Spectrum has pledged to continue the firm which was led by businessman George Baker until his death earlier this year
A Hull firm which lost its boss to cancer earlier this year has been rescued. Printing equipment business KRL Group called in administrators in recent days, and now Spectrum has stepped in to acquire the business.
The Bridgehead Business Park-based suitor – which runs print and digital arms – has promised to help continue the work of George Baker, who became KRL’s sole owner in 2009 and had since grown the business. Customers of KRL have been told contracts and commitments remain in place.
The move comes little over two months since the death of Mr Baker, who had grown KRL to compete with national rivals while retaining its Hull roots. The renowned businessman bought into the company in 2000 and led a management buy-out nine years later.
KRL most recently had a team of 30 staff, who had developed an environmental and sustainability strategy which was designed to secure the company’s future. Mr Baker’s death in September prompted tributes from cancer detection charity the Daisy Appeal, which had been made KRL’s charity of the year in 2025.
A statement from Spectrum said: “Following the sad passing of George Baker in August, the driving force behind KRL, Spectrum has stepped in to acquire the business from administrators and support its next chapter. George’s passion, leadership, and commitment to his customers built KRL into a company admired across the region, and we recognise the significance of his legacy.
“Our involvement is driven by a desire to provide continuity and stability for KRL’s customers, staff, and George’s family. We are working closely with Nicola Baker and the dedicated team at KRL to ensure a smooth transition and full respect for the values that made KRL so well-regarded.
“For a brief time, the business will continue to operate from its existing premises, supported by Spectrum’s infrastructure and resources that are based less than 10 miles away. Our goal is to uphold the high standards of service that KRL customers have come to expect, while offering access to a broader range of solutions and support.”
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Spectrum went on to say that the newly combined teams will work together to avoid disruption to client businesses and to “gear up for the growth opportunities that the acquisition presents”. It said all contractual terms and commitments will remain unchanged.
The firm added: “You should expect to hear more from us over the coming weeks with regards to the practicalities of service provision, sales, invoicing and banking but, for now, please carry on as usual in terms of getting in touch with us and paying invoices etc…
“Finally… we are not here to replace what George built, but to help carry it forward with care and integrity. We look forward to meeting you in the very near future and hope to enjoy working with you for many years to come.”
In 2019 KRL Group secured £660,000 of investment from the Northern Powerhouse Fund to purchase its 9,600sq ft premises. The funding was also used to develop the company’s demonstration suite and showroom facilities and drive marketing activity.
The firm was founded in 1984 and has since become one of the longest-established suppliers of office equipment and services in the region.