Focus Press picks up Fast Proof's Sydney plant

Largest commercial printer on the Gold Coast shuts down its Sydney operation.

The difficulty of operating a mid-size printing business across two states came into clear focus as Brisbane-based Fast Proof Press closed its Sydney operation. The 15-year interstate expansion plan by the Gold Coast's largest commercial printer was brought to an end with the buy-out by Focus Press following a long period of cooperation between the two firms.

“It was really a lifestyle choice,” explained Matthew Whitton, who manages Fast Proof Press with his two brothers. Whitton said that the three managers all have families and decided it would be more beneficial for them to remain located solely in the Gold Coast, where it will remain "business as usual".

The sale came about almost unexpectedly after discussions with David Fuller of Focus Press, according to Whitton. “It was a very amicable deal,” he said. “We will spend time as directors in ensuring that the transition is as smooth as possible.”

The acquisition is described by David Fuller, "as the beginning" of a new growth phase. He maintains Focus Press is well cashed up to survive the current downturn and is actively looking for more companies to buy.

"There will be more consolidation in the industry, there's no doubt about it. Tough times are good times to buy if you have the capital. This [Fast Proof] has been very good for us. I think of it as only the beginning. Many good people have joined our team," he said.

All employees at the Silverwater plant have been offered positions with Focus Press, although some are reported to not be making the move across. According to David Fuller, the two companies have very compatible corporate cultures with the latest acquisition bringing Focus to a total of 70 employees.

Focus Press is well known as a leader in innovative business directions. It was one of the very first printers to engage in the environmental debate, with David Fuller adopting the role of a 'green evangelist' early on. Focus has also been an early adopter of 'hub printing', setting up a separate digital centre to service the trade.