Hallam was the younger brother of Flint Group EMEA business director Grant Penfield, and began his printing industry career aged 16 working for Penfield at Stehlin Hostag.
Penfield paid tribute to Hallam’s generosity of spirit and love of life: “He was more like a son to me because his father died when he was only 11. Craig was a caring, loving wonderful guy and such a generous person,” he said.
“He was a relationship builder who really cared about his customers, and he lived life to the full. We are broken-hearted at his loss.”
David Ward, managing director at Hubergroup UK, also worked alongside Hallam at Stehlin Hostag. “I saw Craig grow up through the business and grew to know him, and we became the best of friends. As a salesman he was a ball of energy, full of life and infectious enthusiasm,” he said.
“Some of my best and finest memories are of times with Craig. I’ve never known anyone like him in terms of making you laugh. He will be much missed.”
Hallam went on to work with Penfield at Druckfarben. After the company was sold to Flint Group he set up his own business, H2 Group, supplying a range of pressroom products as well as low-energy lighting.
Long-standing customers also paid tribute. Andy Watts, managing director at The Sherwood Group, said: “He was a great guy, always on the end of the phone and always helpful. He became a personal friend and I will miss him terribly.”
Alex Evans, managing director at Precision Colour Printing, added: “Craig was a joy to be with and one of the nicest people in the industry. He was a great salesperson and very charismatic.
“This is very, very sad news and tragic for his family. He will be sadly missed on a personal and business level.”
Hallam is survived by his 13-year-old daughter Holly.
His funeral will be held on 13 November at 11:30am, at The Church Of The Transfiguration, Chaddesley Glen, Canford Cliffs, Poole BH13 7PF.
Industry friends and colleagues are welcome to attend, and flowers can be arranged via Mews Funeral Directors in Poole, telephone: 01202 741340.
