The aim of the partnership is to take advantage of the local knowledge and experience of Kilingworth-based YPS while benefiting from the product support and logistical capabilities of Birmingham-based ScreenPro.

The new company, called ScreenPro (Northeast), will supply screen printers with products including ink, screen stretching and stencil making, along with an in-house colour matching service. It aims to meet with local screen printers to ensure they receive the advice and support they need and will service clients from the north east and Scotland.

ScreenPro, a Screen Rapide distributor, will become a key supplier of Sun Chemical’s screen products in the north east and Scotland. The £2m-turnover company, which has 11 staff, also supplies Triangle digital inks along with digital media hardware and software.

Steve Hughes, director and co-owner of ScreenPro, said: "We are currently based in central Birmingham and we serve printers across the Midlands and further afield. We spotted a gap in the market in the north east as the biggest suppliers have pulled out of the area.

"We feel we can offer huge benefits to customers in the north east and Scotland. The products we can offer make us a one-stop shop for all printing needs and makes us the knowledgeable and competitive partner for companies in the area."