The Watford printing plant, which once stood as Europe's largest, has printed its final copies of the Daily Mirror, bringing a nearly 40-year association to a close. Publisher Reach announced in February its decision to shut down the St Albans Road site, with some staff being redeployed to Newsprinters in Broxbourne through a commercial outsourcing agreement. The closure marks a significant shift for the town, long celebrated for its deep roots in the printing industry.
The Unite union has criticised Reach's decision, describing it as "nonsensical when most of Reach's revenue still comes from print." Piers North, CEO of Reach, acknowledged the gravity of the moment, stating, "While it is the right thing for us to do as a business, that doesn't change the sense of gravitas around the day as the team sends the Mirror out their door for the last time after nearly 40 years." He also highlighted the plant's importance to Watford itself, a town with an illustrious printing history.
Watford's connection to printing dates back to the early 19th century, with bookbinder John Peacock opening a printing works in the 1820s. Major employers like Odhams and Sun Printers once dominated the local job market. The plant that housed the Daily Mirror's operations, built by Odhams in 1954, was acquired by Robert Maxwell and later became part of Mirror Colour Print, covering over 17 acres at its peak.
Dr Caroline Archer-Parré, a professor of typography and leading historian, noted Watford's significant contribution to printing through innovative colour reproduction techniques in the early 20th century. This pioneering work led to many colour magazines and Sunday newspaper supplements being printed in the town. Councillor Glen Saffery, responsible for planning at Watford Borough Council, expressed sadness and concern over the closure, particularly for the staff, many of whom reside in Watford.
Efforts are now underway to preserve key features of the building, which is listed by the council. Councillor Saffery emphasised the importance of protecting the plant's distinctive design and well-known clock tower, viewing them as vital symbols of Watford's industrial heritage. A small team will reportedly remain at the site over the coming months to oversee the safe closure of the building.