TJ International invests for short run demand

Book printer TJ International has expanded its laminating services with a new Komfi Amiga 52 in the latest stages of its 750,000 investment programme.

TJ International manufacturing director Jon Sole said: "The machine is situated in our short run digital unit and we continue to see higher volumes of work in that area as our customers require shorter runs and quicker turnaround times.

"We chose the Komfi because it offers use the ability to maintain our high standards and was supplied by Friedheim whom we have had a very good relationship with for several years."

The Padstow-based printer’s relationship with Friedheim goes back "well over ten years" according to Sole, during which time TJ International has bought MBO folders, bundlers and guillotines from the supplier. The B2 laminator was installed by Friedheim International in January.

In April last year, the company installed a Tecnau Libra Line variable size PUR binder which can process both hard- and paperback short run books.

Latterly, the company also installed a Konica Minolta Bizhub C7000 digital colour press to complement its expanding digital short run production area for the beginning of 2013.

The company’s turnover currently stands at around £11m, which Sole hopes to improve this year by "investing and working smarter".

"We have a great training plan in place across the whole business, including Modern Apprentice and Continuous Improvement Programmes.

"We have always taken a pride in what we produce and quality is imperative, this continues as we work closely with our customers to help them in a very challenging market," he said.

TJ International was a finalist in the PrintWeek Awards 2012 Book Printer of the Year Category.