A new printing company has been established in Worcester. Taking the Roman name for the city, Vertis Group, comprising Vertis Print and Vertis Digital, is up and running having acquired some of the equipment from the former Goodman Baylis business which suffered at the demise of the MPI Group.

Emerging as a new start venture, Vertis has the support of some former clients and suppliers. David Renouf, Managing Director, says: “We are currently employing 20 people, many of whom are highly skilled key members of the previous workforce who have worked together as a team for 20 years or more. Former customers have placed orders, so we are delighted with the response from all parties.”

John Ashfield, former Group Sales Director of Polestar, says: “The legacy of Goodman Baylis is one of a good location and a skilled and committed work force, and whilst it is perhaps counter cyclical to launch a conventional printing business at this time, we believe there is an opportunity for a strong regional business with ties to larger business. Through the team of like-minded partners, the concept is to develop from a stable base and build a robust and prosperous organisation.”

Operations director Richard Weaver adds: “With an asset base close to £4 million currently under our control, Vertis will provide high quality perfect bound and saddle stitched multi-colour products for a wide variety of clients”. 

The acquisition of multi colour B1 presses has formed the backbone of production, which is complemented by a range of folders, saddle stitching and perfect binding equipment. This is fronted by a comprehensive studio and CTP system.

In addition, Commercial Director Jon Williamson is keen to exploit his experience in the digital market and is currently negotiating the purchase of the group’s first digital press. “The future in this sector is potentially staggering, particularly when you look at developments in both hardware and software that are already underway with certain manufacturers. We already have clients to whom the “on-line” transparency of the transaction, particularly the reporting and order management facility, is all important. Consequently, a good front end is essential.”