Nilpeter appoints David Kitson as Managing Director for UK business

UK – Danish press manufacturer Nilpeter has named David Kitson as managing director of its UK subsidiary, succeeding long-serving industry leader Nick Hughes in a planned leadership transition.

Kitson joins the business from Robert Graphics, where he led international sales operations. He brings extensive experience in the printing and labels sector, combining commercial leadership with a strong understanding of evolving customer requirements and market dynamics.

“I am honoured to be joining Nilpeter UK and to take over from Nick, whose contribution to the company and the UK label industry is widely recognized,” said Kitson.

“Nilpeter has a strong heritage, a loyal customer base and a clear strategic direction. I look forward to building on this foundation together with the team, focusing on long-term partnerships, performance and future opportunities for our customers.”

The leadership change follows more than three decades of service by Hughes, who joined Nilpeter in 1990 and played a central role in establishing the company as a leading press supplier in the UK label market.

Under his tenure, Nilpeter UK strengthened its installed base of flexographic and hybrid presses, deepened relationships with label converters and reinforced its reputation for technical support and long-term partnership.

To ensure operational continuity, the transition will take place over a defined handover period, during which Hughes will remain actively involved in the business, working closely with Kitson.

“Nilpeter has been a huge part of my professional life, and I am very proud of what we have built together in the UK,” Hughes said.

“This transition has been carefully planned, and I am fully committed to supporting David and the team to ensure continuity for our customers.”

Nilpeter CEO Peter Eriksen described the appointment as part of the group’s long-term UK growth strategy, emphasizing stability and future-focused leadership.

The move comes as the UK label and packaging sector navigates rising demand for shorter runs, digital integration and sustainable production.

Nilpeter has in recent years expanded its FA-Line flexo platform and invested in hybrid press technologies combining flexo and digital modules to meet converter requirements for agility and reduced waste.

By formalizing this leadership transition, Nilpeter signals continued commitment to the UK market, prioritizing technological innovation, service excellence and strategic partnerships as converters adapt to shifting brand and regulatory pressures.

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