Chris Mitchell, managing director of Blue Star says in making this move Blue Star will continue its investment strategy into its multi faceted print technology platform at the Silverwater site, specifically Web, Sheet and Digital production platforms.

He adds the consolidation will see Blue Star invest around $10m into new capabilities in the Silverwater location in 2009.

Mitchell says, “The move is in line with our growth strategy, we looked at a range of options but found that making investments in one site made the most sense. We will increase our focus by bringing all our capabilities to bear in one facility, which will enable us to pass more benefits on to our customers.”

According to Blue Star it has recently undertaken a strategic review in response to the significant industry change being driven by the continuing evolution of technology and changing buying behaviours.

Blue Star continues that it has developed a strategic roadmap for the next three to five years. The plan that has been developed sets out four focused areas of growth for Blue Star in both Australia and New Zealand.

Mitchell admits that the closure of McMillan Print could be perceived as the end of an era within the Sydney print industry but continues that times move on and Blue Star will drive further expansion in Australia and New Zealand, with fast adoption of new digital technology and additional offerings, including:

• Direct Mail – further growth around Direct Mail across both Australia and New Zealand, including expanded capability around electronic delivery such as SMS and email.

• Print Management – significant growth around Print Management service capability.

• Webstar – continuing the focused growth strategy around the publications, catalogue and directory markets.

According to Blue Star, the move also further reinforces the Group’s environmental strategy to reduce its environmental impact through real estate and technology rationalisation. Blue Star’s Melbourne and Canberra facilities already have ISO 14001 environmental certification, the new Sydney location will follow in 2009.

Meanwhile, Blue Star will also be relocating its Direct Mail NSW business to a new state of the art facility in close proximity to its Silverwater site.

Mitchell says the new location will enable Blue Star to continue its plans for measured growth whilst providing a platform for further investment in the latest technologies to support the business in its ongoing development.

He adds, “Both of these changes are critical components of the overall Group strategy and will position the Blue Star group for further growth. The moves are expected to be completed by mid 2009.”

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