This little printing mag went to market

Major movement in the Australian graphic arts publishing circle as Haymarket Media buys ProPrint magazine.

The magazine, which is long over due for a makeover, was the pride and joy of publisher Don Elliott, former printer. It has struggled over the years financially and in terms of relevance, suffering mainly from a lack of investment. Constantly harrassed by Australian Printer magazine for the top place in  the monthly market it has recently responded with accusations of plagerism against its rival.

Elliot, who will take up a position as a publishing consultant, reckoned the offer when it came was too good to refuse. "When Haymarket approached us we felt that the timing was right and ProPrint was going to a good home with a solid heritage in serving the printing industry," he said. In recent times Elliott has had to pay market value for the printing of the publication, ever since he sold out of Agency Printing to GEON.

Jeremy Vaughan, managing director of Haymarket Media, said that ProPrint fitted the UK company's expansion plans in Australia. "When we looked at the market, ProPrint was the title that fitted our requirements," he said. "ProPrint is one of many acquisitions and launches we are working on this year, so expect further announcements both in B2B and the specialist consumer space."

Haymarket in the UK publishes PrintWeek, pressXchange and Packaging News.

Long-term ProPrint editor, Stephen Crowe, and advertising manager, Carmen Ciappara will stay with the magazine at its new home in North Sydney, although it is uncertain whether they will be able to continue to work from home or be required to attend the publishing office.