The firm will begin a 90-day consultation period with Amicus GPMS on Monday 13 June.

It was widely predicted by industry insiders that the firm would consolidate its existing gravure operations once the Sheffield superplant came on line.

"In spite of genuine efforts made by the management and staff over the last 12 months, the company has continued to trade unsatisfactorily for a number of years," said Purnell managing director Alan Fraser.

"With high operating costs and additional competition from the gravure and web-offset markets, it is not viable to retain this business. We will be working with the relevant parties to ensure that the consultation process is as constructive as possible for all employees."

The company will explore alternative employment opportunities elsewhere in the group for staff at Purnell.

Story by Josh Brooks