Former professional footballer snaps up printer firm

A former professional footballer from Northants has bought a printer firm in the north-east.

Technocopy, the supplier of copiers, printers and multi-function printer technology, has been acquired by Brad Piercewright, the owner of Anglotech Solutions. Its board of directors includes England rugby union captain and Northampton hooker Dylan Hartley and Stephen Etheridge of the Northampton Saints foundation.

Piercewright played for QPR, Darlington and Northampton Town during his career.

Clive Owen, which has offices in Darlington, Durham and York, led the transaction and introduced Ashby-based ThinCats, which provided finance for the deal.

Piercewright has extensive experience in the sector as, after his retirement from professional football. He set up a successful copying and printing services business in Northampton with guidance from Brad Woods, who launched Technocopy in 1992.

David Wilson of Clive Owen said: “Brad Piercewright’s solid track record in the sector, allied with Brad Woods remaining as the firm’s chairman, puts Technocopy in pole position to achieve its ambitions for growth.

“It is professionally very satisfying to help facilitate the buy-in to a business of Technocopy’s calibre and reputation by such a go-ahead and passionate entrepreneur.”

Piercewright said: “I am grateful for the exemplary advice and support from Clive Owen LLP and ThinCats, which have helped make my acquisition of Technocopy possible.

“The combination of Technocopy’s excellent business foundations and my knowledge of the copying and printing services industry provide a strong platform for future development.”

Woods said: “It was important to me that the firm’s first-rate business credentials are maintained and Brad’s knowledge of the business, and the sector in which it operates, will make sure that it continues to grow.”

Ben Kimball, director, regional development for the north east, ThinCats, said: “I am delighted to support Brad’s acquisition of Technocopy with a bespoke funding deal. Brad’s ambitious growth plan combined with Technocopy’s established brand promises sustainable growth and we wish the team every success.”