Visual Print’s MD moves To Solopress
Graham Hunstone, managing director of recently acquired print provider, Visual Print & Design, has been hired as head of partnerships by fellow UK printer, Solopress
The original co-founder of Solopress, Greg Ralph, has returned to the company as sales and customer success director, after leaving the company in 2012
Greg Ralph, an original co-founder of print-on-demand (POD) company Solopress, has returned to the company as its sales and customer success director.
The appointment follows Simon Cooper’s promotion to chief executive officer of both Solopress in the UK and Onlineprinters in Germany.
Ralph was one of Solopress’ original founders, establishing the business in 1999 alongside former school friends Andy Smith and Aron Priest. Ralph reportedly played a key role in the company’s early success, helping to drive its rapid growth.
In 2012, Ralph stepped away from the business to explore opportunities in e-commerce, consultancy, and property development.
In his new role, Ralph will be tasked with leading efforts to attract and retain customers and improve Solopress’ support services, as well as overseeing the company’s various sub-brands that focus on providing procurement solutions for trade partners.
Sub-brands include Solopro, an account management programme for larger businesses, and Soloflo, the company’s print-focused API solution.
Speaking of his new role at Solopress, Ralph says: "It’s fantastic to be back at Solopress, especially at such a pivotal moment in the company’s journey.
“The business has grown enormously since I was last here, and I’m excited to contribute to the next phase of its success.”
One of Ralph’s focuses will be growing the company’s Brand Central solution, a microsite option for organisations with multiple locations, teams, or franchises that provides a bespoke print ordering portal.
Speaking of the solution, Ralph says: “Brand Central in particular is an area where I can see an immense potential to add value to our offering.
“With a strong team, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to exceptional service, we have a great opportunity to build on Solopress’ reputation as a leader in online print."
Simon Cooper, chief executive officer of Solopress and Onlineprinters, says: "Greg’s return is a major asset to Solopress.
“As a founder, he knows the business inside out and his experience since then brings fresh insight at a time when we’re driving forward with ambitious plans. His leadership will be key in strengthening our customer offering and continuing our growth in the UK market."
The company, which marked 25 years in business last year, recently announced a major expansion of its customer base. The UK customers of print provider, Onlineprinters, will now transition to subsidiary Solopress as part of aims to streamline its operations.
The transition process began in November, with the process on track for completion by April 2025.
