The Kent, Broadstairs-based business has migrated existing work onto the new machine and its existing B1 Miller press as the company has yet to be convinced by digital technology.

Wayne Yorath, managing director at Lanes Printers, said: "We had B1 and B2 Miller machines, and while the B1 press is always kept busy with long runs and book work, we found that much of the work we were producing at B2 would be better suited to B3 as the marketplace has shifted towards short-run quick turnaround colour.

"This change has been accelerated by digital print but unlike some of our local competitors, I am unconvinced by digital, which in my opinion has been responsible for a lowering of the quality threshold in the print market generally."

The high level of automation on the GH524 press was a key factor in attracting Yorath to the Gronhi machine.

"We can do a full-colour plate change in three minutes, and the ink management is very efficient. We are using CIP software to automate basic duct settings so only minor adjustments are needed, and we have a colourbar scanner to check output," he added.

Lanes Printers employs 10 staff and produces a range of commercial print for customers across the UK. It has a turnover of £4m.