Leach marks 135 years with continued investment in its innovation and print portfolio

Print Solutions

Huddersfield based large format print specialist Leach is marking its 135th anniversary this year, having grown from a local print business into an international supplier of large format graphics and display solutions.

Established in 1891, Leach has continued to evolve alongside changes in print technology and customer demand. The company now employs around 85 people and works with customers across the UK and international markets, delivering projects for sectors including retail, exhibitions, museums, stadia and commercial environments.

Over the last year, Leach has invested in its production capabilities with the introduction of a new Durst P5 350 HS large format printer. The investment followed the decommissioning of its Durst Rho 312R, which had produced more than 750,000 square metres of print during its time at the company.

Innovation has also extended its large format printing portfolio. One of the latest developments is its dynamic lightbox technology, which combines printed graphics with individually addressable LEDs.

Unlike conventional lightboxes, where LEDs provide consistent illumination, the individual LEDs can be controlled for colour, brightness and timing. This enables programmed effects including movement, pulsing, fading and changing light patterns behind the printed graphic.

The systems are designed and manufactured around each project, with Leach's design and technical teams determining the appropriate graphic, LED configuration, control technology and construction.

The company’s dynamic lightboxes are currently aimed at indoor applications including museums and heritage environments, retail, exhibitions and showrooms.

Russell Wilson, chief executive officer at Leach, said: ‘One hundred and thirty-five years is a significant milestone for the business, particularly when you consider how much the print industry has changed during that time.

‘Our success has come from continuing to adapt to those changes, investing in technology and developing new capabilities while retaining the technical knowledge and experience within the business. Reaching 135 years gives us an opportunity to reflect on that progress, but also on how the industry and our customers' requirements are continuing to change.’