The deal, made through London-based supplier AB Dick, will allow the firm to print waterless with up to 300lpi screening.

Joint managing director Angela Williams said that the firm had decided to buy the press after ruling out a high-volume digital copier. "We were looking for a mid-range machine to complement our existing capabilities. Initially we favoured a higher-volume digital copier.

"But an analysis of our requirements revealed that from a quality and cost point of view, we would be better served by a direct imaging press."

The firm has joined the Waterless Printing Society since the environmentally-friendly press was installed in February, and has reported success in selling capacity on the press to clients in the greetings card and marketing sectors.

"We've been successful in persuading customers that the DI press will give them a high-quality, professional but cost effective solution for a few thousand copies. It's opening the door for them to become much more focused with marketing campaigns," said Williams.

Story by Josh Brooks