Dan building on legacy of his grandfather's business

Hughes Print moved from its original home in Bilston Road to bigger premises on the Ashford Industrial Estate, off Dixon Street, 18 months ago.

Current managing director Dan Hughes took over the business that had been started by his grandfather, Robin Hughes, more than a half century ago when he retired on his 70th birthday in 2011.

Mr Hughes said that the firm had run out of space at its old 1,000 sq ft premises and now had 3,000 sq ft in two units.

"It has enabled us to bring in new equipment including a full colour press and a new plate making system and guillotine.

"It will mean we will now be able to do all our own printing work. In the past we had to outsource most colour work," he explained.

The investment has been supported by the Regional Growth Fund which contributed 20 per cent of the cost of the new equipment.

"It is also enabling us to take on more staff. We are going from employing four full-time and one part-time to six full time," added Mr Hughes.

He said that the investment was expected to increase annual turnover of £250,000 by up to£50,000 in the first year.

"The new equipment will also mean a reduction in costs because we will no longer be outsourcing," he added.

Hughes Print does contract printing work of all volumes and its customers are mainly local businesses of all sizes.