Forty jobs lost at well-known print firm

The Newtownards based firm, which has been trading for more than 30 years, was one of the area’s leading providers of high quality graphics, web design and printing services to a vast range of customers involved in marketing goods and services.

The company said it had experienced its most challenging year since its inception, with a sudden and catastrophic downturn in business in the last six months. And it said the tragic loss of its founder and managing director in May had an inestimable impact.

Commenting on today’s announcement Managing Director Mrs Lillian Withers said: “This is a very sad and difficult day for all of us and I do not underestimate the terrible blow this will be for our staff, their families and our local business community.

“I want to pay tribute to all the staff whose talents, skills and dedication have been the hallmark of the quality materials produced here.

“I also want to thank our numerous loyal customers, many of them also facing challenging times.

“We have done our very best but in the end the trading environment overwhelmed us, leaving us in today’s situation. “

The family run company had a long reputation for supporting community activities, including sponsoring environmental projects in local schools, churches, and helping amateur sports teams and groups that aid vulnerable adults.

Specialist insolvency practitioners, Gildernew & Co., have been appointed and a process is underway to assess the options available in respect of the business.

The staff have been advised of the situation and the administrator is in the process of contacting the firm’s suppliers.