The machine, which was installed at the Rotherham-based firm’s 9,290sqm base over the summer, was supplied by Friedheim International.

The BASA 3 is suitable for processing high production volumes or large-format sheets and can also be used where either the cutting process needs to be automated or when ergonomic restrictions demand an automatic jogging process.

The machine is equipped with a de-stacking unit and counting device, meaning that even piles composed of different signatures/printed sheets/jobs can be processed automatically, accurate to the sheet, and correctly sorted.

The device can handle papers weighing at least 60gsm as well as various types of label papers, cardboards up to 600gsm, foils, plasticised materials, and perforated and embossed paper and cardboard.

“In the way we operated previously, we had a very manual process to take our ganged sheets to the guillotine and to align them for trimming. The BASA 3 will eliminate that, creating a less intensive process for our team,” said managing director Adam Carnell.

“There are very few alternatives on the market. We did look at one by Polar, but this was for much larger sheet sizes and that was the reason it wasn’t considered.”

He added: “We have worked with Friedheim International for a long time and have always been impressed with the service levels they offer. From installation to post-sale support they have been fantastic.”

Running existing Polar and Horizon cutting equipment, Route One also operates four Xerox iGens, two HP Scitex 11000 flatbeds, a Fujifilm Jet Press 720 and a 10-colour B2 Heidelberg Speedmaster.

In May the business bought a £1.3m Screen TruePress Jet 520HD and in early 2019 it will become the first UK company to install a Landa S10P Nanographic printing press.

A subsidiary of Bluetree Group, Route One currently employs around 350 staff and has a projected 2018 turnover of £42m.