“Because we are a trade printer we need to offer the best quality and use the latest equipment,” said managing director Anthony Drogan.

One of the key reasons for buying a Vutek was the LED curing.

“We went for LED curing for two reasons: firstly, to enable us to handle heat-sensitive substrates; and secondly, for the energy savings.” said Drogan. “It’s too early to say how it performs but it’s looking good. The reduction in heat is striking. Lots of materials warp due to the heat of mercury lamps, everyone who prints UV has that problem.”

It was also attractive due to its hybrid format and 3.2m width. The machine replaces an ageing Agfa Gandi flatbed.

The Vutek crowns a round of investment by the Bacup, Lancashire firm. Other purchases include an Esko Kongsberg cutting table and a pair of MTEX 5032 3.2m-wide digital textile printers.