PTS said the move has extended its overall service offering to its customers and increased its capabilities, capacities and skill sets.

The paperwork pertaining to the deal was finalised on 8 December and the factory move and integration of former Barnsley-based Print City into PTS’ Wakefield Europort site was completed on 19 December. Both businesses will now trade under the Print Trade Suppliers (PTS) name.

PTS general manager Ann Harrington said: “The acquisition of Print City further supports our commitment to our trade business. The market has become more competitive and we know that we need to continue to invest in our capabilities and offering in order to retain our position as a leading provider to the trade market.”

Equipment acquired by PTS as part of the acquisition includes a Komori Lithrone S29 and four other offset presses, two Polar guillotines, a Muller stitching line, three MBO folders, a Heidleberg cylinder and a range of other finishing equipment.

Former Print City chairman Mike Brennan, who has joined PTS as director of sales, said: “The consolidation of Print City into PTS allows us to have a single entity that will supply the whole of the trade marketplace.

“Times continue to be challenging but bringing machinery and experience together gives us a solid platform from which to operate to the benefit of our customers and prospects.”

As a result of the acquisition 22 employees from Print City have been taken on by PTS under TUPE regulations; PTS now has 80 staff in total. Following discussions, eight positions became vacant as a result of the integration. Three press operator roles are still available, which PTS is currently recruiting for.

Dedicated trade supplier PTS, which has a turnover in excess of £14m following the acquisition, serves print suppliers and brokers of all sizes.