BANNERSHOP PULLS UP STUMPS

Display print business Bannershop has closed its Australian operation and withdrawn to its Hong Kong base, 18 years after beginning operations on these shores.

Bannershop didn’t win many friends in the local print trade on its arrival in Australia, with its early model of taking the orders here, printing the job in Hong Kong, and flying it back here next day, and all for a price that left local printers scratching their heads.

However local competition has ramped up significantly over the past few years, as local operators such as EasySigns and the Kwik Kopy franchisees started offering next day, or, more recently, same day delivery or collection on their wide format print products. Display print has also been integrated into their operations by large numbers of commercial printers, also impacting on the Bannershop market.

Some 15 years ago it was seeking a major expansion on its base here in Australia, aiming to join or acquire large format print businesses in major cities, but the plan didn’t get off the ground. Recently it has been operating from premises in Lidcombe NSW.

Anthony Choi, the long-time Australia manager at Bannershop said, “After 18 wonderful years of serving our customers in Australia, we have made the difficult decision to cease trading. We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of our loyal customers for your support and trust over the years. Your patronage has meant the world to us, and we are truly grateful and thankful for your support. Thank you for being a part of our journey.”