The two new Winkler & Dunnebier 102 envelope machines, capable of printing up to five-colours, are fitted with the latest TetraFlex technology, which allows for high-volume, fast turnaround work on the cylinder in up to five colours.

New packaging alternatives are also being developed at the plant, which could result in a diversification from the use of boxes for simply packaging purposes.

Antalis Envelopes operations manager Raymond Gordon said this would involve the development and use of a collapsible pallet, which would form the box. The firm's investment at the plant follows an increase in direct mail activity and a reduction in manufacturing lead times.

Gordon said the company was also working with leading ink manufacturers to develop new print solutions for envelope over-printing.

"We want to be able to offer a much wider range of print alternatives," said Gordon. These will include flexographic printing for small runs on both coated and uncoated stocks.

Direct mail is still a growing sector, with new and innovative uses of colour and paper stocks, and Gordon said that Antalis would aim to be at the forefront as the market develops.

The merchanting group plans to have its facility, which manufactures 37m envelopes per week, certified to ISO 14001 environmental management standards before the end of the year.

Story by Andy Scott