The Spalding, Lincolnshire-based firm installed the device, which was bought from Terry Cooper Services (TCS), around two months ago. The machine has replaced a 40-year-old Sulby automatic mini-binder.

Production director Aubrey Howling said: “We have runs of from five to 10, up to 200 to 250 and needed something that could handle flexible demand. Our old machine got past its best and this machine has improved makereadies.

“Because of this, production is streamlined and work is on and off the binder and out the door very quickly. We can now increase the amount of perfect binding we do for existing clients and new customers.”

The 400bph device binds in one process and supports the firm’s NCR production work. It features a heavy-duty design for production durability, a positive spine forming clamping and nipping station and two glue-application rollers.

The company looked at alternatives from a range of manufacturers but decided to go with TCS due to its past experience with the supplier.

“We liked the Premier’s ease of use, quick set-up and high level of automation,” said Howling.

“We have been working with TCS for a number of years. They know and understand our business so we knew the support would be there and that they would ensure we invested in a machine that would best support our business.”

The firm also runs two five-colour Komori 528s and two Heidelberg GTOs - a two-colour and a single-colour - a Ricoh Pro C8100 and a Ricoh Pro C751ex on its digital side and Epson and Agfa wide-format machinery.

It also operates a wide range of finishing kit including a Horizon folder, a Heidelberg Cylinder and a Muller Martini stitching line.

Abbey Print, which was established in 1956 and has 23 staff, produces general commercial print and stationery for a number of sectors, including horticulture.