Charlesworth, which has signed up to Agfa's processless Azura TS Digital Thermal plates for use with the new platesetter, has become FSC and PEFC accredited since the installation.

The Wakefield-based journal printer, which employs 95 staff in the UK, said that the Avalon had made it more energy efficient, whilst maintaining the same output as the two older machines.

Mel Brooks, quality and environmental manager at the £7m turnover group, added that the company was eyeing up further investment.

"We are currently developing a strategy that is appropriate to our core journal manufacturing business that will incorporate new investment. However, no decisions on new kit can be announced as yet," he said.

According to the company, the installation helped it become FSC and PEFC accredited. Brooks added that the company was moving with its supply chain in becoming more environmentally friendly.

He said: "Potential clients always ask if we have FSC, and it is always requested when applying for tenders. If you've not got it then you need to show you are working towards it.

"We will continue to improve our environmental efficiency with initiatives where possible."

In the UK, The Charlesworth Group produces litho and digitally printed, perfect, sewn and spiral bound and stitched work.

Its clients include world leading publishers, societies, university presses, government departments, not-for-profit and commercial organisations.