Howard Hunt will take delivery of CMC’s Combymail system next week, following factory testing at the UK-based manufacturer’s Italian site.

The system, a combination of CMC’s JWR paper wrapper and the CMC 9000 envelope inserting machine, features an interface module that automatically directs the output from a single input channel to either an inserting system or a paper wrapping system.

The unique configuration developed for Howard Hunt can be run in combination or concurrently as independent machines. Processing combinations can include running continuous input to paper wrap whilst using the attached inserter on an insert fill only function; or producing from continuous input to inserter whilst using the wrapper as insert only or as a one-piece mailer.

The set-up is designed as a flexible option to enable direct mail customers to make a gradual transition from using conventional envelopes to paper wrapping without having to commit to large sums of initial capital outlay.

Howard Hunt operations director Paul Kemp said the investment, which would bring the total number of CMC 9000 machines owned by the company to three will increase output by around 14m packs a month.

"The time to market is reduced dramatically because we can print on demand but we also have the choice to pre-print. It gives the customer what they want and there is also a reduced cost which is great because everyone wants savings at the moment.

Kemp said paper wrapping also removed the constraints of envelopes in terms of reduced storage costs and provided the flexibility of producing bespoke, personalised packs according to specific demand.

"The permutations are endless - it is good for business because it puts us in control. There is a mind set about envelopes and we need a culture change to move into paper wrap completely. We are putting our toe in the water to make that change," he said.

Howard Hunt will start using the system as a mono solution view to taking it to a four-colour product.