The company, based in the city, will handle the print requirements for The Pleasance and C venues. The contracts will cover the printing of material, including posters, flyers and small brochures.

"The Festival Fringe gets bigger and bigger each year and there are now up to 2,500 shows," said Century 23 head of corporate sales Scott Morris. "It means that we handle a big burst of material over a small amount of time."

Century 23 will source litho printers based in central Scotland and last year the company oversaw the printing of more than 5m flyers and posters during the event.

"In spite of many other approaches we have had from other print suppliers, Century 23 offer best value for money, quick turnaround times and are able to deal with anything they're asked to," said C venues director Hartley Kemp.

Century 23 has held the contract with The Pleasance for the last six years and it has had a deal with C venues for three years.
Last year more than 225,000 visitors attended shows at The Pleasance across 17 different venues. It includes the Pleasance Courtyard and the Pleasance Dome.

"I am delighted that we have been chosen as suppliers to the Pleasance and C venues. These are flagship Fringe venues," said Century 23 partner Jamie Ward.

Century 23 is demonstrating its green credentials. It uses paper from sustainable forests. It is also organising a tree plantation near to Edinburgh after the Festival. The firm has budgeted enough trees to offset 20 tonnes of carbon and is hoping the venues will commit to an equal amount.

"What is important for us is to be as environmentally sound as we can," added Morris.

Story by Philip Chadwick