Parkers invests 2m in Gallus hybrid presses

Parkers, the packaging and label printer, has invested 2m to revamp its Liverpool-based production plant, a spend that includes two new Gallus hybrid printing presses

The company has ordered two EM 410S servo driven hybrid printing presses to replace the business's existing Nilpeter machines.

Due for installation in January and March of next year, Parkers' latest presses are three times faster than the machines they replace while offering a wider web width of 413mm.

According to the company, the investment comes on the back of a £700,000 increase in turnover in the past year, with plans to grow further in 2011.

Phil Hood, sales director at Parkers, said the move to Gallus was a "major change" for the company, but one that was "both bold and exciting".

"We have been a Nilpeter house for twenty-five years so this was a major change for us and the decision was based on the willingness of Gallus to listen to our expansion plans and form a true partnership," he said.

Hood added that the investment would allow the 50-staff company to boost its efficiency at a time when margins are under extreme pressure.

"You need a sound fiscal plan when spending such an amount but with machines three-times faster, the Gallus investment gives us that," he said.

The Gallus EM 410 S machines feature hybrid printing units with front loading for print and anilox roller sleeves, combined with pre-setting functions. This is claimed to ensure set-up and changeover times are kept to a minimum.

Parkers also outlaid £30,000 on reinforcing the flooring at its Liverpool factory ahead of the new arrivals.

Commenting on the investment, Eugene Roche, business development director at Parkers, said: "The partnership is helping us to move forward with confidence and provide a brighter future for all our staff."