Textflow acquires Astron in Northern Ireland

Textflow, the Belfast-based digital print and e-solutions company, has acquired the Northern Ireland operation of Astron, the leading information logistics company.

While Astron currently operates in 20 locations throughout the UK, this is the first time it has entered into a strategic partnership of this nature. The move will give Textflow access to Astron’s client list of public and private sector clients. As part of the agreement, Astron’s seven Northern Ireland staff will now transfer to Textflow.

Operating under the name Textflow Astron, the new venture will offer a print facilities management service that encompasses the entire printing and document management cycle, including design, international print purchase, production, logistics and distribution. Secure print and e-commerce services will also be key features of Textflow Astron, which is to be based in south Belfast.

Making the announcement Nigel Ewing, managing director and owner of Textflow Astron, said: “The acquisition of Aston NI will dramatically enhance the services we offer and provide a solid platform for future growth. Astron’s experience, established e-commerce systems and group buying power will help us build upon our existing outsourcing capabilities and compete for much larger projects and contracts.

”The end result will be a more powerful organisation, fully equipped and ideally positioned to meet the challenges facing our industry.”

David Mitchell, chief executive of Astron added that the move was part of Astron’s strategy to establish a network to best service the global needs of their expanding customer base. (MB)