The print management firm, which already has its head office in Surrey and another base in the Republic of Ireland, is looking to expand its portfolio in the north of England and provide clients in the region with a local service. Northern customers include the Labour Party, MI International and Synovant.

"It's part of a wider business picture," said HH Associates marketing director James Hunt. "We are always looking at winning business but the Leeds office also helps us to serve the clients we currently have better."

Hunt added that at the company's current rate of growth it was "a good time to expand" and he said that further expansion plans in the UK and Europe were on the cards, although he was tight lipped on details.

The firm is recruiting sales and account management staff for the Leeds office, which is located in the Thorpe Park Business Park.

"Our clients appreciate the dedication and enthusiasm we bring to their business and the new office will ensure this reputation continues," said HH Associates managing director Robert MacMillan.

Earlier this year HH Associates planned an "aggressive programme of growth" (PrintWeek, 12 February). Last year it opened its office in Ireland as part of a 12-18 month European print management service plan (PrintWeek, 9 October 2003). Since then it has targeted the Scandinavian and Belgian markets.

HH Associates also picked up a raft of contracts in 2003 including Thomson Holidays, Brittany Ferries and Carphone Warehouse, which is a pan-European deal.

Story by Philip Chadwick