In an email to franchisees, seen by PrintWeek, ODC Group chief executive Kealan Lennon said: "Following
a reorganisation of the management structure of the ODC Group Mike Dewsbury and Laird Mackay have now left.

"The reorganisation will result in a more streamlined organisational structure at ODC, which internally will provide greater clarity on reporting lines."

A spokesperson for ODC said that the changes would "lead to a more focused organisation, which is responsive to the needs of its centre owners".

The surprise departure is the latest event in a tumultuous period for the high-street print franchise owner, which has been involved in a bitter row with its franchisees for 18 months amid allegations of cost-cutting, a lack of support and supplier kickbacks.

It is understood that Lennon, together with recently appointed ODC group commercial director Fiacra Nagle, will meet with franchisees to discuss the impact of the changes.