Mixed outlook from Communisis

PRINTING group Communisis today painted a mixed picture of its performance with certain areas of the business faring better than others.

The Leeds-based company, which also provides marketing communications services, said that although it was continuing its strategy of developing strong customer relationships, volumes had been reduced in several areas because of the downturn.

Communisis said there was strong demand for its technology and services areas, which are aimed at helping its clients improve their customer communication process.

It said FSA guidelines on the use of promotional cheque mailshots had hit its transactional print division.

Customer demand for direct mail has also been hit and that demand was down.

“Cost reduction efforts continue throughout the business and these have helped to offset the effects of reduced volumes,” the company said in an interim management statement.  

“The company has continued to develop new revenue streams, particularly in more value-added services and with customers outside financial services.”

New business wins include a six year contract to provide the Department for Children, Schools and Families with an integrated managed service, and a five year deal to manage print procurement and provide data analysis services for T-Mobile.

Communisis also said it was positive about its scheme to reduce pension scheme liabilities by around 75%.