Allan Hamilton has been appointed as managing director of the Lesmahagow, Lanarkshire-based business, taking the reins from Owen Pilling who formed the company in 1995 along with his wife Janet.
The deal was completed on 1 December and was funded with a “six-figure” package from UKSE, alongside input from private investors.
Hamilton is already a familiar face within the business, having started his career there alongside Pilling as an apprentice aged 16. After going on to pursue a successful career within the wider industry, he has returned to manage the team alongside Stuart Ritchie and Tristan Harrold as commercial and financial director, and operations and technical director, respectively.
The new management team, which brings 60 years of industry experience combined, has acquired the complete company, with Pilling remaining within OPG in a consultancy capacity, supporting the team with the business transition.
Hamilton said: “OPG has a fantastic reputation within the industry and local community alike, and I am proud to return after Owen gave me my first break some years ago.
“I am looking forward to leading the next chapter of growth at OPG as we continue to build positive relationships with existing clients, and welcome more as we expand our brand awareness offerings.
“We already have a great team at OPG, with many of our workforce having enjoyed careers with us for more than 15 years.
“The funding boost from UKSE has given us financial confidence that we can continue to build on this solid foundation and grow our business, helping to strengthen the Lanarkshire economy and attract a skilled workforce.”
Terry Quinn, regional executive at UKSE, added: “Helping OPG to conclude its MBO is a fantastic way to wrap up 2022 for the UKSE team. The new management team’s local roots combined with stellar industry experience will stand OPG in good stead for a positive and successful future.
“We wish the team the very best as it presses ahead with an exciting pipeline of new opportunities and networks to explore.”
Using primarily HP printers with a variety of finishing equipment, OPG designs and produces graphic wraps for vehicles, working with hundreds of household names across industries including food and drink, retail, corporate, logistics, construction, transport, and the public sector.
Brands the business works with include McDonald’s, Greggs, Sports Direct, Hovis, and NatWest.
With a turnover in excess of £2m, OPG currently employs 20 staff at its 700sqm site, in management, design, production, administration, and field operation roles.
As part of its five-year business strategy, several new roles are expected to be created as it enhances its brand services, offering customers a single source for all brand requirements.
