The Kent-based business has invested in a Horizon AFC566FG from finishing distributor Graphic Arts Equipmen. The £60,000 machine replaced an older unit and will run alongside an MBO folder.

Managing director Graham Baker said: "We had three guys manning the two machines, but one retired. After seeing the Horizon, I calculated that because of the makeready times I wouldn't need a replacement."

Baker added that faster makereadies also meant it was easy to swap other more urgent jobs on to the folder at short notice.

Although employee numbers have dropped in the bindery, thanks to the new machine Scarbutts has been able to bring in a new employee, and potentially new work, elsewhere.

Baker said: "Because the folder runs so smoothly we realised we could increase our workload so we have taken on a new salesman. He has been bringing a lot more business in and we are coping fantastically well."

The machine features an icon-based colour touch-screen and a 200-job on-board memory store. It has 17 standard fold patterns, including roll fold, zigzag fold and DL fold.

Scarbutts was formed in 1961 and has a turnover of £1.7m. It currently employs 20 staff.