Herbert Walkers continues £10m expansion with new Speedmaster XL 106
Herbert Walkers will take delivery of its second Speedmaster XL 106 from Heidelberg in June
Commercial printer, Herbert Walkers, has invested in a new HEIDELBERG press in order to increase its output and reduce energy consumption
Herbert Walkers, a commercial printing company, has invested in a new HEIDELBERG Speedmaster XL 106-7+L press, in order to increase its output of greeting cards and packaging.
The new machine was purchased by the Yorkshire-based company to improve its production capacity and reduce its energy consumption. Herbert Walkers already had three HEIDELBERG Speedmaster presses in operation at its factory, though these were earlier models that were beginning to age.
The machine’s green credentials were reportedly a key factor in the purchase. The 106-7+L is designed to be more energy efficient than previous models coming with more optimised dryer technology, functions for waste reduction, and the ability to provide detailed energy consumption information.
Mike Lammas, managing director at Herbert Walkers, says: “We are a long-standing HEIDELBERG house, having had its presses for many years.
“This time, we decided to study all the major players in the marketplace before making our decision. After our in-depth analysis, we felt the XL 106 was the best performing and most suitable press for our needs, and fits in well with our existing HEIDELBERG equipment.”
The team at Herbert Walkers were reportedly also impressed with the XL 106’s Inpress control feature, which is designed to ensure that colour standards of prints are maintained while reducing make-ready times and waste sheets.
According to HEIDELBERG, the Speedmaster can run consistently on most jobs at 18,000 sheets per hour.
Lammas continues: “We now have, more than ever before, a world class factory set up with industry leading equipment paired with our first-class work force.
“Our print crew are excited to work on the new machine and see firsthand the positive impact of the new technology and machine aides that are now available to them.”
Speaking of the purchase, head of sales at HEIDELBERG UK & Ireland, Phil Buttress, says: “We are certain that this investment in the latest technology will help Herbert Walkers achieve strong growth and reach new heights of productivity.
“Herbert Walkers’ significant investment over the past five years clearly shows its commitment to the future of its business and the good of their customers.”
Herbert Walkers is a family-owned and operated business based in West Yorkshire which has run for over 75 years. Its print and packaging output includes projects for major high-street retailers and international brands.
