The Bury St Edmunds-based label printer took delivery of the new machine in July as an extension of its kit line-up, running alongside two existing Digicons.

The new device includes a Big Foot hot foiling tool, an embossing tool, two flexographic printheads and a re-register web option to increase the embellishments it can add to digitally printed labels. It also gives the company the ability to produce with peel-and-reveal labels.

Chair Tom Allum said: “We are an AB Graphic house when it comes to digital finishing; they are made in the UK and promise quality and value, with support services run by ex-operators.

“By taking the re-register option, we can now do large peel-and-reveal labels digitally, which allows for multiple sorts without the cost of plates, as well as adding personalisation and coding options.

“In the label market, people want to offer more embellishments, especially in food and drink or retail. With more foiling, varnish and embossing, clients want to update their products and make them stand out on the shelf, so this new Digicon will aid that.”

With a web width up to 350mm, the Digicon Series 3 runs at full rotary speeds up to 150m/min and semi-rotary up to 64m/min.

Following on from the machine’s installation at Abbey Labels, the company is heading into an extensive investment drive, facilitated by a 325sqm expansion to its 2,320sqm premises that is set to begin shortly.

A new flexo press is expected by the end of the year, sporting options which Allum said will be a “world first”, while more finishing kit is due in the early part of next year.

Abbey Labels runs flexo printing including using two MPS and two Gallus Arsoma lines and digital with two Xeikon CX3s. It serves clients “from cottage industry to blue chip”, according to Allum, turning over £6.3m with 40 staff.

Following the investment drive, Allum said he anticipated his firm reaching the £7m sales mark.