Suite 8 is available in the UK and globally, but its cloud version is not accessible in China, due to firewall issues, according to Sinapse managing director Thierry Mack.

It is intended to be used as a training tool for schools and printing businesses to teach students and apprentices about the various types of print cost effectively. 

Mack said so far around 100 companies and schools will either be upgrading to or purchasing Suite 8.

He said: “This software creates a virtual machine; we assimilate the working of the press, so if you make the actions of the machine, you will see the result on the print."

Mack said that existing users could choose to keep a local version of the program on their machines or opt for a cloud licence.

"You will receive your update of the local version and if you want you can migrate your licence onto the cloud. So instead of just using the simulator in your company, you will have the benefit of the cloud version," he said.

The cloud version can also be used on tablets for the first time. Cost of the suite or upgrade will depend on subscription packages, modules and licence numbers.

Mack said he envisages it selling well in the UK and that, with the cloud version, Sinapse currently has no competitors.

He said there are more modules to be added before the end of 2016.

“We are developing technical modules, available soon. We can subscribe users of the software and they can decide whether they want to teach or learn more about, for example, ink balance, or tension in flexo ink-mixing,” he said.

Suite 8 will be used at the 2017 WorldSkills simulator games in Abu Dhabi.

Sinapse employs seven staff in its Paris office. Last year it turned over €1m (£840,000).