Karpal entered the world of business as a graphic designer in 1980 and quickly added print service options to satisfy client demands. In 1988 he bought out a silk screen print company specialising in printing T shirts. Karpal renamed the business Chana Fashions and expanded the operations to include manufacturing quality clothing. The quality of the products produced led to a client list that included C&A, Top Shop, H&M, Miss Selfridge and Burtons. As the demand for print services declined during the early 1990’s with the introduction of colour printers aimed at the SME (Small & Medium Enterprise) market, Durham Press expanded its graphic design expertise into the emerging field of web design.

However, we can tell you that he was awarded a Medal of Appreciation by the US Department of Defence in 2012 of which he is justly proud. He also chaired a NATO committee for developing mapping standards for four years and received a Commendation from the US Government for his work in the development of terrain models. The US Government also presented him with an Achievement Award for his work as Head of Copyright for providing guidance on Copyright and IPR Materials.