Blue Star changes labels on Panprint
Further NZ industry consolidation as long-established printer is split up and merged into the larger corporate entity.
The label printing division of the company, Panprint Labels, will become part of Blue Star’s fast growing labels division, while the sheetfed operation will transition to McCollams, creating a new entity in Auckland.
John Thorrat, general manager and former owner, will step down but will continue to consult to the business. “After 27 years in the industry, many of them as a director then owner of Panprint and having steered the successful integration of Panprint with Blue Star, the time’s right to step aside,” he said.
Blue Star acquired Panprint in March 2008 as part of a drive into the self-adhesive label sector where it is now a major player. Originally formed as an offset printer the company expanded into label production, which now accounts for 25 percent of its output.
In a statement Blue Star praised Thorrat’s (pictured right) record with the company. Panprint as a sheet and label print manufacturer has a distinguished performance and quality record evident by the plethora of Pride in Print Awards collected over the years. John’s departure from the helm of Panprint this month will see him available to Blue Star and Panprint to consult on an as required basis.
David Jupe CEO BSPG NZ says, “John’s contribution to Panprint, and the New Zealand printing industry, is outstanding and I’m delighted that John’s association with Blue Star will continue through his consultancy work”.
In a statement Blue Star praised Thorrat’s (pictured right) record with the company. Panprint as a sheet and label print manufacturer has a distinguished performance and quality record evident by the plethora of Pride in Print Awards collected over the years. John’s departure from the helm of Panprint this month will see him available to Blue Star and Panprint to consult on an as required basis.