The Leicestershire-based company had previously switched from a Linotype hand-stitcher to a secondhand Harris but found that it needed to invest again due to a rise in demand for its saddle-stitching services.

Director John Russell said: "Space dictated our specification of four stations and cover feeder, but as a B2 printer, this covers most of our requirements.

"Having most processes in-house gives us better control. Today, only perfect binding and laminating is put out – processes where we don't have the volumes which would justify the capital cost."

The new kit will run at 8,000sph, compared with 2,000sph on the Harris, which Russell said means productivity will be increased many times over.

In the last 12 months, Baxters has invested in a Speedmaster SM 74-5+L press, a Suprasetter 75 and a new folder.

Customers of the company include Baxters Foods in Glasgow, Sheraton Hotels in London and HM Forces.