The South Manchester-based company has had a bumper 2008, with turnover rising from £3m to £10m on the back of contracts with British Gas and Scottish and Southern Energy.

However, managing director Ian Cooper expects turnover to drop in 2009 as the contracts come to an end. He said the investment in new machinery should help the company set itself up for the future.

Alongside the two BB300s, Paton Brown has already installed a secondhand Stahl folder, an iGen 3 and a Xerox Laser 495. In February next year it will also add a Heidelberg five-colour B2 press.

Cooper said: "We have probably had our best ever year, but it has not necessarily been because of print, more in mailing. Contracts have now come to an end so our turnover is exaggerated.

"However, we do believe we can double what we were doing and will be looking to bring in around £6m."

Cooper said the company has taken on several new contracts, one which will involve sending out 1m packs every six weeks.

"This is why we have bought the BB300s. It looks like next year will be a bad year for everybody, but we have invested in new machinery and hopefully that will help us to hold our own."

Paton Brown was responsible for sending out energy efficient light bulbs as part of utility company campaigns. In total the company sent out around 35m light bulbs, four per customer, along with an accompanying letter.

The company also handles work for local authorities, including postal voting forms.

Since bringing in the new kit, it has employed eight more staff and said it is planning further recruitment.