Portsmouth-based print and mailing specialist Bishops Printers is celebrating 40 years in business; an impressive achievement in an industry that has seen rapid change. Yet, for this family-run firm, the milestone is not just about looking back but focusing firmly on the future.
As the company enters its fifth decade, 2025 will be no exception to its long-standing commitment to investment – both in people and cutting-edge technology. This dedication to innovation and service excellence continues to be the driving force behind Bishops’ success.
Strategic Growth and Investment
Having rebalanced its business last year to meet rising demand for short-run bound work while strengthening its litho print capabilities, Bishops has turned its attention to further enhancing its extensive print finishing department.
To date, new investments include a Müller Martini 6-station stitcher with a cover feeder, replacing the oldest of Bishops’ three saddle stitchers, along with three RFU66 Heidelberg Stahl folding machines with Palamides stackers, an additional TI-52 model, and a new guillotine. With an average annual investment of £2.3 million over the past three years, these upgrades not only modernise equipment but also enhance production efficiency, reinforcing Bishops’ ability to deliver high-quality, high-speed output with the reliability for which they are known.
But for Bishops, investment isn’t just about technology. It’s about the people who operate it.
“Our people are at the heart of Bishops' investment strategy. Our finishing operators are highly skilled and adaptable, allowing us to flex with the demands of each job. Providing training on state-of-the-art equipment in a modern, well-equipped factory not only strengthens our capabilities but also instils a strong sense of professional pride in our team.”
Sustainable Growth and a Vision for the Future
Bishops’ workforce has grown to nearly 200, supporting an annual turnover of just over £25 million. The company remains on track for steady 5-6% growth, driven by strategic investment and careful commercial management. Crucially, Bishops continues to deliver a modest profit – essential for sustaining its commitment to continuous reinvestment and long-term growth.
As Bishops Printers celebrates 40 years of success, its unwavering commitment to investment, innovation, and people ensures it remains as resilient and forward-thinking as ever. By continuously evolving to meet customer and industry needs, Bishops isn’t just marking a milestone. It’s building a future where quality, service, and efficiency remain at the forefront of everything it does.
