Describe your business
We are a full-colour litho printer based in Leicester. We were established in 1988 and deal with a variety of blue-chip and agency clients producing stationery, direct mail and corporate materials.
What does the machine do?
It is a five-colour B3 litho press.
Why did you choose this particular machine?
We initially looked at the machine because of the price, but then were convinced by the machine’s quality and automation. We installed the press at our new purpose-built 278m2 facility four months ago.
Did you look at any other similar machines?
We had a look at Ryobi, from whom we already had two four-colour presses, as well as Heidelberg.
Why did you make the purchase?
We needed a five-colour press for special work and inline sealing. In this market we are competing against digital, so we have to maintain an edge in print quality, but fast turnaround times are also vital. For that kind of money, you expect something flimsy, but this press is built like a tank. It’s the heaviest machine in its class and absolutely solid.
What features do you particularly like?
One of the strengths of the press is the consistency of colour when multi-paging.
Is there anything that you dislike?
There isn’t really anything I dislike about the machine.
Is there anything that you wish it had that it doesn’t?
Again, there’s nothing I’d really change.
How fast is it?
It is certainly comparable to our Ryobi in set-up and operation.
How reliable is it?
We only had it installed four months ago, but so far the reliability has been excellent.
What’s the quality like?
It has been an improvement on our previous press.
How easy is it to use?
It’s very easy. Training took just two days.
How much time or money has it saved?
The fifth unit has been the most significant saving, giving us an extra day of production per week. The Hans-Gronhi has made a really big impact on the company and it’s around one-third quicker than what we could do before.
Has it won you any new work?
Not yet.
Would you say that it offers value for money?
It certainly does. Indeed, this press is the best machine purchase we have ever made.
Were there any difficulties experienced during or after the installation?
There were a few initial problems of course, but this was all sorted out very swiftly by Printers Superstore’s technicians.
What about the pre- and after-sale service?
We’re more than satisfied with the service from supplier Printers Superstore.
Who do you think the machine is right for?
It’s good for print companies that work on short-run colour jobs.
Under what circumstances would you buy another?
We would consider buying another one if we had a substantial growth in new sales.
Conclusion
User’s verdict
Speed 4/5
Quality 5/5
Reliability 5/5
Value for money 5/5
Supplier’s response
Graham Moorby, Printers Superstore joint managing director, says: We are thrilled that Printshop Direct Image, whose business is built on its reputation for high quality, chose the five-colour GH525. It shows the industry that we’re competing on all fronts, including quality, productivity and price. We have had an unprecedented level of interest - it’s amazing. We are really proud of the product and what it can do, and know printers will be amazed at what true value for money Hans-Gronhi represents.
Price £175,000
Contact Printers Superstore 0113 208 8500
