Printers to many greeting card publishers, Sherwood Group has appointed Andy Watts as its new managing director as part of its growth strategy and ongoing succession plan.
Graham Garrod, who became managing director of the company a few years ago when Jeremy Bacon moved up to CEO is now reverting to his previous role as operations director.
Andy, who joined the Nottingham-based business this week, brings with him 30 years of printing experience. He latterly worked for Europe’s largest book publisher, CPI, where he was general manager of its UK trade books business, responsible for printing 120 million books a year.
Summing up his remit, Andy told PG Buzz: “I will be working closely with my co-directors and team to further build on the group’s platform for growth, maintaining standards and driving innovation.”
Andy admits that while his printing prowess is not up for question, his greeting card sending habits have much room for improvement!
“Up until now I have only bought a few cards every year, for my Mum, my girlfriend and family, but I am ready to change that!
When I was printing books I shunned Kindles and ebooks, remaining loyal the tangible versions. I now pledge to up my allegiance to greeting cards now I am with Sherwood!” he joked with PG Buzz.
One of Andy’s first major industry networking events will be The Henries Awards (on October 5), of which The Sherwood Group is a stalwart supporter.
PG Buzz put Simon King, Sherwood’s sales director in the hot seat and asked him a couple of questions!
Why is sponsoring The Henries so important to Sherwood Group?:
“We have always enjoyed sponsoring The Henries, and especially The Henry Cole Classic Award, the special award for an iconic range, or long lasting range that has stood the test of time, The Sherwood Group has always felt part of the industry, not just as a supplier, being a sponsor of The Henries is a fantastic chance to share with others at a great rewarding event.”
What do you most love about the greeting card industry?: “For over 30 years, it’s been great to see the ongoing creativity, new ideas, seeing projects we have worked on being displayed at shows and then selling in retail. I love seeing new publishers coming through as well long lasting friendships that are forged. The friendliness and support in this industry, despite the competition is unique – and I love that.”
