(L-R) Ian Gordon, digital operations director, Dan Frost, digital apprentice and Damian Baker, digital press operator
Shiremoor Press, based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, has made its first venture into professional digitally printed output with the addition of a Konica Minolta C1085.
The four colour Konica Minolta bizhub Press C1085 is capable of producing up to 85 A4-pages per minute, and can handle stock thicknesses from 55 gsm through to 350 gsm. The machine is focused on high productivity with high-quality suction paper feed and registration systems, as well as providing for stable image reproduction with inline automatic density control.
The C1085 uses an enhanced imaging system, closed-loop colour controls and the latest generation of Konica’s Simitri HD toner, which combine to produce colour consistent results. Post-printing the equipment is equipped with de-curler, stapler and stacker, and booklet maker.
‘Enquiries for digital print are taking off really well – which is ideal of course. Both existing customers and new clients seeking fast turnaround are impressed by the quality of the output,’ said director Keith Whisson.
There has also been enquires for jobs at the North Eastern printer with two new additions to staff. ‘Everything has fallen into place regarding our new digital venture,’ added Mr Whisson. ‘We were seeking a reliable, skilled digital operator, and a guy who had previously worked as a lead demonstrator for a digital equipment supplier in New Zealand turned up: he is excellent and is already making the kit sing. It’s a bit like Newcastle United advertising for a footballer and Ronaldo turning up!’
The company has also recruited Ian Gordon, former digital operations director with Tangent in the North East (the former Ravensworth Digital site). ‘Ian has a long history of managing high-quality, highly productive digital print operations. His knowledge and skills will be an invaluable asset to us as we seek to grow this side of the business,’ commented Mr Whisson.
The business will focus its efforts on a mix of trade work, point-of-sale and retail focused print. It has already produced a small quantity of variable data to date, though it does envisage that this will expand as customers learn more about its potential. ‘We are not on the hunt for the small orders though,’ confirmed Mr Whisson. ‘We are actively seeking orders where we can provide a full service solution to clients.’
Adding further, Mr Whisson said, ‘Digital needs good technical support: though the equipment has come along way in recent years, none of these machines are 100% reliable. We know that Apex has the support structure to ensure that the Konica Minolta will deliver.’
