The Greenville, South Carolina business said the six-figure spend had “significantly streamlined its production process” and was driven by the comparative “extended lead times and high costs” it faced from mainstream European manufacturers.

Sttark Director, Ryan Quinn, said the LK 800 flatbed die-cutting machine from Chinese manufacturer Guangya Machinery Co. cost approximately 20% of the price of a European model with similar specs.

The 9,000sph flatbed die-cutter arrived in early summer, nine weeks after it was ordered. The 12.5 tonne machine was in full production a week later.

Quinn said the 800x620mm format LK 800 had bedded in well and was producing “great results”.

He cited the LK 800’s real-world 15-minute, 20-sheet makereadies and productivity, thanks to it being almost four times faster than the rotary die-cutter it replaced.

He said the only potential drawback of opting for the Chinese machine was the time difference in terms of manufacturer support, but this was more than mitigated by the lower cost and short lead time, not to mention Sttark’s in-house engineering team.

Quinn offered this advice to anyone looking at buying on Alibaba: "Research the manufacturer thoroughly, read their reviews, and ensure your organization has an in-house team capable of servicing the equipment.

“With these elements in place, Alibaba presents an excellent avenue to acquire industrial machinery. In terms of quality and value, we have been extremely satisfied."