The six-color press, which includes automation such as LogoTronic, DensiTronic, and SIS, will be delivered and installed in the fourth quarter. Winston Packaging is also adding a new CTP device and a 106 Bobst die-cutter.

In an interview with PrintWeek, Winston Packaging President and CEO James Gordon explained: "Based on our internal analysis of existing business and targeted new business, the larger 106cm format is a better, more cost-effective size for us.

"The new press purchase replaces an older 102cm machine and will certainly give us better yields on press layouts along with faster throughput that helps with existing business but also better positions us to win new projects."

Because of its location in the heart of tobacco country, Winston Packaging had historically focused on cigarette packs, boxes and cartons for its largest customer, R.J. Reynolds. But the company has expanded its reach into over the counter (OTC) healthcare, photo-finishing and food products.

"Our business in printed paperboard consumer product packaging has been growing over the last three years and we believe that we can accelerate our growth rate with the cost advantages from this new press and new die-cutter," Gordon said. "We are optimistic about our future and believe that these investments give us the best chance for future success."

Gordon noted he had previously attended Drupa in 1995 and 2000 and so understood that major innovations are introduced there.

"We started our investigation well before Drupa 2012 so that we would be ready to finalize a decision at the show," he continued. "With that in mind we timed our purchase to take advantage the new features introduced by KBA at Drupa after evaluating other comparable equipment.

The Rapida 106 sale was announced by KBA North America and in an interview with PrintWeek, Eric Frank, KBA North America VP-Marketing & Product Management, said the Winston Packaging purchase — coming at Drupa — was proof that not all of the show was focused on digital.

"We had a brand new 76, a 105, a 106 and a brand new 145, but all everyone wanted to talk about was inkjet," he said. "But offset is still alive and we’re doing exceptionally well in North America."