Alan Thomas, who has worked in the print sector for more 40 years, started in the new role at the Normanton-based business over the summer.

Most recently, Thomas spent 20 years with Ultrachem as factory and technical manager, where his responsibilities covered production, R&D, product development, technical and sales support, and health and safety. Ultrachem fell into administration earlier this year.

In his new role, Thomas has been working with James Gardiner, owner and managing director of Gardiner Colours, to develop a portfolio of new products including fount solutions, blanket and roller washes, plate care products, speciality chemicals and pre-press chemicals.

“We are fortunate to have found someone with Alan’s breadth of knowledge and he will play a key part in helping us to take the business to the next level,” said Gardiner.

“We are still doing all the inks and varnishes that we were doing before but we’re also now manufacturing all the press chemistry and the plate cleaners. This is brand new for Gardiner Colours and it’s already going really well.”

Thomas added: “I’m looking forward to bringing my expertise to Gardiner Colours.

“It’s a well-established independent business with huge further potential – with a 22,000sqft manufacturing facility and an experienced team, the company has the capacity and now the formulations to extend its range and become a one-stop shop for all printing needs.”

The business, which employs more than 20 staff, serves the UK market as well as 20 other countries internationally. Exports make up around 40% of its turnover, a figure that Gardiner said is continuing to grow.

“Additional sales from export is going to be the future of our business. While Alan works on the press chemistry, I’ve got three other projects that we’re going to introduce to the business over the next 12 months so there are a lot of exciting things happening.”