Installation of the six-unit double-width press, which is currently subject to contract, will begin in May 2004 and should be running by the end of the year. It will be capable of producing 96pp colour pages at 75,000 copies per hour running in straight mode.
The Geoman 75 will produce two daily newspapers, The Oxford Mail and the Swindon Evening Advertiser, along with The Oxford Times and Wiltshires Gazette and Herald series. It will replace a 32-year-old Crabtree press.
Newsquest chief executive Paul Davidson said: MAN Roland put together a strong proposal. We look forward to working with them on this major investment.
The new hall, which will be built on the existing Newsquest (Oxfordshire) site, has already been approved by Oxford City Council.
Earlier this year fellow Newsquest company, Southernprint, increased its web offset capacity by 30% when it ordered the UKs fourth MAN Roland Lithoman IV (PrintWeek, 13 September).
Have your say in the Printweek Poll
Related stories
Latest comments
"Well done all involved... great to see the investment to increase the productivity in the same footprint- much more sustainable than popping another one up."
"From 1949 until the late 2000s Remploy had a network of government-subsidised factories that offered employment specifically to disabled people, originally often war veterans or victims of industrial..."
"Does appear an odd decision as with that level of shareholder funds they would be liable for the staff redundancy and cover the insolvency costs. It’s not like they could take the money and dodge..."
Up next...
Andrew Whyte takes reins
MBO at LT Print Group ensures smooth transition
Educational day in Yorkshire
Northern Stationers see historic print and more in York
Supporting growth in new and existing markets
WTTB backs digital intentions with new e-commerce specialist
Investment in e-commerce fulfilment