UK man retires after 47 years in printing industry

After a career spanning 47 years in the printing industry, Ted Harris, 81, retired last month. Harris began working in the print industry in 1964 and co-founded Essex, UK-based converter Labelnet in 1999, where he worked until his retirement. 

Remembering the changes he has witnessed over his working life, Harris cited the increasing use of software and computers, the different noise levels in the print shop and the introduction of health and safety requirements and quality systems. 

He also recalled how self-adhesive technology revolutionized the industry and the eagerness of companies to adopt it. ‘It was a delight to bring such products to customers and to see their reactions,’ said Harris. 

He started his career in Dalston as a packer and driver with a company specializing in the pre-printed tickets used widely at that time in cinemas, buses, trams and car parks. An associate company established in 1958 developed the new field of self-adhesive labels with trials at Antony Jacksons Foodfair, now part of Tesco. During 1968 the company’s objective was to serve the rapidly expanding market for self-adhesive materials. 

From 1971, Harris was packing and dispatch manager, based in Dagenham. It was that same year that decimalization created an opportunity for the company. Working seven days a week, 24 hours a day, the company’s production exceeded millions of labels each day. Under his management, a team of 20 was responsible for the packing, dispatch and delivery of over two billion price labels. The labels were created and delivered on customer demand promptly and efficiently. 

In 1978, Harris was appointed sales representative for the growing graphics division, where he later progressed to become sales manager. It was this role that he most enjoyed, and he traveled extensively to develop new markets. In 1988 an expansion program began, including the installation of a new 5-color Nilpeter press, offices, a showroom, platemaking department, and computers for accounting, quote generation, order processing and machine planning. He continued to be based in the south east of England as a product sales manager until 1999. 

‘His work colleagues’ loss will be his family and friends’ gain,’ said a spokesman for Labelnet. ‘We wish Ted health and happiness in the future. We hope his golf handicap will improve, and that Arsenal, where he has long been a season ticket holder, continue to enthrall.’