Runtime UK celebrates five years of Printing.com franchise

Andy Smith, owner of Runtime UK secured the Printing.com franchise in 2007 and moved to his new studio in Vineyard Road in Wellington.

Five years on, Mr Smith said it was a perfect location and along with the talents of his team had proved a success and seen them secure a number of new clients.

Mr Smith has recently welcomed his latest member of staff, Graham Morris who has taken on the role of graphic designer.

The company now employs six people including web designers, graphic designers and Search Engine Specialists.

The team at Runtime offer to transform people's ideas including basic “doodles” into professional graphic designs for their company, do a whole range of printing from business cards to exhibition banners and also web design.

Mr Smith, who founded the business in 1998, said his work had seen his clients secure some large contracts due to the professional image they had created for them.

But Mr Smith, who is a member of Wellington Chamber of Commerce, said his business was not just about contracts but also helping to boost the local community and the environment.

The franchise has teamed up with the Tree Appeal and Professor David Bellamy to help plant 100,000 trees in schools across the UK.

While Mr Smith has helped local organisations launch or revamp their own websites including Wellington Chamber of Commerce, as well as websites for manufacturers and small businesses.

Mr Smith added: “During our first year in Wellington we have also offered a number of work experience placements to young people to give them an insight into the industry.

“Not enough companies do this these days but the experience is vital for them to be able to get themselves into the design industry,” Mr Smith said.

“Being a business in a town is not just about what goes on for the clients but also for the community as a whole.

“The business community in Wellington is thriving and I am glad the Runtime team is a part of that.”