Chesapeake boosts production offering with Speedmaster buy

Chesapeake has not ruled out a further press investment after buying an eight-colour Heidelberg Speedmaster XL 105 - its third press purchase in two months.

The packaging giant will install the Speedmaster XL 105-8+LYYL at its Newcastle site this June, where along with Manroland and Komori presses it will serve the premium food and confectionary markets.

Bob Houghton, Chesapeake corporate marketing and communications manager, said: "The site is geared up to service the premium end of the food and confectionary markets, and the press fit the bill perfectly as it offers added-value and flexibility."

The Heidelberg with twin coaters is equipped to process UV, aqueous or conventional inks, and was bought for an undisclosed sum, although Chesapeake received a grant from development agency One North East for the investment.  

Over the past couple of months, the company has invested in a Komori press at its Leicester site and a KBA press and GUK gluer at its Greenford plant.

Houghton added that Chesapeake has not ruled out purchasing another press.

He said: "We want to keep on top things and offer our customers the best production going.

"We are still looking to invest in new kit across our sites, and it won't be too long before we have another announcement."