Lock began his working life at the Royal Air Force, where he was involved with servicing air-to-air guided missiles. 

He joined Xerox in 1990 as a service engineer and subsequently moved into sales.

He went on to hold a variety of sales and marketing roles at Toshiba Tec Europe, OKI Europe and OKI Printing Solutions.

Lock held a variety of senior roles at Duplo including international marketing director and also helmed its UK business for three years, eventually spending nearly a decade at the post-press specialist.   

Lock has also worked at Webmart, Infigo Software and HP.

His most recent role was head of packaging for UK and Ireland at Fujifilm, as the manufacturer established its expanded digital printing operation.

Lock, who is 58, told Printweek that his wife was the brains behind the decision and had also retired early.

“I have a very smart wife who has directed me in the right way over the years!” he said.

“I’m very happy. We’re just going to Brighton to have a picnic on the beach.”

Announcing his retirement news on LinkedIn, Lock said: “I would like to thank all the people who have helped, hired, coached and supported me during my time in this amazing industry.

“In particular I would like to thank all the customers who placed their trust in me over the years. Good luck everyone and see you around.”

His post has garnered more than 120 comments from his wide circle of industry connections.

Andy Kent, UK general manager at Fujifilm Graphic Communications, posted: “Wishing you safe and exciting travels and a wonderful retired life Tony. Thanks for your work with us this past year.”