21-11-2005 - Printing.com - Printing.com plots overseas expansion - Ireland Online
UK printing business Printing.com unveiled plans for an international expansion drive today after seeing half-year profits soar 75% above last year.The Manchester-based company increased the number of UK outlets it runs to 145 in the last year from 96, helping profits for the 28 weeks to October 16 rise to £1.1m (1.6m) from £631,000 (£919,000) a year earlier.
Another two openings have already taken place, 13 more are scheduled and now there are plans to spread further afield.
Printing.com stores span Britain in various guises, from company-owned stores to 100 "bolt-on" franchises "an extension to independent traders" businesses.
Its success has inspired the company to try the idea abroad, targeting owners of commercial printing companies interested in expanding.
Chief executive Tony Rafferty said: "We're looking to expand anywhere, really. What we are interested in are established printers with equipment similar to that which we use in the UK".
"Maybe they were producing CD covers or something similar and want to diversify. There are certain attractions to partnering up with English speaking countries but our closeness to Europe also makes it an option".
The company, which launched in 1998, announced a 25% rise in half-year retail sales to £9.4m (13.6m). It keeps costs to a minimum by printing all products at its Manchester hub and guaranteeing delivery within three days.