The Pollard family’s engagement with printing started in 1781, the same era as the American War of Independence and the French Revolution.  The company developed during the Industrial Revolution and Enlightenment years of scholarship, science, commerce and trade. 

It regularly adapted to new technologies, customer needs, family transitions and changing circumstances.  Based in Exeter, it predominantly serviced companies and other organisations in the South West, though at times it also had a presence elsewhere – for instance, during the 1920s and 30s, in the North serving the textile and engineering industries. 

During World War II, production of naval charts for the Admiralty attracted the attention of the Luftwaffe and the factory was entirely destroyed in the blitz on Exeter of May 1942.  The company  was gradually rebuilt through a wonderful partnership of family and employees, with small-offset presses and specialised printing of weighbridge tickets leading the way.

Today, operating from Buckingham, Plymouth and Exeter, Pollards offers comprehensive brand and marketing services – creative, print, digital, display, merchandise, clothing and fulfilment.  Online management of the whole is provided by BrandHub³⁶⁰.  As before, a partnership of family and employees is enabling the company to adapt and change. 

Despite contemporary trading challenges, the company is embracing the opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and anticipating its 250th anniversary in 2031.

Explore more of Pollards’ rich history and how they got to where they are today!

BPIF helped also, with cost and pricing reviews, personnel services and training opportunities in addition to providing a source for industry data, innovation and a sounding board for ideas.

“We’ve come a long way, but we’ve much more to do!”