Communisis has announced a major restructure at subsidiary Howitts in Nottingham, which will ultimately lead to the sale of the business.


Howitts direct mail work will transfer to Communisis Chorleys and Broadprint operations, leading to 85 job losses in Nottingham, although some staff will be offered positions at the other plants. Divisional managing director John Wells has begun talks with the works council and GPMU over the proposals.



The remaining Howitt business, with sales of around 27m and just under 300 staff, is likely to be sold. "We are very focused on a particular area, and a printing company like Howitts doesnt sit comfortably with that," explained Wells.


"It is an attractive business and we are seeking someone who will see it as core."


Wells added that Communisis (formerly the John Mansfield Group), intended to form a customer partnership with Howitts new owners for the supply of print to Communisis.