It also ordered a second UltraStream, to join the machine being installed at the beginning of next month. The machine will be installed in the Autumn to meet anticipated demand.

Commenting on the firms decision to go with the XB2, which wont be commercially available until at least the end of next year, if not early 2002, managing director Lawrence Dalton said: Weve always wanted a larger format machine. There is a demand for short-run posters and for brochure work larger than B3, which we have to turn away. He rejected using a Xeikon engined B2 press on the grounds of the different look of print from the two technologies detracting from work, which may be produced on two presses.

Although the firm wants to be the first UK site it will not be a beta site. Weve told Indigo we dont want to be a beta site, said Dalton. Reliability is a key thing for us thats one of the reasons were buying two presses.

The firm is also adding capacity to its finishing wing 1st to Finish with automated lamination and wire binding kit.

Story by Barney Cox