Our History

In 1964, when Braund Supergraving Co. Limited was a mere 31 years old, an article on the company was published in a popular trade magazine of that day. It began: "In this modern age, with its multitude of new systems, automation and other electronic devices for improving business methods, it is interesting to be able to single out an individual item where the human touch has not been completely eliminated - where the human touch must be exercised by the person to be effective, and which would not be as deftly handled by automation, even if it were possible." Today, automation is not only possible, it is expected. And while Braund does continue to move with the technological advantages of the day (this website is a good example), we continue to believe in that 'human touch' that was so evident all those years ago.

Our founder, William D. Braund, Jr. was a local boy, and a graduate of Central Technical School. There he learned the art of printing and the value of creativity. After graduation he was granted a valuable, although short-lived, opportunity. He was apprenticed to a local printing firm, who after a short while was forced to close their doors forever. Undaunted by this setback, Bill persevered and before long an opportunity presented itself for him to re-open the firm. It was 1933, and while many businesses were reeling from the economics of the time, Bill Braund set his goal. Armed with hard work, persistence, and a few orders, he set about to make a success of his new company.

Braund has seen many milestones over the years: Bill's sister, Dorothy, joined the firm for a time and was one of very few female compositors in Canada; while Bill served in the Air Force during the Second World War, Dorothy stepped in and ran the business; Braund Supergraving Co. Limited was officially incorporated in December of 1956; in 1971 Braund was recognized as being the printer with the most Heidelberg presses in Canada. Sadly, Bill passed away in 1976. But he has left a legacy of integrity, hard work and superb products which is proudly carried on by his son, Peter Braund. Business cards by Braund Supergraving Co. Limited are well known from coast to coast, and upon being congratulated for his success, Bill was quoted as saying: "Of course it has been hard work, but we have such a wonderful relationship with our customers that it has all been worth it."