"We're going to be much more aggressive than we have been in the past 10 years", said Nixon, who added prospects were already up 30% since his arrival in March.

Nixon's latest move was appointing former Creo colleague Chris Scully as part of his growing sales team. Scully, who was national sales manager for Creo UK, will join KBA next month. "I know Chris, the guy can sell capital equipment, he's a proven individual," said Nixon.

He has been building up his team of sheetfed salesmen since he joined. He said Scully, who brings the team up to seven, would not be the last appointment.

"We'll continue to expand while some of our competitors are contracting," said Nixon. "I'll be bringing on a few more really key people."

"It's about selling value. KBA, as far as I'm concerned, is a rising star. I think the business in the UK will get much bigger," said Scully. "If I can be as big a pain in the arse to Martin Rickards as I was to Laurence Roberts I'll be pleased."

Commenting on his move away from the pre-press market he said: "Pre-press is in a funny situation, it's all on price at the moment."

Story by Barney Cox