Turner, who joined the company 12 years ago, said that order intake had "increased significantly" in the last six months, with orders coming in from the commercial print and packaging sectors.

Turner added that he was confident for the coming year. "We have a healthy share of both the B1 and B2 markets and it’s good to take on this new role at a time when we’re starting to see an encouraging upturn in enquiries," he said.

"Despite the difficult trading conditions, we’re optimistic that the growth will continue through 2013 and beyond, as the benefits of the latest Komori innovations are beginning to make their mark.

Turner highlighted Komori's KHS-AI quick makeready system and H-UV fast drying technology as two innovations that he expected to boost sales in the UK market.

Meanwhile, like all litho manufacturers, Komori is looking to boost its service and support revenues to help counteract the cyclical nature of offset press sales.

"We hold over £7m worth of parts in our UK headquarters and we’re now experiencing healthy demand for upgrade components, as printers who are not able to purchase new equipment are intent on ensuring that their existing machines remain as competitive as possible," said Turner.

"In the UK, the support and back-up we offer through the 24/7 spares response policy we adopted a few years ago has proved to be a sales-clinching re-assurance in several cases, and we will doubtless continue to offer it on a permanent basis.

"Our UK Komoricare service and maintenance programmes are also catching on since launch just over a year ago, so we’re well positioned to expand turnover not only through press sales but also from increases in business within our service and spares division."