NSW-based label, flexibles and point-of-sale printer and manufacturer Foxcil has ceased all production and will soon be closing its doors as its owner Roger Kirwan exits the industry.

Kirwan said the company decided to cease production and manufacturing as it could not keep up with the costs associated with retooling using the latest technology and equipment.

“Over the past 10 years, it has been my privilege to build and grow the Foxcil business with some of our industry’s most driven and innovative people,” he said.

“Innovation and retooling are essential in print to remain current and continue producing exceptional results. Sadly, the costs associated with [it] is something we at Foxcil can no longer keep up with.”

All of Foxcil’s outstanding customers will be transitioned over to its friendly rival Guru Labels, with Foxcil general manager Carl Butchard joining the Guru team to continue to ensure the needs and expectations of Foxcil customers are met moving forward.

“Meeting our customers’ ongoing needs and expectations has always been at the heart of what we do, and to that end we have asked our friends and trusted print partner Guru Corporation to step in and service our customers’ needs going forward,” Kirwan said.

“Guru is one of Australia’s most trusted and innovative label manufacturers that operate a state-of-the-art print facility in Lisarow on the NSW Central Coast.  Nick and the team have over 22 years of print experience and have recently invested heavily in the latest label technology.

“For these reasons, and for the synergies in print and finishing equipment between our businesses, they have been uniquely chosen to service the Foxcil customers. Foxcil customers can continue to contact and deal with Carl directly going forward. All existing Foxcil communication channels remain open and will feed into Guru.”

Foxcil’s existing plant and equipment, including its digital label presses, CI solvent press, label finishing equipment and factory fittings, will all be auctioned off in mid- to late-April with Grays Australia online. 

“I am saddened that this is how Foxcil will end, but I am very pleased that this has resulted in the ongoing employment of my friend and “right hand man” Carl. Our remaining Foxcil staff have been assisted in finding new roles within the industry, whilst some are taking the opportunity to travel or open exciting new chapters in their lives,” he said.

“I would personally like to thank all my staff for their loyalty and hard work over the past 10 years. 

“For me personally, after being in senior management print positions for over 20 years, the time has come for me to call time on this chapter in my life. I would like to thank Nick and his team for stepping in, welcoming Carl, and ensuring Foxcil customers have continuity of supply.

“I have loved the industry, and I value the many connections and friends I have made through the years. It is time for a new chapter in my life, most likely outside of the industry.”

Guru Labels owner Nick Lowe said the company is saddened to see the Foxcil business finalise in this way but is humbled to be approached to look after Foxcil’s customers moving forward.

“Guru and Foxcil have been responsible for pushing both businesses to excel over the past decade, providing everything from healthy competition through to cooperative joint ventures,” Lowe said.

“We have always held Roger and his team in high regard, and they should be proud of the business they have created in the digital label space.

“We are thrilled to welcome Carl to the team and we look forward extending his journey in the print industry by continuing to promote quality label products and service under Guru Corporation.”

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