1. Once upon a time, in the bustling streets of London, a printing legacy was born. It all began in 1861 when George Barber, a visionary Victorian entrepreneur hailing from the Kent coast, set foot in the city to seek his fortune. With a fervent passion for the art of printing, he established the Furnival Press, a local printing company that would soon make its mark in history.

    Nestled on the vibrant corner of Furnival and Cursitor Streets in the heart of Holborn, the Furnival Press embarked on its journey. Initially catering to the legal profession, the company swiftly expanded its horizons to encompass parliamentary work, printing for esteemed city livery companies, and even lending its expertise to the world of music.

    During a pivotal era for women's rights, the Furnival Press played a significant role in the suffragette movement. Its printing prowess became an essential instrument, amplifying the voices and ideals of those fighting for gender equality.

    In 1901, following the passing of George Barber, his son Richard assumed the helm of the company. The Furnival Press remained in the capable hands of the Barber family for over half a century, until 1960 when it found a new home under the ownership of its neighboring establishment, the Jewish Chronicle. The ever-increasing traffic congestion in the narrow streets of Furnival became a challenge for the loading and unloading of heavy lorries, prompting the Furnival Press to seek a fresh start.

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  4. In 1970, a new chapter unfolded as the company relocated to the vibrant neighborhood of Camberwell, where a team of 70 dedicated staff members continued the Furnival Press legacy. It was during this time that a young and ambitious individual named Johnny Gumb joined the ranks, igniting a lifelong passion for the craft.

    Years passed, and in 1982, Johnny Gumb, alongside two partners, seized the opportunity to acquire the business. Their mission was to breathe new life into the Furnival Press, carrying the echoes of its early years and preserving the traditions of printing as a revered craft.

    In 2002, a transformative move took place as the Furnival Press found its new abode in Stockwell. Embracing the future of printing, the company introduced cutting-edge 'on-demand' digital printing and large format facilities, garnering a loyal customer base with its diverse offerings.

    Then, in 2016, a familiar face stepped up to carry the torch. David Peach, a faithful employee since 1994, acquired the Furnival Press from Johnny Gumb. Not content with resting on past achievements, David also purchased TKO Print, another respected family-run printing company established in 1985. With this union, Furnival Press gained fresh momentum.

    Fuelled by new investments, an unwavering dedication, and a drive to exceed customer expectations, the Furnival Press upgraded its printing arsenal. State-of-the-art Konica Minolta digital presses and associated finishing equipment were acquired, enabling the company to handle any print requirement, even with same-day turnaround projects.

  1. In 2018, the Furnival Press once again embraced change. Due to redevelopment of its premises, it found a new home within the offices of the Type Archive, forging a close partnership that would endure. This collaboration not only preserved the company's heritage but also fostered a spirit of innovation and adaptability.

    The year 2019 brought forth a wave of enhancements as David Peach continued to invest in cutting-edge equipment. A new Konica Minolta digital press was introduced, equipped with the ability to print envelopes, punch holes, staple, and feed banners. Furthermore, a state-of-the-art hot foiling machine was added to offer customers an exquisite finishing touch, with the added advantage of same-day service. To bolster efficiency, a digifold Pro 385 capable of folding, scoring, and perforating at a remarkable speed of 6,000 sheets per hour became an invaluable asset. Not stopping there, a new latex large format printer and mounting machine were installed, allowing the Furnival Press to provide exceptional large format prints and signage in-house.

    Like a steadfast river that flows, the Furnival Press embraced change once more in late 2022. The need for additional space and machinery propelled David's decision to relocate closer to home. This move not only facilitated longer working hours but also ensured proximity to London, enabling the continuation of the swift turnaround service cherished by their customers. Today, production thrives in the picturesque town of Canvey Island, Essex, while an office remains at the Type Archive, symbolizing the enduring bond between these entities.

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  4. Now, equipped with expansive premises, state-of-the-art machinery, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, the Furnival Press stands poised to offer unparalleled printing services. London-based customers are served with remarkable efficiency, while the company's reach extends to Essex and the areas surrounding the M25, guaranteeing swift service. Moreover, the Furnival Press proudly caters to customers across the United Kingdom, providing a next-day delivery service.

    The rich history of the Furnival Press is intertwined with the great city of London, its illustrious printing legacy leaving an indelible mark on the art of the craft. From its humble beginnings, catering to the legal profession, to playing a vital role in the suffragette movement, and now embracing the forefront of digital printing, the Furnival Press remains an emblem of tradition, quality, and innovation. As the pages turn and the ink continues to flow, the Furnival Press stands as a testament to the enduring power of a rich history, expert craftsmanship, and an unwavering dedication to the art of printing.

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