The Italian paper maker decided to make the enhancements following requests from customers.

Moves by businesses to include letterheads and logos in the page layout rather than use pre-printed stock has opened up new opportunities for document forgery, making additional security elements desirable.

"A highly effective way to prevent copying is to use paper with a personal watermark," said marketing director Chris Brown.

Through Favini, printers can obtain watermarked paper within eight weeks, and in quantities as low as 160 reams of 100gsm A4.

The initial offer is for Favini's own watermarks in half tonne and one tonne quantities. As an extra security measure, UV fibres can also be added.