"It is our first KBA. We've been 30-plus years Heidelberg, so this is a real departure for us," said works manager Paul Knighton (pictured right).

The 10-colour press is also the firm's first alcohol-free press, although it only runs 1-5% alcohol on its four presses, and its first long perfector.

"Print has become a commodity. You've got to perfect to survive," said managing director Tony Lawson (left).

The firm configured its press with Densitronic S colour management, ink temperature control, PIAB air system and Contemp cooling kit, and Logitronic Professional workflow.

As part of the spend, the firm is also looking at adding one or two more folders, and boosting its pre-press department to keep up with the kit.

The five-back-five press will be fitted next year. It will be only the second in the UK to use KBA's no-sidelay technology, the first being installed less than mile away at fellow Northampton firm Printhaus.