Chambana Sun

Martin One Source has acquired fellow local printing outfit Graphic Express, the companies announced Tuesday.

Both companies have been in business locally for 25 years. Martin One Source is Champaign-Urbana's largest printing company, while Graphic Express has printed over 50,000 individual printing jobs. 

Company officials described the move as a logical consolidation. 

“The similarities with Martin One Source were too apparent to ignore," Graphic Express President David Pfanschmidt said. "We started in the same year. We grew steadily. We take our commitments to our customers very seriously. We appreciate our clients and never take them for granted. We truly believe the transition will be seamless and that the enhanced services we can offer will yield exciting changes going forward.”

Martin One Source founder Chuck Martin said his company approached Graphic Express months ago as it was looking for partners to support its expansion.

"Our company’s growth plan called for expansion into the Peoria market," Martin said. "After a great deal of research, it became apparent that the only Peoria printer who fit with our company’s values was Graphic Express.”

Graphic One officials said the move would benefit customers as the consolidation will lead to a comprehensive list of quality services. 

“We are excited to now offer a full range of graphics services from design to both digital and offset printing, from office and janitorial supplies to car wraps and trade show displays, from clothing bearing your company’s logo to mailings and fulfillment services," Graphic One Vice President Paul Daugherty said. "We hope to be the one source for all of our clients’ printing and graphics needs.”

All of Graphic Express' employees will keep their jobs, though they will now work under the Martin One Source banner.