The Flow Group acquires Blackburn based Modern Bookbinders in strategic asset purchase

Award-winning, multi-million-pound turnover The Flow Group, based in Brighouse, acquired the assets of Blackburn-based Modern Bookbinders for an undisclosed sum this month. 

The acquisition will ensure the continuation of services for Modern Bookbinders’ customer base, while enhancing Flow Group’s manufacturing capacity. 

Modern Bookbinders specialises in the production of magazine and loose-leaf binders, slipcases and record of achievement folders for schools, serving a diverse client base, from individuals preserving personal collections to larger organisations such as Manchester United.

It also works with numerous schools across the UK, and international customers with large market share in France. 

The Flow Group has acquired the firm’s entire operation, including machinery, equipment, stock, and its expansive client list after it was put up for sale by managing director and owner Warren Eastwood. 

The business dates back to 1930 when it was founded by a Blackburn-based solicitor. It was acquired by Warren’s grandfather after the Second World War. 

Plans are already in place to reconfigure The Flow Group's premises to incorporate Modern Bookbinders' machinery, and two key members of the firm’s team, including a production manager with 42 years of experience. Warren, will also remain on board in a consultancy role, aiding the integration. 

Richard Standing, managing director of The Flow Group said: "We are incredibly proud to carry forward the legacy of Modern Bookbinders. When we saw that a business with nearly a century of history was at risk of being dissolved, we knew we had to step in.

"This acquisition not only preserves their impressive heritage but also strengthens The Flow Group’s ability to meet the growing demand for high quality document storage and presentation materials." 

The Flow Group is committed to propelling the operation to new heights. Plans include outreach to existing clients, website improvements, and enhanced marketing strategies to build upon the well-established foundation that Modern Bookbinders has cultivated over the decades. 

Modern Bookbinders, a Blackburn based third-generation family manufacturing business with a 95-year legacy. 

The Flow Group works with businesses across the UK in sectors including retail, e-commerce, education, real estate and professional services. Clients include Uber Eats, Howdens, Aston Martin, Disney, Cadburys, Marie Curie, Next, Manscaped, and Virgin Active.  

It employs 29 staff and is set to turn over £3.3m this year.