News

Web and sheetfed printer Ancient House Press has completed a £1m investment in finishing kit to match the recent expansion of its printing department.

The Ipswich-based company bought a Mitsubishi press in 2007 and last month invested £250,000 in two new Heidelberg Stahlfolders – a combination KH 82 and buckle TH 82.

The purchases complement a previous investment in March, which saw the company buy a £750,000 Kolbus ratio binder.

Edwin Mayhew, financial director at Ancient House, believes the company will now have three times as much folding capacity as before.

He said: "This gives us additional flexibility to meet requirements. If we need to turn things around quickly, we now have the capability to do that. We can better respond to customer demands."

The combination machine has been brought in to replace an MBO T800 machine, while the buckle folder will add extra capacity.

Mayhew added: "It means we can retain work in-house rather than putting it out to the trade, which is more cost effective."

According to Ancient House, the buckle folder was selected for its versatility and footprint. It will be used to produce a range of products including standard A4 and A5 brochures, folded leaflets and calendars.

Production director Paul Sadler added: "We are constantly reviewing machinery and making sure we exploit new technology to the full. In fact, our success is attracting new employees who want to work with the most up-to-date kit available and be part of a warm, friendly family-run business."

Ancient House is currently turning over £16.5m and employs 105 staff.