The charges, from 2001 and 2002, include failure to register with the DoE for the 2002 compliance year as well as "failure to take reasonable steps to recover and recycle packaging waste".

But Delta sales and marketing director Neal McCone said that since then the Belfast firm has been fully compliant, resulting in a reduced fine of 6,000.

"Mitigating factors were taken into account and, while we admit we were liable, since 2001 we have been fully compliant and at the forefront of waste and recycling," said McCone. Delta was also ordered to pay 46 costs. The company's clients include McDonald's and Heinz.

Earlier this year Delta invested 1.5m in a tenth Heidelberg Speedmaster CD102.