The firm has invested in a new MK1050YMI-II device from Masterwork Graphic Equipment UK. Installation and training on the new machine was completed earlier this month.

Barwell managing director Joe Hill said the demise of other finishing companies, together with customer demand for the foiling service as part of a one-stop shop offering, had spurred the investment. 

“We’ve never been involved in foiling before, so this is a new venture for us. It goes hand-in-hand with all the other services we offer,” Hill said.

“B1 foiling is a bit special, not many people do that,” he added. “We’ve gone straight for the Bentley rather than the Ford Focus with this kit – we don’t do things by half!”

As well as foiling and die-cutting, the Masterwork machine can also deboss and emboss. It represents a £165,000 investment for the 11-strong business, which also fitted a mezzanine floor as part of a reorganisation of its 465sqm space in order to accommodate the new kit.

Hill praised Masterwork European sales manager Darren Crake, formerly of Best Cover UV, for overseeing the installation. “Darren really has been a pleasure to work with and has been a great help,” Hill said.

Barwell production director John Jubb added: “It is really exciting that we can offer something different. We have bought a good piece of equipment to allow us to grow our capacity, which will enable us to confidently plan our growth over the next few years.”

The firm has already taken on three additional staff as part of its growth plans.

Barwell’s other services include lamination; spot UV varnishing; fold, stitch and trim; and mailers.

It is located on the same secure industrial estate as Infinity Finishing, which started up this time last year and provides perfect and PUR binding services.

Chinese manufacturer Masterwork Machinery recently became Heidelberg's OEM partner and will manufacture its Diana folder-gluer range, as part of Heidelberg's revamp of its post-press operations.