Penfield, who has a long track record of successful businesses in the inks industry, set up the firm in 2019 with an initial focus on ink mixing service for Pantone and spot colours. The business trades as PMS-Express.
The fresh deal with Netherlands-based AtéCé Graphic Products will see a major expansion of the firm’s offering to include the Deutsche Druckfarben range of sheetfed offset printing inks.
The deal also includes Galaxy coatings and pressroom chemistry, PressClean washcloths, and PrintCare ink duct foils and packing materials.
Penfield said the move had been spurred by the disruption and price inflation in the inks market caused by global supply chain issues, and the impact of Brexit red tape on delivery times for goods from outside the UK.
He said that “unsurpassed” customer service would be key to the new offering.
“I love the industry and I understand it. It’s time for a new approach and stability in what can be offered in prices,” Penfield told Printweek.
“I see an opportunity to minimise the cost of freight by holding stock in the UK. Customers can have product next-day from our stock – there are a lot of customers we can talk to and show them some love and appreciation. Our aim is to deliver the correct product, on time and in full, and not damaged.”
The PMS slogan is “The answer is yes!”
AtéCé Graphic Products managing director Bert Schelhaas commented: “With the knowledge and network of Grant and his team and our high-quality product portfolio we feel we can make a difference in existing supply chains and bring numerous advantages to the market.”
AtéCé inks: "modern formulations"
Penfield quipped that he had “retired twice” but was excited about the new opportunity which has involved a significant investment of around £500,000 in stock and operational assets at the firm’s Leeds warehouse hub.
He said PMS-Express planned to target larger companies directly and would work with regional dealers “who are closest to the market and respected local suppliers” to roll out the new range to smaller users.
“Our fast turnaround of orders will provide an edge on service levels without the cost and inconvenience to our dealers, of importing and holding huge stocks,” he stated.
“AtéCé is a close partner and these are all proven products. The product is ready, no testing is required so we can hit the road running.
“These inks are modern formulations to meet the needs of the market. When customers get them on press, they very quickly see the benefits in additional colour strength and drying times.”
Reflecting its ambitions for expansion, PMS-Express has also taken on former Flint Group marketing director Peter Baird as sales and marketing director. He brings 35 years of industry experience to the new role.
“We plan to add another two or three people. We want to be working with the right people,” Penfield added.
AtéCé Graphic Products managing director Bert Schelhaas commented: “With the knowledge and network of Grant and his team and our high-quality product portfolio we feel we can make a difference in existing supply chains and bring numerous advantages to the market.”
Penfield's ink industry career has spanned more than three decades at Stehlin Hostag, Hubergroup, Druckfarben and Flint Group.
