PrintWeek revealed that Centurion was up for sale last month (PrintWeek, 5 April). At the time the print management group said it was reviewing our position in the market and looking at the next phase of development and growth.

The deal gives Communisis a major presence in the print management sector, where Centurion is the UKs third biggest player, with sales of 55.7m.

It is paying for Centurion in cash and 12.7m of Communisis shares.

Communisis said the acquisition was highly complementary to its existing operations. We are increasingly looking to work with our customers on a contractual basis and the purchase of Centurion is a further step in this direction, said chief executive David Jones (pictured).

Centurion chairman Lord Evans will continue in his role, while directors Simon Tate and Caroline Smith will join Communisis executive management committee.

Centurion's clients include Barclaycard, BSkyB and Sainsbury's.