Benson joined the business from outside the sector in August 2017, having previously run his own consultancy business and, prior to that, he was managing director of Sony’s Nordic business.

Benson, who will leave the business on 29 March, said he was departing on very good terms, but didn’t have any immediate plans.

Speaking to PrintWeek he said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time here with the team and wish Duplo all the very best and I’m open to what the future brings and looking forward to my next learning experience sometime soon.

“I’ve really enjoyed print, it’s a fun industry. Some parts are doing extremely well and in others its extremely tough, there’s a real mix, but I’ve learned a lot.”

In a statement, Duplo said: “Andy Benson has been key in driving the business through a challenging and changing market.”

While Greenhalgh will run the UK business during the recruitment process, Colleen Hankin, will continue to lead the account management team and Kevin Nicholls will continue to head after sales care.

Greenhalgh told PrintWeek that the first interviews to find Benson's successor would take place in the next week. 

"Naturally this position is attracting rather a lot of interest, I'm going to put it up for auction and pocket the proceeds!" he quipped. 

"We've decided to have the management team interview all the candidates first, then I'll get involved with the final decision," Greenhalgh explained. 

"This worked brilliantly for us in France. I've left it in the hands of our HR director and trusted team to put forward candidates that fit our values and culture."

He added: “We’re sad to see Andy leave but excited by the new opportunity. We wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

Earlier this year, Japanese post-press equipment manufacturer Duplo Corporation bought Duplo International, parent of Duplo UK and Duplo France and master distributor for the Europe, Middle East, Africa & Russia region from the Greenhalgh family.