Printing World

Print companies have increased their haul in the 2003 Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, winning for innovation and sustainability, though not for international trade. Two earned their accolade and the right to fly the winners flag in the sustainable development category.

Julie and Steve Armstrong, joint managing directors at J&G Environmental in Blandford Forum, Dorset, are thrilled with the Award. The 48-strong company offers a collection and recycling service to printers using 11 trucks and six vans to cover Scotland, England and Wales.

J &G currently collects printing plates; solvent-based inks, solvents, developers, films, fixers and plastic and steel containers. The majority of the material is treated at the company headquarters in Dorset. "The last five years have seen huge growth as new legislation has been introduced and people have become aware of their environment, " says Ms Armstrong.

In the same category, The Beacon Press's sustainable development work has long been recognised and this joins many awards it has won. It operates the UK printing industry's first solvent recycling plant, recycling 95% of its press cleaning solvent.

Stylographics, Paragon Labels, Kodak Polychrome Graphics and Burall PlasTec were recognised in the innovation section. Stylographics, Watford, received recognition for continuous innovation in display and point of sale print for retail, exhibition and museum sectors. The company prints to a range of rigid and flexible materials and has also produced a highly durable printing process directly onto ceramic tiles.

Paragon Labels, Lincolnshire, won for its wrap around self adhesive and tamper proof labels, which can be read from all angles. Managing director Tony Lennon is delighted: "We are immensely proud of the achievement which acknowledges the dedication and commitment of all our staff." Over eight years the company has invested more than £I2m and is approved by all major retailers and food manufacturers. Paragon also prints Braille, electronic tag and coupon-style promotional labels.

KPG's accolade comes for development of the Electra Excel thermal plate, the first to offer a practical no pre-heat, thermal technology.

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