The new machine, which has a list price of around £400,000, is in addition to an existing GS3200 model and is up to 82% more efficient than previous models, according to director Damian Quarmby.

“We bought it mainly because we wanted to improve print quality, such as small text on fine museum work, and because it allows us to use thinner polypropylene films.”

UltraDrop technology offers smaller drop sizes and more precise control with seven printheads and "multidrop addressability" in each dot position.

Quarmby Colour's 15 staff in Leeds tackle a mixture of work for museums, sports clubs and retailers including POS material. The company's turnover is just over £1m.

“I'd hope we can increase turnover by 50% in a year with the new machine. We bought it for company progression; we recently won a couple of new contracts and this kit ticks all the boxes.

“We can now print on a wider range of substrates while operating costs will come down and the machine is environmentally friendly.”

Quarmby Colour is a family-run business spanning two generations in the display, exhibition and imaging industry. The company is set to take on a 2m-wide machine in the coming months but is not ready to say which one. Quarmby is also not revealing details of his new contract wins.