CBA Member News

Blagden launches dedicated business sector for Graphic Arts

Blagden Specialty Chemicals, a leading supplier of chemicals and additives to manufacturers
in the UK and Ireland, has launched a fourth sector within its industrial division group.
Focused on the Graphic Arts sector, it is headed by Phil Randall, formerly manager of
Blagden Coatings. Michael Austin has joined Blagden to manage the company’s Coatings
business.
“Our industrial business has grown considerably over recent years,” explained Blagden CEO Graham Turton.
“The addition of the Eckart pigment range to our portfolio in 2016, alongside the specialist additives we
supply, makes us the ideal one-stop-shop for the digital and printing inks markets. The new sector aligns
with our key supply partners’ end markets and ensures we provide the best possible service to our
customers.”
Phil Randall to lead new Graphic Arts sector
Phil Randall, formerly running the Coatings sector is now Business Line Manager for the Graphic Arts
sector. He brings considerable knowledge of the product range and an understanding of customer
requirements.
“This is an exciting opportunity to substantially develop our business in these markets,” he said. “Blagden is
an established supplier for inkjet and printing inks manufacturers and the new dedicated sector allows us to
direct resources to develop the products and service we offer.”
Michael Austin joins Blagden to head Coatings
Michael Austin has joined Blagden as Business Line Manager for the Coatings sector. Michael is a chemist
with considerable experience in the coatings and paints industry. He worked for Blagden previously,
promoting and selling BYK Additives, and was most recently employed by Perstorp where he handled a wide
range of specialty polyols for coatings, resins and other applications. He has also worked in large multinationals
including BP Chemicals and Koch Industries.
“Blagden provides coatings manufacturers in the UK and Ireland with the specialist ingredients which not
only solve formulation issues, but also give their products the edge. These, in combination with the technical
expertise of our people, have helped to establish Blagden’s leading position in the Coatings market. I look
forward to building on these strengths while bringing new growth to our business and investigating new
opportunities with our customers and our supply partners.”

More information about Blagden Graphics Arts products is available from Phil Randall on 01959 560857
(email prandall@blagden.co.uk). For information about Blagden Coatings products, please contact Michael
Austin on 01959 560804 (email maustin@blagden.co.uk).