The maker of wet-applied labels and commercial print is moving to the two-storey base near its existing Glasgow factory in Hillington Park.

"The layout of the factory's production area will be radically changed to reflect the latest manufacturing flow techniques," said general manager James Clark.

"Some firms use investment to buy themselves out of immediate trouble. But we have committed ourselves to the long term through efficiency and competitiveness," he added.

As part of the move the firm has spent 2m on a new-generation eight-colour MAN Roland 708 UV litho press to replace a Roland 606 and run beside a 306 and 305. Among other investments were material handling kit and a Pecas MIS, which replaces a Shuttleworth MIS. Field Lithoprint aims to add around 10 staff to its 87-strong workforce.

"We need 100% accuracy and the ability to meet short lead times," said Clark. "This is an ideal time for label-sector leadership through scale and scope, strength and stability."

Field Group marketing manager Bob Houghton said: "The move into the leased building will be phased over a few months to manage levels of customer service."

Field Lithoprint parent Chesapeake funded the move in part with a regional-selective assistance grant from the Scottish Executive.

Houghton said the expansion was part of a huge push across Chesapeake including massive investment in China and the US.

See Global News, p19