The new platesetter has replaced a DPX System, also provided by Apex, and is feeding one two-colour and one four-colour Heidelberg Speedmaster 52 press.

Fineprint owner Mike Woolhouse said: "The DPX produced over 100,000 plates during its seven years of production – however, it is now old technology. We wanted to go for metal plates rather than polyester this time, because the price of metal has become more competitive whereas the price of polyester plates has rocketed.

"The guys in repro were familiar with the Screen workflow, so operational levels were achieved instantly as they didn’t have to learn anything new."

Woolhouse added that the company expects to see a return on its investment within 24 months because of the number of plates it is producing and the savings it is making by using metal rather than polyester plates.

The PlateRite 2055 Vi incorporates fully automated inline punching and is able to output up to 20 B2 plates per hour. It supports plate sizes ranging from 450mmx280mm to 754mmx635mm and can image at 2400dpi.

Basingstoke-based Fineprint is a family-run business offering a range of services including design, litho and digital print and delivery.

The company, which has a turnover of around £750,000, employs eight staff.