The Mitcham-based subsidiary made a pre-tax profit of 592,000 on a turnover of 33.6m in 2004.

In 2003, despite a larger turnover of 37.5m, pre-tax profits were significantly lower at around 220,000.

The hike in 2004 profits can be attributed to massive restructuring of the business, which occurred at a time when Malcolm Pendlebury was appointed managing director last February.

"We've realigned a lot of our businesses we've dropped products that weren't selling and expanded our sales service operations instead," said MAN Roland GB marketing director, Murray Lock.

"We're looking at adding value by expanding our supply and pre-press sides. We're now also offering expertise for preventative maintenance programmes for customers and selling our post-press through our other sales divisions rather than via a dedicated sales force," continued Lock.

Even though the company made record-breaking web sales last year of over 400m, their contribution to the overall profit won't be seen until later this year and in future years when the machines are installed.

Story by Eloise Seddon