The kit, which Swanline bought in November 2007 for £300,000, has enabled the business to adopt a new approach to producing POS display stands and large-format packaging printing requiring high-impact imagery.

Previously, large-format imagery was not possible due to size constraints, but the introduction of ultra-large litho machines can produce image sizes up to 1,500x2,030mm and working sheets sized 2,000x3,000mm.

The Automatan EM has enabled Swanline to offer customers an alternative to large-format screen printing, which it also provides to its clients.

Managing director Nick Kirby said: "The added benefit of improved print quality against screen print is just one of the unique selling points associated with this method of production."

However, Swanline claimeed the installation of the Automatan has not affected demand for screen printing services, which remains steady, particularly for low-volume jobs where litho is not a viable option.

"Screen printing has been the mainstay of Swanline's business for many years and the ability we now have to offer litho lamination on the same scale just increases the options we can provide to our clients.

"Now they can make direct comparisons between the two methods and make educated decisions based on the use, target audience, pricing and visualisation of the end product they require," Kirby added.

In its 2007/08 financial year, Swanline increased turnover by 35% to £5.5m.