Longstanding Queensland-based print and signage company Payne Print & Sign has been listed for sale, with the owners now seeking expressions of interest from potential buyers.
Founded in 1976 and based in Mackay, the family-owned and operated company has earned a strong local reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable printing and signage services.
After nearly five decades of running the business, current directors – siblings Lyn Farrell and Karen Clein – are preparing to retire.
“Although, as directors, we still lend a hand in the bindery to meet deadlines when required, we would really like to retire completely. That’s the only reason we’d sell a great business such as ours,” Clein said.
“Also, [Lyn] and I are both of retirement age and after nearly 50 years in the business, it’s time for us to both move on to our next adventures.”
The company currently employees 28 staff and operates from two adjoining freehold lots totalling 1,616 sqm, with 1,239 sqm of office, print, and warehouse space.
For FY25, Payne Print & Sign draft results show revenue exceeding $6.6 million and EBITDA of $1.9 million, with significant growth opportunities on the horizon.
Its offering includes brochures, newsletters, stationery, magnets, safety and danger tags, carbonless books and more – which together accounts for approximately 91 per cent of revenue – as well as signage.
“A significant portion of our sales come from long-standing contractual clients, providing them with consistent revenues and more stable and predictable income compared to other printing agencies, while new contracts are consistently won/renewed. Also, the sugar industry and local businesses are a big part of our company.”
Payne Print & Sign also holds key contracts in the mining and construction sectors.
“While the mining industry is very important to us, so are all the other businesses we do work for. We are proud to have held the BHP printing contract for more than 12 years, which they continue to add items to and renew every year.”
Payne Print & Sign’s legacy began with Tom Payne, who founded the business in 1976. His four children joined the company as teenagers, helping it grow steadily over the years.
“In the early days, our dad Tom was very careful with when and what to buy as far as machinery went, although being very progressive. We were the first printer in North Queensland to have computer-to-plate technology. This business has never needed to have a bank loan or overdraft. We have continued Tom’s vision of keeping ahead of technology, with constant upgrades and maintenance to machinery.”
Clein said Payne Print & Sign prides itself on its strong team culture and employee loyalty.
“As we have close associations with our staff, they were told of our intention to sell the business, and when it was decided, happily no one – including management – has shown a desire to leave. We also have long-held tradition of insisting on training and we currently have four apprentices.
“It has been so rewarding for us to see the company grow from a two-person business to the successful business it is today. Our dad would be very proud of what we have all achieved over the years.
“We hope the next chapter for Payne Print & Sign will build on the legacy we’ve created and expand on the success that we’ve enjoyed over the last 50 years.”
The business is being marketed for sale by Baton Advisory – 1300 4Baton or mike@batonadvisory.com.au
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
