Strategic investments help Print Plus UK expand into new markets
Print Plus UK has modernised its operations and expanded into new digital markets with the help of our range of finance products and the backing of the Growth Guarantee Scheme
Customer background
Print Plus UK is a Bradford-based commercial printing firm that has delivered high-quality solutions since its inception in 1995. The company offers a full range of services, including digital printing, signage, graphic design, and finishing.
The challenge
As demand for personalised and high-end print solutions grew, the business recognised the need to modernise its production capabilities. The aim was to reduce their reliance on traditional litho printing, improve margins, and expand into new digital markets. Achieving this required a cost-effective investment in advanced technology that could support both operational efficiency and long-term growth.
The solution
We supported Print Plus UK with a tailored Hire Purchase facility, enabling the acquisition of an ex-demo Canon IX3200, a high-performance digital press known for its speed, quality, and versatility.
Hire Purchase allows businesses to spread the cost of essential equipment over time, with ownership transferring at the end of the agreement.
The transaction was further supported through the Growth Guarantee Scheme (GGS), a government-backed initiative delivered in partnership with the British Business Bank. The scheme is designed to improve access to finance for UK SMEs by allowing lenders to offer more favourable terms.
Following the successful purchase of the Canon IX3200, the business decided to downscale their lithographic operations from B1 to B2, which involved the purchase of a 2010 B2, 5 colour Komori LS529, funded using Sale and HP Back.
Sale and HP Back is a type of refinancing where the business sells the equipment to the lender, and the money lent is the value of that equipment. Repayments are made in line with what the equipment earns for the business and when the agreement is at an end, the business owns the equipment again.
Impact on the business
The Canon IX3200 has delivered significant improvements across the company's operations. Production has increased efficiency, with faster turnaround times and reduced overheads, enabling the business to better serve existing clients and take on more complex projects.
The new press has also opened up opportunities in personalised and premium print services, supporting the company’s expansion into new markets. At the same time, the shift from B1 to B2 litho operations has led to cost savings and improved margins.
A long-standing partnership
Print Plus UK and Close Brothers Asset Finance have worked together for many years and this latest transaction reflects the strength of the relationship and a shared commitment to long-term business growth.
“We’ve worked with Close Brothers for more than 10 years, and their support has been instrumental in helping us evolve,” said Omar Ahmad Malik, Director of Print Plus UK. “The strategic investments of the new Canon IX3200 and Komori LS529 have opened up new opportunities and allowed us to deliver even better service to our clients.”
Products and services are subject to eligibility, status, terms and conditions and availability. All lending is subject to status and our lending criteria. The right to decline any application is reserved.
