Connect, which was previously owned by Writtle Holdings, installed an HP Scitex FB7600 and a Kongsberg digital cutter over the summer following its sale to West Midlands-based CBS.
James Newton, sales and marketing manager at Connect Packaging, said the investment was a direct result of the sale as it was CBS managing director Jitha Singh's strategy to launch a digital print offering.
He said: "Jitha felt that the future was very much going to be digital and that Connect, with our diversity of products and customer base, was a perfect fit – both for CBS and as a foundation to expand into the digital market.
"He saw us as the jewel in the crown, but one that had been a little bit neglected over the years through lack of investment. He made it very clear what his intentions were prior to buying the business and he's delivered everything he said he would in terms of investing in and promoting us as a business.
"We've now got our new digital production business and we're currently exhibiting at Packaging Innovations, which is the first time we've ever exhibited at a trade show. It's reinvigorated the business and that is down to Jitha's vision and his passion for packaging."
Since installing the new digital equipment, Connect has taken on an additional two staff members, including an experienced HP Scitex FB7600 operator, and gone about marketing its new short-run service.
"A key to our success is that we have one of the best structural design teams who can create innovative packaging solutions," said Newton.
"Their designs meet the demands for strength, product protection, and efficient material use, and these characteristics add up to a competitive advantage, as does the ability to see prototypes and samples quickly and affordably. The digital press and plotter-cutter have enhanced the services and products we can now offer.
"The HP Scitex press is a step change for our business and a real game-changer for our customers who understand the benefits digital can offer. It’s encouraging to see customers get on board with digital printing and share our excitement at the vast potential for future collaborations."
