than the Debtors or
                  affiliates of the Debtors' as of the Distribution Record Date
                  and (ii) Holders of Claims arising from rescission of a
                  purchase or sale of a security of the debtor or of an
                  affiliate of the debtor, for Claims arising from the purchase
                  or sale of such a security, or for reimbursement or
                  contribution allowed under section 502 on account of such a
                  Claim. The holders of Allowed Class 4 Interests shall have
                  their respective Interests terminated and canceled and shall
                  not be entitled to receive any distribution of other benefit
                  on account of their Interests.

C.       IMPLEMENTATION OF THE JOINT PLAN:  A SUCCESSFUL BIDDER

         The Joint Plan provides for the sale of the stock or assets of the
Debtors (which will include indirectly ownership of all assets and intellectual
property of the Debtors and the Litigation) to the Successful Bidder. The entity
with the Lead Bid under the Joint Plan is Richmont (as defined below). The
Successful Bidder will be selected by means of the Bidding Procedure.

         1.       THE PROPOSED PURCHASER: RICHMONT

         A newly-formed affiliate of Richmont Capital Partners I, L.P., a
Delaware limited partnership, is the proposed purchaser of the stock of
Reorganized Holding. Richmont Capital Partners I, L.P. and its affiliates own
and operate portfolio businesses in industries such as financial services,
apparel, sports products, and food services. Richmont Capital Partners I, L.P.
owns beneficially 2,559,360 shares of the outstanding common stock of Holding,
which is approximately 11.8% of that class. John P. Rochon, a director of
Nu-kote


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             69
<PAGE>   78

and the chief executive officer of the managing general partner of Richmont
Capital Partners I, L.P. has shared voting and investment power over these
shares.

         The proposed purchaser of the stock of Reorganized Holding ("RICHMONT")
will be an affiliate of Richmont Capital Partners I, L.P. The net worth of
Richmont upon formation will be at least sufficient to qualify as financially
able to be the Purchaser under the Joint Plan, and Richmont is willing to be the
Purchaser contemplated in the Plan. The senior management of Richmont is
anticipated to include John P. Rochon and Patrick E. Howard. While Richmont has
expressed an interest and willingness to be the Purchaser contemplated by the
Joint Plan, the ultimate Purchaser will be the entity which is determined by
Nu-kote to have the highest and/or best bid for the purchase of the stock of the
Reorganized Holding. It is contemplated that the current management of Nu-kote
will receive an equity incentive of some form in Richmont if Richmont is the
Purchaser.

         2.       RICHMONT'S OBLIGATION TO CLOSE

         Richmont will have no obligation to close the Sale Transaction and
Richmont shall have no liability, obligation or responsibility to the Debtors,
their Estates, the Lenders, the Creditors, or any other party in interest as to
such Sale Transaction or under this Joint Plan unless the Closing Conditions are
satisfied. The calculation of whether or not the aggregate allowance of all
Administrative Claims and Priority Claims is less than or equal to $3,000,000
shall include all Administrative Claims and Allowed Priority Claims that have
been Allowed as of the Effective Date, all Filed Administrative Claims and
Priority Claims that have not been Allowed as of the Effective Date whether or
not objected to unless such objection has been resolved by Final Order, and
reserves for any Administrative Claims or Priority Claims that have not been
filed as of the Effective Date but which the Debtors believe will be filed by
the Bar Date for such claims. Through and until 4:00 p.m. (EST) on January 25,
2000, Richmont shall be subject to a higher bid of any other Successful Bidder
under the Bidding Procedure and shall have no right to object to or prevent such
a higher bid irrespective of the amount of Administrative Claims, resolution of
the OEM Claims or occurrence of a Material Adverse Change (as defined below),
any one or all of which may be acceptable to such Successful Bidder.

         3.       THE LETTER OF CREDIT

         In the event Richmont is the Successful Bidder and fails to close the
Sale Transaction on or before the Effective Date, other than on account of any
one or more of the Closing Conditions, the Lenders shall be immediately entitled
to draw upon the full amount of the Letter of Credit and apply the proceeds
thereof to their Claims without notice of any kind as the sole remedy available
for any party in interest for non-performance by Richmont under this Joint Plan.
In the event Richmont is not the Successful Bidder, no demand for funding will
be made against the Letter of Credit and the Letter of Credit shall be promptly
returned to Richmont on the earlier of the selection of the Successful Bidder or
the Confirmation Date, unless such date shall be extended in writing by and
among Richmont, the Debtors and the Lenders.

         4.       THE BIDDING PROCEDURE


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             70
<PAGE>   79

         Richmont shall be the initial bidder, and has submitted the Lead Bid as
provided in the Joint Plan.(3) The Bidding Procedure shall be administered by
the investment banking firm of Conway, Del Genio Gries & Co., LLC ("Conway Del
Genio"), which firm has previously been employed by the Debtors as their
investment bankers in connection with the sale of the company. The Bidding
Procedure shall be as follows:

         (A)      SOLICITATION. The Debtors shall, and the Lenders may (provided
                  they direct any solicited parties to Conway Del Genio) seek
                  higher and better offers than the Lead Bid from any entity
                  that constitute, or would reasonably be expected to lead to an
                  Overbid (as defined below).

         (B)      INFORMATION TO THIRD PARTIES. The Debtors shall (a) furnish,
                  in addition to the confidential memorandum provided to
                  prospective bidders who have signed confidentiality
                  agreements, non-public information (other than trade secrets
                  or proprietary information) with respect to the Debtors to any
                  entity seeking to be a successful bidder who first (i) has
                  executed a letter of interest in a range in excess of that of
                  the Lead Bid, (ii) has executed a confidentiality agreement in
                  a form mutually acceptable to the Debtors and the Lenders and
                  (iii) has delivered to the Debtors and the Lenders its current
                  financial statements and such other information as Debtors
                  shall reasonably require, which demonstrate, to the Debtors'
                  reasonable satisfaction, the financial capability of such
                  entity to consummate the transactions contemplated by the
                  Overbid and (b) participate in negotiations or discussions
                  concerning such Overbid. The Lenders shall receive biweekly
                  reporting from Conway Del Genio commencing on December 3, 1999
                  regarding the sale process and other information reasonably
                  requested by the Lenders.

         (C)      OVERBIDS. The Debtors shall solicit higher and better offers
                  ("Overbids") in accordance with the following procedure.

                  (I)      OVERBID DEADLINE. All Overbids shall be submitted in
                           writing to and received by Conway Del Genio no later
                           than 4:00 p.m. (EST) on, January 25, 2000 (the "Bid
                           Date"), with copies simultaneously sent to Debtors
                           through their undersigned counsel
                           (Hance/Scarborough/Wright), Richmont through its
                           undersigned counsel (Creel, Sussman & Moore, L.L.P.)
                           and the Lenders through their undersigned counsel
                           (Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.).

                  (II)     OVERBID REQUIREMENTS. To be considered, all Overbids
                           must, in the reasonable judgment of the Debtors,
                           consist of terms no less favorable to Debtors,
                           Lenders and the Debtors' other creditors than the
                           Lead Bid and must satisfy the following minimum
                           requirements (such Overbid, a "Qualified Overbid"):


---------------
         (3)      The Lenders assert they hold a valid and perfected security
interest in the OEM Litigation. The Debtors, however, dispute this assertion.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             71
<PAGE>   80

                           -        the initial Overbid shall meet all other
                                    payment requirements of the Lead Bid and
                                    provide at least $1,000,000 of additional
                                    cash available for payment of the $600,000
                                    Break-up Fee to Richmont and payments to the
                                    Lenders and Unsecured Creditors, with
                                    successive bids (a "Subsequent Overbid")
                                    thereafter exceeding one another by minimum
                                    increments of at least $250,000.

                           -        all Overbids by bidders other than Richmont
                                    shall be accompanied by a cash deposit of
                                    $500,000 or letter of credit acceptable to
                                    the Debtors and Lenders in the amount of
                                    $500,000 (the "Deposit"), which Deposit
                                    shall be held by Conway Del Genio and which
                                    shall be forfeitable to the Lenders in the
                                    event the bidder is selected as the
                                    Successful Bidder and does not timely close
                                    for any reason other than that, on or before
                                    March 15, 2000, (i) the aggregate allowance
                                    of all Administrative Claims and Priority
                                    Claims is greater than $3,000,000, (ii) the
                                    OEM Claims are not resolved in a manner
                                    which does not cause or, with the passage of
                                    time, will not cause, a Material Adverse
                                    Change, (iii) an adverse Material Adverse
                                    Change shall have occurred or (iv) the Joint
                                    Plan shall not have been confirmed by Final
                                    Order of the Bankruptcy Court (the "Closing
                                    Conditions");

                           -        the Overbid shall provide for the purchase
                                    of the assets and/or stock of the Debtors
                                    and shall not be conditional on the outcome
                                    of any unperformed due diligence by the
                                    bidder, (b) the receipt of equity or debt
                                    financing, (c) the approval of any Board of
                                    Directors, shareholder, or other corporate
                                    approval, or (d) any other condition
                                    preceding closing other than the Closing
                                    Conditions;

                           -        the bidder shall provide evidence reasonably
                                    satisfactory to the Debtors and the Lenders
                                    demonstrating that the bidder has the
                                    financial ability to close and consummate
                                    the sale transaction contemplated hereunder
                                    on or prior to the Effective Date; and if
                                    patent covenants with Hewlett-Packard
                                    Company ("HP") (in the event a settlement
                                    with HP is approved and effected) related to
                                    the Debtors' inkjet business are to be
                                    acquired, such Overbid shall also be by an
                                    entity acceptable to HP.

                  (III)    RICHMONT DEPOSIT REQUIREMENT. The Term Sheet requires
                           Richmont to immediately post, as its Deposit, a
                           $500,000 letter of credit contemporaneously with the
                           filing of the Joint Plan as (i) an indication of its
                           good faith and (ii) a limit on its financial risks in
                           the


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             72
<PAGE>   81

                           event of its non-performance. Richmont's offer and
                           all other timely submitted Qualified Bids shall
                           remain open and irrevocable through 4:OO P.M., EST,
                           January 28, 2000 (the "Selection Date") on which date
                           the Debtors shall select the bid that in their
                           reasonable judgment represents the highest and best
                           offer for all of the stock or assets of the company
                           and is in the best interests of the Debtors, the
                           estates and their creditors from the bidder making
                           such bid (the "Successful Bidder") for presentation
                           at the confirmation hearing in the Bankruptcy Court.
                           Once accepted, such bid shall be binding on the
                           Successful Bidder and the Movants, subject to the
                           Closing Conditions, and approval by the Court. At the
                           confirmation hearing, the Debtors shall seek the
                           approval of the Bankruptcy Court of the Successful
                           Bid. Within three (3) business days after the
                           Selection Date, the Deposit, together with all
                           interest accrued thereon, shall be returned to any
                           bidder whose bid is not the Successful Bid. The
                           Deposit submitted by the Successful Bidder, together
                           with all interest thereon, shall be applied against
                           the payment of the Purchase Price at the closing of
                           the sale to the Successful Bidder. If the Successful
                           Bidder fails to consummate the purchase of the assets
                           and/or stock of the Debtors on or before the
                           Effective Date for any reason other than on account
                           of a Closing Condition, then the Debtors shall
                           promptly direct Conway Del Genio to transfer the
                           Deposit of such Successful Bidder to the Lenders. In
                           the event the Debtors determine that the Successful
                           Bidder will not close on the purchase of the stock or
                           assets of the Debtors, the Debtors shall, after
                           communication by Conway Del Genio with all bidders
                           who submitted the Lead bid and any Overbids that the
                           Debtors are seeking an alternative bidder, close with
                           the bidder who in their reasonable judgment
                           represents the highest and best offer for all of the
                           stock or assets of the company (which is higher and
                           better than the Lead Bid), is in the best interests
                           of the Debtors, the estates and their creditors and
                           is willing to close, provided such closing is still
                           effected by the Effective Date (the "Alternative
                           Successful Bidder Procedure").

                  (IV)     OVERBID PROCESS. If there are no Overbids meeting the
                           Overbid Requirements by 4:00 p.m. (EST) on the Bid
                           Date, then Richmont shall be declared the Successful
                           Bidder on such Bid Date and the sales process shall
                           be concluded. However, if there is such an Overbid
                           then Conway Del Genio and the Debtors shall arrange a
                           reasonably convenient meeting place and time to which
                           Richmont, all bidders with qualifying Overbids and a
                           representative of the Lenders shall be invited, and
                           shall commence an auction process to be concluded on
                           or before the Selection Date. The Debtors shall
                           conduct the auction such that all invited bidders
                           will have reasonable opportunity to achieve the
                           highest and best bid for the benefit of all parties
                           in interest in the reasonable judgment of the
                           Debtors.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             73
<PAGE>   82

         (D)      RIGHT TO REJECT BIDS. The Debtors may, at any time before
                  entry of an Order of the Court approving a Successful Bid,
                  reject any purported bid or Overbid that, in the Debtors'
                  reasonable judgment, is (a) inadequate or insufficient, (b)
                  not in conformity with the requirements of the Bankruptcy Code
                  or the Overbid Procedures, or (c) contrary to the best
                  interests of the Debtors, their estates and their creditors.
                  The Debtors shall notify the Lenders of any such rejected bid
                  and provide adequate information to the Lenders regarding the
                  reasons for such rejection.

         (E)      BIDDING PROCEDURE DISPUTES. If any dispute shall arise with
                  respect to the auction process or any bid received from a
                  qualified bidder, any rejection thereof, or selection of a
                  bidder pursuant to the Alternative Successful Bidder
                  Procedure, the dispute shall be submitted to the Bankruptcy
                  Court for resolution, after notice and hearing, with the goal
                  to be resolution of all issues sufficiently in advance of the
                  Effective Date to permit timely confirmation within the
                  timeframe suggested in the Joint Plan.

         5.       FAILURE OF THE SUCCESSFUL BIDDER TO CLOSE.

         Upon the failure of (i) the Successful Bidder to close on or before the
Effective Date and (ii) the Alternative Successful Bidder Procedure to produce
an alternative highest and best bid reasonably acceptable to the Debtors, all
property of the Debtors' estates shall be transferred by the Debtors to the
trusts or other entities provided for, and in accordance with, the Joint Plan.

         6.       ENCUMBRANCES.

         If the Joint Plan is not confirmed, then the assets of the Debtors
shall be transferred by the Debtors to trusts or other entities acceptable to
the Lenders and the Committees pursuant to 11 U.S.C. ss.ss.363 and 365 free of
all claims but subject only to (i) valid, prior, perfected, enforceable and
unavoidable liens, security interests, or subrogation rights, and (ii) surcharge
claims, if any, under 11 U.S.C. ss. 506(c)(4), to the extent allowed by final
non-appealable Order of the Bankruptcy Court (the "Encumbrances"). Such
transfers shall be deemed to be authorized, as applicable, pursuant to 11 U.S.C.
ss.ss.363 and 365, and the automatic stay of 11 U.S.C. ss.362 shall be modified
without further Order or action of the Bankruptcy Court as of the Effective Date
to permit the transfers described herein.

         7.       SATISFACTION OF ENCUMBRANCES.

-----------------

         (4)      The Lenders have not and do not consent to any surcharge of
their collateral in these cases and nothing in this Disclosure Statement may be
construed to indicate such consent. The Lenders have filed their Notice of
Non-Consent to Surcharge Under 11 U.S.C. ss. 506(c), the contents of which are
referenced and incorporated herein.

DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE             74

<PAGE>   83
         The Encumbrances may be satisfied by the following options, as
selected by the Lenders:

         (A)      Each holder of an Encumbrance shall retain its Encumbrance
                  until its claim is fully paid in cash or other means to which
                  such holder agrees.

         (B)      Any arrearage or other amounts owed by the Debtors shall be
                  paid in cash, in full, and all other defaults with respect to
                  such Encumbrance shall be cured on or before the forty-fifth
                  (45th) business day after the assets subject to such
                  Encumbrance are transferred or as shall otherwise be agreed
                  to in writing by the holder of such Encumbrance, and from and
                  after the date of such cure any previously accelerated
                  indebtedness shall be reinstated and any default rate of
                  interest shall no longer apply, but shall be deemed waived
                  (not forgiven).

         (C)      The holder of such Encumbrance may be satisfied by abandoning
                  the property subject to such Encumbrance to the holder of
                  such Encumbrance.

         (D)      Upon the satisfaction of any Encumbrance, the holder thereof
                  shall execute all instruments and documents necessary to
                  release such Encumbrance.

Upon satisfaction of an Encumbrance, the trust or other entity owning the
property subject to such Encumbrance shall have no further liability or
obligation to the holder of such Encumbrance.

         8.       DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS.

         Additionally, in the event a Joint Plan is not confirmed and following
the transfers of the assets and/or stock of the Debtors to trusts or other
vehicles acceptable to the Lenders and the Committees, all net proceeds from
the sale or other disposition of the assets shall be distributed by 97% to the
Lenders and 3% to the other unsecured creditors.

         9.       THE REORGANIZED DEBTORS

         On the Effective Date, all of the existing stock of Holding will be
cancelled. Reorganized Holding will be authorized to issue such new stock as
the Successful Bidder shall direct provided the Successful Bidder timely closes
the Sale Transaction on the Effective Date. The Successful Bidder may
determine, at any time on or before the Effective Date, (i) that any Interest
of any Entity in any of the Debtors should or should not be canceled and
extinguished and (ii) which and how many shares of Plan Stock should be
authorized and issued and to whom. Such determination by the Successful Bidder
shall control in all respects, without notice or hearing of any kind. The
Successful Bidder may determine in its sole discretion the corporate structure
for the Reorganized Debtors, including, but not limited to, which of the
Debtors corporate entities will continue to exist


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            75
<PAGE>   84

and which will be dissolved and the ownership of the Debtors' assets by the
Reorganized Debtors.

         10.      OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

         Provided Richmont is the Successful Bidder, the executive officers of
the Reorganized Debtors will be Patrick E. Howard, Chief Executive Officer; C.
Ronald Baiocchi, President and Chief Operating Officer; and Phillip L.
Theodore, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. The initial
Directors of the Reorganized Debtors will be Patrick E. Howard and John P.
Rochon.

         11.      BAIOCCHI RETENTION

         Baiocchi has been instrumental in the successful turnaround of the
Debtors during the bankruptcy proceedings to date. The Debtors believe that his
continued involvement is essential to the success of the Company. The Joint
Plan provides for the promotion of Baiocchi to President in the event that
Richmont is the Successful Bidder and for the execution by Baiocchi of a three
year employment agreement with the Reorganized Debtors. Baiocchi reserves the
right to decline to remain with the Company in the event the Company is sold to
a Successful Bidder that is not acceptable to Baiocchi.

         12.      FUNDING OF THE CAUSES OF ACTION

         The Reorganized Debtors will be responsible for evaluating, funding
and pursuing the Litigation based on their reasonable business judgment for the
benefit of the Lenders, the Unsecured Creditors and the Reorganized Debtors.
However, the Reorganized Debtors shall only be liable to fund such amounts as
the Reorganized Debtors, in their sole and absolute discretion, shall deem
appropriate and reasonable. Such advances shall be reimbursed to the
Reorganized Debtors from the first recoveries prior to any distributions of the
Net Cash Received.

         13.      AUTHORITY FOR SETTLEMENT OF CAUSES OF ACTION AND RELEASES

         The Reorganized Debtors shall, in their sole and absolute discretion,
be authorized to compromise and settle any of the Litigation, without Court
approval, at any time, and for any consideration that the Reorganized Debtors
believes to be in their best interest (and not necessarily in the best interest
of the Creditors) including, inter alia, the right to permit the Reorganized
Debtors to accept zero-cash or non-cash benefits. The Reorganized Debtors shall
have the sole and absolute discretion to pursue or not pursue and either to
settle or litigate all of such claims including, inter alia, the right to
permit the Reorganized Debtors to accept zero-cash or non-cash benefits, in
neither of which zero-cash or non-cash benefits shall the Creditors have any
interest.

D.       IMPLEMENTATION OF THE JOINT PLAN: THE TRUST TRIGGERING EVENT


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            76
<PAGE>   85

         If the Trust Triggering Event shall occur, then the following means
shall be employed to implement this Joint Plan.

         1.       EFFECTIVE DATE ENTITIES

         On the Effective Date, the Trust and the Litigation Trust shall be
formed pursuant to the Trust Agreement and the Litigation Trust Agreement,
respectively. Also, on the Effective Date, Reorganized Debtors shall be formed
by the filing of the Charter Amendments for Reorganized Debtors. Likewise, any
additional entities determined by the Trustee to be necessary to effectuate
this Joint Plan shall be formed whether by formation, merger, acquisition or
otherwise.

         2.       TRANSFER OF THE LITIGATION BY THE DEBTORS TO THE LITIGATION
                  TRUST

         On the Effective Date, the Litigation owned by the respective Debtors
shall be conveyed to the Litigation Trust free and clear of all liens, claims
and encumbrances except those liens, claims or encumbrances created or
preserved in the treatment of Creditors under Article IV of the Joint Plan. It
is further provided that, to the extent either Chubb or Wausau has a valid,
enforceable, perfected and unavoidable interest or subrogation right in or
superior to the Estates' interest in any particular Litigation (the "CW
INTEREST"), such CW Interest shall be preserved, but shall remain subject to
all rights and remedies of the Debtors, Reorganized Debtors, Trust, Litigation
Trust and the Lenders, all of which are expressly preserved to the fullest
extent provided by applicable law and this Joint Plan. All Litigation is being
transferred to the Litigation Trust to be owned and pursued by the Litigation
Trust, at its option, in the name of the Debtors and for the benefit of the
Creditors of these Estates. All benefits, privileges and other rights of the
Debtors and of these Estates shall be transferred with the Litigation Claims.

         (A)      PURPOSES FOR THE LITIGATION TRUST. The primary purposes of
                  the Litigation Trust shall be:

                  (1)      to own, hold, pursue and manage the Litigation for
                           the benefit of the creditors of the Estates.

                  (2)      to litigate, prosecute, settle or otherwise resolve
                           the Litigation;

                  (3)      to defend any counterclaims relating to the
                           Litigation; or

                  (4)      to do anything necessary, related or incidental to
                           the foregoing.

         (B)      PROSECUTION OF THE LITIGATION TRUST. The Litigation Trust
                  shall have the sole responsibility for prosecuting the
                  Litigation.

         (C)      MANAGEMENT OF THE LITIGATION TRUST AND LITIGATION ADVISORY
                  BOARD. The Litigation Trust shall be administered by a
                  Litigation Trustee supervised by the Litigation Advisory
                  Board. The Litigation Advisory Board shall consist of


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            77
<PAGE>   86

                  five (5) members, up to four (4) of whom shall be appointed
                  by the Lenders and one (1) of whom shall be appointed by the
                  Committees.

         (D)      BENEFICIARIES OF THE LITIGATION TRUST. The beneficiaries of
                  the Litigation Trust shall be the holders of Allowed Secured
                  Class 1 Claims and Allowed Unsecured Class 3 Claims who shall
                  receive the Trust Interest (Litigation) in accordance with
                  their treatment under the terms of this Joint Plan.

         3.       TRANSFER OF TRUST SHARES TO THE TRUST

         On the Effective Date, the Trust Shares shall be conveyed to the
Trust, free and clear of all liens, claims and encumbrances, except those
liens, claims or encumbrances created or preserved in the treatment of
Creditors under Article IV of the Joint Plan, or which existed and were
enforceable, valid and perfected prior to the Petition Date.

         (A)      PURPOSES FOR THE TRUST. The primary purposes of the Trust
                  shall be:

                  (1)      to hold and own the Trust Shares;

                  (2)      to prepare, market and sell the Trust Shares
                           (subject to applicable securities regulations) and
                           the Retained Assets of these Estates; or

                  (3)      to do anything necessary, related or incidental to
                           the foregoing.

         (B)      MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST AND TRUST ADVISORY BOARD. The Trust
                  shall be administered by a Trustee and supervised by the
                  Trust Advisory Board. The Advisory Board shall consist of
                  five (5) members appointed by the Lenders.

         (C)      INCORPORATION OF INK JET SUBSIDIARY AND TRANSFER OF ASSETS.
                  The Reorganized Debtors shall take all steps necessary to
                  incorporate a wholly owned subsidiary of Reorganized Holding
                  to operate the Debtors' Ink Jet Business (the "INK JET
                  SUBSIDIARY") including filing articles of incorporation and
                  bylaws. On the Effective Date, Reorganized Debtors shall
                  transfer all of their respective assets related to the
                  Debtors' manufacture and distribution of ink jet cartridges
                  for ink jet printers (the "INK JET BUSINESS") from the
                  Debtors to the Ink Jet Subsidiary. Such transfers of the Ink
                  Jet Business shall be free and clear of all liens, claims and
                  encumbrances except those liens, claims or encumbrances
                  created or preserved in the treatment of creditors under
                  Article IV of this Joint Plan.

         (D)      SALE OF THE TRUST SHARES AND THE RETAINED ASSETS. The Trust
                  shall have the responsibility for preparing, marketing and
                  selling the Trust Shares and the Retained Assets.

         (E)      BENEFICIARIES OF THE TRUST. The beneficiaries of the Trust
                  shall be the holders of Allowed Secured Class 1 Claims and
                  Allowed Unsecured Class


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            78
<PAGE>   87

                  3 Claims who shall receive their respective Trust Interest in
                  accordance with their treatment under terms of the Joint
                  Plan.

         4.       EFFECTIVE DATE FINANCING

         On the Effective Date, Reorganized Debtors shall obtain the Effective
Date Financing for the purpose of financing the Effective Date transactions
contemplated by this Plan, including, but not limited to, the payment of: (i)
Administrative Claims and Priority Claims which shall not exceed $3,000,000,
including Fee Claims, Other Administrative Claims and Administrative Tax
Claims, (ii) the payment of the Norwest Commitment, and (iii) financing for the
payments required under the Joint Plan and continued operation of Reorganized
Debtors and their affiliates.

         5.       BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS

Upon the Effective Date, the By-laws of Reorganized Debtors shall provide that
Reorganized Debtors shall each have a board of directors, odd in number, and
consisting of between 3 and 7 members. The initial board of directors (the
"INITIAL BOARD") shall be selected by the Trustee at least five (5) days prior
to the Effective Date. From and after the Effective Date, Directors shall be
selected in accordance with Reorganized Debtors' By-laws. The Trustee shall
provide the names of the officers of Reorganized Debtors at least five (5) days
prior to the Effective Date.

E.       RELEASES

         The Term Sheet provides for certain releases (the "Releases") of (a)
all current officers and directors of the Debtors in exchange for cash
consideration of $300,000 payable by Richmont, at Richmont's election and (b)
certain other parties in interest including, Richmont, the Lenders, the
Committees, Glass & Associates, the Debtors' case professionals (subject to fee
objections in the Bankruptcy Court) and non-Debtor Nu-kote Entities (the
"Release Parties"). The Releases are to be effective regardless of whether or
not the Joint Plan is confirmed. The Release parties will execute forms of
release reasonably acceptable to the Release Parties to effectuate such
releases in accordance with the Term Sheet.

         The Releases provide for the release of any claims against the Debtors
current officers and directors in consideration for the payment of $300,000.00
at Richmont's option in the event there is no closing under the Joint Plan. The
claims to be released include those in the nature of claims for breach of
fiduciary duty which were alleged by the Lenders and are referenced in more
detail in the joint disclosure statement. The Debtors and their officers and
directors dispute that any such claims exist. The Lenders and the Debtors have
agreed that the current officers and directors will be released upon the
payment of $300,000 if there is no closing and for no additional payment if
there is a closing with Richmont.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            79
<PAGE>   88

         The Releases include a release for Richmont. The Debtors assert that
they are aware of no claims against Richmont. Richmont asserts that no claims
exist against it.

         The Releases include a release of any claims against the Lenders. The
claims to be released would include claims, if any, asserted by the Debtors to
(a) avoid payments to or for the benefit of the Lenders in the year prior to
the bankruptcy filing (asserted by the Debtors to be approximately $20
million), (b) to avoid liens asserted by the Debtors to have been given to the
Lenders in July 1997, (c) equitable subordination or (d) lender liability. The
Lenders dispute that any such claims exist.

         The Releases include a release of any claims against Glass &
Associates, Inc. The claims to be released do not include claims to recover a
retainer paid to Glass & Associates in the amount of $125,000. The claims to be
released would include claims that Glass & Associates and their officers
breached their fiduciary duty to the Debtors in connection with their
employment as turnaround professionals for the Debtors.

         The Releases include a release of any claims against the Committees.
The claims to be released relate to the Committees' involvement in these cases.
The releases do not extend to the members in their capacity as creditors.

         The Releases include a release of any claims the Lenders may have
against any professionals employed by the Debtors other than the Coudert
Brothers law firm. Such releases are subject to fee objections in the
Bankruptcy Court.

         THE PLAN PROPONENTS BELIEVE THAT THE JOINT PLAN PROVIDES THE ONLY
VEHICLE BY WHICH HOLDERS OF ALLOWED UNSECURED CLAIMS CAN MAXIMIZE THE RECOVERY
ON THEIR ALLOWED CLAIMS. A COPY OF THE JOINT PLAN IS ATTACHED AS EXHIBIT "G."
THE PLAN PROPONENTS URGE YOU TO REVIEW CAREFULLY AND THEN VOTE TO ACCEPT THE
JOINT PLAN.

F.       ACCEPTANCE AND CONFIRMATION OF THE JOINT PLAN

         1.       REQUIREMENTS FOR CONFIRMATION

         At the Confirmation Hearing, the Court will determine whether the
provisions of section 1129 of the Code have been satisfied. Section 1129 of the
Bankruptcy Code, as applicable here, provides as follows:

         The Joint Plan must comply with the applicable provisions of the Code,
including section 1123 which specifies the mandatory contents of a plan and
section 1122 which requires that Claims and Interests be placed in Classes with
"substantially similar" Claims and Interests (section 1129(a)(1)).

         The proponents of the Joint Plan must comply with the applicable
provisions of the Code (section 1129(a)(2)).


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            80
<PAGE>   89

         The Joint Plan must have been proposed in good faith and not by any
means forbidden by law (section 1129(a)(3)).

         Any payment made or to be made by the Plan Proponents, by the Debtors,
or by a person issuing securities or acquiring property under the Joint Plan,
for services or for costs and expenses in or in connection with the Case, or in
connection with the Joint Plan and incident to the Case, must be disclosed to
the Court and approved or be subject to the approval of the Court as reasonable
(section 1129(a)(4)).

         The Plan Proponents must disclose the identity and affiliations of any
individual proposed to serve, after Confirmation of the Joint Plan, as a
director, officer, or voting trustee of the Reorganized Debtor, of an affiliate
of the Debtors participating in a joint plan with the Debtors, or of a
successor to the Debtors under the Joint Plan. The appointment to, or
continuance in, such office of such individual must be consistent with the
interests of the Debtors' creditors, equity holders, and with public policy.
The proponents must also disclose the identity of any insider that will be
employed or retained by the Reorganized Debtor and the nature of any
compensation for such insider (section 1129(a)(5)).

         The Joint Plan must meet the "best interest of creditors" test which
requires that each holder of a Claim or Interest of a Class of Claims or
Interests that is impaired under the Joint Plan either accept the Joint Plan or
receive or retain under the Joint Plan on account of such Claim or Interest
property of a value as of the Effective Date of the Joint Plan, that is not
less than the amount that such holder would receive or retain if the Debtors
were liquidated on such date under Chapter 7 of the Code. If the holders of a
Class of Secured Claims make an election under section 1111(b) of the Code,
each holder of a Claim in such electing Class must receive or retain under the
Joint Plan on account of its Claim property of a value, as of the Effective
Date of the Joint Plan, that is not less than the value of its interest in the
Debtors' interest in the property that secures its Claim (section 1129(a)(7)).
To calculate what non-accepting holders would receive if the Debtors were
liquidated under Chapter 7, the Court must determine the dollar amount that
would be generated upon disposition of the Debtors' assets and reduce such
amount by the costs of liquidation. Such costs would include the fees of a
Trustee (as well as those of counsel and other professionals) and all expenses
of sale.

         Each Class of Claims or Interests must either accept the Joint Plan or
not be impaired under the Joint Plan (section 1129(a)(8)). Alternatively, as
discussed herein, a Joint Plan may be confirmed over the dissent of a Class of
Claims or Interests if the "cramdown" requirements of section 1129(b) of the
Code are met.

         Except to the extent that the holder of a particular Claim has agreed
to a different treatment of such Claim, the Joint Plan must provide that
holders of Administrative Claims and Priority Claims (other than tax claims)
will be paid in full in cash on the Effective Date of the Joint Plan, and that
holders of priority tax Claims will receive on account of such Claims deferred
cash payments, over a period not exceeding six (6) years after the date of
assessment of such tax, of a value, as of the Effective Date of the Joint Plan,
equal to the Allowed amount of such Claim (section 1129(a)(9)).


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            81
<PAGE>   90

         At least one impaired Class must accept the Joint Plan, determined
without including the acceptance of the Joint Plan by any insider holding a
Claim of such Class (section 1129(a)(10)).

         The Joint Plan must be "feasible". In other words, it can not be
likely that confirmation of the Joint Plan will be followed by the liquidation,
or the need for further financial reorganization, of the Debtors or any
successor to the Debtors under the Joint Plan, unless such liquidation is
proposed in the Joint Plan (section 1129(a)(11)).

         All fees required to be paid under the Code have been paid or the
Joint Plan provides for such payment on its Effective Date (section
1129(a)(12)).

         The Joint Plan must provide for the continuation after the Effective
Date of the payment of all Retiree Benefits at the level established prior to
Confirmation, pursuant to the provisions of ss.1114 of the Code (section
1129(a)(13)).

G.       THE JOINT PLAN MEETS ALL OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR CONFIRMATION

         The Plan Proponents believe that the Joint Plan satisfies all of the
statutory requirements of Chapter 11 of the Code and therefore should be
confirmed. More specifically:

         1.       The Joint Plan complies with all of the applicable provisions
                  of the Code;

         2.       Each of the Plan Proponents have complied with the Code and
                  have proposed the Joint Plan in good faith;

         3.       All disclosure requirements concerning (a) payments made or
                  to be made for services rendered in connection with the
                  Chapter 11 case or the Joint Plan and (b) the identity and
                  affiliations of individuals who will serve the Reorganized
                  Debtor after confirmation have been, or will be met prior to
                  or at the Confirmation Hearing, including the identities of
                  those persons necessary under the Joint Plan upon the
                  occurrence of a Trust Triggering Event; and

         4.       Administrative Claims, Priority Claims, and fees required to
                  be paid under the Code are appropriately treated under the
                  Joint Plan.

                   ARTICLE X. ALTERNATIVES TO THE JOINT PLAN

         The Plan Proponents believe that the Joint Plan affords creditors the
potential for the greatest realization from the Debtors' assets, and,
therefore, is in the best interests of creditors. The Plan Proponents have
considered alternatives to the Joint Plan, such as alternative Chapter 11 plans
and a liquidation in the context of a Chapter 7 case. In the


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            82
<PAGE>   91

opinion of the Plan Proponents, such alternatives would not afford the holders
of Claims a return as great as may be achieved under the Joint Plan.

A.       ANALYSIS OF LIQUIDATION UNDER CHAPTER 7

         An alternative to the confirmation of the Joint Plan would be
conversion of these Cases to liquidation proceedings under Chapter 7 of the
Bankruptcy Code. Under Chapter 7, a trustee would be appointed to administer
the Estates, to resolve pending controversies including Disputed Claims against
the Debtors and Claims of the Estates against other parties, and to make
distribution to Creditors. If the Cases were converted to cases under Chapter
7, significant additional Administrative Expenses would be incurred, any
distributions to holders of Claims would be substantially delayed and, in all
likelihood, reduced as compared to the anticipated results of confirmation of
the Joint Plan. A Chapter 7 trustee would be entitled to compensation in
accordance with the scale set forth in ss. 326 of the Bankruptcy Code. A
Chapter 7 trustee might also seek to retain new professionals, including
attorneys and accountants, in order to resolve any disputed Claims and possibly
to pursue claims of the Estates against other parties.

         There is a strong probability that such Chapter 7 trustee would not
possess any particular knowledge of the property owned by the Debtors. The
trustee and any such new professionals retained by the trustee would need to
expend time familiarizing themselves with the Cases, which could result in
duplication of effort, increased expense, and delay in payment to Creditors.
Under the Bankruptcy Rules, a new bar date for the filing of proofs of claim
would have to be set, and additional Claims against the Estates that might now
be time-barred (because they were not filed before the applicable bar dates set
in the Cases) could be asserted.

         In order to determine whether or not the Joint Plan complies with the
"best interest of creditors" test of section 1129(a)(7) of the Code, it is
necessary to do an analysis of the liquidation of Nu-kote's assets in a Chapter
7. A chart depicting the likely consequences of a liquidation analysis is
attached hereto as Exhibit "F." This chart analyzes the differences between the
book value and the liquidation value of the Debtors' assets. Book values are as
of September 24, 1999. Liquidation values were calculated using varying
percentages or anticipated recovery based on the Company's historical
experience in liquidating assets in connection with the downsizing of the
Company's operations. The Debtors assert that the Company would not likely have
any actual cash on hand in a liquidation after paying off the Norwest debt and
outstanding payables. Receivables would have to be reduced by outstanding
rebates owed to customers and anticipated product returns as customers would
immediately shift their business to Nu-kote's competitors and restock their
shelves with the competitors' products. The Debtors further assert that the
returned inventory would be liquidated for an estimated $0.20 on the dollar but
in actuality the recovery could be far less as there would be little demand for
the returned inventory. After deducting the Norwest debt and current payables
the liquidation value would be approximately $19.5 million before deducting the
costs of the liquidation which could easily be in the $2 million range. This
would result in a net liquidation value of approximately $17.5 million.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            83
<PAGE>   92

         The liquidation chart does not include any value for Causes of Action
since any recoveries on Causes of Action are speculative and therefore not
quantifiable. Further, the most valuable of the Causes of Action, the antitrust
claims against Hewlett-Packard, have now been determined by a jury verdict to
be zero. Further, since the Lenders assert liens on all of the Company's Causes
of Action, none of the liquidation value would be available for payment of
Claims of Unsecured Creditors until such asserted liens of the Lenders are
resolved. In addition, Nu-kote firmly believes that any Chapter 7 trustee would
have great difficulty in preserving the value of the OEM Litigation. Upon
appointment of a Chapter 7 trustee, many of the employees of the Company would
likely resign, greatly reducing the value and altering inexorably the
negotiating strategy in the OEM Litigation, with the OEMs believing that a
Chapter 7 trustee's goal is merely to liquidate quickly the assets at any
price. In summary, the appointment of a Chapter 7 trustee would in all
likelihood result in no meaningful recovery for the Creditors.

         Further, all of the estates' assets, with the possible exception of
the OEM Litigation(5), are subject to Lenders' liens and security interests. The
Lenders' claim is an amount far in excess of the value of these assets.
Additionally, conversion to Chapter 7 would result in the discontinuation of
the Debtors' business operations and destroy the "going concern" value of the
present business assets. Thus, the Joint Plan affords creditors the potential
for the greatest realization from the Debtors' assets, and, therefore, is in
the best interests of creditors.

         Due to the numerous uncertainties and time delays associated with
liquidation under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code, it is not possible to
predict with certainty the outcome of any Chapter 7 liquidation of the Debtors
or the timing of any distributions to Creditors. However, Nu-kote has concluded
that a complete liquidation of the Debtors under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy
Code would result in lesser distributions to Creditors than that provided for
in the Joint Plan.

B.       ALTERNATIVES UNDER CHAPTER 11

         The Plan Proponents or other parties in interest could attempt to
formulate different plans. Such plans might involve reorganization or
continuation of some or all of the Debtors' businesses. The Plan Proponents
believe that the necessary financing for continued operations of the Debtors'
business in Chapter 11 can not be achieved without the support of the Debtors
and the Lenders, and the Joint Plan represents the better alternative.
Additionally, the Plan Proponents do not believe that an alternative plan under
Chapter 11 can meet the necessary requirements under 11 U.S.C. ss. 1129.

         THE PLAN PROPONENTS BELIEVE THAT CONFIRMATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF
THE JOINT PLAN IS PREFERABLE TO ANY OF THE

--------------
(5) The Lenders assert they hold a valid and perfected security interest in
the OEM Litigations. The Debtors, however, dispute this assertion.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            84
<PAGE>   93

ALTERNATIVES DESCRIBED HEREIN BECAUSE IT SHOULD PROVIDE GREATER RECOVERIES THAN
THOSE AVAILABLE IN LIQUIDATION TO THE HOLDERS OF UNSECURED CLAIMS WHO WOULD
LIKELY RECEIVE LESS IN AN IMMEDIATE LIQUIDATION. IN ADDITION, OTHER
ALTERNATIVES WOULD INVOLVE DELAY, UNCERTAINTY, AND SUBSTANTIAL ADMINISTRATIVE
COSTS.

                         ARTICLE XI. VOTING PROCEDURES

         ACCEPTANCE OR REJECTION OF THE JOINT PLAN WILL BE DETERMINED, PURSUANT
TO THE BANKRUPTCY CODE, BASED UPON THE ALLOWED CLAIMS AND ALLOWED INTERESTS
THAT ACTUALLY VOTE ON THE JOINT PLAN. THEREFORE, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT CLAIMANTS
EXERCISE THEIR RIGHT TO VOTE TO ACCEPT OR REJECT THE JOINT PLAN.

A.       CLASSES ENTITLED TO VOTE ON THE JOINT PLAN

         All members of Impaired Classes who hold Allowed Claims are entitled
to vote to accept or reject the Joint Plan. Section 1124 of the Bankruptcy Code
generally provides that a class of claims or interests is considered to be
Impaired under a plan unless the plan does not alter the legal, equitable and
contractual rights of the holders of such claims or interest. As discussed in
Discussion of the Joint Plan, for purposes of the Joint Plan solicitation all
of the Classes of Claims are impaired and therefore entitled to vote on the
Joint Plan. Interest Class 5 is deemed to have rejected the Joint Plan and is
therefore not entitled to vote on the Joint Plan.

B.       PERSONS ENTITLED TO VOTE ON THE JOINT PLAN

         Any holder of an Impaired or deemed Impaired Claim which is an Allowed
Claim against the Debtors on __________________, the Voting Record Date
established by the Bankruptcy Court, is entitled to vote to accept or reject
the Joint Plan, unless such Class has been deemed to reject the Joint Plan.

         For purposes of the Joint Plan, an Allowed Claim is a Claim against
the Debtors which (a) has been scheduled by the Debtors pursuant to the Code as
undisputed, noncontingent, and liquidated and as to which no objection has been
filed within the time allowed for the filing of objections, (b) as to which a
timely proof of claim or application for payment has been filed and as to which
no objection has been filed within the time allowed for filing of objections,
(c) has been Allowed by Final Order, or (d) has been Allowed under the Joint
Plan. Therefore, although the holders of Disputed Claims will receive ballots,
these votes will not be counted unless such Claims become Allowed Claims as
provided under the Joint Plan or are temporarily allowed for voting purposes by
the Court.

         THE CLAIMS IN CLASSES 1 THROUGH 3 ARE IMPAIRED UNDER THE JOINT PLAN
AND ARE ENTITLED TO VOTE WITH RESPECT TO ACCEPTANCE OR REJECTION OF THE JOINT
PLAN. SINCE HOLDERS OF INTERESTS IN CLASS 4


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            85
<PAGE>   94

WILL NOT RECEIVE ANYTHING UNDER THE JOINT PLAN, THEY ARE DEEMED TO HAVE
REJECTED THE JOINT PLAN AND ARE NOT ENTITLED TO VOTE.

C.       VOTE REQUIRED FOR CLASS ACCEPTANCE

         During the Confirmation Hearing, the Bankruptcy Court will determine
whether the Classes voting on the Joint Plan have accepted the Joint Plan by
determining whether sufficient acceptances have been received from the holders
of Allowed Claims actually voting in such Classes. A Class of Claims will be
determined to have accepted the Joint Plan if the holders of Allowed Claims in
the Class casting votes in favor of the Joint Plan (i) hold at least two-thirds
of the total amount of the Allowed Claims of the holders in such Class who
actually vote and (ii) constitute more than one-half in number of holders of
the Allowed Claims in such Class who actually vote on the Joint Plan. A Class
of Interests will be determined to have accepted the Joint Plan if the holders
of such Interests casting votes in favor of the Joint Plan hold at least
two-thirds of the amount of the Interests of such Class as to which votes are
cast.

         As a condition to Confirmation, the Bankruptcy Code requires that each
impaired Class of Claims or Interests accept the Joint Plan, subject to the
exception of ss. 1129(b) described herein. At least one impaired Class of
Claims must accept the Joint Plan.

D.       VOTING INSTRUCTIONS

         1.       BALLOTS AND VOTING

         Holders of Allowed Claims entitled to vote on the Joint Plan have been
sent a Ballot, together with instructions for voting, with this Disclosure
Statement. Claimants should read the Ballot carefully and follow the
instructions contained therein. In voting for or against the Joint Plan, please
use only the Ballot(s) that accompanies this Disclosure Statement.

         If you have Claims in more than one Class, you will receive multiple
Ballots. IF YOU RECEIVE MORE THAN ONE BALLOT, YOU SHOULD ASSUME THAT EACH
BALLOT IS FOR A SEPARATE CLAIM OR INTEREST AND SHOULD COMPLETE AND RETURN EACH
BALLOT.

         IF YOU ARE A MEMBER OF A CLASS ENTITLED TO VOTE ON THE JOINT PLAN AND
DID NOT RECEIVE A BALLOT FOR SUCH CLASS, OR IF YOUR BALLOT IS DAMAGED OR LOST,
OR IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS CONCERNING VOTING PROCEDURES, YOU SHOULD CONTACT
COUNSEL FOR THE DEBTORS:

                                FRANK J. WRIGHT
                                C. ASHLEY ELLIS
                          HANCE | SCARBOROUGH | WRIGHT
                             2900 RENAISSANCE TOWER
                                1201 ELM STREET
                              DALLAS, TEXAS 75270


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            86
<PAGE>   95

         BALLOTS OF CLAIMANTS THAT ARE SIGNED AND RETURNED, BUT NOT EXPRESSLY
VOTED EITHER FOR ACCEPTANCE OR REJECTION OF THE JOINT PLAN, SHALL BE COUNTED AS
BALLOTS FOR THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE JOINT PLAN IF PERMITTED BY THE BANKRUPTCY
COURT.

         2.       RETURNING BALLOTS AND VOTING DEADLINE

         You should complete and sign each Ballot that you receive and return
it in the pre-addressed envelope enclosed with each Ballot to the Tabulation
Agent, Lain Faulkner & Co., by the Voting Deadline (as hereinafter defined).
All Ballots will be tabulated by the Tabulation Agent.

         THE VOTING DEADLINE IS 4:00 P.M., CENTRAL STANDARD TIME, ON
_________________. IN ORDER TO BE COUNTED, BALLOTS MUST BE ACTUALLY RECEIVED BY
THE TABULATION AGENT ON OR BEFORE 4:00 P.M., CENTRAL STANDARD TIME, ON THE
VOTING DEADLINE AT THE ADDRESS SET FORTH IN THE BALLOT INSTRUCTIONS WHICH
ACCOMPANY THE ENCLOSED BALLOT. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT ALLOWED BY THE BANKRUPTCY
COURT, BALLOTS RECEIVED AFTER THE VOTING DEADLINE MAY NOT BE ACCEPTED OR USED
IN CONNECTION WITH THE PLAN PROPONENTS' REQUEST FOR CONFIRMATION OF THE JOINT
PLAN OR ANY MODIFICATION THEREOF.

         3.       INCOMPLETE OR IRREGULAR BALLOTS

         Ballots which fail to designate the Class to which they apply shall be
counted in the appropriate Class as determined by the Plan Proponents, subject
only to contrary determinations by the Bankruptcy Court.

         BALLOTS OF CLAIMANTS THAT ARE SIGNED AND RETURNED, BUT DO NOT INDICATE
A VOTE EITHER FOR ACCEPTANCE OR REJECTION OF THE JOINT PLAN SHALL BE COUNTED AS
BALLOTS FOR THE ACCEPTANCE OF THE JOINT PLAN IF PERMITTED BY THE BANKRUPTCY
COURT.

         4.       CHANGING VOTES

         Bankruptcy Rule 3018(a) permits a Claimant, for cause, to move the
Bankruptcy Court to permit such claimant to change or withdraw its acceptance
or rejection of a plan of reorganization.

E.       CONTESTED AND UNLIQUIDATED CLAIMS

         Contested Claims are not entitled to vote to accept or reject the
Joint Plan. If you are the holder of a Contested Claim, you may ask the
Bankruptcy Court pursuant to Bankruptcy Rule 3018 to have your Claim
temporarily Allowed for the purpose of voting.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            87
<PAGE>   96

F.       POSSIBLE RECLASSIFICATION OF CREDITORS AND INTEREST HOLDERS

         The Plan Proponents are required pursuant to ss. 1122 of the
Bankruptcy Code to place Claims and Interests into Classes that contain
substantially similar Claims or Interests. While the Plan Proponents believe
they have classified all Claims and Interests in compliance with ss. 1122, it
is possible that a Claimant or Interest holder may challenge the classification
of its Claim or Interest. If the Plan Proponents are required to reclassify any
Claims or Interests of any Claimants or Interest holders under the Joint Plan,
the Plan Proponents, to the extent permitted by the Bankruptcy Court, intend to
continue to use the acceptances received from such Claimants or Interest
holders pursuant to the solicitation of acceptances using this Disclosure
Statement for the purpose of obtaining the approval of the Class or Classes of
which such Claimants or Interest holders are ultimately deemed to be a member.
Any reclassification of Claimants or Interest holders should affect the Class
in which such Claimants or Interest holders were initially a member, or any
other Class under the Joint Plan, by changing the composition of such Class and
the required vote thereof for approval of the Joint Plan.

                     ARTICLE XII. MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS

A.       REQUEST FOR RELIEF UNDER SECTION 1129(B)

         In the event any Impaired Class of Claims shall fail to accept the
Joint Plan in accordance with ss. 1129(a) of the Bankruptcy Code, the Plan
Proponents shall request the Bankruptcy Court to confirm the Joint Plan in
accordance with the provisions of ss. 1129(b) of the Bankruptcy Code.

         The Court may confirm a plan, even if it is not accepted by all
impaired Classes, if the Joint Plan has been accepted by at least one impaired
Class of Claims and the Joint Plan meets the "cramdown" provisions set forth in
ss. 1129(b) of the Code. The "cramdown" provisions require that the Court find
that a plan "does not discriminate unfairly" and is "fair and equitable" with
respect to each non-accepting impaired Class. In the event that all impaired
Classes do not vote to accept the Joint Plan, the Debtors will request that the
Bankruptcy Court nonetheless confirm the Joint Plan pursuant to the provisions
of ss. 1129(b) of the Code.

         The Court may find that the Joint Plan is "fair and equitable" with
respect to a Class of non-accepting impaired Interests only if (a) the holder
of an Interest will receive or retain under the Joint Plan property of a value
as of the Joint Plan's Effective Date equal to the greatest of any fixed
liquidation preference or redemption price or the value of such Interest or (b)
the holder of any Interest that is junior to such Interest will not receive or
retain any property under the Joint Plan.

         The Court may find that the Joint Plan is "fair and equitable" with
respect to a Class of non-accepting impaired Unsecured Claims only if (a) each
impaired unsecured Creditor receives or retains under the Joint Plan property
of a value as of the Effective Date of such Joint Plan equal to the amount of
its Allowed Claim, or (b) the holder of any Claim or


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            88
<PAGE>   97


Interest that is junior to the Claims of the dissenting Class will not receive
or retain any property under the Joint Plan.

         The Court may find that the Joint Plan is "fair and equitable" with
respect to a Class of non-accepting Secured Claims, only if, under the Joint
Plan, (a) the holder of each Secured Claim in such Class retains such holder's
lien and receives deferred cash payments totaling at least the Allowed amount
of such Secured Claim and having a value, as of the Effective Date of the Joint
Plan, equal to or in excess of the value of such holder's interest in the
estate's interest in the collateral for the Secured Claim, (b) the collateral
for such Secured Claim is sold, the lien securing such Claims attached to the
proceeds, and such liens on proceeds are afforded the treatment described under
clause (a) or (c) of this sentence, or (c) the holders of such Secured Claims
realize the "indubitable equivalent" of their claims.

         If all of the provisions of section 1129 are met, the Court may enter
an order confirming the Joint Plan.

B.       THE JOINT PLAN IS CONFIRMABLE UNDER SS. 1129(B) OF THE BANKRUPTCY CODE

         The Joint Plan also meets the "best interest of creditors" test and is
"feasible". In addition, if any Class of Claims rejects the Joint Plan, the
Joint Plan can nevertheless be confirmed because it meets the "cramdown"
standard with respect to such Class.

         1.       THE JOINT PLAN MEETS THE "BEST INTEREST OF CREDITORS" TEST

         The "best interest of creditors" test requires that the Court find
that the Joint Plan provides to each non-accepting holder of a Claim or
Interest treated under the Joint Plan a recovery which has a present value at
least equal to the present value of the distribution that such person would
receive from the debtor if the debtor were liquidated under Chapter 7 of the
Code. An analysis of the likely recoveries and affect on Creditors in the event
of liquidation under Chapter 7 of the Code is contained herein at Article X.

         2.       THE JOINT PLAN IS FEASIBLE

         The Code requires that, as a condition to Confirmation of a plan, the
Court find that Confirmation is not likely to be followed by a liquidation or a
need for further financial reorganization except as proposed in that plan.
Richmont is financially able and willing to be the Purchaser contemplated under
the Joint Plan. Any other proposed purchaser will similarly have to demonstrate
such financial ability and a commitment to Nu-kote's reorganization efforts.
The Reorganized Debtors will benefit from the significant improvements in
business operations, the streamlined and refocused product lines already
achieved post-petition, and will undertake to meet the demands of the changing
industry. The combination of these elements and the reorganization contemplated
in the Joint Plan amply meets the feasibility requirements of the Bankruptcy
Code. For an extended discussion of the future operations of the Reorganized
Debtors, see Article VIII.B.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            89
<PAGE>   98

         3.       THE JOINT PLAN MEETS THE CRAMDOWN STANDARD WITH RESPECT TO
ANY IMPAIRED CLASS OF CLAIMS REJECTING THE JOINT PLAN

         In the event any impaired Class of Claims rejects the Joint Plan, the
Joint Plan can nevertheless be confirmed. The Joint Plan satisfies the
provisions for cramdown under ss.1129(b)(2) of the Code. Secured Creditors are
either retaining their liens and receiving the value of their interest in the
Debtors' property in deferred cash payments totaling the allowed amount of
their Claims, or receiving the indubitable equivalent of their Claims. Interest
Holders are not receiving or retaining any property under the Joint Plan on
account of their Interests. In the event an impaired Class rejects the Joint
Plan, the Joint Plan shall be deemed a motion for cramdown of such Class under
ss.1129(b)(2) of the Code.

C.       MODIFICATION

         The Joint Plan shall not be modified except upon the agreement of all
Plan Proponents, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.

D.       FURTHER ASSURANCES AND AUTHORIZATIONS

         Reorganized Debtors or their affiliates or the Trust or Litigation
Trust, if and to the extent necessary, shall seek such orders, judgments,
injunctions, and rulings that may be required to carry out further the
intentions and purposes, and to give full effect to the provisions, of the
Joint Plan.

E.       AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PLAN PROPONENTS

         This Joint Plan contemplates and provides for certain accommodations
and compromises between the Plan Proponents. If this Joint Plan is not
Confirmed, the Joint Plan shall not bind the Plan Proponents to the
accommodations and compromises contained in this Joint Plan.

                  ARTICLE XIII. SECURITIES LAW CONSIDERATIONS

         Under Section 1145(a) of the Bankruptcy Code, the distribution
pursuant to the Joint Plan of the Reorganized Holding Common Stock and the
issuance of notes pursuant to the Joint Plan, in the event of the occurrence of
a Trust Triggering Event, are exempt from registration under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended (the "SECURITIES ACT"), and applicable state securities
laws. Under Section 1145 of the Bankruptcy Code, the exercise of warrants will
also be exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act.
HOLDERS OF ALLOWED CLAIMS RECEIVING CERTAIN SECURITIES ISSUED UNDER THE JOINT
PLAN MAY BE DEEMED TO BE "AFFILIATES" AND, AS A RESULT, RESALES OF SUCH
SECURITIES WILL BE SUBJECT TO CERTAIN RESTRICTIONS.

         Section 1145(b) of the Bankruptcy Code defines a person or entity that
may be an "underwriter," and thus restricted in the resale of securities
received, as any person or entity that (i) purchases a Claim, including an
Administrative Claim, or Interest with a view


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            90
<PAGE>   99

towards distribution of any security received or to be received under a plan of
reorganization in exchange for such a Claim, Interest, or Administrative Claim,
(ii) offers to sell securities offered or sold under a plan of reorganization
for the holders of such securities, (iii) offers to buy securities offered for
sale under a plan of reorganization from the holders of such securities, if
such offer to buy is with a view towards distribution of such securities under
an agreement made either in connection with such plan, with the consummation of
such plan, or with the offer or sale of securities under such plan, or (iv) is
an "issuer" of the securities offered or sold under a plan of reorganization as
that term is defined in Section 2(11) of the Securities Act, with respect to
such securities. Under Section 2(11) of the Securities Act, an "issuer"
includes any person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by an
issuer, or any person under direct or indirect common control with an issuer.

         An "underwriter," as defined in Section 1145(b) of the Bankruptcy
Code, with respect to the securities issued under the Joint Plan received
pursuant to the Joint Plan would be required, in connection with any resale of
such securities, either to (i) have its securities to be sold registered under
the Securities Act or (ii) rely on an applicable exemption, if any, from
registration. The Securities and Exchange Commission has promulgated Rule 144
under the Securities Act to permit resales by affiliates of the issuer under
certain specified conditions, and if such conditions are satisfied, such
affiliates are not deemed to be statutory underwriters. Among such conditions
is the requirement that certain current information regarding the issuer be
publicly available. As discussed below, it is contemplated that, upon
confirmation of the Joint Plan, and, in the event of the occurrence of a Trust
Triggering Event, Reorganized Holding will register the Reorganized Holding
Common Stock pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
as amended (the "EXCHANGE ACT"). As a result of such registration, Reorganized
Holding will be required to file the information contemplated by Rule 144 with
the Securities and Exchange Commission, and therefore make it publicly
available. It is an integral part of the Joint Plan that Rule 144 be available
to any party deemed to be an affiliate of Reorganized Holding for purposes of
permitting resales of Reorganized Holding Common Stock in accordance with the
provisions of Rule 144.

         RECIPIENTS OF JOINT PLAN SECURITIES UNDER THE JOINT PLAN ARE ADVISED
TO CONSULT THEIR COUNSEL AS TO THEIR ABILITY TO RESELL, WITHOUT REGISTRATION,
THE SECURITIES THEY RECEIVE UNDER THE JOINT PLAN.

A.       REGISTRATION OF PLAN SECURITIES/REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

         RECIPIENTS OF SECURITIES UNDER THE JOINT PLAN ARE ADVISED TO CONSULT
THEIR COUNSEL AS TO THEIR REPORTING OBLIGATIONS, IF ANY, ARISING UPON THE
REGISTRATION BY REORGANIZED HOLDING.

                    ARTICLE XIV. CERTAIN FEDERAL INCOME TAX
                         CONSEQUENCES OF THE JOINT PLAN


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            91
<PAGE>   100

         The following discussion summarizes certain possible federal income
tax consequences of the Joint Plan to the Debtors, and to the holders of Claims
and Interests. It is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended
(the "Code"), Treasury Regulations, and administrative and judicial
interpretations thereof which are now in effect, but which could change, even
retroactively, at any time. This discussion does not address all aspects of
federal, state and local tax laws that could impact the various classes of
Claimants, the holders of Interests or the Debtors.

         The tax discussion below assumes (i) items treated by the Debtors as
their indebtedness would, if challenged, be characterized as debt for federal
income tax purposes; and (ii) all of the interest which has accrued on
obligations classified as debt by the Debtors was properly accrued and if
deducted, was properly deducted. In addition, the tax consequences of the Joint
Plan will be subject to final determination of tax attributes, such as net
operating loss ("NOL") carryovers and the basis in stock of the Debtors'
subsidiaries, which in turn could be affected by future adjustments made
pursuant to Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") audits of prior or future tax
returns of the Debtor and its subsidiaries. Other assumptions are stated
elsewhere in this discussion.

         NO RULING HAS BEEN SOUGHT OR OBTAINED FROM THE IRS WITH RESPECT TO ANY
OF THE TAX ASPECTS OF THE JOINT PLAN AND NO OPINION OF COUNSEL HAS BEEN
OBTAINED BY THE DEBTORS WITH RESPECT THERETO. NO REPRESENTATIONS OR ASSURANCES
ARE BEING MADE WITH RESPECT TO THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES AS DESCRIBED
HEREIN. CERTAIN TYPES OF CLAIMANTS AND INTEREST HOLDERS MAY BE SUBJECT TO
SPECIAL RULES NOT ADDRESSED IN THIS SUMMARY OF FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES.
FURTHER, STATE, LOCAL, OR FOREIGN TAX CONSIDERATIONS MAY APPLY TO A HOLDER OF A
CLAIM OR INTEREST WHICH ARE NOT ADDRESSED HEREIN. BECAUSE THE TAX CONSEQUENCES
OF THE JOINT PLAN ARE COMPLEX AND MAY VARY BASED ON INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES,
EACH HOLDER OF A CLAIM OR INTEREST AFFECTED BY THE JOINT PLAN MUST CONSULT, AND
RELY UPON, HIS OR HER OWN TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE SPECIFIC TAX CONSEQUENCES
OF THE JOINT PLAN WITH RESPECT TO THAT HOLDER'S CLAIM OR INTEREST. THIS
INFORMATION MAY NOT BE USED OR QUOTED IN WHOLE OR IN PART IN CONNECTION WITH
THE OFFERING FOR SALE OF SECURITIES.

A.       FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES IF THERE IS A SUCCESSFUL BIDDER.

         This section describes certain possible material federal income tax
consequences to the Debtors and holders of Claims and Interests under the Joint
Plan if a Successful Bidder is selected. As discussed in detail above, if a
Successful Bidder is selected, Claimants of the Debtors will receive cash,
notes, or a right to recovery in certain of the Litigation, or some combination
thereof, in satisfaction of their Claims.

         1.       TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THE DEBTORS.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            92
<PAGE>   101

         (A)      GAIN OR LOSS ON NON-CASH PAYMENTS. The Debtors will generally
                  recognize gain or loss on the transfer of any non-cash
                  property in satisfaction of Claims equal to the difference
                  between the fair market value of the property transferred and
                  the adjusted tax basis to the Debtors in such property.
                  However, the Debtors will not recognize gain or loss on the
                  issuance of their own stock or debt, except to the extent of
                  any discharge of indebtedness income, discussed below.

                           Provided that the transfer of the right to receive a
                  portion of the recovery in certain of the Litigation is
                  treated as the issuance of a contingent debt instrument by
                  the Debtors, the Debtors will not recognize gain or loss on
                  such transfer except to the extent of any discharge of
                  indebtedness income.

         (B)      DISCHARGE OF INDEBTEDNESS. As a general rule, the discharge
                  of all or a portion of a debt by its holder results in the
                  debtor's recognition of taxable income. Section 108 of the
                  Code sets forth certain exceptions to this general rule.
                  Section 108(e)(2) of the Code provides that a taxpayer does
                  not recognize income from the discharge of indebtedness to
                  the extent that satisfaction of the liability would have
                  given rise to a deduction. Section 108(a)(1)(A) of the Code
                  provides an exception to the required recognition of income
                  from the discharge of indebtedness when the discharge occurs
                  in a case under the Bankruptcy Code if the taxpayer is under
                  the jurisdiction of the court and the debt discharge is
                  granted by the court or is pursuant to a plan approved by the
                  court. If Section 108(a)(1)(A) of the Code applies to exclude
                  from gross income the discharged indebtedness, the "tax
                  attributes" of the taxpayer are reduced, unless the taxpayer
                  affirmatively elects to first reduce the tax bases of its
                  depreciable assets. Section 108(b) of the Code reduces tax
                  attributes in the following order: NOLs, general business
                  credit carryovers, minimum tax credits, capital loss
                  carryovers, basis of depreciable property and foreign tax
                  credit carryovers.

                           If the exceptions provided for in Section 108 of the
                  Code were inapplicable, the Debtors would recognize discharge
                  of indebtedness income with respect to any Allowed Claims
                  that are satisfied to the extent that the aggregate amount of
                  such satisfied Allowed Claims exceeds the amounts transferred
                  in satisfaction thereof, i.e., the sum of (i) the amount of
                  cash, (ii) the fair market value of the rights to recover in
                  certain of the Litigation and (iii) the issue price of the
                  notes received by holders of such Allowed Claims. The
                  exceptions provided for in Section 108 of the Code should
                  apply to exclude such discharge of indebtedness income from
                  the gross income of the Debtors, and instead require the
                  Debtors to reduce their tax attributes, as described above,
                  by such amount. However, if the amount of the discharge of
                  indebtedness exceeds the tax attributes of the Debtors, such
                  excess is nevertheless excluded from gross income and no
                  additional tax liability arises.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            93
<PAGE>   102

         (C)      LIMITATIONS ON NET OPERATING LOSSES. Section 382 of the Code
                  limits the ability of a corporation to utilize NOLs in
                  instances where the corporation's ownership has changed
                  significantly. As a general rule, if a shareholder or a group
                  of shareholders increases its ownership interest by more than
                  50 percentage points, during any three year period, in a
                  corporation which has an NOL, the amount of NOL carryovers
                  available for use by the corporation following such ownership
                  change is restricted.

                           In general, if an ownership change occurs, the
                  amount of income that can be offset by the NOL carryovers in
                  any one year is limited to the value of the corporation
                  immediately before the change multiplied by the long-term
                  tax-exempt interest rate established monthly by the federal
                  government (the "Annual Limitation"). Subject to the
                  limitations period on NOL carryovers, any available but
                  unused NOL carryover in a year is added to the amount
                  available for use in the next year. Any NOL incurred after
                  the date of an ownership change (other than an NOL resulting
                  from the realization of "net unrealized built-in loss," as
                  noted below) is not subject to the limitations of Section 382
                  of the Code.

                           Under the Joint Plan, all outstanding Interests
                  together with any options, rights or warrants to purchase
                  Interests will be canceled and the Successful Bidder will
                  acquire all of the common stock of Reorganized Holding.
                  Accordingly, an ownership change for purposes of Section 382
                  of the Code would occur. Therefore, the Debtors' right to
                  utilize its NOL (as determined after taking into account any
                  reduction of tax attributes required by the application of
                  Section 108) will be limited to the Annual Limitation. For
                  purposes of Section 382, the Debtors' NOL includes its "net
                  unrealized built-in loss." Generally speaking, the "net
                  unrealized built-in loss" is the excess of the Debtors'
                  adjusted bases in its assets over their fair market value on
                  the date of the ownership change.

                           However, under Section 382(h) of the Code, the
                  Annual Limitation does not apply to certain built-in gains of
                  the Debtors. It is the Debtors' opinion that the gain that is
                  realized from a positive recovery in the Litigation will be
                  able to be sheltered, to some degree, by the Debtors' NOL,
                  without the application of the limitations set forth in
                  Section 382 of the Code, due to the special rules for
                  built-in gains set forth in Section 382(h) of the Code.
                  However, the above issues are subject to examination by the
                  IRS and could be challenged in such an examination.

         2.       TAX CONSEQUENCES TO CREDITORS

         (A)      OVERVIEW. The federal income tax consequences of the
                  implementation of the Joint Plan to a holder of a Claim will
                  depend, among other things, on the origin of the holder's
                  Claim, when the holder's Claim becomes an Allowed Claim, when
                  the holder receives payment in respect of his Claim, whether


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            94
<PAGE>   103

                  the holder reports income using the accrual or cash method of
                  accounting, whether the holder has taken a bad debt deduction
                  or worthless security deduction with respect to his Claim,
                  and whether the holder's Claim constitutes a "security" for
                  federal income tax purposes.

         (B)      REALIZATION AND RECOGNITION OF GAIN OR LOSS IN GENERAL. Under
                  the Joint Plan if there is a Successful Bidder, a holder of
                  an Allowed Claim will receive cash, a note issued by
                  Reorganized Debtor, and/or a right to recovery in certain
                  Litigation. A holder of an Allowed Claim will generally
                  recognize gain or loss as the case may be upon receipt of
                  such cash in an amount equal to the difference between (i)
                  the amount realized by the holder in respect of its Claim and
                  (ii) the holder's adjusted tax basis in its Claim. The amount
                  realized by a holder in respect of his claim will generally
                  equal the amount of any cash, plus the issue price of any
                  note, and plus the fair market value of any other property
                  received by the holder. The character of any gain recognized,
                  whether capital or ordinary, must be determined by examining
                  the nature of the Allowed Claim in the hands of its holder.
                  However, even if the Allowed Claim was a capital asset in the
                  hands of an exchanging holder, and such gain would be
                  long-term capital gain if the holder's holding period for the
                  Allowed Claim surrendered exceeded one year at the time of
                  the exchange, the gain may be recharacterized as ordinary
                  income to the extent the gain is attributable to accrued but
                  unpaid interest or accrued market discount. Any loss
                  recognized by a holder of an Allowed Claim will be either an
                  ordinary loss or a capital loss, depending on the nature of
                  the Allowed Claim. The loss would be a capital loss if the
                  Claim constitutes a "security" for federal income tax
                  purposes. For this purpose, a "security" includes a debt
                  instrument with interest coupons or in registered form.
                  Otherwise, the loss is generally ordinary.

                           The extent to which gain or loss may be recognized
                  by a Claimant upon implementation of the Joint Plan may be
                  significantly affected by any bad debt deduction that may
                  have been taken by the Claimant in a prior year with respect
                  to the debt on which the Claim is based. If the Claimant took
                  a bad debt deduction in a prior year which is recovered in
                  whole or part through a payment made to the Claimant pursuant
                  to the Joint Plan, the Claimant will generally be required to
                  include in income the amount recovered in the year the
                  Claimant receives the payment. An exception to this rule
                  permits exclusion of a recovery of a prior bad debt deduction
                  to the extent that the earlier bad debt deduction did not
                  produce a tax benefit to the Claimant.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            95
<PAGE>   104

         3.       TAX CONSEQUENCES TO HOLDERS OF INTERESTS

         A holder of an Interest who does not receive consideration for his or
her Interest in the Joint Plan will generally be entitled to a deduction for
his or her loss under Section 165 of the Code. Section 165(g) of the Code
provides generally for capital loss treatment where any security, including
shares of stock in a corporation, becomes worthless during the taxable year.
The loss is generally equal to the holder's tax basis in his or her Interest.
Holders of Interests should contact their own tax advisors to determine if, and
to what extent, they might have tax basis in shares held.

B.       FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS IF THERE IS A TRUST TRIGGERING EVENT

         This section describes certain possible material federal income tax
consequences to the Debtors and holders of Claims and Interests under the Joint
Plan if there is a Trust Triggering Event. As discussed in detail above, upon a
Trust Triggering Event the Debtors will transfer the Trust shares to the Trust
and the Litigation to the Litigation Trust. Claimants will receive cash, notes,
interests in the Trust and Litigation Trust, or other property, or some
combination thereof, in satisfaction of their Claims.

         1.       FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THE DEBTORS

         (A)      GAIN OR LOSS ON NON-CASH PAYMENTS. The Debtors will generally
                  recognize gain or loss on the transfer of any non-cash
                  property in satisfaction of Claims equal to the difference
                  between the fair market value of the property transferred and
                  the adjusted tax basis to the Debtors in such property.
                  However, the Debtors will not recognize gain or loss on the
                  issuance of their own stock or debt, except to the extent of
                  any discharge of indebtedness income, discussed below.

                           The transfer of the Litigation to the Litigation
                  Trust will be a taxable transaction whereby the Debtors will
                  recognize gain or loss equal to the fair market value of the
                  Litigation less the Debtors' tax basis, if any, in the
                  Litigation. The Debtors may utilize their NOLs to offset any
                  gain recognized upon the transfer of the Litigation. The
                  determination of the fair market value of the Litigation is
                  factual in nature and the IRS may challenge the value of the
                  Litigation as determined by the Debtors.

                           The transfer of the Trust Shares to the Trust will
                  generally not result in the recognition by the Debtors of any
                  gain or loss, except to the extent of any discharge of
                  indebtedness, as discussed below.

         (B)      DISCHARGE OF INDEBTEDNESS. As a general rule, the discharge
                  of all or a portion of a debt by its holder results in the
                  debtor's recognition of taxable income. Section 108 of the
                  Code sets forth certain exceptions to this general rule.
                  Section 108(e)(2) of the Code provides that a taxpayer does
                  not recognize income from the discharge of indebtedness to
                  the extent that


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            96
<PAGE>   105

                  satisfaction of the liability would have given rise to a
                  deduction. Section 108(a)(1)(A) of the Code provides an
                  exception to the recognition of income from the discharge of
                  indebtedness when the discharge occurs in a case under the
                  Bankruptcy Code, if the taxpayer is under the jurisdiction of
                  the court and the debt discharge is granted by the court or
                  is pursuant to a plan approved by the court. If Section
                  108(a)(1)(A) of the Code applies to exclude from gross income
                  the discharged indebtedness, the "tax attributes" of the
                  taxpayer are reduced, unless the taxpayer affirmatively
                  elects to first reduce the tax bases of its depreciable
                  assets. Section 108(b) of the Code reduces tax attributes in
                  the following order: NOLs, general business credit
                  carryovers, minimum tax credits, capital loss carryovers,
                  basis of depreciable property and foreign tax credit
                  carryovers.

                           If the exceptions provided for in Section 108 of the
                  Code were inapplicable, the Debtors would recognize discharge
                  of indebtedness income with respect to any Allowed Claims
                  that are satisfied by the issuance of Trust Interests, Trust
                  Interests (Litigation), cash, notes or other property to the
                  extent that the aggregate amount of such satisfied Allowed
                  Claims exceeds the sum of (i) the amount of cash, (ii) the
                  fair market value of the Trust Interests, Trust Interests
                  (Litigation) and other property and (iii) the issue price of
                  the notes received by holders of such Allowed Claims. The
                  exceptions provided for in Section 108 of the Code should
                  apply to exclude such discharge of indebtedness from the
                  gross income of the Debtors, and instead require the Debtors
                  to reduce their tax attributes, as described above, by such
                  amount. However, if the amount of the discharge of
                  indebtedness exceeds the tax attributes of the Debtors, such
                  excess is nevertheless excluded from gross income and no
                  additional tax liability arises.

         (C)      LIMITATIONS ON NET OPERATING LOSSES. Section 382 of the Code
                  limits the ability of a corporation to utilize NOLs in
                  instances where the corporation's ownership has changed
                  significantly. As a general rule, if a shareholder or a group
                  of shareholders increases its ownership interest by more than
                  50 percentage points, during any three year period, in a
                  corporation which has an NOL, the amount of NOL carryovers
                  available for use by the corporation following such ownership
                  change is restricted.

                           In general, if an ownership change occurs, the
                  amount of income that can be offset by the NOL carryovers in
                  any one year is limited to the value of the corporation
                  immediately before the change multiplied by the long-term
                  tax-exempt interest rate established monthly by the federal
                  government (the "Annual Limitation"). Subject to the
                  limitations period on NOL carryovers, any available but
                  unused NOL carryover in a year is added to the amount
                  available for use in the next year. Any NOL incurred after
                  the date of an ownership change (other than an NOL resulting
                  from the realization of "net


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<PAGE>   106

                  unrealized built-in loss," as noted below) is not subject to
                  the limitations of Section 382 of the Code.

                           Under the Joint Plan, all outstanding Interests
                  together with any options, rights or warrants to purchase
                  Interests will be canceled and Reorganized Holding will issue
                  the Trust Shares to the Trust. Accordingly, an ownership
                  change for purposes of Section 382 would occur. Therefore,
                  the Debtors' right to utilize its NOL (as determined after
                  taking into account any reduction of tax attributes required
                  by the application of Section 108) will be limited to the
                  Annual Limitation. For purposes of Section 382, the Debtors'
                  NOL includes its "net unrealized built-in loss." Generally
                  speaking, the "net unrealized built-in loss" is the excess of
                  the Debtors' adjusted bases in its assets over their fair
                  market value on the date of the ownership change.

                           An alternative approach to the Annual Limitation is
                  available for certain corporations in bankruptcy. Under this
                  alternative (the "Attribute Reduction"), the amount of the
                  debtor corporation's NOL carryover which can be utilized in
                  any one year is not limited if such corporation is under the
                  jurisdiction of a court in a Title 11 case, and the
                  continuing shareholders and qualified creditors of the
                  corporation own immediately after the court approved
                  reorganization, stock of the corporation representing at
                  least 50% in value and voting power. Only those creditors who
                  have held the debt of the debtor corporation for at least 18
                  months or whose debt arose in the ordinary course of the
                  debtor's business are considered qualified creditors. The
                  Debtors have not determined whether this requirement will be
                  satisfied as of the Effective Date under the Joint Plan. The
                  Attribute Reduction approach is automatically applied unless
                  the debtor affirmatively elects for it not to apply. If the
                  Attribute Reduction applies and a second ownership change
                  occurs during the two-year period immediately following such
                  ownership change, then the Annual Limitation applies to
                  taxable years ending after such ownership change but before
                  the second ownership change and the debtor corporation's NOL
                  limitation is reduced to zero for any taxable year ending
                  after the second ownership change.

                           If the Attribute Reduction alternative is utilized,
                  however, the debtor corporation's NOL carryovers must be
                  reduced by an amount equal to the sum of:

                           (1)      the interest paid or accrued by the debtor
                                    corporation on indebtedness which was
                                    converted to stock in the year in which the
                                    court approved reorganization occurs; and

                           (2)      the interest paid or accrued by the debtor
                                    corporation on indebtedness which was
                                    converted to stock during the three years
                                    preceding the taxable year in which the
                                    court approved reorganization occurs.


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<PAGE>   107

                           If a debtor in bankruptcy elects not to have the
                  Attribute Reduction apply then, for purposes of calculating
                  the Annual Limitation, the value of the debtor corporation is
                  determined after the occurrence of the ownership change
                  rather than before, as required under the general rules
                  described above. Treasury Regulations provide that the value
                  of the debtor corporation for this purpose would be the
                  lesser of the value of the stock of the corporation
                  immediately after the ownership change or the value of the
                  corporation's assets (determined without regard to
                  liabilities) immediately before the ownership change. The
                  Debtors will not determine whether to make such election, if
                  available, until after the Effective Date.

         2.       TAX CONSEQUENCES TO CREDITORS

         (A)      OVERVIEW. The federal income tax consequences of the
                  implementation of the Joint Plan to a holder of a Claim will
                  depend on, among other things, the origin of the holder's
                  Claim, when the holder's Claim becomes an Allowed Claim, when
                  the holder receives payment in respect of his Claim, whether
                  the holder reports income using the accrual or cash method of
                  accounting, whether the holder has taken a bad debt deduction
                  or worthless security deduction with respect to his Claim,
                  and whether the holder's Claim constitutes a "security" for
                  federal income tax purposes.

         (B)      REALIZATION AND RECOGNITION OF GAIN OR LOSS IN GENERAL.
                  Generally, a holder of an Allowed Claim will recognize
                  income, gain or loss on the exchange under the Joint Plan of
                  his Allowed Claim for cash and other property in an amount
                  equal to the difference between (i) the sum of the amount of
                  any cash, the issue price of any notes, and the fair market
                  value on the date of the exchange of any other property
                  received by the holder (other than any consideration
                  attributable to accrued but unpaid interest on the Allowed
                  Claim), and (ii) the adjusted tax basis of the Allowed Claim
                  exchanged therefor. The character of any gain recognized,
                  whether capital or ordinary, must be determined by examining
                  the nature of the Allowed Claim in the hands of its holder.
                  However, if the Allowed Claim was a capital asset in the
                  hands of an exchanging holder, and such gain would be
                  long-term capital gain if the holder's holding period for the
                  Allowed Claim surrendered exceeded one year at the time of
                  the exchange, the gain may be recharacterized as ordinary
                  income to the extent the gain is attributable to accrued but
                  unpaid interest or accrued market discount. Any loss
                  recognized by a holder of an Allowed Claim will be either an
                  ordinary loss or a capital loss, depending on the nature of
                  the Allowed Claim. The loss would be a capital loss if the
                  Claim constitutes a "security" for federal income tax
                  purposes. For this purpose, a "security" includes a debt
                  instrument with interest coupons or in registered form.
                  Otherwise, the loss is generally ordinary.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE            99
<PAGE>   108

         (C)      CERTAIN TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE JOINT PLAN TO CREDITORS. The
                  Trust and the Litigation Trust will be treated as grantor
                  trusts for federal income tax purposes. Therefore, upon the
                  creation of the Trust and the Litigation Trust, each
                  beneficiary thereof will be treated as having received and as
                  owning an undivided interest in the assets of each respective
                  trust (i.e., the Trust Shares and the Litigation) in exchange
                  for surrendering all or a portion of such beneficiary's
                  Allowed Claim. The bases of each such beneficiary's interest
                  in the Trust Shares and the Litigation will be equal to their
                  fair market value as of the Effective Date. The determination
                  of the fair market value of an Allowed Claim holder's
                  beneficial interest in the assets of the Trust and the
                  Litigation Trust is factual in nature and the IRS may
                  challenge any such determination.

                           The holder of a Claim will generally recognize gain
                  or loss, if any, equal to the difference between the amount
                  realized (i.e., cash, issue price of any notes and fair
                  market value of the Trust Shares, Litigation and other
                  property received by the holder) in the exchange and the
                  holder's adjusted tax basis in the Claim. The character of
                  such gain or loss will depend on the nature of the Claim in
                  the hands of the holder. A holder of an Allowed Claim that
                  recognizes an ordinary loss upon the exchange of an Allowed
                  Claim for an interest in the Trust Shares must generally
                  recapture as ordinary income any gain realized on the
                  subsequent disposition of such Trust Shares to the extent of
                  such loss. The basis of any notes received by a holder of an
                  Allowed Claim will equal their issue price, and the basis of
                  any other property received will equal its fair market value.

                           Other tax consequences of the Joint Plan to the
                  holder of a Claim will depend on whether the holder reports
                  income on the accrual or cash basis method, and whether the
                  holder receives distributions under the Joint Plan in more
                  than one taxable year.

                           The extent to which gain or loss may be recognized
                  by a Claimant upon implementation of the Joint Plan may be
                  significantly affected by any bad debt deduction that may
                  have been taken by the Claimant in a prior year with respect
                  to the debt on which the Claim is based. If the Claimant took
                  a bad debt deduction in a prior year which is recovered in
                  whole or part through a payment made to the Claimant pursuant
                  to the Joint Plan, the Claimant will generally be required to
                  include in income the amount recovered in the year the
                  Claimant receives the payment. An exception to this rule
                  permits exclusion of a recovery of a prior bad debt deduction
                  to the extent that the earlier bad debt deduction did not
                  produce a tax benefit to the Claimant.

C.       CERTAIN TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE JOINT PLAN TO HOLDERS OF INTERESTS


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<PAGE>   109

         A holder of an Interest who does not receive consideration for his or
her Interest in the Joint Plan will generally be entitled to a deduction for
his or her loss under Section 165 of the Code. Section 165(g) of the Code
provides generally for capital loss treatment where any security, including
shares of stock in a corporation, becomes worthless during the taxable year.
The loss is generally equal to the holder's tax basis in his or her Interest.
Holders of Interests should contact their own tax advisors to determine if, and
to what extent, they might have tax basis in shares held.

         THE FOREGOING IS INTENDED TO BE A SUMMARY ONLY AND NOT A SUBSTITUTE
FOR CAREFUL TAX PLANNING OR CONSULTATION WITH A TAX ADVISOR. THE FEDERAL,
STATE, LOCAL, AND FOREIGN TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE JOINT PLAN ARE COMPLEX AND,
IN SOME CASES, UNCERTAIN. SUCH CONSEQUENCES MAY ALSO VARY BASED UPON THE
INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES OF EACH HOLDER OF A CLAIM OR INTEREST. ACCORDINGLY,
EACH HOLDER OF A CLAIM OR INTEREST IS STRONGLY URGED TO CONSULT WITH HIS OR HER
OWN TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, AND FOREIGN TAX
CONSEQUENCES OF THE JOINT PLAN.

                    ARTICLE XV. EFFECTIVE DATE TRANSACTIONS

         Prior to the Confirmation Hearing, a detailed list of the Effective
Date Transactions shall be filed with the Bankruptcy Court.

                    ARTICLE XVI. RESPONSES TO OBJECTIONS TO
                          PRIOR DISCLOSURE STATEMENTS

         On November 1, 1999, the Lenders and Creditors (the "CREDITOR
PROPONENTS") filed a disclosure statement in connection with their Third
Amended Plan of Reorganization (the "CREDITORS' DISCLOSURE STATEMENT") and on
November 2, 1999, the Debtors filed a disclosure statement in connection with
the First Amended Nu-kote/Baiocchi Plan of Reorganization (the "DEBTORS'
DISCLOSURE STATEMENT"). Various parties in interest have filed objections to
one or both of these disclosure statements and/or the disclosure statements
that preceded them. Certain of those objections have been resolved by agreement
between the Plan Proponents and the objecting party. Thus, this Article XVII
will reflect, in some cases, additional information that such objecting parties
asked to have included in this Disclosure Statement and the sections in which
such language may be found. In other cases in which the objections cannot be
addressed to the satisfaction of the objecting parties, this Article XVII will
disclose the existence and nature of such objections. The objections will be
addressed seriatim.

A.       RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS BY CANON

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE

         In Canon's objection to the Creditors' Disclosure Statement, Canon
correctly notes that "a disclosure statement should...contain all material
information relating to the risks


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           101
<PAGE>   110

posed to creditors and equity interest holders under the proposed plan of
reorganization." In re Cardinal Congregate I, 121 B.R. 760 (Bankr. S.D. Ohio
1990). However, Canon fails to include the fact that courts have held that a
disclosure statement should include the factors and pertinent information
presently known to the plan proponents. In re Ligon, 50 B.R. 127 (Bankr. M.D.
Tenn. 1985); Cardinal Congregate One, 121 B.R. 760 (S.D. Ohio 1990); In re
Microwave Prods. of America, Inc., 100 B.R. 376 (Bankr. W.D. Tenn. 1989).
Moreover, conclusory allegations and opinions are insufficient for purposed of
adequate information pursuant to section 1125(a). In re Ligon, 50 B.R. at 130.

         Many of Canon's objections are about issues which have not been
determined at this time. Accordingly, it is impossible for the Plan Proponents
to include more detailed information about issues which are unknown to the Plan
Proponents. For example, Canon requests additional information concerning the
manner in which the litigation trust would resolve the Canon litigation and
disclosure of exactly what rights and obligations are being transferred to the
litigation trust. Whether Canon's claims will be liquidated in the claims
objection process in the Bankruptcy Court, estimated by the Bankruptcy Court
for confirmation purposes, whether relief from the stay will be sought, or some
combination of the above will be employed through a bifurcated procedure is not
known nor required to be known at this time. With regards to the litigation to
be transferred to the Litigation Trust, the disclosure statement has been
amended at page 61 to list the litigation which will be transferred to the
Litigation Trust.

         With regards to Canon's request for fuller disclosure concerning
operation of the Litigation Trust, the Plan Proponents intend to send a copy of
the Litigation Trust to Canon prior to the Plan Confirmation hearing.

         In addition, Canon requested disclosure of whether and to what extent
Nu-kote's insurers are responsible for the satisfaction of the OEM's claim. The
Plan Proponents assert that such a disclosure is not necessary for approval of
the Disclosure Statement as the standard is adequate information such that a
reasonable investor may make an informed decision about the plan.

         Canon also requested confirmation that Plan Proponents were not
attempting to eliminate Canon's rights and defenses (including rights of setoff
and recoupment), disclosure of whether the post-confirmation business
activities of the reorganized entity will include infringing activities, and
confirmation that the post-confirmation injunctive power will not be utilized
to hamper Canon's ability to protect its intellectual property in the event the
reorganized Debtor engages in post-confirmation infringing activities. The
Disclosure Statement has been amended to state that all litigation transferred
to the Litigation Trust is subject to rights of setoff and recoupment under the
Bankruptcy Code. Concerning any post-confirmation infringement, the Plan
Proponents have been assured by the Debtors that no post-bankruptcy infringing
has occurred. In addition, the Plan Proponents have no intention of the
Reorganized Debtors infringing on any of Canon's patents, trademarks, etc.
Finally, the Plan Proponents inform Canon that section 524(a) of the Bankruptcy
Code has no post-confirmation effect. Accordingly, the section 524(a)
injunction would not preclude Canon from protecting its intellectual property
post-confirmation.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           102
<PAGE>   111


         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         Canon objected to the Debtors' Disclosure Statement saying that it
failed to describe adequately the differences between the three cases which
comprise the OEM Litigation, and that creditors need more information to
understand more fully the "unique nature" of these claims. As stated below in
response to a similar objection by Epson, the Debtors refute the notion that a
prolonged discussion of the history of each of the OEM Litigation cases is
necessary to provide adequate information about the OEM Litigation. The claims
asserted against International in the OEM Litigation by Canon, HP and Epson are
indeed similar in design, and the Debtors dispute the idea that a
cross-comparison of the claims asserted by each of the OEMs would be useful to
a creditor in deciding whether to vote to accept the Joint Plan, or is even
relevant. The descriptions of the OEM Litigation cases in the Disclosure
Statement include a synopsis of the several different claims and counterclaims
asserted and the progress made in each case. The Debtors maintain that these
descriptions are more than adequate to describe the nature, extent and
importance of the OEM Litigation. Further, the Plan Proponents have now
requested any language Canon would like inserted into the Disclosure Statement
in an effort to resolve this objection.

         Canon's next concern centers around the alleged lack of information
concerning the procedures the Debtors will employ to liquidate the claims Canon
has filed. Canon has not moved to lift the automatic stay to allow the Canon
Litigation to proceed. Canon has, however, filed proofs of claim in this
bankruptcy case, asserting administrative claim priority to at least some
portion of its claims as filed. Canon apparently desires a definitive answer as
to the mechanics of the liquidation of its particular claims. This definitive
answer is not, however, known or necessary at this pre-confirmation stage of
the proceedings. Settlement of the Canon Litigation in its entirety is a
possibility that will be explored. Alternatively, whether Canon's claims will
be liquidated in the claims objection process as set forth in the Joint Plan in
the Bankruptcy Court, estimated by the Bankruptcy Court for confirmation
purposes, whether Canon or the Debtors will deem it prudent to move for relief
from the automatic stay to proceed with the Canon Litigation to liquidate the
claims, or some combination of the above will be employed through a bifurcated
procedure is not known nor required to be known at this time. This Disclosure
Statement, as well as the procedural and substantive provisions in the
Bankruptcy Code itself, adequately delineate these several alternatives.
Adequate information as to the alternate procedures by which Canon's asserted
claim could be liquidated is provided. Finally, the Debtors are mindful of the
provisions of ss. 553 of the Bankruptcy Code regarding setoff, and will comply
with same to the extent applicable in resolution of the claims asserted by
Canon. In further response to Canon's allegation that the foregoing statement
is "ambiguous, "the Debtors' add that to the extent that section is
applicable, the Debtors' "obligations under ss. 553" are established by the
Bankruptcy Code and do not need to be further "qualified" by the Debtors; the
Debtors are aware of same and will comply with same.

B.       RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS BY EPSON


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<PAGE>   112

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE

         Among other things, Epson argues that the Creditors' Disclosure
Statement failed to adequately deal with administrative claims and what Epson
believes to be the likely administrative insolvency of the Debtors' estates.
The Creditor Proponents disagree with this contention at this time. Epson also
objects to the failure of the Creditors' Disclosure Statement to describe the
administrative claim (which Epson estimates at $7 million) that Epson is
asserting in this case. The Creditor Proponents believe that at this point it
is not practical to list and quantify each potential administrative claim.
Epson further alleges that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement failed to
address where, how, and when Epson's claims would be adjudicated. Whether
Epson's claims will be liquidated in the claims objection process in the
Bankruptcy Court, estimated by the Bankruptcy Court for confirmation purposes,
whether relief from the stay will be sought, or some combination of the above
employed through a bifurcated procedure is not required to be known at this
time. Further, this is a confirmation issue relating to the adequacy of the
terms of the Creditors' Plan itself, and such an issue should be resolved at
the Confirmation Hearing.

         Moreover, Epson objects that the description of the OEM Litigation in
the Creditors' Disclosure Statement was not full, objective, and current. The
detail required to be provided in a disclosure statement is only such detail as
is necessary for a hypothetical creditor to make an informed decision whether
to vote to accept a proposed plan of reorganization. The level of detail
suggested as required by Epson not only far exceeds the accepted standard for
adequate information, but also would serve to confuse the hypothetical
creditor. The descriptions of the OEM Litigation cases in the Disclosure
Statement include a synopsis of the several different claims and counterclaims
asserted and the progress made in each case. The Plan Proponents maintain that
these descriptions are more than adequate to describe the nature, extent and
importance of the OEM Litigation. Moreover, the Creditor Proponents assert that
much of the issues raised by Epson will be resolved by way of litigation and it
is inappropriate to prejudge issues which may require additional litigation in
the content of a disclosure statement. However, as an additional response to
Epson's objection, the Plan Proponents included Epson's language in a footnote
in the moot recent Disclosure Statement.

         Epson also objects that the Creditor Proponents have not provided a
copy of the Litigation Trust Agreement to Epson and that the Creditors'
Disclosure Statement failed to discuss what would happen if any or all of the
OEM Litigation is resolved unfavorably from the Debtors' perspective. Epson
believes that the risk and consequences of such a result need to be disclosed.
The Plan Proponents intend to forward Epson a copy of the Litigation Trust
prior to Plan Confirmation. Moreover, the risks of an unfavorable result in the
remaining OEM Litigation are disclosed and the consequence is obviously that
the amount available to creditors would be reduced.

         Epson further objects that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement failed
to address the reorganized Debtors' future operations. Epson believes that such
information is necessary to enable claimants to determine the feasibility of
the Creditors' Plan. In particular, Epson


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           104
<PAGE>   113

believes that further disclosure is necessary with respect to the formation of
an ink jet subsidiary under the Creditors' Plan. Epson believes that the
purpose of the creation of such a subsidiary needs to be disclosed, and that
the assets that will be directed into that subsidiary need to be identified.
Moreover, Epson believes that to the extent the reorganized Debtors' business
will be carried on by legally separate entities, any financial projections need
to be broken down by entity, and that the Creditor Proponents need to disclose
what the Lenders intend to do as the new shareholders of the reorganized
Debtors. The Creditor Proponents are unable to respond to this request with
specific numbers because they are not known at this time. See In re Ligon, 50
B.R. 127 (M.D. Tenn 1985; Cardinal Congregate One, 121 B.R. 760 (S.D. Ohio
1990); In re Microwave Prods. of America, 100 B.R. 376 (W.D. Tenn. 1989)
(stating that the Disclosure Statement should contain information presently
known to Plan Proponents.) The Creditor Proponents point Epson to the
discussion of the Debtors' business, supra. Moreover, Epson believes even
though PPAG was sold, the Creditor Proponents must disclose the reorganized
Debtors' post-sale supply source. The Plan Proponents respond by noting that,
at this time, the post-sale supply source is not known.

         Epson also believes that further disclosure regarding potential claims
against the Debtors' management and professionals, including its attorneys, is
necessary. The potential Officer and Director's Claim is discussed at Article
V.J.62. Such a discussion is adequate to enable a reasonable investor to make
an informed decision about the Plan.

         Epson further objects to the Plan Proponents' disclaimers with regard
to the financial information listed in the Disclosure Statement. Such
disclaimers do not effect the ability of the parties to make an informed
judgment about the Plan.

         Also, Epson alleges that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement failed to
adequately discuss the "effective date financing" for administrative expenses
under the Creditors' Plan. According to Epson, the Lender, the term of such
financing, the proposed collateral, and the maximum amount of such financing,
etc., must be disclosed. The Plan Proponents respond by noting that no
agreements regarding effective date financing have been entered into by Plan
Proponents and any lenders. The inclusion of possible lenders would be improper
as they would include opinions and not facts. See Ligon, 50 B.R. at 130. Epson
further objects to the requirement that as a condition to Confirmation, all
Administrative and Priority Claims shall not exceed $3,000,000.00. The Plan
Proponents respond by noting that the $3,000,000.00 cap can be increased by
Plan Proponents. Moreover, a Motion for Administrative Bar Date has been filed.
This will assist in the estimation of amounts of administrative claims. The
remaining objections are confirmation issues and should be addressed at
Confirmation. Specifically, Epson raises issues relating to the classification
of claims under the Creditors' Plan and the absolute priority rule.

         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         Epson objected to the Debtors' Disclosure Statement by asserting the
"likely administrative insolvency" of these estates. The Debtors dispute
Epson's contention and believe that same is not well-founded. Epson also
claimed that with regard to treatment


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<PAGE>   114

of Allowed Administrative Claims, the Debtors' Disclosure Statement and prior
proposed plan were inconsistent. The Debtors do not believe that there is any
inconsistency between the provisions of the Joint Plan and the provisions of
this Disclosure Statement related thereto. The Joint Plan's Allowed
Administrative Claim limitation is mirrored in the Disclosure Statement.

         Epson also asserted that portions of the Debtors' Disclosure Statement
were objectionable due to lack of disclosure of potential administrative
claims. The Debtors believe that they are not required to, nor would it be
possible to at this juncture, quantify and list each potential administrative
claim that may be asserted against the estate. The Court has now established
December 15, 1999 as the date by which all requests for payment of an
administrative claim, calculated through September 30, 1999 must be filed, thus
some degree of certainty as to the amount of asserted administrative claims
will be had. Further, the Debtors maintain that the specific $3 million
limitation on Allowed Administrative Claims and Priority Claims, unless waived
or altered by the Successful Bidder is designed to and does provide assurance
of the nature of the obligations to which the Successful Bidder under the Joint
Plan will be bound, and that same is adequate disclosure of the obligations of
the Successful Bidder. Finally, Epson alleges that the payments due under the
Retention Agreements and the "lawyers', accountants', brokers', and other
professionals' fees alone will exceed $1 million" and that the Joint Plan is
therefore administratively insolvent. The Debtors would point out that the
limitation on Allowed Administrative Claims, which includes such Fee Claims,
has now been increased to $3 million. The Joint Plan is neither
administratively insolvent nor unconfirmable on its face.

         Epson also objected to the Debtors' Disclosure Statement by saying
that the Debtors failed to describe adequately the Epson Litigation and the
other cases which comprise the OEM Litigation. The Debtors refute the notion
that a prolonged discussion of the history of each of the OEM Litigation cases
is necessary to provide adequate information about the OEM Litigation. The
detail required to be provided in a disclosure statement is only such detail as
is necessary for a hypothetical creditor to make an informed decision whether
to vote to accept a proposed plan of reorganization. The level of detail
suggested as required by Epson not only far exceeds the accepted standard for
adequate information, but also, the Debtors maintain, would serve not to
elucidate, but instead to confuse the hypothetical creditor. The descriptions
of the OEM Litigation cases in the Disclosure Statement include a synopsis of
the several different claims and counterclaims asserted and the progress made
in each case. A disclosure statement is not the appropriate venue to tout one's
past litigation successes or set forth litigation strategy. The Debtors
maintain that these descriptions are more than adequate to describe the nature,
extent and importance of the OEM Litigation.

         As a means of addressing Epson's objection, however, the Debtors have
incorporated numerous portions of the text of Epson's objection describing the
Epson Litigation in response to Epson's objection and as a statement of Epson's
position on the status of the Epson Litigation above at Article E(i).


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<PAGE>   115

         Epson next objected to the Debtors' Disclosure Statement claiming that
it failed to address the Reorganized Debtor's future operations. For an
extended discussion of this topic, the Debtors' would refer to Article H(b) of
the Disclosure Statement. These several pages discuss the future of the
marketplace, the Reorganized Debtors' place in that marketplace, sales and
marketing strategies and projections of future financial performance. Further,
the corporate structure of the Reorganized Debtors if Richmont is the
Successful Bidder is discussed in detail in the Joint Plan.

         In response to Epson's objection to classification of creditors, the
Debtors assert that the classification scheme established under the Joint Plan
is appropriate pursuant to ss. 1122 of the Bankruptcy Code. In any event, these
objections raised by Epson are more properly raised as confirmation objections.
Epson does not object to the level of detail in the information provided on
classification, only to the classification itself.

         Epson's statements that "management will be the initial `Purchaser'
 ... at the auction for the stock of the Reorganized Debtors and will be the
sole arbiter of the winning bid" are in contradiction to the express provisions
of the Joint Plan. The Joint Plan specifically states that Conway, Del Genio,
Gries & Co., L.L.P. has been employed as the contemplated investment banker and
the process of soliciting the Successful Bidder is ongoing. For a detailed
discussion of the bidding procedure, see Article I(c)(1). Additionally,
contemporaneously with the filing of this Disclosure Statement, the Plan
Proponents have filed a "Joint Motion for Approval of Compromise and Settlement
by and Among the Debtors, The Lenders and the Committees" which further sets
forth and explains the bidding procedure.

         Finally, the fact that the Lenders previously served a Notice of Claim
asserting alleged causes of action against the officers and directors of
Nu-kote is disclosed herein.

C.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS BY HEWLETT-PACKARD

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE

         Hewlett-Packard objects to the Creditors' Disclosure Statement's
discussion of the HP Litigation. Given that the jury in the HP Litigation has
rendered its verdict, the objection by HP is largely moot. Nonetheless, the
Disclosure Statement contains a revised and updated description of such
litigation and its outcome.

         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         Hewlett-Packard's objections to the Debtors' Disclosure Statement
generally consisted of objections regarding the adequacy and accuracy of the
description by the Debtors of the litigation between HP and Nu-kote. Given that
the jury in the HP Litigation has rendered its verdict, the objection by HP is
moot. The Disclosure Statement does, however, contain a revised description of
the HP Litigation and its outcome. Any further description or discussion of the
HP Litigation is unnecessary as a settlement, subject to approval of the
Bankruptcy Court, has been reached with HP.


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<PAGE>   116

D.       RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS BY WAUSAU

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE

         Employers Insurance of Wausau ("WAUSAU") objects first to the
Creditors' Disclosure Statement's failure to adequately describe what, if any,
treatment is proposed with respect to rights of subrogation asserted by Wausau
to be held by Wausau and Chubb. Wausau contends that its rights of subrogation
arise as a matter of law by reason of payments made by Wausau under the policy
prior to the filing of the bankruptcy proceeding as well as pursuant to the
Wausau Agreement. Wausau, moreover, believes that further disclosure is
necessary regarding Wausau's rights of subrogation under the American
International Specialty Lines ("AISL") policy for which Wausau had funded
sufficient monies prior to the filing of the bankruptcy to exhaust the full
amount of the policy.

         The Creditor Proponents' response is that nothing in the Creditors'
Plan does or is intended to effect Wausau's subrogation rights, if any. Such
clarification is stated in the Third Amended Creditors' Plan. Wausau contends
that the Creditors' Plan cannot be confirmed without the consent of Wausau.
Wausau believes that this perceived shortcoming of the Creditors' Plan needs to
be disclosed to those voting on the Creditors' Plan. Such allegation is
disclosed by the insertion of Wausau's objection herein.

         Wausau's objection also argues that the Creditors' Plan is not
confirmable. The Creditor Proponents will not specifically address this
argument and note that this is a confirmation issue and, thus, is better
addressed at Confirmation.

         Wausau further objects that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement failed
to adequately describe the probable recoveries to the various classes of
creditors, and that the liquidation analysis is inadequate. Creditor Proponents
disagree. The Disclosure Statement discloses as much information about
recoveries in the OEM Litigation as can be reasonably disclosed. Moreover,
Wausau objected that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement should be amended to
discuss whether the Creditor Proponents intend to reject the Wausau agreement
and to discuss the size and classification of any damage claim arising from
such a rejection, if rejection is anticipated. The Plan Proponents do not
believe such agreements are executory and therefore no assumption or rejection
is necessary.

         Wausau further objected to the Creditors' Disclosure Statement because
Wausau did not receive a copy of the Litigation Trust Agreement, and because
the Disclosure Statement did not provide names or information concerning the
identity or experience of (1) the Litigation Trustee, (2) the Litigation
Advisory Committee, or (3) the directors, officers, or other management of
Reorganized Holding, and did not adequately disclose how the litigation trustee
or his successor would be selected. The Creditor Proponents intend to provide a
copy of the Litigation Trust to Wausau prior to the Plan Confirmation hearing.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           108
<PAGE>   117

         Wausau further objects to the Creditors' Disclosure Statement's
discussion regarding judgment reduction and offsets and to the Creditors'
Disclosure Statement's discussion of the permanent injunction. The Creditor
Proponents address this issue in their Amended Plan.

         Wausau also objected that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement did not
disclose Wausau's contention that the Debtors' rights under the Chubb Agreement
and the Chubb Order cannot be transferred to the Litigation Trust without the
Litigation Trust also assuming the obligations to Wausau under the Chubb
Agreement and the Chubb Order. Such language has been included in the Amended
Disclosure Statement.

         Wausau also objects that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement failed to
adequately disclose the amount of taxes that would be triggered by the transfer
of assets to the Litigation Trust and further failed to disclose whether the
Bankruptcy Court would be asked to resolve this issue, whether that issue would
be resolved at confirmation, and whether these taxes would be incurred in a
Chapter 7 liquidation if there were no Litigation Trust. The Creditor
Proponents respond by noting that the Disclosure Statement at Article XIV
discusses various tax considerations. Such disclosure is sufficient for a
reasonable investor to make an informed judgment. See 11 U.S.C. ss. 1125.

         Wausau also asserted that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement was
deficient in the following respects:

         (a)      the Creditors' Disclosure Statement did not describe how the
                  future defense of the Canon and Epson litigation would be
                  funded;

         (b)      the Creditors' Disclosure Statement did not describe the
                  existence or status of the litigation between the Lenders and
                  the Debtors regarding the Lenders' claimed security interest
                  and proceeds of the OEM Litigation;

         (c)      the Creditors' Disclosure Statement does not disclose
                  Wausau's contention that any interest of the Lenders in the
                  AISL policy is subordinated to the subrogation rights of
                  Wausau;

         (d)      the Creditors' Disclosure Statement did not disclose
                  standards for settlement and mechanisms to avoid potential
                  conflict of interest with respect to the exercise of control
                  by the Lenders over the Litigation Trust or the Litigation
                  Advisory Board, which would have authority to compromise the
                  Debtors' preference, fraudulent conveyance, or equitable
                  subordination claims against the Lenders or other parties;
                  and

         (e)      the Creditors' Disclosure Statement did not disclose the
                  reason for the releases of the Creditor Proponents, or the
                  consideration being paid for the release of such claims.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           109
<PAGE>   118

         The Creditor Proponents respond to these objections by noting that
most, if not all, of such objections have been addressed in either the
Creditors' Third Amended Plan or the Amended Disclosure Statement. The Plan
Proponents assert that no further response is needed with relation to the
objections.

         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         Wausau's objections to the initial Debtors' disclosure statement
generally related to its subrogation rights. Wausau has expressed concern that
a plan somehow affects its subrogation rights against recovery of attorneys
fees in the OEM Litigation and against American International Specialty Lines
on its insurance policy. In response, Nu-kote states that nothing in the Joint
Plan does or is intended to affect Wausau's subrogation rights, if any. Nu-kote
would note that the Chubb Agreement, which was approved by the Court,
specifically provides for Wausau and Chubb to retain their rights to any
recoveries of attorneys fees in connection with the HP Litigation. The payment
of attorneys' fees and costs would include any valid subrogation claims.

         Subrogation rights, in the context of an insurer, permit the insurer
to "stand in the shoes" of its insured. See Reliance National Indemnity Co., v.
General Star Indemnity Co., 72 Cal.App.4th 1063, 1078 85 Cal. Rptr.2d 627, 635
(1999). The insurer is basically in the same position as "an assignee of the
insured's claim, and succeeds only to the rights of the insured." Id. This
concept of subrogation is memorialized in the Wausau Commercial Liability
Policy. In its Objection, Wausau cites case law for the proposition that
"equitable subrogation rights are superior in priority to perfected bank liens,
even in the absence of UCC filing." The Debtors submit that Wausau's
subornation rights, to the extent valid and existing, do not give rise to a
Secured Claim by Wausau within the meaning of the Bankruptcy Code.

         Subrogation does not include or encompass the phrase "equitable
contribution." In fact, equitable contribution exists independently of the
rights of the insured. Id. "Equitable contribution permits reimbursement to the
insurer that paid on the loss for the excess it paid over its proportionate
share of the obligation, on the theory that the debt it paid was equally and
concurrently owed by the other insurers and should be shared by them pro rata
in proportion to their respective coverage of the risk." Id. Wausau and Chubb
are obligated to indemnify or defend the same loss or claim, and as such, may
well have independent rights against each other for equitable contribution.
State Farm Fire and Casualty v. Cooperative of American Physicians, Inc., 163
Cal.App.3d 199, 205, 209 Cal.Rptr. 251, 252 (1984). The Joint Plan and this
Disclosure Statement can do nothing to impact those rights.

         Wausau further objects that Nu-kote failed adequately to disclose the
probable recoveries to Creditors. Nu-kote disagrees. The Disclosure Statement
discloses as much information about recoveries on the OEM Litigation as can
reasonably be disclosed considering the confidential nature of such
information.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           110
<PAGE>   119

         Wausau further objects that the Disclosure Statement does not disclose
whether or not Nu-kote intends to assume or reject the pre-petition agreements
with Wausau. The Debtors do not believe these agreements are executory and
therefore no assumption/rejection is necessary.

         Wausau further objected to the failure of the Debtors to disclose the
purchase price to be paid potentially by Richmont if Richmont is the Successful
Bidder for the stock of the Reorganized Holding. The price to be paid by
Richmont if Richmont is the Successful Bidder is disclosed in the Joint Plan as
$21,150,000, plus up to $3,000,000, or such other amount as Richmont may agree,
for payment of Allowed Administrative Claims, plus the cost associated with
satisfaction of the Other Secured Claims in Class 2 of the Joint Plan, if any.
If Richmont is not the Successful Bidder, the winning bid will be determined by
the Bidding Procedure detailed in the Joint Plan and in this Disclosure
Statement. Based on Nu-kote's analysis of the value of the assets being
purchased in connection with the stock, the liquidation analysis prepared by
the Lenders and Nu-kote's analysis of the administrative and priority claims,
Nu-kote believes that the purchase price will be in the range of $23-25
million.

         Wausau further objected that the Debtors' Disclosure Statement
inaccurately indicated that Wausau's claims are against Holding instead of
International. Such clerical error has been corrected.

E.       RESPONSE TO THE OBJECTION AND COMMENTS BY THE SEC

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE

         The SEC raised several points. In response, the Creditor Proponents
state first that no warrants are being issued pursuant to the Creditors' Plan.
Additionally, the Disclosure Statement now states that "the availability of
Rule 144 to parties deemed affiliates of Reorganized Holding is dependent on
compliance with the conditions set forth in Rule 144 by each person seeking to
avail himself or herself of the protection set forth in Rule 144." Moreover,
the Disclosure Statement, after deletion of a sentence, now unambiguously
discloses that Interest Holders will receive no distributions under the
Creditors' Plan, and the introductory portion of the Disclosure Statement now
states that holders of equity interests are deemed to have rejected each of the
Competing Plans (by virtue of the cancellation of their interests under each
plan) and are therefore not permitted to vote on either of the Competing Plans.
Article IX, Section I.8(g) reflects a clarification that Allowed Unsecured
Class 4 and 5 Claims are the beneficiaries of the Litigation Trust.

         The SEC also expresses a concern regarding the applicability of
securities laws to the interests in the Litigation Trust. Because the interests
in the Litigation Trust are not represented by certificates, the Creditor
Proponents believe that there is no need for registration under the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934.

         The SEC also identified a number of additional items that it believed
to be necessary to enable the Creditors' Disclosure Statement to provide the
requisite adequate information:


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           111
<PAGE>   120

         (a)      summary information for each class of claimants, including
                  the number of claimants in the class, the amount of claims of
                  each class, and the distributions to be received by each
                  class;

         (b)      the valuation evidence that the Creditor Proponents intend to
                  offer at the confirmation hearing to show the zero value of
                  shareholder interests for purposes of cramdown;

         (c)      an indication of whether the Creditor Proponents have
                  prepared a valuation of the Debtors' on a going-concern
                  basis; and

         (d)      further disclosure of significant risk factors attendant to
                  the Creditors' Plan, including any risk factors associated
                  with the OEM Litigation.

         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         While not filing a formal objection to the Debtors' Disclosure
Statement, the SEC has expressed concern over the adequacy of disclosures of
current or prior relationships and transactions between Richmont or its control
persons and the Debtors. Nu-kote believes that adequate disclosure has been
given as to Richmont's stock ownership and its officers' positions as directors
of Holding. Richmont has not engaged in any other transactions with the Debtors
other than that Richmont has provided Patrick E. Howard to the Debtors as their
CEO at no cost to the Debtors.

         The SEC further questioned the adequacy of the information in the
Debtors' initial disclosure statement regarding the terms of the proposed sale
and the method by which the sale will be determined to be fair and reasonable.
If Richmont is the Purchaser, the terms of the sale are all cash at closing.
The means of determining that the purchase price is fair and reasonable is
four-fold: (1) the Debtors have employed an investment banker (Conway, Del
Genio, Gries) to market actively the Company to determine if there are any
higher and better offers; (2) the Debtors' period of exclusivity has expired
thereby allowing any parties-in-interest to file competing plans with higher
and better offers; (3) the Debtors' liquidation analysis which is a part of the
Disclosure Statement; and (4) the Bidding Procedure established under the Joint
Plan.

         The SEC further questioned the adequacy of the information in the
Debtors' Disclosure Statement regarding the release of claims against certain
officers and directors. As disclosed herein, the Lenders previously conducted
their own investigation of such claims and prepared a Notice of Claim which is
described in this Disclosure Statement. The Notice of Claim has been sent to
the Debtors' D&O insurance carriers. The releases for certain of the officers
and directors are also detailed in this Disclosure Statement. Further, the
Examiner has also been appointed to investigate any claims the Debtors might
have against their officers and directors, and the Examiner's report will
provide additional information.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           112
<PAGE>   121

F.       RESPONSE TO COMMENTS BY PBGC

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE

         The Plan Proponents note that they do not intend to terminate the
pension plan upon Confirmation. The appropriate language regarding this
treatment is incorporated in this Disclosure Statement. Further, the Disclosure
Statement now discloses that International is the "contributing sponsor" of the
Nu-kote International, Inc. Retirement Income Plan (the "PENSION PLAN") and
that, if the Pension Plan terminates, the unfunded benefit liabilities of the
Pension Plan under 29 USC ss.1301(a)(18) and 29 USC ss.1362(b) asserted by the
PBGC are estimated to be $6.3 million. The Disclosure Statement also discloses
that a pension plan covered by Title 4 of ERISA may be terminated in accordance
with the provisions of 29 USC ss.ss. 1341 and 1342, and that (1) the PBGC
administers the mandatory pension plan termination insurance program
established under Title 4 of ERISA; (2) upon termination of an underfunded
pension plan covered by Title 4, the PBGC typically becomes trustee of the plan
and, within certain statutory limits, guarantees the payment of pension
benefits to participants and beneficiaries; and (3) on April 14, 1999, PBGC
filed three claims in the substantively consolidated bankruptcy cases. See
Article VI.A.6.

         Moreover, the Disclosure Statement discloses that, under ERISA,
International and each member of its "controlled group," as that term is
defined in 29 USC ss. 1301(a)(14), are jointly and severally liable to the PBGC
for: (1) the "total amount of unfunded benefit liabilities" of the Pension
Plan; (2) the payment of premiums due with respect to the Pension Plan; and (3)
any minimum funding contributions necessary to satisfy the funding standards of
ERISA and the Internal Revenue Code. The PBGC also believes that the Disclosure
Statement should disclose that the sale of the European subsidiaries would
remove those subsidiaries from International's present controlled group and
could deprive the PBGC of the opportunity to recover from them any unfunded
obligations of the Pension Plan if the Pension Plan terminates
post-confirmation, which could place the responsibility for meeting any
unfunded obligations of the Pension Plan solely on the reorganized Debtors. The
PBGC also objects that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement failed to disclose
the impact that termination of the Pension Plan would have on the anticipated
amount of administrative expenses, priority claims, and general unsecured
claims in this case.

         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         Via a letter to Debtors' counsel, the PBGC requested the insertion of
certain language in the Disclosure Statement. The language requested by the
PBGC has been incorporated above at Article F(a)(6).

G.       RESPONSES TO OBJECTIONS BY LEMMER

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           113
<PAGE>   122

         Lori Lemmer, individually and on behalf of a class of securities
claimants, objected to both the Debtors' and Creditors' Disclosure Statements.
In response to the objections to the Creditors' Disclosure Statement, the
Creditor Proponents state that the objection regarding the HP Litigation is now
moot. The Disclosure Statement now identifies the beneficiaries of the
litigation trust as "holders of Allowed Unsecured Class 4 Claims." Moreover,
the Disclosure Statement has been revised to eliminate the language suggesting
that interest holders would receive distributions under the Joint Plan.
Finally, the Disclosure Statement has been revised by the insertion of the
following language after the word "all" in the first line of that section: "of
the Debtors".

         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         The Lemmer plaintiffs filed an objection to the Debtors' Disclosure
Statement basically alleging two grounds for objection. Initially, the Lemmer
plaintiffs object to the failure to name the price for which the stock of
Holding will be sold. In response, the Debtors assert that while it is not
possible to know the purchase price at this time, the amount of the Lead Bid by
Richmont has been disclosed in the Joint Plan. The Joint Plan establish
detailed Procedures by which an investment banker has been employed to solicit
interest in the purchase of the stock of Holding, and further establishes the
Bidding Procedure by which the stock will be sold. It is this Bidding Procedure
that will ultimately determine both the Successful Bidder and the purchase
price. However, based on Nu-kote's analysis of the value of the assets being
purchased in connection with the stock, the liquidation analysis prepared by
the Lenders and Nu-kote's analysis of the administrative and priority claims,
Nu-kote believes that the purchase price will be in the range of $15-25
million.

         Next, the Lemmer plaintiffs object to the distribution order and the
relative priority of their class and the class into which the Lenders'
unsecured claim would be placed if the Debtors commence and succeed on an
equitable subordination action against the Lenders. As set forth above, ss.
510(c) of the Bankruptcy Code provides for subordination "for purposes of
distribution all or part of an allowed claim to all or part of another allowed
claim or all or part of an allowed interest to all or part of another allowed
interest." The Lemmer plaintiffs, as shareholders of Holding, are the holders
of interests. The Lenders, even if their unsecured claims were subordinated
pursuant to ss. 510(c) would still be holders of unsecured claims. Thus, the
unsecured claim of the Lenders could potentially have only been subordinated to
other Allowed Unsecured Claims, not the interests of the Lemmer plaintiffs.
Finally, as set forth above, upon confirmation of the Joint Plan, mutual
releases shall be granted by and between the Debtors and the Lenders.

H.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS OF WELLS FARGO BUSINESS CREDIT,
         INC., FORMERLY NORWEST BUSINESS CREDIT, INC.

         In connection with its objection, Wells Fargo Business Credit, Inc.,
formerly Norwest Business Credit, Inc. ("WELLS FARGO") provided the Plan
Proponents with several passages of additional language to be inserted into the
Creditors' Plan and the Creditors' Disclosure Statement, along with several
specified changes to those documents. To the extent it


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           114
<PAGE>   123

incorporates the referenced objectionable provisions of the Creditors'
Disclosure Statement, the Disclosure Statement incorporates the additions and
changes specified by Wells Fargo except as stated below.

         Wells Fargo also requested language concerning the postpetition
financing claim of Norwest in Article 7, ss. C2(d). The requested language was
added, except for the last sentence now reads, "At the time the Norwest claim
is paid in full, Norwest shall deliver a release of the Norwest lien."

         Wells Fargo further objects to the Creditors' Disclosure Statement
because of the failure to provide an initial summary section outlining the
various classes of creditors and their respective treatments. The Plan
Proponents assert that no such initial summary section is needed because the
table of contents includes a section titled Treatment of Classified Claims and
Interests Under the Creditors' Plan, and shows that this section begins on page
57 of the Disclosure Statement.

         In addition, Wells Fargo objects because the Disclosure Statement does
not state what entity shall provide the effective date financing under the
Plan. At this time, the Plan Proponents do not have a definitive entity who
will provide the effective date financing. Finally, Wells Fargo requests
certain language be included in Article 7, ss. I.4 be included regarding
Norwest's indemnification rights under the Norwest Agreement. The Plan
Proponents are not required to include such language because ss. 1141(d)(1) of
the Bankruptcy Code states that, except as otherwise provided in the subsection
in the plan or the order confirming the plan, the confirmation of the plan
discharges the debtor from any debt that arose before the date of such
confirmation. The Plan Proponents likewise refute Wells Fargo's assertion that
Article 7, ss. 1.4 needs to be modified to permit the pursuit of administrative
claims.

I.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS OF SPECTRA, INC.

         Spectra, Inc. ("SPECTRA"), objected to the description of certain
litigation involving Spectra and International, but these objections are
addressed in the Disclosure Statement. The Disclosure Statement, throughout,
reflects that International, rather than Holding, is the Debtor involved in
this litigation. Moreover, at several places, the Disclosure Statement reflects
the fact that in connection with the court-approved sale of Modular, Inc.
Technology Stockholm, AB ("MIT"), International's rights in respect of its
tortious interference counterclaim against Spectra have been assigned to the
purchaser, and such counterclaims are therefore excluded from the Litigation
Trust under the Creditors' Plan. These facts are reflected in this Disclosure
Statement. In addition, many of the issues raised by Spectra will be resolved
by way of litigation and it is inappropriate to prejudge issues which may
require additional litigation in the content of a disclosure statement.

J.       RESPONSES TO PELIKAN HOLDING A.G.'S OBJECTIONS

         1.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE


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<PAGE>   124

         Pelikan Holding A.G. ("PELIKAN") objects first to the Creditors'
Disclosure Statement's failure to attach a copy of the Litigation Trust
Agreement. Creditor Proponents intend to provide Pelikan a copy of the
Litigation Trust prior to the Plan Confirmation hearing.

         Pelikan further objects to the failure of the Creditors' Disclosure
Statement to identify the individual who would serve as trustee of the
Litigation Trust and his or her experience, and fails to identify the
individuals who would serve on the Litigation Advisory Committee which would
oversee the trustee as well as their experience. The Creditor Proponents are
unable to respond to this objection with specific names and further information
at this time because such persons are not currently known. This Court, along
with others, has stated that a disclosure statement should contain all
pertinent information presently known to plan proponents. In re Ligon, 50 B.R.
127 (Bankr. M.D. Tenn. 1985) (citing In re Stanley Hotel, Inc., 13 B.R. 926
(Bankr. D.Colo. 1981)). See also In re Cardinal Congregate One, 121 B.R. 760
(S.D. Ohio 1990); In re Microwave Prods. of America, Inc., 100 B.R. 376 (Bankr.
W.D. Tenn. 1989); In re Scioto Valley Mortgage Co., 88 B.R. 168 (Bankr. S.D.
Ohio 1989).

         Pelikan also objects that the Creditors' Disclosure Statement fails to
provide a description of the claims that are to be transferred to the Litigation
Trust and contains only a cursory identification of the types of claims which
might exist. With regard to the litigation claims that are to be transferred to
the Litigation Trust, the Disclosure Statement contains all information
presently known to the Plan Proponents. Accordingly, such description is
sufficient to enable a reasonable and typical investor to make an informed
judgment about the Plan. See id.

         With regard to Pelikan's objection that the Disclosure Statement fails
to identify the asserted and unasserted claims against the Plan Proponents that
are being released under the Plan, the Plan Proponents note that the lenders
interfered with management at the Debtors during the year prior to the filing
of these cases. The Lenders strongly refute such an allegation; however, such
disclosure is included in the Joint Disclosure Statement.

         Pelikan further objects that the Disclosure Statement fails to address
Creditors' rights of set-off and recoupment with regard to claims being
transferred to the Litigation Trust. The Plan Proponents have amended their
Disclosure Statement to address this issue. See Article 7, P. G(2)(d).

         Pelikan also objects to the Disclosure Statement because: (1) the
failure to disclose which contracts will be assumed under the proposed Plan
what past defaults of the Debtors will be cured and the source of funds for
curing the defaults, (2) the Plan does not provide for the assumption of the
agreements with Pelikan creating the environmental indemnity as well as that
three of the claims of Pelikan against the Debtors would have to be satisfied
to assume the agreement and that some of the other past defaults of the Debtors
are not curable, (3) the effect on the value of business tort and similar
potential damage claims to be transferred to the Litigation Trust of the
separation of such claims from the operating business, (4) any estimate of the
size of the unsecured Class 4A claims, (5) the source of funds for payment of
administrative claims or expenses. The Plan


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           116
<PAGE>   125

Proponents respond by noting that at this time it is unknown which executory
contracts will be assumed under the Plan. Accordingly, the Plan Proponents
cannot make more detailed disclosures with regard to executory contracts and
unexpired leases. See id. The Plan Proponents further assert that there will be
no effect on the value of the business when the tort claims are transferred to
the Litigation Trust. In addition, it is not necessary for the Plan Proponents
to estimate the size of the unsecured Class 4A claims as any such estimation is
not known at this time. Further, the Plan Proponents do not have a definitive
lender for exit financing at this time.

         Pelikan also objects that the Disclosure Statement does not disclose
the effect of Texas law on the ability of the Debtors to assign tort claims to
the Litigation Trust. The Plan Proponents respond by noting that to the extent
that any tort claim cannot be transferred to the Litigation Trust, it will be
retained by the Reorganized Debtors.

         Finally, Pelikan objects that the Disclosure Statement does not
disclose the effect of the lack of an agreement by the Lenders to vote the
unsecured Class 4A claims in favor of a plan, which would allow Lenders to
alter the effect of the Plan through voting their Class 4A claims against the
Plan. The Plan Proponents respond by noting that the Creditors' Plan already
addresses this issue in Article 4, ss. 4.1(b).

         2.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE

         Pelikan Holding objected to the Debtors' Disclosure Statement
asserting an (1) alleged failure to disclose which contracts will be assumed
under the proposed Joint Plan what alleged past defaults of the Debtors will be
cured and the source of funds for curing the defaults, (2) alleged failure of
the Joint Plan to provide for the assumption of the agreements with Pelikan
Holding creating the environmental indemnity as well as that three of the
claims of Pelikan Holding against the Debtors would, according to Pelikan
Holding, have to be satisfied to assume the agreement and that some of the
other past defaults of the Debtors are not curable, (3) alleged lack of
disclosure of defenses to the environmental indemnity obligations of Pelikan
Holding, and (4) alleged lack of discussion of the claims against management
which are to be released under the Joint Plan.

         In response, the Debtors point to the discussion at Article E(j)(3)
including the discussion at footnote 2. This discussion sets forth the Debtors
position that the Debtors' do not believe that assumption of the referenced
agreements is necessary as they are not executory in nature because Pelikan
Holding has fully performed its obligations thereunder. However, should the
Debtors deem further action necessary, all appropriate steps to assume same
will be taken. The Joint Plan does not specifically list all contracts the Plan
Proponents believe to be executory. To the extent further action with regard to
the pre-petition agreements with Pelikan Holding is deemed necessary, same will
be taken in accordance with the provisions for assumption of executory
contracts in Article IX of the Joint Plan. Further, the process seeking a
potential resolution of all claims and defenses asserted by Pelikan Holding, in
the context of resolution of the motion for relief from stay filed by Pelikan
Holding, is ongoing. Finally, as disclosed herein, the Lenders previously
conducted their own investigation of such claims and prepared a Notice of Claim
which,


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<PAGE>   126

along with the allegations made therein, is described in this Disclosure
Statement. The Notice of Claim has been sent to the Debtors' D&O insurance
carriers. The releases for certain of the officers and directors are also
detailed in this Disclosure Statement. Further, the Examiner has also been
appointed to investigate any claims the Debtors might have against their
officers and directors, and the Examiner's report will provide additional
information.

K.       CREDITORS' RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS OF PATRICK E. HOWARD AND JOHN P.
         ROCHON

         Patrick E. Howard ("HOWARD") and John P. Rochon ("ROCHON") filed
numerous objections to the Creditors' Disclosure Statement. A majority of the
objections are now moot because they are discussed more fully in the Disclosure
Statement or the Second Amended Creditors' Plan of Reorganization. These moot
objections include Howard and Rochon's statements that:

         (a)      The Disclosure Statement provides an inaccurate and outdated
                  description of certain litigation.

         (b)      The Disclosure Statement provides no disclosure of any basis
                  for disparate distribution of net recoveries between Class 4
                  and 5 Claims.

         (c)      The Disclosure Statement fails to disclose adequate
                  information regarding purported claims under the D and O
                  insurance policies.

         (d)      The Disclosure Statement provides inadequate disclosure
                  regarding Effective Date Financing.

         (e)      The Disclosure Statement provides inadequate information
                  regarding the treatment of Norwest's Claim.

         (f)      The Disclosure Statement contains inconsistent and confusing
                  statements regarding distribution to Class 6 Interests.

         (g)      The Disclosure Statement provides inadequate information
                  regarding the release afforded to Plan Proponents.

         (h)      The Disclosure Statement contains an inaccurate or misleading
                  description of the factors precipitating the Chapter 11 case.

         (i)      The Disclosure Statement contains inaccurate or misleading
                  statements regarding the value of Debtors' assets and
                  operations.

         Howard and Rochon also believe that the Creditors' Disclosure
Statement provides misleading information respecting the consensus between the
Creditors and the Lenders, that the Disclosure Statement provides no disclosure
of any basis for the Lenders' assertion of a lien against tort actions, that
the Disclosure Statement provides inadequate


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<PAGE>   127

disclosure regarding the treatment of the secured claims of the Lenders, that
the Disclosure Statement fails to disclose potential claims for substantial
contribution, and that the Disclosure Statement provides inadequate information
regarding the release afforded to the Plan Proponents.

         Howard and Rochon further object that the Disclosure Statement fails
to provide adequate information regarding any expectation of anticipated value
from the Litigation. The Plan Proponents respond by noting that Howard is the
CEO, and Howard and Rochon are the proposed purchasers of the Debtors under the
Debtors' Plan; accordingly, Howard and Rochon are aware of the fact that any
estimation of anticipated value from the liquidation is difficult, if not
impossible. With regard to Howard and Rochon's objection that the Disclosure
Statement provides no disclosure of the expected claims base which will
participate in the Net Recoveries from the Litigation Trust, the Plan
Proponents note that at this time, the parties listed in Debtors' Schedule F is
the best estimate of this group. In addition, the Plan Proponents respond to
Howard and Rochon's objections that the Disclosure Statement provides no
estimate of administrative expenses and provides no analysis of avoidance
actions, that again, Howard and Rochon, as insiders of the Debtors, are aware
of the fact that such estimations are difficult, if not impossible, to make at
this time. Any additional objections by Howard and Rochon are confirmation
issues and are not relevant to the hearing on the Disclosure Statement.

         Howard and Rochon listed three objections to the Creditors' Disclosure
Statement in a Supplemental Objection. Howard and Rochon first stated that the
Creditors' Disclosure Statement did not contain up-to-date information
regarding the Debtors' post-petition operations.

         Howard and Rochon further objected that the Disclosure Statement
failed to disclose proposed new management and the persons in control of the
proposed Trust and Litigation Trust. In addition, Howard and Rochon objected
that the Plan discriminates unfairly against the holders of Class 4(b) Claims.
Moreover, the Plan Proponents believe the above objections are moot due to the
agreement between the Lenders, the Committees, Richmont and the Debtors as
evidenced by the Creditors' and Debtors' Joint Plan of Reorganization.

L.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS BY PAGLIARA

         Mr. Pagliara, a shareholder of Holding, objected to the Debtors'
Disclosure Statement on three bases: the failure to provide recent financial
information, an inadequate discussion of the HP Litigation, and a delay in
distribution of information to the shareholders of Holding due to the fact that
they hold their stock in street name. In response, the Debtors believe that the
financial information provided in the Disclosure Statement is the most recent
and most accurate information available for the purposes for which it is
provided. For example, numerous references are made to assets as they existed
on the Petition Date. To the extent that Mr. Pagliara desires additional
financial information, access to the Debtors' Six Month Budget and Monthly
Operating Reports is available to the public from the filings with the
Bankruptcy Court and the Office of the


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           119
<PAGE>   128

United States Trustee. Secondly, Mr. Pagliara's objections regarding the HP
Litigation description are largely moot. Finally, the stock of Holding is
contemplated to be canceled under the Debtors' Plan. The shareholders of
Holding are numerous and, as Mr. Pagliara's objection indicates, contacting
each and every one might prove extremely difficult as much of the stock is held
in street name. In such a situation, notice to shareholders is often limited or
subjected to procedures fashioned and deemed sufficient by the Bankruptcy
Court. Often, under these circumstances, notice of the existence of documents
as opposed to copies of the documents themselves and the effect on the subject
stock are provided to the shareholders and/or the clearing houses through which
they can be contacted. Delivery of a copy of the Disclosure Statement to every
shareholder of Holding would be cost prohibitive, is not necessary given that
all shareholders of Holding are deemed to have rejected the Joint Plan and the
solicitation of shareholder votes is thus unnecessary, and notice to Mr.
Pagliara of the existence and filing of the Joint Plan is therefore sufficient.

M.       DEBTORS' RESPONSE TO OBJECTIONS BY STATE OF TENNESSEE

         The Tennessee Department of Employment Security and the Tennessee
Department of Environment and Conservation filed an objection to the Debtors'
Disclosure Statement on the stated basis that the Debtors failed to provide
adequate information regarding the voluntary environmental cleanup program to
which the Debtors are a party via a Consent Order and Agreement. To provide
additional information about the environmental situation at the Franklin,
Tennessee facility and the cleanup program, the Debtors added an extended
discussion at Article E(j)(3) above, incorporating in large part the suggested
language of the above-referenced Tennessee Departments.

                ARTICLE XVII. RECOMMENDATION OF PLAN PROPONENTS

         The Plan Proponents believe that the Joint Plan is in the best
interests of the Debtors' Creditors. Accordingly, the Plan Proponents
unanimously recommend that you vote for acceptance of the Joint Plan and hereby
solicit your acceptance of the Joint Plan.

DATED: NOVEMBER _______, 1999.

                        THE DEBTORS:

         NU-KOTE HOLDING, INC.; NU-KOTE IMPERIAL, LTD.;
         NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC.; NU-KOTE IMAGING
         INTERNATIONAL, INC.; INTERNATIONAL COMMUNICATION
         MATERIALS, INC.; FUTURE GRAPHICS, INC.; NU-KOTE
         LATIN AMERICA, INC., JOINTLY AND SEVERALLY


         By:
                  ------------------------------------------------
                  Patrick E. Howard, President


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE           120
<PAGE>   129

HANCE | SCARBOROUGH | WRIGHT

By:
         --------------------------------
         Frank J. Wright
         C. Ashley Ellis

2900 Renaissance Tower
1201 Elm Street
Dallas, Texas 75270-2101
(214) 742-2900 - Telephone
(214) 748-6815 - Facsimile

                  and

HARWELL HOWARD HYNE GABBERT
& MANNER, P.C.

BY:
         --------------------------------
         Craig V. Gabbert, Jr.
         Barbara D. Holmes

1800 First American Center
315 Deaderick Street
Nashville, Tennessee 37238
(615) 256-0500 - Telephone
(615) 251-1059 - Facsimile

ATTORNEYS FOR THE DEBTORS


THE LENDERS:

VINSON & ELKINS L.L.P.
3700 Trammell Crow Center
2001 Ross Avenue
Dallas, TX 75201
Tel: (214) 220-7700


By:
         -------------------------------
         Daniel C. Stewart SBT #19206500


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF
REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE                                                  121
<PAGE>   130

         William L. Wallander SBT #20780750

and


BASS, BERRY & SIMS PLC
2700 First American Center
Nashville, Tennessee  37238
Tel. (615) 742-6267

By:
   -------------------------------------------
   Paul Jennings

AUTHORIZED ATTORNEYS IN FACT FOR THE
LENDERS

THE COMMITTEES

GREENEBAUM DOLL & MCDONALD PLC
3300 National City Tower
101 South Fifth Street
Louisville, Kentucky 40202
Tel: (502) 587-3656


By:
   -------------------------------------------
      John W. Ames

ATTORNEYS FOR UNSECURED CREDITORS
COMMITTEE FOR NU-KOTE INTERNATIONAL, INC.

POYNER & SPRUILL, LLP
100 N. Tryon Street, Suite 4000
Charlotte, NC 28202-4010
Tel: (704) 342-5250


By:
   -------------------------------------------
      Judy Thompson

ATTORNEYS FOR UNSECURED CREDITORS
COMMITTEE FOR INTERNATIONAL
COMMUNICATION MATERIALS, INC.



DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF
REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE                                                  122
<PAGE>   131

KURLBAUM STOLL SEAMAN & MUSTOE, P.C.
1100 Main Street, Suite 2001
Kansas City, MO 64105
Tel: (816) 221-5444

By:
   -------------------------------------------
      Thomas G. Stoll

and

ORTALE, KELLEY, HERBERT & CRAWFORD
Third Floor, Noel Place
200 Fourth Avenue North
P. O. Box 198985
Nashville, TN 37219-8985
Tel: (615) 656-9999


By:
   -------------------------------------------
      John C. Rochford

ATTORNEYS FOR UNSECURED CREDITORS
COMMITTEE FOR FUTURE GRAPHICS, INC.


DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR JOINT PLAN OF
REORGANIZATION FOR NU-KOTE                                                  123