It comes as part of its investment in research and development, using funds raised from Nipson's flotation on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM). Buts added that a strategy was also in place to "renew the momentum for Nipson in the UK".

"The black and white market is the key area for us at the moment but at the same time we will look at strategies for colour," said Buts. "I will also be spending time, over the next few months, with the UK team but I can't elaborate on that at the moment."

He added that he was not disappointed that the float raised 10m, only two-thirds of the projected figure of 15m (PrintWeek, 5 August).

"There has been some adjustment to how the money will be spent but it will not compromise our growth strategy," said Buts.

Story by Philip Chadwick