19th December 2025

Industry legend Tom Penman retires

As 2025 draws to a close, so will the career of Tom Penman, our Graphics Manager.

Tom has been in the print and packaging industry for decades and has been award winning for his achievement.

We asked Tom to take us on a quick trip down memory lane, about where it all began, what happened in the middle and what retirement holds for him.

In Tom’s words –

My career in the print and packaging industry has been shaped by innovation, problem-solving, and a commitment to raising print quality standards.

Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with outstanding teams, major clients, and forward-thinking businesses across the UK.

I began my career at Outline Engraving in 1976 as a stereo hand engraver, crafting rubber stereos for corrugated printing. I could engrave so quickly that I earned the nickname “The Flashing Blade.” I later became Label Department Supervisor, overseeing artwork creation using traditional drawing boards, exposure frames, and step-and-repeat processes.

For the next decade, I managed the Repro Department, helping guide the shift from traditional methods to digital work. With the introduction of Apple Macs in the late 1980s I supported the move from analogue platemaking to the first CDI digital “computer-to-plate” technology.

As Business & Print Development Manager, I worked with clients across the UK to improve print quality, leading fingerprint trials and turning results into reliable artwork and plate specifications. During this time, we secured several premium accounts and set up on-site studios at locations such as Smurfit Tannochside, Smurfit Chelmsford, and Assi Cumbernauld.

After Pamarco acquired Outline Engraving, I continued supporting national clients, combining technical print development with sales in platemaking and anilox technology.

In 2001, I took on a major new challenge with my colleague John Brown at Excel Formes and Stereos (North), building a full manufacturing unit from the ground up. Over nine years, we developed in-house studios, advanced platemaking facilities, and—with John Tait on board—secured exclusive supply partnerships with TRM, Saica Wigan, Saica Ellesmere Port, and Saica Hartlepool.

When Excel North was acquired by Contact Originators in 2010, I continued as Business Development Manager, supporting key accounts and on-press development before moving to Chemence in 2011.

In 2012, I joined The Cardboard Box Company as Graphics Manager, overseeing artwork production and working closely with the print team to elevate print quality with the introduction of new presses.

Together with our talented teams and suppliers, we are pushing the boundaries of flexo printing and achieved award-winning results on the Bobst 618 and Bobst 1624 presses.

It has been my pleasure to serve the company for over 13 years. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have the support of senior management, Peter Street, Ken Shackleton, and Dan Johnston, and to work alongside colleagues who have become not just teammates, but genuine friends.

I will always look back fondly on my years at CBC and remain deeply grateful for the opportunities, support, and friendships I’ve gained along the way. I have every confidence that the future holds even greater achievements for both the team and the business.

And as for me, after Christmas, my itinerary will be golf, travel, and “Homes Under the Hammer.” ?

Daniel Johnston, Managing Director, The Cardboard Box Company concluded; “We really miss Tom, not just for his exceptional skills and knowledge but also for his gentlemanly manner and calm, friendly personality.

“He’s been a trusted member of our team and we wish him a long and very happy retirement! With our best wishes to you Tom – thank you from us all.”