Managing director Philip Exall said the perfector will replace a 12-year old KBA SR04 at its Tunbridge Wells base, with the new press set to arrive in February next year.

"We are anticipating a significant increase in productivity, and the perfector will also improve turnaround times.

"It will give us the right configuration and help us be more competitive," said Exall.

The firm prints a lot of work that is two colours plus a special corporate colour, hence the unusual three-back-three configuration.

The Rapida 74 will become the seventh KBA press at the commercial printing house, founded 22 years ago.

Exall said he is also planning to add to the 70 staff employed at Mastercolour, with plans for an additional sales person and bindery staff.