While it lowers its up-front prices, Creo has also claimed that thermal is cheaper to operate than violet in the long term.
If you look at the full picture and are aware of the extra costs associated with violet CTP namely the ongoing costs associated with chemical processing of violet plates then you will understand that thermal delivers a more cost-effective option, said Creo EMEA director of product marketing Eddy Houba.
UK sales director Mark Nixon said the cuts were the result of the firm being able to put together bundles as well as lower prices to Creo UK due to improved manufacturing efficiency and the higher volumes of machines the firm was shipping.
However, other thermal suppliers did not share Nixons view. The real reason for this is that were kicking their arses big time, all the thermal suppliers are, said one rival. I wont be chasing them to lower prices I dont need to.
At 71,000, a Creo Lotem 400 set up to expose Presstek processless plates and running the PS/M RIP has been given the biggest discount, with 24% chopped off the price. A Lotem 400 set up for processed thermal plates is 65,000, around 10% less than before.
HighWater has teamed up with plate processor manufacturer IGP to put together a ready-to-go package of B2 platesetter, processor RIP and PC for 37,000.
The package is based on the firms established Platinum 2230 machine using a 5mW laser suitable for violet-sensitive silver plates. Its B3 2218 is available under the same deal.
Story by Barney Cox
