G&H Printing has taken delivery of a Speedmaster CX 102-5+LX, a B1 five-colour press with coater, with further investment plans for later this year.
The company looked at various press options but felt the CX 102 was right for them, having the same plate format as the CDs the company retains but giving it a lift in output. In addition it has added Image Control spectral measurement to enhance its already tight colour disciplines, and coating with extended delivery to enhance turnround times.
"We produce a wide range of work, from one off business cards through to high quality holiday brochures using litho and digital technology," says Dave Hatton, managing director. "Some of our customers prefer to have each side printed in turn rather than perfected so this press is right for our market. The fifth colour will be used for specials but it is interesting to see a swing to CMYK logos during the recession. Specials are not a standard any more."
Production director Rob Shaw is looking forward to the 16,500sph machine and having the ability to coat even 100gsm papers at speed and without compromise to colour thanks to the ImageControl colour measurement.
The operators have had full onsite training with a Heidelberg demonstrator during the commissioning of this press, building on their existing skills and experience with the latest technology. The press delivery coincided with a switch in shift pattern which will give the company 24 hour cover Monday to Friday with an additional 33 hours being worked over the weekend.
Run lengths at G&H Printing range from 500 to 250,000 and include some contract work and also some personalisation jobs which are handled on the company's two Indigo presses.