ESP acquires Kingfisher

Swindon-based ESP Colour has bought Totnes-based Kingfisher Print and Design out of administration for an undisclosed sum. The deal - signed last Wednesday (15 August) - pushes ESP’s turnover up by £3m to £20m.

Paul Bradley, ESP chief executive, said Kingfisher will continue to trade under its own brand, which will become a trading name of ESP. He said Kingfisher’s technology, product offering and people will help ESP continue to grow its business, and he has not ruled out further acquisitions to that end. With Kingfisher onboard, Bradley expects ESP’s turnover to be around £14m litho and £6m digital print. The Devon-based company operates a Heidelberg Speedmaster XL75 and Kodak Nexpress SX3300. ESP also operates Heidelberg litho presses and has three Kodak Nexpress printers as well as kit from Roland, HP and Canon. “There are good synergies all round,” said Bradley. “Who knows which way the litho/digital markets will play out! We want to be sure we’re ready for growth wherever it comes.”