The Rapida 105, which is due to be operational by summer, will have an unusual 11-unit configuration with perfecting after the fifth unit, a coater as the 11th unit, an extended delivery and board-printing capability.

Heidelberg said the configuration was chosen for tea packaging printing, but could be used for any type of light packaging and is intended to enhance cost efficiency and automation.

The press can also embed security features to distinguish branded goods from counterfeits, which is particularly important in Russia.

The St Petersburg-based firm uses high-grade UV coatings and holograms, and nitrogen recovered in the printing plant is used to cool the inking units, with any surplus sold to customers outside the print media industry.

The company recently implemented a roster system where staff work two 12-hour shifts followed by two days off.