Major print room upgrades – September 2025

Printing is ever-evolving and the equipment we maintain to supply our customers with outstanding print comes from a market of machines that is quite wide and deep. It is therefore imperative that when considering upgrades, we do our research and take investment decisions that make sense for both quality and planet-friendliness.

We’re thrilled to share two significant additions to our factory plant list.

Firstly, our binding capability has been enhanced with a Horizon BQ-500 perfect binder. This advanced machine supports PUR hotmelt glue, which is the most durable type. Though we knew the iCE series would be efficient, we were still amazed by the short set-up times and quick feedings thanks to a nifty attachment. There are also invisible advantages, like its clever intuitiveness that delivers a superlative workflow. A touch-screen panel makes customising from job to job a breeze. The quality is also excellent; for example, the spinal and hinge scoring is sharp and precise. The environment is also positively impacted, as transport emissions between us and binding suppliers have been neutralised.

Our litho capability has also been boosted by bringing in a shiny new Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 106. This gentle giant is truly state-of-the-art and will substantially increase our scope for productivity, particularly for runs like season brochures and product catalogues. An array of robust and dynamic components (even AI!) includes CutStar® technology, ensuring acceleration that allows for up to an astonishing 21,000 sheets per hour. Courtesy of integrated PowderStar®, powder consumption is reduced by up to 15%, contributing to an overall 45% reduction in environmental soiling. LED drying reduces turnarounds, which is especially beneficial for shorter runs. Intelligent processes increase plating and print velocity, while cameras detect rare faulty sheets that are automatically ejected. Optimised washup time is just one of the many ways waste emissions are reduced, contributing to our sustainability efforts. In summary, the innovative press takes us to the forefront of production potential, efficiency and eco-savviness.

To help usher the acquisition, we even visited Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG in Germany, who hosted us with much ‘Freundlichkeit’ and answered our many questions – an impressive manufacturing facility! Similarly, following reinforcement to the floor (she’s weighty!), we welcomed the Heidelberg installation team, who worked through a very British heatwave to fit the new press. Induction training was also given, which means our minders have the skills and confidence to operate the advanced machine.