GD Print has invested in the UK’s first Morgana Systems EBA68 Guillotine with SpeedCut, as part of a wider £250,000 programme to futureproof its operations.

The online printing specialist selected the next-generation programmable guillotine from Plockmatic Group to handle output from its new Konica Minolta AccurioPress C14010s, capable of producing long sheets up to 1300mm or 900mm in duplex. The investment also includes a Konica Minolta AccurioPress 7090 Enhanced.

Managing director Craig Dobbs said the decision was driven by a need for greater production flexibility. “We wanted the capability to print on longer sheets, which is why we upgraded from our C14000 to the new C14010,” he explained. “Then we needed a guillotine to handle the longer sheet.”

Mr Dobbs said the company considered other options but chose Morgana’s EBA68 for its ease of use, touchscreen interface, and capacity to store up to 50 programmes. “That helps us set up repeat jobs faster, which is vital as turnaround times are getting shorter,” he said. “We do a lot of order of services – sometimes files come in at 3pm for a funeral the next day – so reliability and efficiency are critical.”

He added that the system’s compatibility with single-phase power, along with Morgana’s ongoing service support, were important deciding factors. “The ease of use, larger blade size, and simple step-by-step blade change process were also key considerations.”

The investment includes SpeedCut, software designed to simplify cutting workflows and improve accuracy. “It removes manual programming and reduces errors,” Mr Dobbs said. “For complex or unusual jobs, it’s incredibly fast and precise.”

While the investment was not focused on immediate financial return, Mr Dobbs said it was necessary to maintain long-term competitiveness. “You have to invest to stay relevant. If you don’t, you risk falling too far behind to catch up.”

Ed Hudson, general manager at Morgana Systems, said GD Print’s investment reflects the company’s close collaboration with customers. “We work to understand their requirements so we can deliver the most cost-effective and technically appropriate solution, backed by strong service and support,” he said.