Both machines are fitted with a CutStar reel-to-sheet device and managing director Alan Padbury said the 12-colour was "such a great success" that a second machine was needed immediately.

"The 12-colour was fully loaded for months before it arrived and it was obvious that we wouldn't be able to provide a fully rounded service for our customers if we didn't invest quickly," said Padbury.

Due for installation late November, the 10-colour will be configured to take slightly heavier stocks enabling the firm to print up to 350gsm. It will replace a five-colour CD 102.

By mid-2005, when the firm has created space, the two long-perfectors will be joined by a six-unit version of Heidelberg's new B1-plus machine, the XL105, which was introduced at Drupa in May.

Padbury made one of the first UK orders for the XL105 on the last day of the Dsseldorf show, along with the first UK order for a Heidelberg Suprasetter 105 platesetter, which arrives later this year.

Recent investment at the commercial print group, which is on course for sales of 15m-16m, exceeds 5m, but Padbury said he was "cool" about his decisions.

"The great thing about the CutStars and perfectors is they pay for themselves," he said. "If you work them hard from day one, you make money from day one."

The next focus for investment will be the firm's web capacity. It currently runs an 8pp and a 16pp Heidelberg and Padbury said he would be looking to place an order for a new machine in 2005 for a 2006 delivery. The configuration and manufacturer has yet to be decided.

Story by Lauretta Roberts