Sheetfed printer Nevisprint, which was part of NBH Holdings, received just one purchase offer – from an individual who, in the end, was unable to take matters forward.

Nevisprint was closed on 23 April and the remaining 43 staff made redundant.

Administrator John Montague, of Grant Thornton, said: "We approached a number of parties and explored all the possibilities. It is disappointing that we couldn't sell it."

Former Nevisprint sales director Trevor Forward and account manager Mark McConnell have been taken on by commercial printer Stewarts "to provide continuity of service to Nevisprint customers".

Managing director of Livingston-based Stewarts Terry O'Hare said: "Unfortunately, we have seen some casualties in Scotland over the past 12 months.

"It is always very sad to see such companies with long traditions suffering from market conditions."
O'Hare added there continued to be pressure on the print sector.

"We focus on building a strong balance sheet to secure our future while investing in state-of-the-art equipment. There is no doubt in my mind that there will be further consolidation in the print industry this year."