History & Values

The Bishops' name comes from the original business owner, Colin Bishop, who ran an arts, crafts and copy shop on Hayling Island. It was called 'Bishops Prompt Printers'. The name was retained by Martin Murphy, our Chairman, when he bought the business in 1985.

Our latest 85,000 sq ft home, in Farlington, Portsmouth

Our focus on delivering quality print at a fair price, teamed with a friendly and efficient service has seen our family-run business grow to become a significant local employer and a top 100 UK print business.

Portsmouth’s best kept secret

With our unmarked delivery fleet of 10 vehicles, we’re one of Portsmouth's best kept secrets. You’ll never see a Bishops van out on the road despite the fact we make more than 33,000 deliveries a year. That’s because almost 70% of our clients are other trade print professionals. Printers, marketing agencies, graphic designers and print brokers who are placing work with us on behalf of their own clients.

Manufacturer of the Year

In December 2021, we were thrilled to be awarded the Independent Print Industry Association's most prestigious award, Manufacturer of the Year. To be recognised for excellence by our peers, against the most challenging market backdrop in the firm's 35-year history, is a genuine accolade. Speaking after the award, Managing Director Gareth Roberts explained, "it's a tribute to the way our staff have rallied round, dug deep and adapted since the start of the pandemic. I'm incredibly grateful to them, and thankful for the support we've received from our customers and suppliers."

We love letters

Naturally, as a print and mailing business we love letters. It's through letters and stories that we’re able to connect with each other and share what is important to us. Here are some of our favourite letters and what they mean to us. They give you a glimpse of who we are.

Fair

We do what's right. From fair pricing to the way we treat you. We act with integrity and consideration.

Straightforward

We are plain speaking and good at what we do. We work hard to make everything easy to understand.

Dependable

You always know where you are with Bishops. In safe hands, expecting quality print that's delivered on time. Our best service always.

Agile

We believe in doing everything we can to make the answer 'yes'. We adapt, change and respond at speed, meeting seemingly impossible deadlines while delivering outstanding quality.

Supportive

What matters to you matters to us. From a can-do attitude and expert advice to helpful credit terms and tailored account management. We're here for you.

Enthusiastic

Our enthusiasm shows in our work ethic. We love what we do and we're keen to get all those details right for you.

Our True North

Our values, like a compass, help to keep us on track. The Bishops Compass ensures we remain true to why we're here, what matters, what we value and what we believe - our true North. You always know what to expect from Bishops.

If our values strike a chord with you, we hope you'll get in touch.