Gateshead direct mail business moves into new sector following major investment

A family-owned direct mail business, based in Gateshead, is set to undergo a expansion and investment programme as it makes a significant move into digital printing.

Washington Direct Mail (WDM) has acquired the print production arm of marketing agency IGNIFI – relocating key staff and equipment – and has invested in a building refurbishment to create an improved production environment and a new digital print suite.

The acquisition sees WDM take on a further 80 clients adding to the 200 already on its books.

Jon Beasley, technical director, said: “Our core business has always been predominantly direct mail – and that will, of course, remain hugely important for us.

“But we’ve been improving our range of services, from design and data, through to colour print over the last five years, and this investment is the next stage in our development. We are very excited for the future.”

WDM expects to increase turnover by around 20%, mainly due to two Xerox Versant 2100 digital presses supplied by Concept Group Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Xerox.

Like WDM, Concept Group began as a family business in 1984 and has also undergone major growth.

With six branches operating throughout the UK, the company now employs more than 200 people. The 16 strong staff of the Newcastle branch – based on the Newcastle Business Park - has seen turnover increase by more than a third in the last 12 months.

Concept Group, like WDM, also works with major names in the North East, including Newcastle United, The Sage Music Trust, Muckle LLP, Vantec and around 40 schools.

Stewart Hunter, Area sales manager for the Newcastle office, said: “How we help our clients progress their business to the next level is so important to get just right.

“We have evolved with changes in technology to deliver dramatic improvements for companies of all sizes, getting the best fit for their businesses now and in the future.

“The North East is a close knit community and we want to work with businesses to add value.”