IN a management buyout, Carlisle-based H&H Group plc, has announced the sale of Cumbria's oldest printing firm, H&H Reeds, for an undisclosed sum.

From this week the firm, its print, signage and digital marketing business, transfe4rred to the senior management team, under its new company directors, Anthony Donnelly, Gareth Rylands and Jonathan Nagle.

They will lead the Penrith and Carlisle based print firm, originally founded in 1878 by George Reed, into a new era.

H&H Reeds has been in Penrith for over 140 years, and has recently expanded through its digital agency in Carlisle.

The decision to transfer ownership to the current management team comes as part of a strategic realignment within H&H Group, ensuring that H&H Reeds continues to thrive under those who know it best.

Richard Rankin, H&H Group plc CEO, commented: “This decision has been made with the future of H&H Reeds and its exceptional team in mind. While H&H Reeds has been a proud part of our diversified business, it no longer aligns with our future focus on Agri and rural enterprises. The management team at Reeds approached us with a clear vision, and we’re excited to support them as they take the business forward.

“Like Harrison & Hetherington, H&H Reeds is deeply rooted in Cumbrian heritage, and its contribution to our group has been invaluable. Reeds’ potential is stronger than ever, thanks to solid investment and diversification in recent years. The new owners possess the talent, technology, and expertise to take the business to new heights.

“Our key strategic focus for the Group is the continuing growth of our livestock trading and agricultural consultancy businesses, ensuring we align with our mission, but we will do everything we can to continue to support Reeds by utilising its print and digital services and we wish the team every possible success for the future.”

Jonathan Nagle, taking on the role of Sales & Marketing Director, looks to the future with confidence. “We have an exceptionally talented and experienced team at Reeds, and we know the business and our market inside out. We have built long-lasting and successful relationships with a wonderful portfolio of businesses, organisations, charities, and the public sector, and we look forward to strengthening these further whilst engaging with new partners during this exciting period.”