What does your business do?
We are a Wolverhampton-based label printer and we operate in the chemicals and food markets. In the past, the chemicals sector was very much our niche, but around 40% of our work is for other print companies.
What does the machine do?
It is a digital label press that is designed for shorter runs.
Why did you choose this particular machine?
We acquired our first Xeikon in March 2007 and the 3000 is a part-exchange for a Xeikon 330 we bought in 2008. We went for it because it represents better value - the machine is more cost-effective. I approach this industry from a different aspect - more from a financial perspective. It was about looking at where the market was going and the right thing for us to do was to go digital.
Did you look at any other similar machines?
We did look at the HP Indigo presses in some depth. HP can hit a high colour gamut, but we felt that you had to pay a higher click charge.
What features do you particularly like?
It's not just about the machine's ability to print short runs - we like the fact that you can incorporate variable data. Also, it is self-calibrating and that means we can match colours more accurately than before.
Is there anything that you dislike?
Digital is still in its infancy [in the label sector] and, if the sector as a whole wants to make it more economical to do longer runs, then they need to bring down the cost of consumables and toner. It is a significant part of the overall cost.
How fast is it?
It runs at 9.6m per minute.
What's the quality like?
The quality is a significant improvement on the 330. It is now 1,200dpi and there's an option of including a spot colour. The machine now enables us to hit a wider colour gamut.
How easy is it to use?
It takes around two to three weeks for a printer to become proficient with the machine. But in my opinion, a printer can't really be fully trained on the device until six months.
How much time has it saved?
The 3000 has more up time. Based on our experience, it's 30% more productive than our old 330.
Has it won you any new work?
We have won new business and as a result, around 60% of our turnover comes from digital. Buying the Xeikon 3000 has completely transformed the make-up of the business and has meant that we have been able to weather the recession exceptionally well.
Were there any difficulties experienced during the installation?
Installation went well. As with any new technology, there is an element of bedding it in.
What about the pre- and after-sale service?
One of the reasons that we went with Xeikon was for their support. It's been a good experience and they don't just help in terms of technical support.
Who do you think the machine is right for?
Digital printing is not for everybody and anyone considering buying a digital machine should understand that the entry cost of a machine is expensive. It is also a decision that requires a very significant capital investment and, with it, a lot of soul-searching.
Under what circumstances would you buy another?
We will continue to invest and this machine will not be our last purchase of a digital machine. We see digital as offering a significant step forward. It will grow and eat into flexo.
CONCLUSION
User’s verdict
Speed 4/5
Quality 4/5
Reliability 3/5
Value for money 4/5
Supplier’s response
Punch Graphix UK managing director Chris Matthews says: The Xeikon 3000 is very much a machine for the labels market. Flexo print firms are quite new to the digital concept, but they are finding that their run lengths are reducing dramatically. Their customers are demanding more relevant labels – they may want to print a special offer or need to reduce their stock levels. With this in mind, we are talking to label printers who are looking at digital for the first time. CL Labels is really benefiting from the 3000’s 1,200dpi – their customers now want to capitalise on that quality.
Price from £350,000, depending on configuration
Contact Punch Graphix 01904 520555 www.punchgrahix.com
