Historic Beccles Printer Close After More Than 200 Years

Thursday, 6 November 2025 06:00

CPI William Clowes site on the Ellough Industrial Estate near Beccles

One of Beccles’ most historic employers, CPI William Clowes, is to close after more than two centuries of book printing.

Parent company CPI Group has announced plans for an “orderly shutdown” by 31st March 2026, citing a fundamental decline in the types of work handled at the site. Staff and customers were informed of the decision this week.

The Beccles-based plant, which employs around 50 people, specialises in high-pagination and professional titles such as legal books, timetables and Bibles. Many of these publications have moved online or are now produced overseas, leading to years of financial losses.

Commenting in Print Week magazine, CPI UK managing director Tanya Dunbar said the decision had been taken “with huge regret,” adding:

“There’s a phenomenal workforce here… they couldn’t have done anything more. It’s just the market — it’s not there.”

The business, which dates back to 1803, was once among the largest printers in the world, pioneering the use of steam-powered presses. The Beccles connection began in the late 19th century through a partnership with the local Caxton Press.

CPI says it will support affected staff through the consultation process, with some workers likely to retire and others exploring opportunities at nearby printing firms including Clays, Micropress, Anglia Print, and Smurfit Kappa Saxon.

Some of Clowes’ specialist printing equipment may be reused elsewhere within CPI’s European operations.

The closure marks the end of an era for Beccles, bringing to a close more than 200 years of continuous printing heritage in the town.