The first global sale of the press was to Bexbach, Germany-based Kern, with the 35-staff firm opting for a five-colour plus coater configuration.

"We are certain that the Speedmaster CX 102 is the best solution for the diversity of our requirements... we have always been fascinated by innovations," said Kern managing director André Kern.

Meanwhile, PinguinDruck signed for the first CX 102 with Inpress Control on Thursday.

Speaking on Heidelberg's stand in Hall 8, PinguinDruck's joint owner Alexander Mende, said Inpress Control, the inline measurement technology, was one of the key selling points. In addition he was impressed with the quality and reduced makeready times.

"Initially we were looking at investing in a B2 press but Inpress Control convinced us," said Mende. "It was the best solution as we needed more output."

The 45-staff company will take delivery of the machine on the 1 June and PinguinDruck aims to have the CX 102 fully operational by mid-July.

Finally, HSW Print in Wales signed for the UK's first CX 102 at Ipex. In a deal worth £1.8m, the firm's new five-colour plus coater will replace a five-colour CD 102. HSW will take delivery of its CX in September.

The company's owners, brothers Malcolm and David Hackman, brought a number of their staff to Ipex to show them the new press running on Heidelberg's stand.

"As a company, we look to continually improve our efficiencies," said Malcolm Hackman.

"This investment is in line with that philosophy. We are convinced that this purchase will give us an edge in the marketplace," he added.