Having ordered two Masterfold folder-gluers at Ipex in 2010, the company will add two Expertcut 106PER blank separating die-cutters later this year.

Bought to handle increased demand for die-cutting, the company will install one machine at its Gateshead, Tyne and Wear facility and the other at its site at Bardon, Leicestershire. Two existing diecutters will also be upgraded later in the year.

Managing director Mark Kerridge said: "We have seen an increase in demand in recent years for die-cutting as our customers seek new and exciting ways to show off their products and attract shoppers."

Both machines are expected to be delivered to the £110m-turnover company this month, while the second of the Masterfolds ordered last year was installed last month.

The Expertcut 106PER is a 9,000 sheet per hour die-cutter delivering fully blanked and piled cartons, with an in-built option of full sheet delivery.

It features a Power Register system for accurate dynamic registration between the actual print on the sheet and the die-cutting tools.