Artprint Holdings replaces the previous holding company Levelflint and was set up purely as a vehicle to buy Hampshire-based BAS, which was PrintWeeks Fine Art Printer of the Year last year and a runner-up in the Book Printer of the Year category.

Artprint chairman Neville Rolt takes over as managing director of BAS and holds 25% of Artprints shares. David Gumn retains 25%, while his cousin, Paul Gumn, owns 50% and remains as BAS sales director.

Industry consultant Maximum Impact was approached 12 months ago to find a buyer for the company. Managing consultant Bill Davis said: "It wasnt easy to find a buyer as it operates in a niche market. But I knew that Neville was looking to build a printing group."

Rolt will continue to develop BASs presence in the fine art market, but will also look to broaden its activity and grow its commercial side, taking quality print into the corporate arena.

Its management team remains intact and BAS is now looking to bolster its sales department.

Rolt, who also owns marketing company Connect Print & Packaging in Towcester and has 27 years experience in the industry, unsuccessfully attempted a buyout of White Crescent Press in Luton last year, and was previously managing director of Prestige Packaging.

BAS employs 45 staff and currently has a turnover of 2.5m, which it hopes to double within the next three years. It will also move to new premises in Hampshire within 18 months.

Story by Rachel Barnes