Member Article

Sunderland printing firm presses ahead

A Sunderland-based printing firm is pressing ahead with expansion and plans to increase its workforce by a third after a successful relocation. Printcentre, a family run business, has moved into a new era with purpose-built premises just a few doors away from its previous building at Fulwell Road, Sunderland.

Managing director Glen Watchman sought specialist advice in relocating to larger premises from Business Link in Tyne and Wear. Business Link assessed Printcentre’s situation then put Mr Watchman in touch with Sunderland City Council who reviewed his business plan and objectives and provided funding support towards new premises and equipment. With help from the various agencies involved, Mr Watchman was able to take a step back from day-to-day operations and work with his team of advisers to spot areas where the business could run more efficiently.

Mr Watchman said: “Business Link introduced me to specialists within the DTI Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) who assessed our production process, advised us on the layout of the new premises and made recommendations to improve our manufacturing process. “Thanks to Business Link and our hard working staff we’ve really developed as a company. The relocation has opened up new opportunities to expand and with plans to recruit ten sales staff and strengthen the skills within our studio, we aim to end the year on a high.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .