Paragon makes strategic acquisition
NORMANTON-based document management specialist Paragon Group has acquired Ward Knowles – the specialist business form printer – to further strengthen its trade arm.
The deal, for an undisclosed sum, will see Paragon acquire the Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire operation, which includes an 80,000sq ft manufacturing unit.
Ward Knowles, which has a reported turnover in excess of £12m, will continue to operate under its existing name.
The brand has more than 100 years of expertise within the print industry and long standing relationships with major print management companies making it the perfect investment for Paragon.
Iain Black, group sales and marketing director at Paragon, said: “Our goal is to ensure that business continues as usual at Ward Knowles.
“Paragon is the UK’s leading trade manufacturer. With a significant part of our business already supplying the trade, we are confident that with the acquisition of Ward Knowles we have an unrivalled trade offering and a true alternative for print managers and brokers in terms of scale, quality, and operational excellence.”
Tony Scott, sales director at Ward Knowles, said: “We are delighted to be joining the Paragon Group. Without Paragon’s involvement all 145 jobs at Ward Knowles would have been lost.”
The acquisition will benefit clients through the creation of greater efficiencies with the consolidation of suppliers, manufacturing capabilities and service offerings
Paragon prides itself on offering new and innovative solutions, adding value and bringing new technological advancements and ideas to the supply chain.
The privately held group employs 1,100 people across Europe and has revenues of €160m (£135m).
