Start-up wins press distributor job

A start-up company created by two former Graphic Arts Equipment employees, who were made redundant when the company collapsed, is to become a UK distributor for Japanese litho press maker Shinohara.

Graphic Machinery Services (GMS) was formed by Steve Kernoghan and Steve Humphrey when GAE went into administration at the beginning of the year.

It will use this year's Ipex - the global print, publishing and media exhibition - for its official launch and will showcase a B2 75 centimetre, four-colour, mid-pile press with double-diameter cylinder on its stand.

The new venture will offer sales of new equipment, spare parts and service support for Shinohara's B2 and B3 presses.

Mr Kernoghan worked for GAE for 26 years, reaching the role of technical services manager, and Mr Humphrey has more than 10 years' experience repairing presses.

GMS has employed six freelance engineers around the country, all of whom have experience with Shinohara presses, to cover areas across the UK.

Mr Kernoghan said his new company will cooperate with Intelligent Finishing Solutions (IFS), which purchased the assets and business of GAE from administrators in January.

He said his previous experience in dealing with Shinohara and its customers will stand him in good stead and his good relations with the company "will simply continue".

He added he expects to work alongside IFS, saying: "They know Shinohara and were involved with them for many years and we will share leads and sales."

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