More takeovers for trans-Tasman print tiger

Newly re-branded OPUS Print Group is on the prowl with new equipment and plans for further acquisitons.

The former Knox Print Media, which renamed this week as OPUS Print Group and includes Ligare, Cactus Imaging and Omnigraphics New Zealand, has plans for further acquisitions as part of its new future.

Opus, which is Latin for excellence in craft and achievement, reflects the size, scale and capacity of one of the largest print groups in the trans-Tasman, according to Cliff Brigstocke, group CEO.

"It is a brand which boldly states who we are and what we stand for as a group," he said.

"We are united by our vision to sustain the art and passion for print."

Under the new name, OPUS Print Group will continue to operate two divisions specifically devoted to short-run book and out-of-home printing, with a third division planned for the future. The companies all remain in their respective markets under existing brands and management, while utilising the benefits of the OPUS network.

Brigstocke was not able to comment further on the third division planned for OPUS, though he did add that future acquisitions are likely. A new HP 2700 has also been purchased for Cactus Imaging and will arrive in the next eight weeks.

The 2700 was chosen for its ability to match OPUS' work levels. "It hits the quality levels we are after with speed and suits the capacity requirements as we continue to grow," Brigstocke said.

Dispelling the widely-held belief that the printing industry is in crisis, Brigstocke said that he is confident of OPUS' future.

"At a time when many companies are slowing in growth we are charging on," he said.