The Wellington, Somerset-based printer will take delivery of an XL75+L and an SM 74-5-P, which are replacing an Heidelberg MOVP Speedmaster 72 and MAN Roland 300, prior to the consolidation of the company's four sites in September.

Managing director Roger Trivett is anticipating the new machines will improve the printer's turnaround times and make it more competitive when carrying out long-run work.

"We felt this was necessary to properly compete in a changing and competitive market," Trivett said.

He added: "The added speed of the XL will help cope with the challenge from B1 and overseas competition."

Both the new Heidelberg presses feature Intellistart press control software, which is claimed to offer faster makeready times, as well as automatic plate loading and temperature controlled inking.

The presses will also run with reduced and potentially zero alcohol, which will aid the printer in its push for the ISO14001 environmental standard

Trivett said: "There is a responsibility to consider environmental impact with every purchase, but it is one of many considerations. If you can maintain quality without a financial penalty then the decision is easy."

The company, which has a turnover of £3m and employs 38 staff, will carry out short-run work on a raft of kit that includes a seven-colour HP Indigo 5000 machine.