Latest News | 18 May 2021
Long-established print firm embarks on new chapter following merger
Print firm Mercia Image Print has embarked on a new era following a company merger and expansion into new markets.
The Little Eaton firm has joined with The Print Design Factory, which has led to a diversification of its product portfolio and a boost in sales.
The merger has acted as a springboard for the company’s recovery after the coronavirus crisis seriously disrupted its hospitality and retail industry sales.
Mercia Image Print was founded by owner and managing director Amanda Strong more than 30 years ago. She has now taken on the role of company ambassador following the merger.
Craig Ikin, group commercial director, said: “We are delighted to welcome Mercia to our group and look forward to maintaining and building on Mercia’s reputation as the leading print provider in Derby.”
When the coronavirus crisis first hit just over a year ago, Mercia Image found its order book for promotional print disappear, especially from the hospitality and retail sector.
Amanda said: “A big chunk of business had vanished overnight, so we had to think on our feet, juggle furlough with production and find new products to fill the gap and secure our future.”
The company decided to switch focus onto product packaging, which led to the securing of large orders for rapid flow testing kits and online retail packaging.
Mercia also secured contracts from all over Derby, including producing bespoke boxes for innovative companies, including Colleague Box and Solesmith.
Sales director Paul Ross said: “We were kept busy producing new innovative packaging that creates the right impression for a multitude of customers and business sectors.”
Amanda was then approached by The Print Design Factory, based in Sheffield, with an offer to buy the company.
The two businesses have since successfully merged, allowing Mercia to offer a full printing package, which has opened up a range of new opportunities.
The merged company has rooted itself into the community by not only providing print and design but also by being able to offer a fully bespoke packaging service both locally and nationally.
The business can now print anything, from a single poster to a full promotional brochure, as well as personalised mailing.
Craig said: “Heading towards summer 2021, the future certainly looks brighter than it did last year for Mercia Image, with the diversification into bespoke packaging and with the retail and hospitality sectors now returning.
“As those industries get going again, things are certainly looking rosy, endorsing the fact that we are indeed stronger together.”
