Uncertainty surrounds Openshaw's position as a Presstek dealer following the appointment of Graphics & Offset Plates.


Presstek European sales manager Renaat Desiere said: The agreement with Openshaw was terminated some weeks ago with 90 days notice. The UK is one of the major markets in Europe, and, without criticising Openshaw, GOP promises to be much more dynamic.


A spokeswoman for Presstek in the US said it was currently in negotiation with Openshaw. Openshaw was unavailable for comment.


GOP sales manager Alan Howard said: Its a real coup for us, were very excited about it.


The firm will use Print UK to launch Pressteks Dimension series of platestters and Anthem processless plate in the UK. In the line-up will be the Dimension 200, the first B3 thermal platesetter.


Presstek believed that it would be offering the B3 market a winning combination with the Dimension and its Anthem plate. This brings thermal CTP to small- to mid-size printers, said Presstek worldwide sales manager Peter Bouchard. With Anthem there is no chemistry, no gumming and the plate works with any press chemistry and UV inks for runs of 100,000 plus.


It will turn out 15 plates per hour, and is set to cost 86,000 including RIP and plate washer. The B2 400 will cost 100,000, and the B1 800 will cost 150,000.


GOP will provide service for Presstek kit via its sister firm G-Tek in Milton Keynes.


Driftgate Press in Aylesbury is the first user of the Dimension 200 in the UK and, along with a handful of other Presstek users, is running the Anthem plate.


Story by Barney Cox