11-08-2005 - Printing.com - Slows but stays on course - Printing World
By Tom HawkinsPrinting.com has suffered a slowdown in business from the retail and leisure sectors in recent months but said it is on course to hit annual targets.
At the company's AGM in Manchester last week chairman George Hardie said conditions have been challenging, reflecting the malaise felt on the high street.
However, he said Printing.com did not fall victim to the very soft trading experienced in June and July last year and therefore expects sales to match annual budget forecasts.
Mr Hardie also noted that the company met its target of opening an outlet every fifth working day. The network now stands at 139 outlets open or pending. Regional hubs in Coventry and Guildford began trading last month and options have been taken out covering Southampton and Bristol.
Printing.com also revealed that the first of its simplified Boutique franchises has started trading. In addition 12 further bolt-on franchise agreements have been finalised since June 1, four of which are based on the guerrilla format, which are run by young print entrepreneurs. One agreement was terminated.
"Clearly momentum continues to build and the directors remain confident about the prospects for the company," said Mr Hardie.