Karran Group has expanded its presence in cardboard engineering with the purchase of Corbys Swan Packaging.


Swan, which shot to prominence last year through its production of solar eclipse viewers, will become the groups specialist finishing wing, while all printing will move to Karrans Guildford plant.


Swan managing director Bill Stillman, who acquired the 3m turnover, 50-staff business four years ago, becomes group marketing director, retaining his Swan role.


He said the business had reached a situation where it had good sales, but lacked the financial backing to invest in modern equipment. He also pointed to the synergies between the two businesses: Weve always had lots of enquiries for the sort of work Karran does, but havent been able to fulfil them.


Group chief executive Arun Sharma added: This is a merger that needed to happen, and makes us a very strong, powerful group. We want to get away from the situation where we are competing with people who in some cases are out to commit suicide. I expect Karran Group to post profits that will turn peoples heads.


The enlarged business, which also incorporates FMT Colour and Seven Corners Group, will have sales of around 13m. Sue Whitmore, who recently joined Karran from Mailcom, becomes group managing director.


Story by Jo Francis