Business

French security printer Oberthur Technologies will launch a joint bid with the UK-based private security firm G4S for the Bank of England's 1bn next generation banknote contract, according to Reuters.

Royal Mail kicked off its initial public offering (IPO) today just as the CWU was sending out ballot papers to postal workers for strike action opposing the privatisation.

John Watson & Co has been bought by Cincinnati, Ohio-based Multi-Color Corporation (MCC) less than a year after the collapse of its proposed sale to Canadian labels group CCL Industries.

Colorscan Imaging Products has installed an EFI Jetrion 4900M digital label press as part of a 3m expansion.

Ilford Imaging Switzerland has announced a 40% reduction in its workforce following its sale via an MBO to chief executive Paul Willems and chief financial officer Jean-Marc Metrailler.

Roland DG has announced an addition to its VersaUV LEF range of desktop, flatbed UV printers for printing directly onto promotional products, such as pens, golf balls, and smartphone covers.

Dantex has been appointed as European distributor for Screen's Truepress Jet L350UV label press, which had its official European launch at Labelexpo this week.

Spin Print Solutions has installed a five-colour Hans Gronhi B3 press and ordered an additional two-colour model as part of a 600,000 litho, digital and finishing kit spend.

A business boom in areas including South America has prompted Meech International to expand its premises in Witney, Oxfordshire.

Ed Miliband will announce plans to freeze small business rates for two years, from April 2015 to April 2017, in his keynote speech at the Labour Party conference this afternoon.