The Rich History of Printing in Oakham: From Charles Matkin to Newstyle Print

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Old Photo Of Oakham High Street

Newstyle Print Limited, based in Oakham, is a key player in continuing the town’s rich printing heritage. Oakham, known for its historical significance, has a deep-rooted connection to the printing industry, dating back to the late 19th century. This connection is largely thanks to Charles Matkin, whose pioneering work established Matkins Printers as a cornerstone of the local community. Today, Newstyle Print proudly upholds this legacy, blending tradition with innovation to meet the printing needs of businesses and individuals in Oakham and beyond.

The Origins: Charles Matkin and Matkins Printers

Charles Matkin, a key figure in Oakham’s printing history, founded Matkins Printers in the late 1800s. Matkin was more than just a printer; he was a craftsman who brought meticulous attention to detail and a passion for quality to every project. Under his leadership, Matkins Printers became a cornerstone of the local business community, known for producing everything from business stationery and promotional materials to local newspapers and bespoke publications.

Matkin’s work was essential in promoting local businesses and events, preserving historical records, and enhancing the cultural life of Oakham. His dedication to quality ensured that Matkins Printers became synonymous with reliability and excellence. The significance of his work is underscored by the existence of the Matkins Archive, a comprehensive collection of over 500 catalogued entries now housed at the Rutland Museum. This archive offers invaluable insights into the social and economic life of Oakham from the late 19th to the mid-20th centuries.

The Evolution of Printing in Oakham

As the 20th century progressed, the printing industry in Oakham evolved alongside technological advancements. While Matkins Printers eventually closed, the values of quality, service, and community engagement that Charles Matkin championed continued to influence local printing businesses.

Newstyle Print Limited, a contemporary printing company based in Oakham, embodies these same values while embracing the latest technology. Founded in the early 21st century, Newstyle Print has quickly become a leading provider of printing services in Oakham and across the UK. The company’s ethos mirrors that of Matkins Printers—a commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and community involvement.

Newstyle Print: Honoring Tradition with Modern Solutions

Newstyle Print Limited stands as a modern testament to the rich printing tradition in Oakham. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including litho printing, digital printing, and wide-format printing. These services cater to various needs, from high-volume commercial projects to bespoke, custom designs.

Litho printing, much like the methods used by Matkin, is ideal for large print runs requiring consistent quality and vibrant colors. For smaller, on-demand projects, Newstyle Print’s digital printing service provides a fast and flexible solution without sacrificing quality. The wide-format printing service allows Newstyle Print to create stunning large-scale graphics, such as banners and signage, which are essential for modern marketing campaigns.

Despite the advancements in technology, Newstyle Print’s dedication to the local community remains a defining feature. The company offers free UK delivery, ensuring that all customers—regardless of order size—receive the highest level of service. This commitment to quality and service has earned Newstyle Print a reputation as a trusted partner for businesses and individuals alike.

The Legacy of Charles Matkin in Modern Oakham

The story of printing in Oakham is one of continuity and change. While the tools and techniques have evolved, the principles of quality and service established by Charles Matkin continue to resonate. Today, Newstyle Print carries this torch, combining traditional values with cutting-edge technology to deliver exceptional results.

Newstyle Print’s work is also deeply connected to the community’s heritage. An excellent example of this is the company’s involvement in restoring the historic sundial in Oakham, a project that highlights Newstyle Print’s commitment to preserving local history while supporting contemporary needs. The restoration of this sundial, an important piece of Oakham’s heritage, was covered in a recent article by Oakham Nub News.

Bridging the Past and Present

Oakham’s printing history is a rich tapestry woven with the contributions of individuals like Charles Matkin, whose work laid the foundation for the town’s printing industry. Today, Newstyle Print Limited carries this legacy forward, offering a blend of tradition and innovation that serves the needs of a modern market.

For anyone seeking printers in Oakham, Newstyle Print represents the perfect combination of historical reverence and forward-thinking solutions. The company continues to honor the values of quality and service that have defined Oakham’s printing industry for over a century, ensuring that the town’s rich history is not only remembered but actively celebrated in every print project they undertake.

In conclusion, Oakham’s printing heritage is a testament to the enduring values of quality, craftsmanship, and community service. From the pioneering work of Charles Matkin to the innovative solutions provided by Newstyle Print, Oakham’s printing industry remains as vital today as it was over a century ago.

Thank you for investing your time to read our blog post. At Newstyle Print, we’re passionate about sharing insights from our years of experience in the print industry. We have a wealth of other blog posts teeming with tips and advice, so why not have a browse below?

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