Laser Graphics, an HP house for the past 15 years, installed the new press at its Milton Keynes premises over the Christmas break, replacing a 10-year-old HP Indigo 3050 that had reached the end of its life.

Company founder and managing director Bill Smyth said the Versafire cost around a third of a similarly specified Indigo with click rates less than half that of the 3050. 

He said the main reason for choosing the device was the ability to handle longer sheets of up to 320x700m, compared with the Indigo's SRA3 size, which will allow Laser Graphics to take on a range of new job types.

Smyth also liked the machine’s ability to run coloured stocks and print white ink, clear varnish in spot and also run envelopes quickly. He is considering using an additional neon yellow spot colour, launched as an optional addition by Heidelberg last November.

“Because of the lower click rate it will allow us to run greater quantities. We were always good in the low-end but I think we will now have more chance of getting jobs in the middle range," said Smyth. 

Previously known as the Linoprint CV prior to its Drupa name change, the Versafire prints at maximum speeds of 2,700 A4sph and 2,400 A3sph at a maximum resolution of 1,200x4,800dpi. It prints on a variety of substrates weighing between 52 and 360gsm.

“Over the years we’ve been stuck with high clicks and an inability to change. We weren’t on a level playing field but can now move forward from here. This can make a big difference,” added Smyth.

Founded in 1988, five-staff Laser Graphics mainly takes on short-run jobs for events companies in the local area, printing the likes of menus, itineraries and table items.

It also runs a Canon large-format machine and a variety of finishing equipment for lamination, bookletmaking and wire binding. Smyth said he is considering further investment, this year, in foiling and laminating.