Installation of the new kit has taken place in three stages. Having moved its existing ABG Digicon HS and Digicon Series 2 machines to a temporary area within its factory, the first Digicon Series 3 was delivered in the first week of July while the second, higher spec device followed it in three weeks later.
The Digicon Series 3 is a modular system that can operate at up to 150m/min in full-rotary mode or 64m/min in semi-rotary mode. It features a maximum web width of 350mm and a maximum printing width of 330mm.
Brentwood, Essex-based Baker Labels said its higher spec Digicon in particular will provide customers with the opportunity to achieve high-end labels with its two flexo heads, a Big Foot 50-tonne capacity hot foil/embossing unit, two laminating stations, flatbed screen, die-cutting and auto slit knives. Both new machines have 100% camera inspection.
“We have no real idea of what the next enquiry will be so we have to continuously invest in cutting-edge equipment to be able to meet almost any demand,” said Baker Labels managing director Steve Baker.
“The only real guarantee is that the value of standard digital work is going to fall with so many new players entering the market so we need to be able to offer high-end embellishments to deliver a value-added product. We have a long relationship with ABG and their quality is really second to none which made the purchase decision much easier.”
Technical and new product development manager Jamie Godson added: “We've been planning the arrival of the two Series 3 Digicons for the last few months. Our operators have received training from AB Graphic on site and have been keen to get started on testing and trialling various methods and tools.
“We intend to push the machine to its limits, enabling us to produce the highest quality labels in Baker's customary quick turnaround times. Understanding every aspect of the press is integral to this process.”
The investment follows the recent 930sqm expansion of the company’s facility, which now provides total space of around 3,730sqm for its 80 staff.
Established in 1973, Baker Labels turns over £9m. In February the business took delivery of an auto-set Vectra SFTR glueless turret rewinder from ABG, then in April it expanded the capabilities of its high-end Print Bureau with the addition of a Roland DG VersaUV LEF-300 flatbed and a Vivid Matrix 370 laminator.
