About Pollards
Pollards, with offices across Exeter, Buckingham, and Plymouth, is one of the UK’s oldest family-run printing companies, bringing over 240 years of expertise. We’ve evolved from traditional print to a full suite of services including design, fulfilment, distribution, merchandise, workwear, and online solutions—helping your brand communicate more effectively.
PRIDE IN WHAT WE DO
WE'RE MADE FOR MORE
When every element of brand delivery is connected, ideas become actions, campaigns work harder and brands grow stronger. We exist to make this happen. We simplify brand delivery by bringing creative, print, fulfilment, merchandise and workwear into one seamless experience, replacing multiple suppliers with one accountable partner, we protect brand consistency at every touchpoint.
CONNECTED BRAND DELIVERY
We don’t just offer more services – we connect them. From idea to reality, digital and physical, we create real brand moments designed to be seen, touched and worn. With majority of services delivered in-house across our UK sites, we stay close to the detail and fully accountable for the outcome – nothing falls between the gaps.
BUILT TO GROW
Established in 1781, our roots are in British craftmanship and manufacturing, and that heritage still shapes how we work today. In a world overloaded with noise we make sure brands show up with clarity and impact. We’re made for brands and people who expect more and are ready to grow.
Our history
Printing has an important place in human history, as the first mass communication technology. At various times, societies and economies have been revolutionised by the spread of knowledge and ideas which print enabled. The Pollard family began printing in 1781, and the business has provided print services in many ways since then.
The 18th century
In 1781, Thomas Pollard was indentured as an apprentice printer in Exeter, marking the start of a family tradition that has continued through seven generations. Though records were lost in WWII, it’s believed he worked in North Street – the same area where Pollards later began trading.
The 19th century
The 19th century saw print become vital to industry, commerce and daily life. William Pollard & Co thrived during this time, contributing to sectors from agriculture to education. When William Pollard died in 1885 with no clear successor, his sister Emma stepped in to keep the business going – overcoming the first major challenge to the family firm’s survival.
The 20th century
In 1901, Pollards was restructured under Leonard and Herbert Pollard as a new generation took the reins. The business expanded with offices in London and Bradford, and a new factory in Exeter. But in 1942, the factory was destroyed in the Exeter Blitz – the company’s second major challenge. Despite setbacks and family disputes, Michael and Anne Pollard took over and led its recovery.
The 21st century
The 21st century has seen rapid technological change in print, making it a challenging time for traditional printers. Pollards has adapted through strong leadership, with Andrew Pollard chairing the Board from 1997 to 2014 and Ben Pollard now leading a clear focus on innovation and growth. In recent years, Pollards has expanded through the acquisition of BCQ Group and RR, strengthening its creative print heritage, and entering new complementary markets to diversify and future-proof the business.
