CUMBRIA Mailing Services, the county ’s largest mailing house, has unveiled a new look in an attempt to win customers on its doorstep.

The business in Penrith, which marked its 20th anniversary in 2016, handles millions of mail items for clients across the UK.

It has put up new signage as the first step to increase local awareness of what it does.

The strategy involves working with marketing consultant Tracey Errington and graphic designer Gary Lawson, of Colourmedia, to raise its profile. The signage was erected by H&H Reeds Printers.

Cumbria Mailing Services was formed in 1996 by Tim Tucker who spotted an opportunity to process mail more effectively.

After speaking to local businessmen Robin Kirk and John Knowles, the trio committed to developing a mailing house that could process mailing data, wrap and post material for clients.

The business was successful from day one with the first mailing being processed from Mr Tucker’s kitchen table. The first customer was Eddie Stobart, which continues to use the mailing house today.

The directors leased warehouse space on Penrith Industrial Estate and within six months needed more capacity and moved next door to the premises they occupy today.

Peter Hilton joined the business in 1997 and became a director in 2003, at a time when the industry was experiencing dramatic change.

Growth of the internet, emails and on-line shopping had a real effect on direct mailing campaigns.

Mr Hilton said: “The main decline in mailings has been caused by the substitution of paper communication for emails.

“But people are being swamped with emails and marketing teams are now using direct mail campaigns as part of an integrated approach.

“Statistics indicate that mail is three times more likely to be opened than emails and that a new, younger generation are reacting positively to post through the door.”