The Uttoxeter-based firm bought the machine, which was installed at its premises around two months ago, from Intelligent Finishing Systems (IFS).

“We wanted a step up from what we had and the ability to increase our offering and capacity going forward, to have something additional to offer customers,” said managing director Mathew Hawksworth.

“It’s already helped us get through work more quickly and efficiently and has just freed up a bit more time so we can now be as responsive as possible.”

The SPF/FC-200A has replaced a 10-year-old Watkiss system, which the firm part exchanged. It has retained a second Watkiss machine to use as a back-up.

“We’d been using our old machine for a long time and it was becoming less reliable. I’d been looking at Horizon machines for a couple of years and rated its systems, but at that particular point there was quite a difference in price,” said Hawksworth.

“Then the favourable exchange rate contributed to lower prices and bought this machine almost in line with the Watkiss alternatives. We also talked to one or two people already using them and reviewed the trade reports, which were all positive.”

The 4,500bph SPF/FC-200A features a 200-programme job memory storage for instant recall, an icon-based touch-screen for job set-up and two 10-station VAC-Turbo 100 PowerCollators. The advanced suction rotor drum feeding system operates on a wide variety of paper stocks at high speeds.

The privately owned family firm, which was established in 1979 and has 10 staff, produces banners, signs, workwear and vehicle wraps for a range of local and national companies.