Clive Goodacre, former graphic arts journalist, consultant and founder of The Bespoke PR agency, died at his home on the Algarve on New Year’s Eve.

Clive was a well-known figure in the international graphic arts world for nearly four decades, renowned for his breadth of knowledge, industry vision and unbounded enthusiasm for all things print. He also had an innate perception of where certain technologies would fit and what their potential would be.

After being apprenticed as a compositor with The Dolphin Press in Brighton, he was sponsored by the International Publishing Corporation to study for a Higher National Diploma in Printing Technology at the London College of Printing.

After graduating Clive opted to forge his way in the world of journalism holding editorial posts on Printing World, Packaging News and British Printer before taking the helm as Group Editor at Northwood Publications, whose titles included the Penrose Annual, Printing Equipment + Materials and The Print Buyer. He went on to found Graphic Repro magazine, a specialist journal serving the pre-press sector and the developing world of electronic publishing.

As a journalist Clive also identified the opportunity to offer industry-literate PR and consultancy services and in 1980 founded Bespoke. Initially focused on producing in-house magazines, the company quickly developed into an international, full-service PR and marketing communications consultancy in the graphic arts. Clive was adept at finding creative ways to develop product communication and marketing strategies.

Clive was always an entrepreneurial man of many interests, particularly gardening, so in 2001 he moved to Portugal and opened a garden centre and landscaping service on the western Algarve. Ever the journalist, for many years he was the writer and photographer of the gardening section for two local magazines, firstly The Good Life followed by Tomorrow Magazine.

In retirement, Clive remained very active turning his attention to some serious mountain biking that enabled him to explore the beautiful wild areas of the western Algarve. He was always happy to meet up with old friends and colleagues from his time in the graphic arts for a serious discussion on the changing face of the industry.

Clive is survived by his wife of 48 years, Jenny who was also his business partner and stalwart supporter in all his endeavours. He also leaves his daughter Vicky, son Alex and three grandchildren.

For any enquiries please contact:

Ben Dodson
Managing Director
The Bespoke Group
ben@thebespoke-group.com
+44 (0)1737 215 200