Chairman Tony Carter said: “It was clear that Komori has had an edge from a technology perspective with the Lithrone S40 and the proven, but still unique, double-decker technology used on the Lithrone SP.”
He said that the decision to replace the Heidelbergs, which are not yet five years old, was taken to ensure that capacity kept pace with demand.
The company’s managing director, Michael Loomes, said the Lithrone S640 plus coater would be “seamlessly” installed over the Christmas period and operational in early January.
The Lithrone 640SP is due to be operational by August 2003. Its installation does not depend on the performance of the S640.
“We looked at all manufacturers’ presses, including Heidelberg, and assessed price, footprint and quality. We’ve very happy – it’s a good press,” said Loomes.
Carter Litho operates a 24-hour shift pattern and offers design, origination, printing, finishing and fulfilment services for clients including Tesco and Lloyds TSB.
The firm, which has 45 employees, has a turnover of approximately £7m.
Komori UK general sales manager (South) Neil Sutton said the order was the firm’s biggest sheetfed deal in recent times.
Heidelberg UK sales director Jim Todd was disappointed not to get the order, but said the footprint of Heidelberg’s 12-colour long-perfector was a factor.
Story by John Davies
Picture: Carter (centre) - Komori's edge
