Arriving in late March, the native 1,200dpi printer, fitted with Dimatix Samba G3L printheads with 2pl minimum drop size, is capable of up printing up to 80m/min in a single pass.

The first of its kind in the UK, the printer will help Label Express pursue further growth in fast-turnaround, high-quality labels, particularly in the beverage market.

Simon Williams, Label Express’ managing director, told Printweek that the machine's quality and efficiency had proven the deciding factors.

"The Durst has already proven to be an excellent press that is providing the highest levels of consistent quality. The output volumes are also extremely impressive and has immediately increased our capacity.

"The machine has already opened new doors and opportunities for us and our existing customers so we are delighted with our choice.”

Williams added that paying a visit to Durst's Brixen headquarters, and seeing the manufacturer's factory and customer experience centre, had cemented the deal.

"It was another crucial part to the decision-making," Williams said.

"Seeing the impressive setup and fully testing the machine with our work really sealed the decision to partner with Durst.

“This is an important addition to our existing plant where we have full conventional production with pre-press, print and finishing equipment."

Simon Cosh, Durst UK and Ireland’s label business development manager, added: “We are delighted to welcome Label Express into the Durst Group family as it continues to move ahead with digital production.

“As a front runner with this new digital LED press, we look forward to helping Label Express develop into new areas, particularly as it benefits from being able to produce the highest quality LED label prints that will help open new doors of opportunity.”

As of its July 2023 accounts, Label Express employed 19.