The tie-up gives 100-staff PMA an international presence as it brings 40-staff Trio under its umbrella.

According to PMA, the move will allow the company to provide complete servicing of its existing Australian clients that have New Zealand operations.

Trio founder Don Brodie will become managing director in New Zealand under the terms of the deal, which took effect on 1 July.

PMA managing director Phil Okill described the merger as “a great opportunity for both PMA and Trio”.

“Both are independent print managers with a focus on client requirements and service rather than production,” he added.

“This independence allows unbiased supplier selection and the best market rates to be sourced and shared with our clients – now in both countries across the Tasman.”

Brodie added that PMA’s systems will help strengthen its New Zealand arm.

“PMA’s client focused software offerings will be a significant enhancement to Trio’s ability to service and grow the New Zealand business,” he said.

PMA and Trio were both established in the mid-80s. Last December, PMA posted a 250% rise in profits off the back of a 5% rise in revenues for the 2009/10 financial year helped by its expansion into safety products.

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