Dall, who had been ill with cancer since earlier this year, died peacefully in his sleep on the 18 September. He joined the company in Normanton, West Yorkshire, in 2007 after serving as sales director for Alcan.

"His earlier career was in marketing and a standout achievement was the round teabag, which he is credited with helping to pioneer," said development director Chris Kozlik. "Lawrence was a charmer and an entertainer.

"He was gregarious and outgoing, the essence of Parkside and the driving force of the business for the last five years. But he left us in a very strong position with great growth options, so we have time to take stock. He will be a very, very hard act to follow."

Parkside flexographic printer and specialist laminating company has been supplying bespoke packaging to the tobacco industry for more than 40 years. The business has 150 staff, a manufacturing base in Malaysia and a turnover of around £30m.