Joint managing director Peter Ruck said: "We aim not only to be seen as an innovative direct-mail printer, but to look into developing the commercial and insert markets."

The company purchased a 2.5m, 12-colour Heidelberg Speedmaster SM 102 at Ipex. The press was specified with Axis Control and the latest CutStar, which can handle 1,500mm-diameter reels.

Owner and founder John Ruck said: "More and more clients need four colours [both sides] and a special process colour. Once you put a special down, you need a sealer. So a 12-colour was the way forward."

Bridge, which is increasing its workforce from 70 to 90 staff, expects the investment to boost its 8m turnover by 25%.

The press, financed by Close Print Finance, will be delivered to the Heybridge-based operation's 6,000sqm freehold facility straight from Heidelberg's Ipex stand.

"With a 10- and a 12-colour, and the big Scitex system in one factory, it is going to be something else," said Peter Ruck.

The firm has already installed 550,000 worth of Friedheim International finishing kit at the factory.

The investment included four MBO T800s with slitter-shaft cassettes, automatic buckle plates and gatefold units; two 6/8s with Navigator touchscreen controls; a six plate; and a 6/4/4. Two Palamides Delta paper-handling and banding systems were also commissioned.

The new factory is five minutes from Bridge's 3,800sqm site. It features a dust-free, air-conditioned area to house the firm's Kodak Versamark B1 duplex personalisation rig, made up of twin nine- and two-inch print heads.

The firm is currently operating from both sites. Once the new press is in operation, Bridge's Speedmaster SM102-10P, also with CutStar, will be transferred.

The relocation is set be completed by early June, when the firm will look at upgrading its Tharstern MIS.

Bridge Communications
Turnover: 8m (10m predicted)

Employees: 70 (rising to 90)

Investments this year: 6,000sqm on 2.5-acre site, Heidelberg Speedmaster SM 102-12P, four B1 MBO folders and two Palamides Deltas