The second machine followed a few months after the firms first Vutek, which was installed at the beginning of the year.

Part of the increased demand was for a six-week project to produce signage for 50 refurbished B&Q centres. This consisted of a range of different signs for interior and exterior use, which totalled 8,450m2.

The Vuteks werent the firms first digital printing presses, joining a pair of Matan Sprinters and several Encad NovaJets. According to the firm it needed to add production speed printing equipment and digital was preferred over screen.

Being able to turn around work very quickly was one of the key drivers asked for by its customers, which are mainly large retail chains including Tesco, Co-op and Marks & Spencer.

"Quality was one of the main reasons for choosing Vutek, but it is job turnaround that has impressed us most," said Appleton Signs Paul Saunders.

As well as store graphics the firm also produced vehicle graphics for B&Qs fleet of same-day delivery vans.

The firm is also looking at adding a flatbed UV-curing ink-jet press for PoS work.

Story by Barney Cox