HEIDELBERG and Metsä Board unite with new strategic collaboration
As part of a new collaboration, HEIDELBERG and Metsä Board will join forces to develop a range of new packaging innovations
Herbert Walkers will take delivery of its second Speedmaster XL 106 from Heidelberg in June.
Shipley-based print and packaging specialist Herbert Walkers has invested in a second Speedmaster XL106 6+L as part of its wider, ongoing 10 million capital investment programme.
Due for delivery in June, the machine will sit alongside the company’s first Speedmaster XL106 6+L, which was installed in November 2024. The latest addition means Herbert Walkers is now running three Speedmaster XL 106 presses.
By taking on the new press, Herbert Walkers says this will “significantly” increase production capacity, improve efficiency, and strengthen its long-term manufacturing capability at its site in West Yorkshire.
As part of this latest expansion, the company has also created six new skilled roles, all of which will be based its Shipley operation, where the business now employs more than 110 people.
Mike Lammas, managing director of Herbert Walkers comments: “This latest investment is another important step in our long-term strategy to futureproof the business. By installing a second Speedmaster XL106 6+L, we are increasing our capacity, improving efficiency, and ensuring we continue to deliver the highest quality for our customers.
“Having invested over £10m into our factory in the last five years, we are demonstrating a clear commitment to innovation, growth, and to supporting UK manufacturing from our base in West Yorkshire. This investment also reflects our confidence in the regional economy and the strength of skilled manufacturing in Shipley and the wider area.”
Phil Buttress, head of sales for Heidelberg UK & Ireland, also backed the new addition. He said the partnership with the company reflects a “shared commitment to quality, innovation, and long-term success”.
He adds: “Their continued investment in advanced solutions — from the Prinect Production Manager workflow and Saphira consumables —demonstrates a clear focus on efficiency and excellence.
“The addition of a second press is a strong statement of confidence in both the technology and the future, and we are proud to support them as they continue to raise the bar in high-end greeting card and packaging production.”
