Say What? A quick word with Simon Smogur

How do you see print in the UK developing?

It is obvious where the market is going. Over the next four years there will be the same level of consolidation as has happened over the last eight years. Consolidation is continuous and I believe the process will speed up in the next couple of years. It will not be long before we have a £100 million UK bred commercial sheetfed printing business in this country.

What led to the acquisition of Severnprint?

I first approached them in 2022, and then early in 2023, but there was no desire at that time to do anything. Then we spoke mid way through 2023 and the desire was there. We are going to reinvigorate the business. It has brilliant people, great technology and we are going to push them on.

Would you consider acquisition of a distressed business?

Buying a flop never works. In terms of customer happiness, staff happiness and supplier happiness, there are always problems. Any deal needs to be a win-win where everyone involved is happy with what they’ve got.

You seem to have a good relationship with Canon?

Any inkjet supplier can print mono well. But to be able to offer commercial quality levels, Canon leads by a country mile. And their machines are getting quicker and better and the relative investment lower.