Supplied by Exel Printing Machinery, the 2010 machine was installed at the Coulsdon, Surrey-based firm's premises in June, just as the UK was coming out of the first lockdown. It replaced an existing Heidelberg Speedmaster CD 102-6 from 2001, which Exel took in part-exchange.
Directors from the company had travelled with Exel to inspect the press in Paris before lockdown in February. It was located at a printer that specialised in high-end, short-run work, and had a low impression count for its age of 90 million impressions.
The deal was completed just prior to lockdown. The press remained in Paris during lockdown and it was then shipped over to Exel, which fully cleaned it before delivering it to Wilmot-Budgen.
The company considered a number of alternatives, including new presses from the main litho suppliers, but after thorough evaluation decided the return on investment on a quality used machine was more financially viable.
Wilmot-Budgen director Peter Burford said: “The CD 102 was still producing quality work for our customers, but the press had its limitations due to its age and maintenance costs were rising. The production capabilities of the CX 102 would far exceed that of the CD, allowing capacity for new work from different markets.
“Having the coating unit opens up a range of new opportunities and the press is also specified with Inpress Control, ensuring consistently high quality and enhanced sustainability. This press futureproofs our litho production for the foreseeable future.”
Exel handled the installation, commissioning, colour management and integration of the press.
Ian Bendy, UK sales director at Exel, said: “The sale and installation of the CX 102 went without a hitch even in these difficult times, it was a pleasure dealing with Pete Burford and the team at Wilmot-Budgen.”
Burford added: “Exel have a reputation for dealing in later model machines and I knew we could trust them to provide a quality press at the right price.”
Wilmot-Budgen produces commercial print, packaging and POS and serves major brands including including L'Oréal, Google, Coty and Estée Lauder.
