A major press breakdown could spell disaster for a busy printer, but for the team at WHO Printing it turned out to be an opportunity. Thanks to some quick thinking and a record-fast install of a brand new Heidelberg Speedmaster SX52 two-colour, the Newcastle-based print company is not only back on track but has even kicked up productivity by as much as a third.
When the family-owned print shop’s old press suddenly failed the pressure was on, but for managing director, Daniel Ogle (pictured), the decision was straightforward. Opting to make use of the opportunity to invest in the latest in automation technology, it all came down to Heidelberg’s quick handling of the install.
“Within a week of giving them the go ahead we had the press installed,” says Ogle. “There are many time saving features on this press. The automatic blanket and cylinder washes are a great benefit. Plus the quick make ready times mean we can push through more work faster.”
Up and running again in record time, WHO Printing christened its new SX52 with a run of 30,000 two-colour letterheads, cranking the press up to its top speed of 15,000 sph. Ogle reports that the business has seen an immediate uplift in productivity, with output increasing by as much as 20-30%.
"That was a great way to start!" he says.
For Ogle it's more than speed that sealed the deal. WHO Printing has had a long history with Heidelberg, since it was founded in 1985 by Ogle's mother, Helen Ogle, and his late father. Starting out with an old GTO before moving over to the Speedmaster platform, the Ogle says that service and support have also been a major factor in their ongoing relationship with the German offset press manufacturer, and work on the brand new SX52 is no exception.
He continues, "Our operator really loves working with the new press and there is definitely an improvement in the quality we are achieving. Colour quality is a premium requirement as an ISO accredited printer."