surveys, and traditional print jobs like brochures and corporate stationery. Last year the company had a turnover of around £3.6m which has led to Formara’s continued investment in the future through its new website, its sustainable printing, and its data-driven direct mail offering. Interestingly, Pond started at Formara as a trainee in 1988 and became managing director of the company in 2023. Speaking about what he is most proud of, Pond says: “Many of the people I started with are still here today, and together, we’ve helped shape Formara into what it is now. The growth, the technology, and the ethos we’ve developed over the years are something to be truly proud of.” Throughout Pond’s 36 years with the company he has seen a number of changes to the business and the industry. “The biggest challenge has been adapting to the decline in traditional print volumes,” says Pond, adding: “As more businesses shift to digital, we’ve had to find new ways to add value. That’s why we’ve invested in data-driven direct mail, print automation, and sustainable print solutions. By offering services that complement digital marketing strategies, rather than competing with them, we’ve been able to continue growing and evolving.” Customer- and Sustainability-Focused As evident by the company’s initiatives, awards, and plans, Formara’s values and ethos are incredibly important to the business, as is the case with many modern brands and businesses. The phrase “people buy from people” comes to mind when looking at fresh and modern brands which put their personality to the forefront. When it comes to Formara, Pond says the business is “all about delivering a personal, customer-focused service”. The company’s goal is to be the UK’s leading customer-focused, technology-driven, and sustainable print and marketing business. Speaking about these goals and values, Pond says: “We believe in building strong relationships with our clients, offering innovative solutions, and staying at the forefront of sustainable printing practices. Our commitment to customer service is reflected not just in our client relationships but also in the loyalty of our employees, many of whom have been with us for years. “Sustainability is at the heart of what we do. Our commitment to environmentally responsible print has been recognised with the Corporate Sustainability Award, which reflects our ongoing efforts to reduce our environmental impact. Formara has also partnered with Two Sides, a global initiative which dispels print marketing myths and promotes sustainable practices. This allows us to educate our customers on the environmental benefits of print while reinforcing our dedication to ethical production.” Pond emphasises that there’s “really no such thing as a ‘typical’ day at Formara”, saying that one moment they can be working on a complex direct mail campaign for a finance company and the next they could be responding to information security audits or producing marketing materials for colleges and universities. A standout project Pond remembers was Formara’s work on the COVID React Study which was of particular historic importance and was indicative of the work the company does in industries like education, finance, government, and market research. Pond’s favourite part of the company is the creative process, seeing a project go from an initial concept to a beautiful, finished product. “That’s why I joined the print industry back in 1988, it still gives me the same buzz today. There’s something incredibly satisfying about seeing a pallet of brochures or books neatly stacked, ready to go out to a client, or be posted directly to their customers.” When it comes to the future, Pond says the team has big plans for the next two to five years: “Sustainability is a key focus, so we’re looking at ways to further reduce our environmental impact while expanding our offerings. We also see a lot of potential in personalised print marketing, where businesses can use data to create more targeted and effective campaigns. “Growth in industries like education, research, and financial services will be a priority for us, as we continue to develop specialist print solutions that meet their needs. Also, innovation is a big part of our future growth strategy. Our Innovation Day with Marcus Clifford was just the start, by continuously exploring new methods and ideas, we’re ensuring that Formara remains at the forefront of the print and marketing industry.” To conclude this look at Formara’s operations, its worth noting Pond’s final thoughts: “We’ve spent over 50 years refining our craft, and we’re excited about what the future holds.” This statement is indicative of what many legacy printers currently have the power to do. With sustainability and various marketing solutions at their disposal, ultimately printers can be the innovators of a more sustainable and communicative world. 41 www.printmonthly.co.uk July / August 2025 - Issue 355 COMPANY SPOTLIGHT | FORMARA PRINT & MARKETING Many of the people I started with are still here today, and together, we’ve helped shape Formara into what it is now ▼Formara's award for Most Sustainable Packaging 2024 ►[L to R] Business consultant, Marcus Clifford, and MD, Andy Pond
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