The Laindon, Essex-based group has also invested in two Kodak NexPress SX3900 machines, two of the first in Europe, and a Duplo System 5000 as part of a move into secure document production.
In addition, Anton has increased its web-to-print and variable data capabilities with a raft of GMC software that gives the group the ability to handle a greater level of personalised direct mail, transpromotional and customer communications.
Anton will take delivery of the Prosper S5 mono inkjet printheads before the end of the year and will install them on its Scitex flatbed printer.
"We're upgrading the Scitex system to the Prosper S5 printheads, which will then be used for mono personalisation of any commercial direct mail," said Anton Group managing director Paul Murphy.
Murphy added that Anton was also looking at Kodak's Prosper 5000XL, although he stressed that the company had not placed an order for the colour inkjet press.
According to Murphy, promoting digital print is a major focus for the company.
"Litho is still very strong and clients need to have the confidence in digital technology. We are looking to educate customers about the value of digital and, in turn, transfer some work on to the Prosper press when that arrives," he said.
However, Murphy added that there would need to be sufficient demand from clients to make digital a worthwhile investment for any company.
"You have to invest in order to look to the future. Prices are not going up, so you have to look at ways to work more efficiently," added Murphy. "Prosper represents an exciting opportunity and a real step forward in terms of digital production."
Anton’s already-installed Kodak NexPress machines form the heart of its new secure document production facility.
Situated adjacent to its digital operation, which presently houses seven NexPress models, the unit is monitored by CCTV and prohibits the use of mobile phones and cameras to maintain client security.
The two Kodak NexPress SX3900s, coupled with a System 5000 bookletmaker will output a range of secure documents, often between 4pp and 32pp, such as investment portfolios, pension collateral and audit trails.
According to Bryan Knight, digital press manager at Anton Group, the printer will be able to use the barcode inspection module on the System 5000 to offer extra data integrity.
