The moves were announced last Friday (1 February).

Fulmar will pay up to 3m for Sydenham-based Quadracolor and Quadracolor Graphics, which together made a pre-tax profit after exceptionals of 274,000 in the year to 31 October 2001. Owners Edward Connolly and John Grima are remaining with the company.

"This acquisition drives our group numbers its a well-run business and improves our earnings per share with immediate effect," said Fulmar Group chief executive Mike Taylor. "Its a good deal for both of us. We can help them by unburdening them of the administration side of things, letting them get on with business."

Quadracolors clients include Shell, Hodder Headline, Penguin Books, LOral, Bupa and Honda. Its plant includes six multi-colour Speedmasters and comprehensive pre-press and finishing facilities.

Fulmars purchase of two 12-colours will catapult the company into the forefront of the UKs long perfector users. Maurice Payne in Theale became the first printer in the world to own two 12-colours last year.

Fulmars current battery of Heidelbergs are all non-perfecting models.

"They have cracked perfecting quality Heidelbergs new cylinder jacket technology means it is a non-issue," said Taylor. "We tested the press with six of our most difficult jobs and found nothing to criticise."

The new presses will "significantly improve productivity" The 40.5m turnover groups reshaping also includes the relocation of loss-making subsidiary WE Baxter from Lewes on the south coast to a site in Mitcham. The workforce will also be halved to 35 as a result.

Im determined that we will save Baxters in some form, but its got to make a profit. We are giving it a chance to survice and hope the staff see there is a real future for them in Mitcham, added Taylor.

"With hindsight I wish I'd done with Baxters what we did with Royles, which was to bring them here immediately."

Story by Jo Francis