Describe your business
MPG Books Group is the largest independent book manufacturer in the UK, and MPG Digital Solutions is the sheetfed digital print division of that group. We provide publishers with a print-on-demand (POD) and ultra-short-run book manufacturing facility (one to 99 copies), predominantly serving the academic, scientific, medical and technical book and journal sectors.
What does the machine do?
It produces book blocks on a wide range of standard litho stocks for processing through our short-run bindery.
Why did you choose this particular machine?
The Océ 6000 series has a reputation for productivity and reliability and is well-suited to book production. Océ has teamed up with a number of manufacturers to provide integrated finishing solutions. We have specified MBO folders for both machines. The two VarioPrint 6320 presses are the fastest flat-sheet production presses available and very important in our deadline-driven environment.
Did you look at any other similar machines?
I looked at a number of digital presses from the leading manufacturers, comparing technical specification, speed, finishing equipment integration and format capabilities, eventually deciding that Océ provided the best solution.
Why did you make the purchase?
The Océ digital presses complement the Océ digital web and litho printing offered by the rest of the group. The two new presses will increase our capacity by 300% to accommodate several major agreements recently signed.
What features do you particularly like?
It can take a sheet of standard litho paper from a feed tray and deliver a printed sheet into the stacker without jamming.
Is there anything you wish it had that it doesn’t?
We’re awaiting delivery of the folding units.
How fast is it?
In comparison to our previous presses, very fast.
How reliable is it?
Since installation, we’ve had only one minor problem and this was solved straight away by Océ.
What’s the quality like?
It’s excellent. It stands up well on a like-for-like basis with any of the digital presses currently in the marketplace.
How easy is it to use?
Judging by the response from our operators, it ticks all the boxes.
How much time or money has it saved?
It has reduced our printing costs substantially and sped up production considerably.
Has it won you any new work?
Not directly, but this investment was made to support recently signed agreements.
Would you say that it offers value for money?
It’s a substantial investment, some of which has been offset by labour savings.
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation or after?
One or two small problems, but all were dealt with professionally and efficiently.
What about the pre- and after-sale service?
Océ provide a knowledgeable and efficient sales and after-sales service, so no complaints.
Who do you think the machine is right for?
Anyone in the POD to ultra-short-run book market.
Under what circumstances would you buy another?
Further investment will be driven by an increase in volume and contract wins in an already competitive market.
Conclusion
User’s verdict
Speed 5/5
Quality 5/5
Value for money 4/5
Supplier’s response
Bert van Agen, vice-president of marketing and strategic planning at Océ Technologies, says: With the next generation of Océ Gemini Instant Duplex technology, Océ takes the VarioPrint 6000 series to new levels and demonstrates market leadership in pushing the speed barrier above 300ppm. Customers can blaze through heavy black and white volumes and complete more jobs within ever-tighter windows.
Price From £350,ooo
Contact Océ UK 0870 6005544
