Commissioned and running alongside Swype’s other HP, an Indigo 5900, the new press has significantly increased Swype’s production capacity above its current rate of 20 million cards, primarily PVC and RFID, per year.
Swype made the purchase with the help of a six-figure working capital investment from FW Capital as part of the British Business Bank’s Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II).
The 7900, installed with five colours but adaptable to up to seven, is the latest machine purchased by Swype in its 25-year working relationship with HP – a relationship that began in 2000 when the company was the first to beta test a digital printing press for Hewlett Packard.
“The new press gives us a significant bump in terms of speed and capability running alongside the 5900,” Steve Masters, Swype’s financial director, told Printweek.
He explained that the machine was intended to “futureproof” the company’s production as the 5600 and 5900 machines approach end of service.
“This was about us getting ahead of the curve on that potential end-of-life announcement, but the 7900 gives us enhanced quality, capability, faster print speeds, too: it really does allow us to look at the next stage of business development and evolution.”
Masters pointed out that the new machine’s higher print quality on a wider range of substrates, including the firm’s recently-introduced recycled PVC cards, board and wood.
“We continue to look for new product offerings and opportunities,” he added.
“We have a very good and established customer base here. We’re very positive about the direction of the business, and we’ve seen significant sales growth over the last 12 months. We’ve got a range of new products we’re bringing to the market, and this press is integral to the ongoing success, growth and development of the business.
“We really do see it as critical – the heartbeat of our business. It takes us on in leaps and bounds from the technology that we’ve run for the best part of 10 years, and hopefully will futureproof us for the next eight or 10.”
Sue Barnard, senior investment manager at the British Business Bank, said that it was “fantastic to see businesses like Swype leading the way” as the digital printing sector evolves.
She added: “This investment highlights how NPIF II is enabling firms to capitalise on opportunities and enhance productivity, contributing to a thriving regional business ecosystem and the transition to net zero.”
Barry Wilson, investment executive at FW capital, said he was excited to hear about the company’s plans to develop its eco-friendly card options, “an area where demand is increasing”.
He added: “We look forward to following Swype’s progress over the coming months and years.”
Swype will retain its 5600 model for parts, though Masters said that the firm would entertain offers for the machines.
“There’s a high degree of part compatibility between the 5600 and 5900, so we’re just thinking of using it for parts – it’s a shame, really, because it’s a great machine even in its later life,” he added.
Swype turns over around £3.5m annually, employing 35 at its 1,900sqm St. Helens site.
