2017 marks an important milestone in Press Products’ history as we celebrate our 60th anniversary. This momentous occasion gives us an opportunity to contemplate our future, based on the extraordinary operating base we have built.
FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO INDUSTRY LEADER
Press Products has undergone a remarkable transformation over 60 years – from a single-room operation established by Elliot Harry Blumberg in 1957 to one of the largest print finishing manufacturers and distributors in southern Africa.
Press Products currently services 15 countries world-wide, with a loyal and long-standing customer base that relies on our quality products and expertise.
A RICH HERITAGE
Bought for £120 at a Sheriff’s sale in 1957, Press Products’ origins lie in the manufacturing of a range of products for the printing industry, including calendar rims, Twin Wire, double loop binding combs and Plastikoil spiral binding systems.
In 1966, Elliot Blumberg linked up with Stuebing of Cincinnati, Ohio – which the Blumberg family continued to own, operate and expand until 2013.
Having energised the US Company and subsequently increasing its profitability, the Blumberg family decided to sell the international operations in order to focus on growing the South African business. In the late 1960s the company secured the local distribution rights to Rilecart, an Italian company which manufactures the double loop wire binding combs. Press Products now manufactures this product under the Twin Wire trade name, utilizing several high speed German wire forming machines.
In 1974, Murray Blumberg joined the Press Products’ team and together with his father, achieved more success. The company secured another two agencies, BindQuip and Plastikoil, which enabled it to consolidate its position as the leading company in southern Africa in the field of mechanical binding systems. Up until a few years ago the company also operated the leading metal stationery manufacturer in the country under the Grip Binders trade name. In 2005, a decision was made to sell this division, which has subsequently allowed the company to focus on its core business.
Shaun Blumberg, Managing Director of Press Products
Shaun Blumberg, current MD and son of Murray, joined Press Products in 2004 and has become the pivotal driving force behind Press Products’ expansion program, having added thermal laminating films and associated laminating machines, as well as hot and cold foils and print media to the product portfolio.
Shaun was instrumental in securing the Plastikoil and GMP agencies. He has since forged strong relationships with Press Products’ key overseas suppliers with whom he meets on his frequent international travels. In recent years Shaun made the decision to open branches in Cape Town and KwaZulu-Natal to ensure that customers receive more efficient deliveries and on-the-spot supply and service for the company’s expanded range of products.
2016 was a year of intense activity, positive initiatives and exciting projects. The company rebranded to a cleaner, more modern look and launched the brand ‘Press Products Foils’. Late 2016 saw the introduction of print media materials as well as the appointment of new staff members, most notably, industry expert, Ziggy Endemann onto the technical support team.
2017 has seen some energizing and dynamic changes to our company. The principal, most exciting development has been our appointment as an exclusive agent for Gaungming Laminating Machines in South Africa. In addition to the success thus far with sales of semi-automatic and fully automatic GMB laminating machines in the African region, Press Products has also employed additional technical staff with vast experience in servicing and repairing of thermal laminating machines.
PRESS PRODUCTS’ PERSONAL TOUCH
Core family values have shaped our culture from inception in 1957 and the legacy of the late Elliot Blumberg is cherished by all our close-knit employees. Press Products is proud of its rich heritage and its position as an industry leader.
The company has a continued passion for attention to detail, translating into an unrelenting focus on market-leading quality and service to our customers, distinguishing us from the competition and ensuring our success in the toughest of times.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
While some of our product offering may have changed over time, our commitment to innovation and customer service remains steadfast.
- Our technical support and service division is run by a team of experienced technicians.
- We regularly host customer days and offer training and technical support on all our machines at our Head Office showroom.
- Repairs are done on site and technicians are able to make replacement parts in our in-house machine shop to accommodate our clients’ requirements.
A BRIGHT FUTURE
Still grounded firmly in our philosophy of offering great service and top quality products at competitive pricing, Press Products is looking forward to another exciting and productive 60 years.
Today, a third generation of Blumbergs is hard at work continuing this legacy. We have continued to adapt to challenging business conditions and look forward to making superb strides into the future.
We would like to thank our dedicated and loyal employees, customers, and partners for all you have done to help make our company what it is today. Over the past six decades, we have accomplished a great deal – these achievements would not have been possible without the help of each and every one of you.
What does Press Products have in store for the future? Watch this space!
