The Rotherham-based Bluetree Print subsidiary specialises in trade print services.

The spend includes an upgrade to the Hunkeler system that runs with the firm’s Screen Truepress Jet520HD reel-fed inkjet presses, which are focused on the production of short-run booklets.

The unwinders and rewinders have been upgraded to Hunkeler UW8 and RW8 models, and a new Hunkeler CS8 trimming line has been added.

In addition, the firm has increased laminating capacity with a fifth device, a new Autobond Mini 105.

Last but not least, greetings cards production has been boosted with two new Multigraf Touchline TCF375 folding machines, allowing Route 1 Print to expand the range of specialist card stocks the business can handle.

Head of Route 1 Print Phil Tasker said the spend reflected the quality, efficiency, and fast turnarounds required by the firm’s customers.

“The Hunkeler investment enables us to deliver a superior product at a price point our resellers can profit from,” he stated.

“The festive season and seasonal products are a big opportunity for our resellers, for most it is a high margin product, and it is important to present a range of options to clients. The Multigraf Touchlines enable Route1 to deliver interesting stock options as an alternative to our Premium 310gsm single sided board.”

The business operates from a 9,300sqm production hub that includes a huge array of litho and digital equipment.

The overall Bluetree Group, including its medical wing, had sales of nearly £94m in the year to 30 April 2022. The Bluetree Print operation had sales of £50.4m, up 52% on pandemic-impacted 2021.