The firm had already said it planned a phased withdrawal from the UK market and was in talks with firms about how it could ensure continuity for its customers.

Staff were informed by letter last week that they were on two months notice.

Litho Supplies and NCS Integrated Solutions have been talking to the Hertfordshire-based firm.

Creo was to have talks yesterday about ensuring that clients with its products had service and support.

The future of the UK agency for the former Mitsubishi Chemical plates now supplied by Lastra is unclear. Sources have suggested that ex-MCSi staff may form a UK Lastra agency.