Showcase Creative claimed it was the UK’s only firm that could make such plush products in tiny numbers but at affordable prices. The folders are targeted at firms compiling tender bids, training literature or high-end operating manuals.

Managing director Paul Batey said the product range included paper-over-board printed ring binders, slip cases and tabbed dividers in leather or velvet textured finishes. Variable data enabled personalisation of each folder.

"We used to work in graphic design and clients needed presentation folders. But they were hard to buy, prohibitively expensive and available in their thousands," said Batey who is targeting agencies or building firms tendering for work.

"Graphic designers often need one-off print jobs for items that were only available in expensive, large quantities. They had to settle for PVC folders, which look bad. We are supporting the industry and taking a nice chunk of the market."

Batey, his brother Jack and friend Andy Wreakes, switched to print seven years ago. They run tailored pieces of kit such as a foiler and riveter and an HP Z5200 inkjet at their base in Camberley, Surrey, with five sales and production staff.

Typical runs go from 10 to 50 and substrates include self-adhesive coated paper and photo-quality inkjet paper. Showcase Creative offer effects such as velvet laminate to give the folders an extra lavish feel, said Batey.