The Dorchester, Dorset-based outfit will take delivery of a two-colour Speedmaster SX 102 perfector next week, replacing a 15-year-old SM 102, and in early October will retrofit LE-UV to a five-colour Speedmaster SM 102.

Managing director Helen Kennett said the SX 102 would improve makeready times and increase efficiencies.

“This is very much an updated machine but obviously there is still enough litho work for us to make us feel we can make the investment,” said Kennett.

“We did look at another leading manufacturer very closely, both for LE-UV as well as for the new machine, but in the end we stayed with Heidelberg and that’s down to the fact that we decided to upgrade.”

Kennett highlighted the improved colour control as a benefit of the new machine, which can print at speeds of up to 14,000sph. 

The LE-UV retrofit was mainly commissioned in order to improve Henry Ling’s offering to high-end clients, including international publishers and art galleries. It will take place in around two weeks’ time, carried out by IST (UK), and will involve less than one week’s downtime.

“We are looking to print our cover work and foil cover work but with shorter turnarounds and so we feel LE-UV will offer that without the need necessarily to coat for example,” said Kennett. 

“So it’s about meeting expectations now - quicker turnarounds - while still retaining that quality.”

Founded more than 100 years ago, 100-staff Henry Ling provides a range of print and finishing services, running two HP Indigo machines alongside a Canon Océ VarioPrint and Océ ColourStream in its digital department, plus a raft of finishing kit.