The marketing services and print management business was set up at the end of March by co-founders Steve Smith, Paul Clarke and Danny Coe. 

Smith and Clarke had previously worked together at Mosaic Group, while they knew Coe via his field marketing business 25/8 Connect, which has now been acquired by 25/8 Marketing Group and rebranded as 25/8 Retail Solutions. 

The deal was effective 1 December. The terms were not disclosed.

25/8’s core offering includes 2D and 3D design, point-of-sale, print, mailings, signage, packaging, corporate gifts, workwear, warehouse and logistics.

Smith said the venture had experienced “an amazing start” that had exceeded all their hopes. 

“By taking Danny’s field marketing business into the group, it completes the loop so we can offer design and delivery,” he explained.

“We are really excited, there are lots of cross-selling opportunities.”

Smith said the firm was focused on “transparency and good old-fashioned customer service” combined with strong relationships with its print suppliers. 

“As a print manager we are only as good as our supplier base and we take that very seriously. We don’t have any hidden rebates or technology charges,” he stated. 

“Our model is that we agree a fee with clients depending on the spend, and that is transparent. We don’t expect a kickback.”

The firm has just won a contract with retirement income financial services specialist Just Group.

“We are delighted to have been appointed as Just Group's partner for their exhibitions and events. We are looking forward to our partnership with Just Group helping them grow their brand over the coming years,” Smith added. 

The combined 25/8 businesses now employ some 52 people, with annualised sales running at getting on for £10m for 25/8 Marketing Group and around £1.25m-£1.5m for sister company 25/8 Retail Solutions. 

25/8 is a Sedex member and is carbon neutral, and will help clients with sustainability goals. The firm also works with More:Trees on tree planting initiatives.