Service Graphics takes UK first for new mailing operation

Horler: perfect pro print solution to complement brand-new operation
Horler: perfect pro print solution to complement brand-new operation

Service Graphics has installed the UK’s first Konica Minolta AccurioPress C7100 at a new direct mail operation in the west country.

Service Graphics Southern Mail is a new venture for the Service Graphics business, which is part of the giant Paragon Group of companies. 

The Taunton operation is a full service mailing house offering data, direct mail, hybrid mail, and cross media to SME customers. 

It is headed by divisional director Jon Horler, who was previously managing director of Mailadoc for more than 12 years. He subsequently joined Xerox Business Solutions operation Itec, where he spent just over three years, before taking up his new role at Service Graphics in June. 

Horler said: “We were looking for the perfect professional print solution to complement our brand-new operation in Taunton and were presented with the opportunity of being the first AccurioPress C7100 user in the UK. 

“Whilst this was a factor in our decision, along with output excellence we also wanted expert reliable service and support, giving us the confidence to invest as we grow this exciting new venture.”

The new press has a compact footprint and was installed at the end of June.

Konica Minolta launched the new AccurioPress models in June, featuring a host of inline finishing options for ‘ready to box’ output. 

The C7100 prints at 100ppm and can handle stock weights from 52-400gsm. It can also auto-duplex 900mm long banner products for applications such as multi-panel folded brochures and posters. 

Service Graphics managing director Mike Holyoake said it was “hard to find anything better than Konica Minolta right now” and praised the manufacturer for its client focus and “superior service delivery”. 

“We spoke to the team about our print requirements and found them exceptionally responsive and we were also won over by the overall post-sale proposition,” he stated. 

Holyoake said the group could add further devices as it developed its growth plans. 

“We are also looking for other opportunities to use the capabilities of the AccurioPress C7100 elsewhere within our business, sharing the knowledge and performance feedback around our network for future potential decisions,” he noted.

Paragon Group had sales of nearly £924m in its most recent results, and holds the number one spot in Printweek’s Top 500 survey. 

The group rebranded its graphics services business under the Service Graphics banner two year ago.