The 1.5m uniquely configured Lithrone 828 with coater and UV dryer has increased productivity by 20% for the 4m-turnover company.

The press can produce 12,000-13,000 sheets an hour. Managing director Drew Samuel said: Economies of scale then come into play and we can produce these labels at a really competitive price.

The Lithrone 828 can print on plastics and film as well as paper and metal, which, Samuel believed, could increase the shelf life of clients products against those of competitors.

He added that the UK was losing some work to Eastern Europe and places such as India and China, but that the new press would add to the firms ability to take on just-in-time work, especially in the food and non-alcoholic drinks sector.

It joins a four-colour Lithrone 28 and an automated six-colour Lithrone 28 with online coating and UV drying facilities. But its Lithrone 26 the first Komori press to be purchased in Scotland, in 1985 will be removed to make room for the eight-colour.

People say you shouldnt invest now, but Ive seen cyclic recessions before and its good to take the plunge. It shows were confident and encourages buyers to stay with us, added Samuel.

Story by Rachel Barnes