The two suppliers announced a partnership, The Finishing Alliance, in May last year, but this is the first time they have exchanged machinery.

Duplo has predominantly sold kit to the smaller end of the market, while Friedheim deals with larger users. However, with the launch of the Alpha saddlestitcher in October last year, Duplo has shown clear intention that it is expanding into bigger machinery.

According to both companies, it is more appropriate for Duplo to be selling the 78 and 92 models. Friedheim will continue to service the machine and supply parts.

Peter Morris, managing director of Friedheim, said: "It is alright talking about sharing leads, but this is the acid test. The 78 and 92 size is their business, they will create more sales than us.

"We are not associated with the smaller size; it is difficult to find buyers; we don’t get contacted. This will give us access to a host of places that we don't get anywhere near, such as county councils and inplants."

Duplo has sold the Ideal guillotine range since 2006, but it only goes up to a 72cm size, which is often not big enough for users of Duplo equipment. Duplo has already tendered for a local council contract, which would bring its first 78 sale.

Duplo managing director Tony Lock said: "We are aggressively looking to expand our product range and serve our customers with new products that continue to meet their requirements. It's all part of the plan to double the turnover of the Duplo UK business in five years."