The Sheffield-based firm has taken an undisclosed stake in the Essex-based firm, which, according to ProCo managing director Jon Bailey, will enable both firms to grow their marketing communications and printing offerings in the UK and internationally.

“We’re creating a proper partnership for growth and offering additional services for each other's clients,” said Bailey. “This is a good opportunity for both firms.”

The combined group will have sales of between £13m-£14m. Bailey said ProCo was on track for sales of  £11.5m-£11.8m for 2014 prior to the acquisition.

All 21 staff at Concept’s Stansted factory will remain with the firm, as will its Indigo presses.

“We will leverage the location and expertise of Concept,” said Bailey. “We will have more sales presence in the South and the ability to offer same-day deliveries." 

Over the next 12 months the firms will work to align and integrate their operations and product offerings. And in particular to combine workflow and marketing automation services and software. 

“Concept offers a lot of brain power, not just capacity,” said Bailey.

Concept managing director Giles Bowes added: "Between our two businesses we have many complimentary attributes, including how we see the market changing and our vision for supporting customers in the future.

"We look forward to combining the technical expertise of both businesses, to not only respond to changing consumer habits, but pro-actively introduce new print and communication technology innovations."