The Ashford, Kent-based magazine and journal printer opted for the 700x1,000mm SM 102-10-P press, complete with CutStar, to provide extra capacity and back-up to its other Heidelberg machines.

By opting for another Heidelberg model, the 245-staff company said the press will have compatibility with existing stock, plates and rollers, as well as finishing equipment.

Roger Pitt, managing director of Headley Brothers, said: "Whilst the investment may seem large, it will maximise our productivity and therefore help to retain and grow our client base."

He said: "Our investment in previous SM 102 presses has been hugely successful, and has provided us with the maximum efficiency and flexibility that we need to hedge against specific market downturns.

"Considering the trend towards shorter print runs in certain magazine sectors, this press provides us with the flexibility to cater for those variations."

The SM 102 can handle work of up to 720x1,020mm at a perfecting speed of 12,000sph, with a minimum sheet size of 400x480mm in perfecting mode or 340x480mm in straight printing mode.