Perth was widely regarded as one of Geon’s best-performing operations, before general manager Ian Smith led a management buyout of the business in March and returned it to its original name of Advance Press.

"It's hard to make comment, let's not forget we're 3,500 kilometres away, so we really couldn't compare what we were, and continue to do, to our former sister sites," Smith told ProPrint.

[Exclusive: A Geon insider speaks]

"The only thing we would add is that there was very little change in the way Perth operated from being purchased by Geon in October 2007 until receivership in February 2013."

Smith said he had been "truly staggered" by the positive way in which clients had responded to the new management team.

He also said staff had responded well, despite the need to make six layoffs.

"Many have been with the business for a long time, so they are delighted that they'll continue to work from the same site and with the same people. In many ways we're like family," he said.

"Everyone has been very positive about going back to Advance Press, especially staff and customers."

[Related: Ups and downs of Geon]

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter