The die-cutter, which has seven flexo units, was scheduled to arrive for installation early this month and is due to be in full production by mid-April.

The corrugated packaging specialist said the machine’s highly productive, “state-of-the-art” quality control systems, auto print registration, and colour control features enable high-quality repeatability job to job. It will also reduce environmental footprint at the site.

Furthermore, it will shorten lead times, allow for an increase in customer supply collaboration in the group’s print division, and offer both reliability and repeatability throughout the process, Smurfit Kappa said.

“We’re delighted that this exciting new investment will cement Chelmsford as a market leader in HQPP (High Quality Post Print) by delivering a no-fuss, seamless offering to our customers,” said general manager Vic Marland.

“With its additional capacity, we have no doubt it will broaden the sectors in which Smurfit Kappa Chelmsford can add value.”

Sales director Dominic Price added: “We’re thrilled with how this state-of-the-art new machine is going to introduce transformational change in our new print capacity and capability.

“It’ll allow us to increase our sales volume within a fast-growing and volatile retail and e-commerce market. This will allow us to take full advantage of market growth and build on our strategy for creating a robust and sustainable business for the future.”