Prolam Print Finishing in Rotherham has joined forces with nearby Able Finishers and together the firms have bought around 600,000 of new kit.

"We want to spread our wings and offer laminating, B1 work and big folder runs," said Paul Blanksby, director of Prolam.

Seven-strong Prolam handles die-cutting, creasing and UV varnishing and Able's 12 staff specialise in hand finishing and shrink wrapping.

According to the firms, together they handle 90% of the magazine work in the Rotherham, Sheffield and Barnsley areas but want to expand beyond the region.

Able Finishers recently spent 250,000 on Fidia Combi Estro for capacity pockets, and a Combi Unica and Vetta for flats.

Prolam has bought Billhofer laminating kit and a varnisher. Jointly the firms bought a six-station Muller Martini 300 line.

Both firms will keep their names, but Prolam will move to a base next to Able's.