Hards steps back as IFS prepares for new challenges

After 60 years in print, Tony Hards is stepping back as finishing acquires new role in digital print era.

Tony Hards has sold his stake in Intelligent Finishing Systems but will remain chairman of the finishing equipment supplier.

Hards was joint managing director along with Bryan Godwyn who is now 100% shareholder in the Hemel Hempstead company. IFS moved to the Hertfordshire town from premises in Perivale last year. The business had been in Perivale from its outset as Graphic Arts Equipment when agencies included Polar guillotines.

It had become an independent company when Hards and Godwyn staged a management buyout of GAE’s equipment in 1992, later selling the business to Litho Supplies. At that point the company was UK agent for Shinohara presses as well as a range of finishing equipment.

When Litho Supplies collapsed, they partners were forced to buy back their company, and as a result started IFS to concentrate on maintaining Horizon’s UK business and focus on finishing technology. As well as Horizon, IFS has built a portfolio that includes the Perfecta brand of guillotines, Tecnau paper handling, Foliant laminators, Petratto, SCS and Italdibipack.

“This is a natural progression for IFS and we are delighted that Tony will continue to work with us in a mentoring role. His knowledge, insight and sage advice will be invaluable to our continued growth and success,” says Godwyn.

The hand over plan is that Hards will attend board meetings for a further year. Jason Seaber, as technical sales director, and Alan Harrison as technical services director, are joining the board. The move allows Hards to step away after more than 60 years in the industry starting as an apprentice with Krisson Printing and working for Hawthorn Baker and Waterlow and Sons before joining GAE where he became sales manager in 1981. He continues as a lifelong supporter of Tottenham Hotspur.

Now the business is starting to manage larger and more complex accounts thanks to the growth of digital printing. Horizon equipment is being used in hands off configurations, such as that sold to Bell & Bain and Printondemand Worldwide, while Tecnau equally becomes part of mission critical set ups.

Says Godwyn: “Tony and I have been working side by side for 25 years. He is like a father and brother at the same time. I am looking forward to fully taking over the reins of the business but appreciate what a great ambassador Tony has been for print, how much he has given the company and how well respected he is by everyone in the industry.”