One of Ireland’s oldest printers becomes the UK’s most advanced
WG Baird, has officially become the UK & Ireland’s most technologically advanced, having invested £4million in state-of-the- art equipment.
The investment represents the very latest technology in Sheet fed printing Folding and Perfect Binding, which positions the company at the forefront of the industry in terms of both quality and environmental responsibility. Output potential has increased by 70% percent with an estimated 60% worth of like for like savings being made over a year in terms of a reduction in paper, ink and energy wastage.
On hand to officially start the new machinery was Enterprise, Trade and Investment Minister Jonathan Bell, who said: “W&G Baird has a long and distinguished history within the printing industry and this investment to upgrade the company’s equipment cements its commitment to future growth. I am pleased W&G Baird have benefited from a Growth Loan Fund loan of £500,000 as well as £99,500 of support from Invest Northern Ireland to support its development.
“Innovation and continuous development is central to business success and this new machinery will not only position W&G Baird competitively in its target markets but also help to reduce its environmental impact.”
Established in 1862, WG Baird employs 95 staff at its main site in Antrim with sales offices in Dublin and Nottingham and represents the largest commercial print business in Ireland.
The new cash injection, backed by Bank of Ireland UK, Invest NI and Whiterock Capital will allow the business to now capitalise on the potential for growth in export markets across the Republic of Ireland and mainland UK.
Speaking at the launch event, Patrick Moffett, Managing Director of W&G Baird said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Minister here today to showcase this fantastic new Heidelberg XL106 press Stahl folders and Koblus Km 600 binder.
“Whilst we already operate the largest print room in Ireland, the installation of this new press and binder will enhance our already considerable capacity and maintain our position as an innovator in the industry.”
Gavin Kennedy, Director of Business Banking for Bank of Ireland in Northern Ireland, said: “We are pleased to have supported W&G Baird – with whom we have a long-standing relationship – in funding this investment.
“It demonstrates our continuing commitment to helping companies with a proven track record, quality management team and a focus on growth. It’s a great example of a business delivering growth through innovation and we look forward to continuing to work with the company to deliver on this.”
W&G Baird prints a wide range of digital and lithographic products, ranging from leaflets to coffee table books and folders to magazines in both the UK and Ireland.
For a full list of their services visit www.wgbaird.com.
