Fast-growing Wrexham print specialist diversifies into renewable energy

A fast-growing print service specialist company that diversified into renewable energy has been hailed as the “backbone” of the local economy in Wrexham.

The praise came from former Welsh Government minister Jeremy Miles during a visit to the Rawson group which has just celebrated record sales.

Rawson Digital, on Wrexham Industrial Estate, started life over 12 years ago supplying printers and copiers.

Now the company is now installing million pound solar energy systems for businesses across the UK.

Bolstered by the success of subsidiaries Rawson Solar and EV Power, the firm employs over 30 staff and is bidding for dozens of solar power supply and electric vehicle charging point contracts across the UK.

According to company bosses, they’re reaping the benefits of being chosen to join the Welsh Government’s Accelerated Growth Programme.

The scheme delivered by Business Wales provides specialist support for companies like Rawson Group that have the potential for “high growth”

Mr Miles said: “Rawson is a fantastic business who are successfully diversifying into the sectors of the future. It’s great to see them doing so well and creating sustainable, green jobs across the region.

“They are another example of a successful small to medium-sized business taking advantage of the opportunities afforded by the transition to the renewable energy sector.

“Our job now is to make sure these opportunities are afforded to more local businesses like Rawson, which are often the backbone of local economies, and not just to the larger operators.”

Rawson Group’s move into the green sector began four years ago when Managing Director Vaughn Rawson wanted to install electric-vehicle charging points at their headquarters in Wrexham.

He said: “It was such a difficult and complicated process but having negotiated it successfully we thought the knowledge and experience we gained meant there was an opportunity for us to help other businesses install similar systems.

“Since then the business has gone from strength to strength and the mentorship and support we have received thanks to being part of the Accelerated Growth Programme has played a key role in our ongoing success.”

Rawson Solar and Rawson EV were born, headed up by Vaughn’s daughter, Millie, and her partner, Gregg White, and they have enjoyed four very successful; years.

Gregg said: “Business is going well. We are extremely busy with over 100 tenders out for contracts across the country.

“We have done installations as far away as London and across the UK as well as in North East Wales with a full order book for the coming months.

“The Accelerated Growth programme has been a key factor for us as it provides access to expert advice and support as we grow the business.”

Rawson Digital was founded by Vaughn Rawson in 2012 on the back of his 35 years of experience in the business. The office supplies division remains extremely busy but the move into renewable energy has helped accelerate growth exponentially.

From left, Welsh Economy Minister Jeremy Miles at the Rawson Group in Wrexham with founder Vaughn Rawson, Millie Rawson and Gregg White. Pictures by Rick Matthews.