Offset Printing
“Loved it, bought a second” is ESP Colours verdict on Speedmaster XL 75
Monday 29. March 2010 - "We have been so impressed at the output and flexibility of the first Speedmaster XL 75-5+L we installed 12 months ago, we have returned for a second machine to ensure we sustain and increase margin," says Anthony Thirlby, managing director of ESP Colour in Swindon.
The new matching Speedmaster XL 75-5+L will be delivered in the next few weeks and will enable the £12.5m turnover, 65 staff company to efficiently produce their product mix. The company is very commercially focused, investing to reduce costs and increase efficiency with profitability always in mind.
The B1 printer made its B2 debut last year believing that with shorter runs and rapid response that the latest generation Heidelberg press offers would enhance their business requirements. A year on the first XL75 has clocked up over 50 million impressions, is achieving consistent five minute makereadies and handling in excess of 250 make-readies a week.
“We have achieved a return on investment on the first machine in 12 months and we believe the second machine will be 12% more productive than the B1 press it will replace. With Inpress Control we have saved over £20,000 in start up waste alone. We get to sellable copy within 100 sheets and our spoilage rate is absolutely minimal. It has week by week out-produced the older B1 SM 102 it has run alongside on sales utilization by 12%” says Mr Thirlby.
Preset Plus has enabled the company to run from stock to stock easily and with minimal effort. It is this combined with Inpress Control spectral measurement that has reduced the makereadies and enabled even the most difficult stocks, 65gsm through to 650micron, to be run at maximum machine speed. The machine is running with just 1% alcohol which combined with reduced waste, makes it a press that ties in well with the companies Chain of Custody and ISO 14001 accreditations.
“Its been a tough market for everyone but those who get through this recession will be in better shape than ever. We have been continuously busy now for over nine months, achieving aggressive bottom line targets month in month out. Having equipment that provides the customer with the quality and response they expect across a range of products and cost-effectively is critical in todays market. Presses have to be specd carefully. Its more than configuration; its the accessories and options that matter, too.
“We are suitably equipped for the next stage of our business plan but that will not stop us investing at Ipex if it increases bottom line. It is vital that businesses see whats available and keep abreast of developments. Its not about technology for technologys sake but about gaining a business edge by looking, listening and learning.”